Area Rug Trends To Look Out For in 2023

As 2022 draws to a close, it is time to start making new designs or revamping plans for your space in the coming year. And there’s no better time to begin than now!

Area rugs have dominated the design world and repeatedly proven they are here to stay. If you aspire to have a chic, warm, or elegant space, placing a few area rugs in strategic places would add more to the general aesthetic of your living spaces.

Like most things, area rugs have new trends introduced every new year. It would pay to stay ahead of the trend table and fish for rugs that will make your space beautiful and up-to-date. But with many enticing options to choose from, it is easy to get confused and ultimately make the wrong choice.

Fortunately, we have made this collection of the top five area rug trends you should watch out for and buy in 2023. Keep reading to find out what they are.

Retro and Vintage Aesthetic

One thing to know about area rug trends is that retro and vintage rugs will forever be trendy, and we expect to see them more in 2023. Turkish Oushak rugs and Persian area rugs are the most popular in this category.

They are the best rugs for high-traffic rooms like the living room area and even the kitchen. Their soft color palette and easy-to-clean materials make them a great choice.

Retro area rugs can add a regal look to your space. Because they are usually hand-woven and of high quality, they make great family heirlooms that can be passed down from generation to generation. The more they age, the more beautiful they become.

Earthy Vibes

Professional interior designers have predicted that area rugs with earth tones will take 2023 by storm.

Area rugs from eco-friendly materials like jute, sisal, bamboo, and wool make an excellent foundation for layering. They are the best rugs for private spaces like your bedroom and study, where you can visit barefooted. They go very well with carpets that have a muted hue.

Combining natural fiber area rugs with animal hides will create an eclectic vibe in your space.

Bold and Vibrant Hues

The year of muted and neutral colors is almost over. In 2023, area rugs with bold and vibrant colors will catch the eyes of many area rug enthusiasts.

Rugs no longer need bland grey or beige colors; people are now drawn to bolder patterns and brighter colors. As the main rug design for spaces, Monochromatic rugs have begun to lose relevance. More color means more character. In 2023, we are likely to see more area rugs with bright tones of colors like orange, lime green, red and yellow that remind us of nature.

More Layers

For years, the art of layering rugs has been a popular choice among interior designers, and it looks like the trend will remain the same in 2023.

You can always make layers of your favorite rugs, especially if you live in an open-plan space where otherwise walls and partitions tend to make it look smaller.

With layering, you can combine two rugs with different textures or colors. Area rugs with different textures can help to restrict your space's private and public sections without using a physical partition like furniture. For example, you could place a hide rug in intimate sections like your reading corner and use a tufted rug in the general seating area.

Curved Rugs

Straight-edged area rugs will be a thing of the past in 2023. Although curved rugs have been a major name in the design scene in past years, they are predicted to come back with more force in 2023.

Adding rugs with rounded edges and unconventional shapes to your space décor will help to give it a softer, feminine vibe and make it look snug. Not only are curvaceous rugs perfect for softening the overall outlook of your room, but they also work best for open-plan spaces. Where the traditional rectangular rugs will make a room look too formal or closed-off, eccentrically shaped rugs will make it look more inviting.

You could use rugs like these for a long time without getting bored.

Start Planning For Your Area Rugs

Area rugs always retain their relevance. A good rug choice can make you feel more at home whether you live in an open or closed space floor-pan.

Always remember that selecting the right rug is as important as caring for it. Always vacuum your rugs and rotate them at least once every two years to allow them to age uniformly.

Window Styles That Can Elevate the Design of Your Home

Windows are an integral part of any home. Not only do they provide natural light and ventilation, but they also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home. That being said, it’s important to consider the type of window installation you want for your home and how each style can affect its design. Let’s take a look at some of the window styles that can help elevate the design of your home. 

Casement Windows 

Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward like a door with a crank mechanism. These windows have become increasingly popular over the years because they offer superior ventilation control and are easy to clean from the inside. Casement windows work best in rooms that require additional air circulation and will make any living space look more inviting as well. 

Bay Windows 

Bay windows are made up of three or more panels that protrude outwards from the wall, creating an extra-large window space with built-in seating or storage shelves beneath it. Bay windows let in more natural light than standard-sized windows, making them perfect for brighter rooms. Plus, they add visual interest to any room while giving you extra space to decorate or relax in. 

