How to Bring Nature Inside

What do you love most about nature and the outdoors? Is it the first sign of spring blooms, the colorful autumn foliage, or maybe the smell of fresh cut grass on a warm summer day? Do you enjoy the soothing sound of a trickling creek or a bright blue sky on a sunny day?

Incorporate these organic elements into your décor and invite nature into your home.

Don't Block Natural Views

One of the easiest ways to invite nature into your home is to ensure a direct connection through glass doors and windows. Leave them undressed to welcome in sunlight and enjoy unobstructed views of the outdoors. When safety and privacy are concerns, dress windows in airy, natural fibers that allow daylight indoors and can be easily opened. Ensure that windows are operable so that you can enjoy fresh air and relaxing breezes.

What Is Your Natural Color?

Choose a natural color palette for your home interior that represents your connection to the outdoors. Warm browns or hues of gold will evoke a hotter, arid climate. Shades of blue or green will remind you of the sky, water, tree foliage and grasses.

Incorporate Natural Elements

It is important to pull in natural elements for capturing an organic look and feel in your home design. Varieties of stone can work well for countertops and flooring. A stone hearth would make a fantastic addition, and consider incorporating an entire accent wall of stone or simply adding detail to archways.

Wood is another natural material that can provide a direct connection to the outdoors. Wood makes an excellent flooring option and is also durable and easy to maintain. Plan early to incorporate wood beams into your design, and leave rafters exposed for a rugged, organic look.

Nature-Inspired Décor

Another easy way to invite nature into your home is through natural décor. Consider furniture, window treatments, pillows and throws made from natural materials and fibers such as wood, cotton, wool, rattan or natural grasses. Stick to an earthy color palette.

Display items that are found in nature such as sea shell varieties, birdhouses made from bark, or hurricane vases filled partially with river rock and topped with candles. Add beloved animal figurines and photos exhibiting some of your favorite outdoor scenes or personal memories.

The easiest way to add a touch of nature to your home is with houseplants and flowers. They also improve air quality, so be generous and add them throughout your home. Decorative terrariums in beautiful glass containers are an elegant option. For an eclectic look, create vases using glass jars and bottles in varying sizes, shapes and colors, and use them to hold seasonal flowers or even sprigs of ivy.

Stimulate your senses by adding scented candles to mimic your favorite natural scents, such as lavender, basil or pine. Consider purchasing or constructing a water feature if you enjoy the sound of a trickling creek or a rushing waterfall.

To bring your relationship with nature into your home, create an indoor environment that represents your most beloved outdoor experiences.

For more tips and decor style, please visit our Pinterest page!

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,

Stephen Nissou

Nissou Realty Group   |   Keller Williams Realty
Direct 619-250-4541  |   Office 619-873-2773

Stephen@StephenNissou.com
CalBRE # 01443193

Choosing a Kitchen Sink to Match Your Style and Budget

If you're remodeling your kitchen on a budget – or equipping a new kitchen and haven't a clue where to start – focus on the kitchen sink. Yesteryear's limited selection of cast iron and stainless steel can't compete with today's stylish, modern sinks.

Simply choose the mounting type and style, then select the material. A new sink will transform your kitchen.

Kitchen Sink Mounting Types and Design Options

In general, your kitchen sink will either rest above or attach beneath the kitchen counter. Understanding installation types, styles and terminology will help you find the sink you really want.

Surface-Mounted Sinks: Surface-mounted sinks drop into a hole made in the kitchen countertop. If the sink is rimmed, it features an exposed flange that meets and seals to the countertop. Self-rimming sinks, on the other hand, lack the flat flange, using rounded outer edges to rest on the countertop instead. Both are fairly simple to install and work with most countertop materials.

Under-Mounted Sinks: For a kitchen countertop that looks seamless, consider an under-mounted kitchen sink. The countertop still features a cutout to accommodate the sink, but instead of dropping through the counter, it mounts to the underneath. The effect is a sleek counter surface. It's considered a low-maintenance design that looks especially good with modern interiors. Under-mounted sinks work best with solid counter materials like stone and concrete, not moisture-permeable countertops like laminate.

Tile-In Sinks: As the name suggests, a tile-in sink is surrounded by a tile countertop. The sink drops into a hole, like a surface-mounted sink. The difference is the height: Once the tile is installed, the sink rim is actually flush with the surrounding countertop. This makes cleaning the countertop a breeze and calls attention to the beauty of your tile, rather than the sink basin.

