Author: Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Organize and Declutter Your Garage + Make Some Money too!

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Put your garage to good use this season by decluttering and organizing! Here’s how you can do it and make some money while you’re at it!


Photo: Traditional Home

The primary use of a garage is of course to have a place where homeowners can put their cars safely in. In contrast, many American garages lose their purpose because we tend to put a lot of things in there to a point where our cars can’t fit already. Most of the things we put there are items we do not need anymore but still valuable to just be thrown away. If you are one of the many Americans who suffers from the same problem, it is probably the best time to declutter your garage. Not only it can help you have space for your cars and have an organized garage, it can also help you earn cash from it.

Here are the things you must consider so you can make the best out of cleaning your garage:

Call a Friend

If you have an overcrowded garage, additional hands can be very handy. Pun aside, having someone to help you can make your work much easier. It can also be a great bonding time between you and your friend. If you are having a lengthy conversation, time will fly very fast and you will not notice that you have done so much for the day. Also, you will just have to spend a minimal amount to pay him/her or you can just treat him/her to a dinner or you can just help your friend to do some repairs in his/her home in return.

Creating specific place for similar stuff

Taking away all the things in your garage and just putting it elsewhere will not solve the problem entirely. The next place where you will put your things will get messy. You have to assign a specific space or box for every similar thing. If you establish zones, the order will follow. If you will need 10 bins to fit all your stuff in your garage, don’t just put everything there randomly. Classify things so you can easily remember where to find them and how to put it back. Additionally, labeling boxes can be very helpful to be more systematized.


Photo: Do it Yourself Samples

Weighing the Value

Although most of the things you put in your garage are probably seldom used items, there are still some things in there that are very valuable. You should be able to decide which things have big sentimental values to you or your family. If you are having a double heart for some stuff, use the one-year-question. Ask yourself, have you used the item for the past year? If you did not, you might as well not keep it. If an item is really important that you can’t part with it, you might as well get it out of the garage and put it somewhere else where it can be more dignified.

Separate Valuable ‘Junk’

Before starting your decluttering, prepare at least 3 boxes labeled ‘trash’ box, ‘sell’ box, and ‘donate’ box. This is important so you can directly put your stuff into the right box. For instance, things like DVD’s, electronics that are still in good running condition, well-kept clothes and shoes, and other stuff can go straight to the ‘sell’ box. Also, those old and worn out clothes can just be donated because it can’t be sold with so much value anymore. While those electronics that are in bad shape can still be sold to the right buyer since some people are looking for old things to restore. If you are not sure whether an item will sell, you can still post it and just get rid of it later if no one wants to buy it.


Photo: A Bowl Full of Lemons

Sort Your Sell Collection

After throwing all the trash and donating some of your things, it is time to sell. But before you do that, it is vital to classify them first so you can be able to reach the right buyer. For instance, books, DVD’s, and video games can be best posted on Amazon. High-end and quality clothing, collectibles like limited edition toys, smaller electronics, can be sold better on eBay. Lastly, items that are too big to ship and some other generic items like baby or toddler items are best for Craigslist. Categorize them where you’ll sell them: Amazon, eBay, and Craigslist.

Open an Online Store

If you want, you can just open an online store to sell your clothes or some of your old stuff from your house. This online store can eventually be turned into a legit store after you sold all of your items in your garage. To be successful, you can consider selling your items in lots. For example, instead of selling collectible toy cars individually, you can sell them as a group to be able to move your things faster. Be straightforward to your description, make sure you state the real and current condition of the products you are selling. Lastly, since your customer will only rely on the picture, try to include lots of it. Show any flaw, even if it is just minor to show that you are really an honest seller.

10 Easy Ways To Make Your Living Room Look Elegant

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Check out these 10 easy ways to make your living room look designer decorated and elegant!

 


Photo: Citrine Living By Tamara Anka

True to its name, the living room is one of the most important places in your house – where life happens. Mostly, it is one of the first places you see upon entering your home. It is where your visitors gather, where you spend lazy days and evenings watching movies or playing video games. On most homes, living rooms consume a big part of the total space. For these reasons, don’t you think it’s about time to revamp your old and boring living room and make it more elegant and luxurious? How? Scroll through our 10 easy ways below. You’re welcome! 

A Clean, Uncluttered Home is a Must

Gone are the days that a living room filled with antiques and decorative stuff are in. The truth is, an over-accessorized room can look messy and disordered. Ditch most of your decorations and only leave those which have sentimental values for you. If you can keep your space simple and clean, it will look more cozy and comfy.