Picture Windows 

Picture windows are large panes of glass that don't open or close; instead, they remain stationary and provide unobstructed views outdoors. Picture windows come in various sizes and shapes so you can customize them for different rooms in your home. They work well as focal points in areas such as living rooms or bedrooms because their expansive views draw attention and can instantly create a cozy atmosphere indoors. However, these types of windows don’t offer much ventilation so they should be used sparingly throughout your home if you need airflow as well as light. 

With so many options available, choosing which style is right for your home may seem overwhelming at first glance. But by understanding what each window style has to offer, you can easily determine which ones will best suit your needs—and elevate the design of your home without compromising on functionality. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, price point, ventilation needs, and size when selecting new windows for your home so you get the most bang for your buck. And remember to keep an eye out for features such as adjustable hinges or locks for added security too!

4 Questions To Ask Before Using Stucco On Your Home

One of the most popular materials used on the exterior of homes, stucco is often referred to as the "face-lift" solution for a home that needs some exterior TLC. However, while it's likely you've heard of stucco, you may be like many homeowners and have little if any idea of exactly what it is and whether or not it's the right choice for your home. Should this sound like you, here are four questions you should always ask before moving forward with using stucco on your home.

Can I Change the Color of the Stucco?

When you first apply stucco to your home, you'll of course love the color. But over time, you may decide you want your home's exterior a different color. Thus, can you change the color of the stucco once it's applied to your home? The good news is you can indeed change the color if you desire. However, don't do so by painting over the stucco. Instead, apply a new layer of stucco to your home, since this will help your home maintain its unique exterior look.

Can Stucco be Applied to a Surface that's Painted?

Technically, stucco can be applied to a painted surface. However, if you do so, chances are the stucco will have a hard time adhering to the painted surface, meaning you'll likely need to call on stucco repair experts at some point to fix the problem. For best results, it's always best if you remove any existing paint before applying stucco.

Will Stucco Crack?

Yes, stucco will crack, and this is actually a good thing for your home. A perfectly normal thing for the stucco to do once it has been applied, the cracking means the stucco has been set up properly and will be able to breathe, both of which mean it will look great for many years to come. Unless you notice very large cracks in your stucco, you probably don't need to worry about the need for stucco repair.

What are the Advantages of Stucco?

Before you decide to use stucco in your home, you'll of course want to know its many advantages. The biggest ones are usually that it's a very affordable material to use on your home's exterior, and once applied properly it requires little maintenance over the years. It's also available in many colors and is very popular as a choice for siding.

Once you learn more and more about stucco, chances are you will quickly realize it offers many benefits that will make it an excellent choice for your home's exterior.

4 Things You Should Know About Granite Before Installing It in Your Kitchen

A look through home decorating magazines and online sites shows that granite countertops are one of the most popular choices for kitchens. Granite is a mixture of quartz and feldspar, which gives the stone its characteristic patterns and speckling. The beauty and durability of granite help to increase your home’s value in the marketplace. You can find granite in an endless number of colors and patterns to fit your decorating needs. Here are 4 facts you should know about granite before having it installed in your kitchen.

Granite Is Very Durable

Granite is a very hard surface that resists scratches, is heat resistant, and will last for many years with proper care. A granite countertop will hold up beautifully under daily use and requires only periodic sealing to prevent stains from penetrating the hard surface. Although granite can be damaged by impact with a heavy object, it generally holds up well against normal kitchen activities.

Granite Is Not Stain Resistant

Although one of the most durable countertop materials, granite can still become stained by wine, juice, oils, and other substances. Having your granite professionally sealed can help to prevent damage from spills and accidents. You should always clean up spills immediately to prevent permanent staining of the surface.

Granite Needs To Be Sealed

Although granite is a tough surface that can stand up to everyday use, it is also somewhat porous. This porosity means that germs and moisture can be held in the materials and can contaminate foods during preparation. Sealing will also prevent staining from highly colored foods. Even water left on unsealed granite can produce marks and a darkened appearance. A sealant will help to reduce moisture absorption in the stone and will help to prevent staining that affects the appearance of your countertop. Re-sealing the surface needs to be performed about every 12 to 18 months of normal use.

The Right Cleaners Will Keep Your Granite Looking Its Best

Harsh cleaners and abrasive substances can ruin the gloss on granite. Instead, you should always use a gentle cleaner like dishwashing liquid and water to clean the counter surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads and cleaners that contain acidic chemicals that will damage the material. If needed, you can also increase the shine of the granite surface with n recommended polish.

Granite kitchen countertops are the top choice for today’s kitchens because of their durable wear and simple maintenance. When you understand the qualities that make granite so desirable, it’s easy to keep your granite items looking good and providing practical service over many years.