Integral Sinks: Some people mistakenly call these "Corian sinks," but Corian is just one integral sink and counter manufacturer. Integral sinks are made of the same material as the countertop and fused to it, presenting a seamless appear

ance that's also easy to keep clean.

Farmhouse Sinks: Another popular kitchen sink style is the farmhouse sink. Rather than referring to how the sink mounts, it's a design that features a front apron panel. It's a stylish look that highlights the sink itself. Farmhouse sinks may be under- or surface-mounted, and even tiled-in.

How Many Bowls Do You Need?

Bigger isn't always better. When selecting your new kitchen sink, consider the size of your kitchen and your work habits before settling on a bowl size or number. Most sink styles are available in single and double bowls, and sometimes triple as well. One bowl may be smaller than the others, especially with triple bowls, which often sandwich a smaller bowl between two larger ones.

Single-bowl sinks work best for smaller kitchens (less than 150 square feet). Triple bowls are the ultimate luxury, allowing you to stack dishes to dry, have dishes soaking, and still peel vegetables in the third basin.

Sink Materials                        

Stainless Steel - Stainless steel is easy to clean, reasonably priced, and strong. Look for the gauge (thickness) of the steel and the sound-deadening ability. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel, making it more durable. Spray coatings and special pads on the bottom of the sink reduce noise. Choose a satin finish, rather than a mirror finish, to lessen scratching. Look for varying bowl shapes for added style.

Cast Iron - Cast iron sinks are coated with enamel and come in a variety of colors. Cast iron is heavy, but a bigger issue is that it chips and scratches easily. Exposed iron will rust, requiring replacement or repair. Also, cast iron doesn't keep water hot for very long. It's favored for the glossy finish and stain resistance. Use cast iron with farmhouse sink styles for authenticity.

Composite - Composite sinks encompass three specific types: quartz composite, polyester/acrylic composite and granite-based composite. Of these, the polyester/ acrylic composites are more budget-friendly and provide a shiny look. Quartz composite sinks are more durable. Composed of 70 percent quartz and 30 percent resin filler, they resist damage and also come in various colors and finishes. Granite-based sinks are a higher-end choice and offer the greatest scratch and chemical resistance of any sink material.

Take your time when shopping for your new kitchen sink. Look online and at various stores to get ideas and find the sink you'll love. 

Check out our Pinterest page  to see sinks we love! www.Pinterest.com/NissouRealty

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert, 

Stephen Nissou
Nissou Realty Group 

Keller Williams Realty - El Cajon
619-250-4541 DIRECT
619-873-2772 OFFICE

Email: Stephen@StephenNissou.com

www.StephenNissou.com

CalBRE # 01443193

Family Mudroom Designs

The family mudroom is, without question, one of the highest traffic areas in the home. It battles all sorts of external elements, from rain and snow to dirt and mud. It houses countless miscellaneous essentials, including shoes and boots, jackets, umbrellas, scarves and more. It is home to pet necessities and sporting equipment. It's where kids drop their backpacks and parents discard car keys or unload shopping bags.

For all these reasons, when planning the family mudroom design, it's important to select interior finishes wisely, maintaining organization while also personalizing the space for the entire family.

Select Smart Interior Finishes

Choose a satin or semi-gloss paint as opposed to a flat finish. These options make cleaning a much easier task. Also, if you've got pets and younger children in the home, consider selecting a darker wall color instead of a lighter one that will show even the slightest bit of dirt or discoloration.

Flooring will probably be the most critical decision you make regarding interior finishes for your family mudroom. Choose a weather-resistant surface that is also easy to maintain and keep clean. Ceramic tile, wood, or natural stone varieties such as slate make great durable options. Add an area rug at the entry for taking off soiled shoes and to help absorb moisture.

Organization Through Design

Individual lockers or cubbies for each family member are a great way to keep personal items separate and tidy. Large wall hooks are an inexpensive option for organizing jackets and handbags, and custom cabinetry or closets are fantastic if the budget permits.

A bench of some sort is a must for putting on shoes, and don't forget to utilize the space beneath for added storage. Wicker or cloth baskets come in a variety of sizes and colors and are a great way to keep scarves, hats or even pet toys organized in a stylish manner. 

Consider wire baskets or even galvanized tubs to capture a rustic, vintage look. Don't forget to use your vertical wall space for added shelving and additional orderly storage opportunities.

Key hooks ensure house keys and car keys are accounted for at all times and a central docking location is a great way to guarantee cell phones and tablets are charged up as family members rush out the door to begin their busy days.

