Bathroom Accent Tile

Remodeling your bathroom allows you to choose a whole new feeling for the room, but it can be costly. One way to get the look and feel you desire without breaking the bank is to utilize accent tile in purposeful ways.

Accent tile is more expensive than standard tile, and come in about every color, pattern, and material you can think of. The most cost-effective way to use accent tile is to use a cheaper, plain tile all over the bathroom, and use the accent just in bits. The less you use, the less it will cost.

Make a visual waterfall with a thick swath of accent tile or make the room look wider with a horizontal stripe as a chair rail.

For more ideas, read this article at Houzz.

Decorate like a Kitchen Designer

Kitchens aren't what they used to be. The space formerly known as the scullery is becoming the most popular part of the house. "The hierarchy of the home has changed to become more kitchen-centric," says interior designer Mick de Giulio. "Think of the kitchen not just as the kitchen, but a room to really live in." Follow these tips from House Beautiful Kitchens contributors de Giulio and Mark Leslie to turn your kitchen into your family's favorite hangout:

Make it comfy. For a homey feel, display personal photos as art work. "It can be framed family photos," Leslie says, "It doesn't have to be an oil painting by the Masters." Bring in elements from te living room, such as comfortable upholstered chairs and tabletop lamps for a cozier space.

Make it kid-safe. Even the most beautiful kitchen can withstand kids' messes if materials have durability, Leslie says. For upholstered seating, stay away from linen. He recommends leather and Naugahyde for a polished but low-maintenance look. Quartz and marble counter tops are easy to clean, and laminate cabinetry is the most durable, de Giulio says.

Make it light. To brighten a dark space or open up a small one, think about natural light. Try hanging a large mirror over your sink for a reflective focal point. Leslie recommends scoping out your local flea market for inexpensive, quirky finds.

Source: USA Weekend