Hardwood is Preferred over Carpet

You should also get rid of that dusty carpet and replace it with hardwood. While it is true that carpets can bring in that soft and warm feeling, hardwoods can provide a more elegant appearance. Purchasing a hardwood is really a good affordable investment not only because they look good and they last a long time, they can also make the reselling value of your house higher.


Photo: Domaine Home

Embrace Your Vintage Style

[su_note note_color=”#fdc1df” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”0″]Classic decorations can instantly upgrade your place’s look. Whether it is a real antique or it just looks old, it doesn’t really matter as long as it looks historic, it will give a timeless feel to your living room.[/su_note]

Camouflage Your Television

A huge rectangle television placed in the center can really bring the luxurious impression in your living room. You can use mirrors to hide your TV but if it is not fit in your budget, you can reduce its presence by letting it blend with a gallery wall.

Use an Interesting Textile

You can use custom textiles in your throw pillows or you can use small pieces like seat cushions as coverings to add a vintage mood to your things in the living room. Using these types of fabric will make your room have a unique element and elegant aura. You can also consider rolling out a oriental rug. There are hundreds of styles of Persian rugs available making it easy to find one that matches your style and decor.


Photo: Style Me Pretty

Hang a Large Scale Art

The easiest way to makeover a room from top to bottom is by using a grand piece of artwork. You can give your space a wow factor by placing an enormous wall-painting at the center of your living room. It will give a big impact on your room and you do not have to exert too much effort because all you need is one big piece. You can look at different shops to find one at an affordable price or you can just do it yourself if you are into painting.

Include a Piece with History

Put something with a historical value in your living room. It can add a sense of wisdom to the place. Anything from a mirror or side table figurines will do. Just remember that the older it looks, the better.


Photo: Freshideen

Lighting Makes a Difference

Forget about the traditional lighting if you want an elegant looking living room. Designer lights are now widely available almost everywhere and it is much better than your standard chandelier. If done right, this lighting can impact the look of your room and it can be the difference between just-another-living-room and a luxurious looking one.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get this designer decorated look. You can try looking at some flea markets or garage sales for second-hand items or shop at Halcyon to have more design options. You can save money but be sure that all the things you will buy are still working. Additionally, some lighting can be more effective if you will do some paint jobs to buff and improve your place.

Incorporate a Sculptural Item

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”#0abf8c” class=”” size=””]Try to avoid a boring sea of straight lines by adding something with an interesting shape or a distinctive silhouette. For instance, a tree root coffee table or a unique side chair will make the ambience more artistic. Feel free to put anything that is exceptional and uncommon.[/perfectpullquote]


Photo: Sophie Robinson

Simplify Your Styling

A popular saying goes like this: Simplicity is a beauty. It is also true when it comes to living rooms. You don’t have to put too much stuff in your room just to make it look beautiful. If you have a lot of decorations in your room, it may otherwise look cheap.

Top-Drawer Tips to a Successful DIY Project

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Planning your next DIY or calling a professional? We weigh in on the options and give some tips on DIY-ing your home!


Photo: Jana Bek

There are two kinds of homeowners: those who decide they do not have the time and would prefer to call in professional renovation companies to work on their home improvement, and those who prefer to get their hands dirty decorating their home, renovating and get the job done for themselves. Reading this, I believe you fall into the latter category. And while you should be proud to be one of the few willing to pick up their tool boxes and get work done, you should also bear in mind that there is a steep learning curve to budget DIY home renovation projects.

But not to worry. Being a handy person myself and one who struggled with the art at the beginning, I have compiled a list of things you should be aware of before you embark on the DIY journey.

It might end up taking double your time and money anticipated

The number one reason why I was attracted to DIY projects, (and this is a reason we probably share) is the fact that I saw prospects of saving hundreds and at times even thousands of dollars on the project. But what I didn’t know is that the savings were in an ideal situation. Situations in which I thought I only needed one tin of paint, I ended up using more.


Photo: Brit Morin

Let’s take a simple painting DIY task for instance. As you start, you have it in your head that a single tin of lavender paint and some brushes of particular sizes will do the trick. What you didn’t count on is that the shade of orange you want to paint over, has existed for quite some time and to paint over it, you will need an undercoat and several more brushes to get the job done. Adding to this, you will need to paint two coats of your undercoat and that of the lavender paint itself to get great results.