Go Ahead, Personalize It

Organization doesn't have to be dull! Mudroom design for a family should take into account each family member and their individual needs and interests. If you decide to utilize personal cubbies or lockers, choose fun paint colors that complement each personality. Instead of labeling wicker or fabric baskets in a traditional manner, consider inserting photos of Dad, Sis or even Fido to define ownership in a fun way and further inspire tidiness.

When designing a mudroom for your family, remember to make wise decisions and remain organized. Be sure to have some fun in your selections as you create a personal yet functional space.

For more tips and tricks, and all things design, check out our Pinterest page! 

Interior Decorating, Farmhouse - Style

Farmhouse décor offers a relaxed, casual and charming feel. It perfectly combines old and new elements for an eclectic look. A farmhouse interior is warm and inviting while also being practical.

Whether you're a true country dweller or simply love the look and feel associated with its laid-back style, bring the charm of the farm to your home.

Design Elements

Natural design elements are heavily represented in farmhouse homes. Exposed and distressed beams and ceilings are common features along with crown moldings, wainscoting or other wall paneling.

Natural wood flooring is a must. Leave them plain or consider giving the floors or wood wall paneling a whitewashed or distressed look. Also, incorporate oversized windows where possible. Farmhouse homes tend to let natural light flood their interiors.

A Farmhouse Kitchen

A modern farmhouse kitchen remains warm and inviting yet practical. Choose between either clean or weathered whites for cabinetry and dishware. It's also common to refurbish cabinets and choose colors such as buttery yellow or pale blue.

Butcher block countertops are also a farmhouse favorite, and an apron-front sink screams farmhouse kitchen. Consider incorporating some glass cabinetry to neatly showcase some of your antique favorites, and include open shelving to easily access essentials such as pots and pans or mason jars filled with flour or sugar. These elements will add charm while still remaining practical.

In open floor plans, a large wooden dining table enhances the inviting and classic qualities of farmhouse style. Stainless appliances and hardware in bronze or brushed nickel add subtle modern touches.

Furnishings

Consider browsing antique shops or flea markets for special pieces such as large iron bed frames, wardrobes, buffets, chests or hutches. Focus on blending eclectic items as opposed to purchasing furniture in sets. For example, an oversized wooden dining table is a must, but consider adding mismatched rustic chairs to enhance the casualness associated with farmhouse décor.

Living room furnishings should be welcoming and relaxed. Comfortable cotton sofas are often seen adorned with simple slipcovers, which again enhance a sense of informality. Accent with a reclaimed or reupholstered chair, chairs made from other natural fibers such as wicker, or even a classic wooden rocker dressed with a hand-stitched quilt.

Farmhouse Décor

When fine-tuning your farmhouse décor, remember to incorporate vintage pieces that were also utilitarian such as old milk jugs or wire egg baskets. Display antique china in refurbished, weathered hutches, and consider antique pitchers in lieu of a modern vase. Use clear or colored mason jars to store everyday essentials or display cut flowers or tea lights. Antique scales or canister sets can be charming additions to exposed shelving. Old wooden milk crates, wicker baskets, and galvanized metal buckets or watering cans add immediate rustic charm. Frame vintage photos in eclectic frames and add antique signs, mirrors or clocks to walls.

Replicate farmhouse style in your home, and craft a relaxed environment that exudes incomparable charm.

For inspiration, be sure to check out our Pinterest page for tips, tricks, and visual design! 

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,

The 2015 Design Trends You NEED To Know!

As we begin to prepare for our new year into 2015, predictions and color trends are surfacing about what the newest 2015 design trends will be making a staple this new year, and which ones will start to diminish from our views.







COLOR TRENDS:

Greek Blue: Greek blue, like the blue of the Meditteranean and the churches of Santorini will be making a statement in 2015. It's rich, and perfect to pair with a grey or pink.

Green and Blue: Mixing green with anything creates vibrant colors. Paired with classic versions of blue and a lighter or darker green for a fresh and bold look. 
Want to make it a little bit more classic and chic? Pair olive greens for a warm, organic and neutral room. 

Natural Grays: Everyone loves neutral, earth tones. Gray was the hottest neutral for 2014, and you better believe it's making a come back for 2015. But this year, combine soft gray walls with dark charcoals. It's sure to be a hit. One of my favorite gray staple colors? "Repose Gray" by Sherwin Williams.