[su_note note_color=”#d3f19a” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”0″]DIY tasks that seemed simple like getting a carpet that matches the color of your freshly painted walls might be more challenging than you anticipated. Choosing a color that carpet companies do not manufacture in standard sizes will mean that you have to order in a unique piece costing you slightly more.[/su_note]

You are not a professional

You are intelligent and handy. So you decided to give DIY plumbing or DIY home repair a shot. But despite your traits, you will be soon questioning your ability to perceive depth, your sanity, and why in the world the pipes do not fit while the packaging promised that they would.

There are chances that you will get to the point of thinking tiling your bathroom floor is the answer to your DIY problem. Well, welcome to the world of minimum waterproofing and slope standards that have even the most optimistic folks going crazy and pulling their hair off.


Photo: The Every Girl

You have to accept that at times it is all you and other times the project is tricky.

If you have never learned the trade from a professional, you shouldn’t be shocked when you are ready to quit hours after you have started. After all, if what you are about to do was easy, then there wouldn’t be such a big market for professionals and experts in the industry.

Planning is King

Do not dare hammer even a single nail to any surface before you have a plan written down. Most DIY-ers ignore the planning stage and believe that their enthusiasm for the project will get them results. Sorry to burst your bubble but success in DIY projects without a plan mapped out needs a miracle.

Write out all the tasks you need to complete and have knowledge of how much work you will do in addition to all the costs. This will better position you for success. Regardless of how small or big the project might be, a little forethought on the improvement process will go a long way.


Photo: Design Sponge

More hands lighten the workload

Getting your family and friends in on your DIY project will save you a lot of labor costs. However, they will come with a whole set of complications.

[su_note note_color=”#fdc1df” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”0″]Everyone, even the best DIY renovators have their limitations. If you intend to handle the project alone, without the required expertise, it will be an uphill task. You should know your strength and weaknesses in which you will need help. Make sure that you have enough individuals with complementary skills to help you finish the project in the timeframe stipulated during planning.[/su_note]

But while having helpers is recommended, having too many of them will lead to clashes, arguments, and conflicts which might slow down progress. That said, you will need to pick your team of volunteers keenly if you have the luxury to. But if you are relying on the goodwill of family and friends, you should be prepared to stomach not getting things done how you envisioned them. If not, you will have to be tactful in the way you make your suggestions and corrections. Bear in mind that these are volunteers and not paid workers.

As such, you at the very least owe it to them to make the project fun. So, go out of your way to make them happy and for good terms’ sake send a thank you card or even have them over for dinner when the project is complete.

Cheap is not always the best option

There are instances where cheap can be a major bargain and other times where cheap is exactly that; cheap! You need to learn to differentiate between the two instances. When working with a small budget, you will have to decide what you can compromise on, the things you would be happy waiting for and those that are big initial spends.

Being aware of the acceptable item prices. Pay attention to furniture stores and online stores for building materials and power tools alike. Speaking of power tools, when getting a cordless drill, be sure to take your time while choosing one. The Best Cordless Drill Reviews – The Nutty DIY Guide will be of great help in this.

Having this information beforehand prepares you for what is to come. This way, nothing will faze you and hinder you from completing your DIY project.

How Decorating with Floral Wallpaper will Transform Your Home for Summer

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Decorate your home for the summer season with a new design trend: floral wallpaper! Here’s exactly how and why you should be jumping on the band wagon!

We all love learning about new decorating trends and since the summer season is quickly approaching, it’s time to pop something colorful into your home. Floral kitsch wallpaper may have been in style in the 60s, but trends always come and go… and come back in style! This summer, roll out some floral wallpaper and make a statement in your home. Here’s why and how you should be decorating your home with this exciting trend!

Create a Statement Wall

Putting up floral wallpaper throughout your whole space may seem a little much, but wallpapering just one wall in your home will look just as beautiful! Creating a statement wall with colorful, floral wallpaper is a fantastic way to bring color, light, and energy into your home. Think about wallpapering just one wall in your kid’s room right where natural light hits to showcase a beautiful print in all it’s glory.


Photo: Domino

Use it In Your Office

We all know that working from home can make you feel unmotivated, glum, and uninspired. That’s why I’m always looking for new ways to bring my office to life and create a space that inspires. This white washed office was pretty plain before this wallpaper installation. Matching the chairs and storage boxes to the colors swatches in the wallpaper really tied the whole look together. It’s important to make your wallpaper match your room, so a good way is to take color swatches from the wallpaper and use it for the rest of your decorating. Match up your curtains, upholstery fabric, accessories, and finishing touches to make your decorating look seamless.


Photo: Bloglovin’

[su_note note_color=”#f19aba” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”0″]If you are lucky enough, you may even be able to find fabric in the same print as your wallpaper. Take advantage of something like this and use it to create cushions and simple curtains to make your room look customized and put together.[/su_note]

Liven Up Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are the perfect place to experiment with your decor and try something out of the ordinary. The greatest thing about trying a new wallpaper or wall color in the bathroom is that pretty much anything will work in this space. Why? Since there is not much furniture and fabrics in your bathroom, it’s pretty easy to make a crazy wallpaper work great with no competition. This white bathroom looks colorful and positive thanks to this drop dead gorgeous “granny floral” wallpaper instalment. If you are afraid to take the plunge elsewhere, take a risk in your bathroom – you definitely will not be disappointed.


Photo: Style Caster

Use Floral Wallpaper in Unexpected Places

To add an extra pop of color, use floral wallpaper in unexpected places like this cute reading nook. I like to wallpaper the inside of my drawers or the inside of bookshelves with colorful vintage wallpapers for a pop of color! Experiment with different prints and don’t be afraid of adding some color to your home. Floral wallpapers are the perfect thing to add some color, energy, and vibes to your home this summer.


Photo: Shop Catherine Masi

Try these Easy Kitchen Makeover Ideas for a Modern Decorating Look

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

You don’t need to spend a fortune on renovating your kitchen, follow our easy makeover tips and give your kitchen a whole new look! With a small amount of money and some clever organization and decluttering tips, you can transform your kitchen into a functional, trendy, and comfortable space!


Photo: Domino

Kitchen renovations seem like a massive undertaking that require taking out a home loan to fund. This doesn’t have to be the case. Many kitchens just need a little TLC. Functionality is key when it comes to kitchens. If you can never find the tool you need when cooking, it becomes frustrating and you spend less time cooking healthy delicious meals and more times calling out. Make your kitchen a place you want to spend time with a few simple tricks, tips and updates.

Reduce Your Kitchen Clutter

The first step is to reduce all that clutter. We tend to try to put too much stuff in too little space. You don’t need every kitchen gadget on the market. Most of these gimmicky gadgets get used once and are then condemned to a drawer where they take up space and make it a hassle to find what we actually need.

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”#ad913b” class=”” size=””]Tip: Avoid purchasing unnecessary kitchen gadgets you don’t see yourself using at least once a week. Some things may be tempting to buy especially if they are on sale, but if you really don’t need it – it’s better to pass it up.[/perfectpullquote]


Photo: House & Home

The kitchen table and counters should not be the home of book bags, purses, keys, mail, etc. Give every non-kitchen items a proper home. Once your kitchen is free of these items, it is time to start reducing other sources of clutter. Consider finding a new home for countertop items such as spice racks and toasters. Reclaim that counter space for chopping veggies and preparing meals. Take on one drawer or cabinet at a time. Get rid of items you don’t use. Be realistic.

Organize Your Cooking Stuff

Instead of using your countertops for storage, get creative. Cute wall storage serves to decorate and organize. Magnets, hooks and rods allow you to utilize wall space, keeping spices and utensils at hand. Give everything a specific home. Use drawer organizers to help to keep everything organized. Spices can be put in jars that hang by their lids from the bottom of cabinets. Kitchen organization extends to the pantry. Put things in specific locations. Transfer sugar and flour to labeled containers. This keeps ingredients fresh and easy to access.

[su_note note_color=”#f2b3c7″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”0″]Unless you have a big family or are saving big bucks, refrain from buying in bulk. Plan out meals in advance and purchase just what you need. This way your cabinets contain what you need, and you don’t have to find places to store items that aren’t necessary.[/su_note]


Photo: Studio Cuvier

Consider a Small Renovation

Once you have gotten rid of the clutter and organized, you know what your kitchen is lacking. This is when renovations can give your space a facelift. Maybe you just need some extra storage. Or maybe you want a beautiful place to create your culinary masterpieces. Start your project right with a visit to Superior. Wholesale prices make updates much more affordable. A fresh coat of paint and updated cabinet hardware can go a long way to making your kitchen look new and improved. Bigger projects may include replacing your countertops. Now that everything is organized and decluttered, you will be able to better appreciate any additions.


Photo: Better Homes and Gardens

Kitchen renovation sometimes just comes down to organization and decluttering. It is hard to enjoy a space that lacks functionality because it serves as a storage spot for mail, keys and other items. Clean up your kitchen before starting a renovation project, so you can appreciate what is necessary.