Make it bold: I love mixing colors - pinks, purples, greens and blues. You name it, I can make it work with what's already existing in the room. Don't be afraid to mix and match bold colors and fun prints. Be sure that everything in the room flows together, and can flow into an adjacent and adjoint room. 

Make it warm: As much as I love bold colors and prints, I love muddy colors, too. Rust, olive, mint, and aubergine are soft and warm, but can still make a statement. And don't forget that you can still splash bright colors into the room too, to keep things exciting! 
(Example: Bold violet with a warm green and grey)



A big trend we will be seeing in the new year? Pairing classics with unexpected accents and vibrant tones. Think black, gray, and white, with splashes of red in a room. In the bedroom, pair solid sheets with chevron throw pillows and a velvet headboard. Don't be afraid to mix and match prints, either. 

Don't forget that you can get color design inspiration from jsut about anywhere - nature, clothing, weddings, even the sunset. Check out more 2015 Design Trend inspiration on our Pinterest page! 

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,

How To Decorate A Home Office

Whether you work from home or are simply interested in a dedicated space to manage the monthly bills, respond to emails, or work with your children on schoolwork, crafting an environment based on personal needs can be accomplished regardless of the space available. Create a home office with your specific design needs in mind.

Keep it Bright and Vivid

You need to be alert and attentive while in your home office. Consider a bright color scheme utilizing white as a backdrop and vivid shades of orange, pink or yellow that support energy and optimism.

If you have a demanding job, shades of blue, green or even purple may be a better option as they create a more calming environment.

Furnishings and Décor for Your Home Office

There are a few obvious needs when planning for a home office, with a desk and chair topping the list. Carefully select these items based on allotted space and your personal needs. If you work from home, you may require a larger desk to house items such as reference books, files, a printer, or fax machine. If you simply desire a space to respond to emails on your laptop, then a smaller desk should suit you just fine. Choose an ergonomically-designed chair to promote better posture and efficiency if your home office is your sole place of work.

If you're fortunate to be provided natural light and a view of the outdoors, position your desk to take advantage of this. Add adequate task lighting to create a comfortable workspace.

Keep your home office tidy and organized in order to maintain efficiency. Consider cabinetry or shelving, and add labeled baskets for increased organization.

Keeping décor to a minimum also helps maintain organization. Add items such as houseplants or a small water feature to encourage a sense of calmness and increased well-being. A few framed photos of your favorite loved ones also inspire a less stressful environment, and displaying some personal achievements or awards inspire a positive work attitude and sense of pride.

Be Creative with the Space You've Got

If square footage is at a premium and you aren't afforded the benefit of dedicating an entire room to your home office, get creative. Utilize an oversized closet or carve out a nook in the corner of a room, adding built-ins or floating shelves. Space under stairways is often wasted. Consider utilizing this space, which is also out of the way of foot traffic.

Whatever your personal demands for a home office may be, regardless of square-footage restrictions, enjoy creating a custom home office space that suits your individual demands.

For more home office design insipiration, check out our Pinterest page! 

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,

Home Design Trends For The Season!

If you’re like me, you’re already thinking of how to retire your spring and summer home and get it ready for the cooler months! So if you are ready to get out of that summer funk, and “fall” into a new home design for a while I’ve got you covered with these predicted Winter 2014 Home Design Trends!

Interchangeable Accents

Instead of settling on one fixed look, it looks like trends are heading towards a versatile neutral base and big-impact accents. A popular predicted color for fall? Chameleon! (Not to be confused with the Pokémon character, either!)

Glamour It Up

Move over white walls, 2014 is all about drama and glamour! So dark walls in black and greys will be the perfect backdrop for fall, and easily transition into winter! Add in some metallic accessories and a crystal chandelier, and you’ll be good to go!

We Love VINTAGE

With an overexposure to vintage in 2014, one of a kind pieces are highly sought after. And what’s not to love about vintage pieces, especially when you have guests asking “where did you get that?!” Vintage pieces go great with all that glam on the walls, too

Goodbye, Beige

With all those interchangeable accents and vintage pieces, it may finally be the end of beige…we hope.

Blossoming Prints

Tried and true fabrics are popping up all over fashion this year. Mix them with other graphic patterns for a very modern look!

Metals and Metallic

Remember that we’re glamouring it up for fall? Mix and match metallic (like silver and gold) with a  little bit of metal to really get the look you’re going for!

It’s All About That Navy

Navy blue has been a huge trend so far this year. Once we get into the cooler months, you’ll want to darken the place down a bit. Navy hues and patterns will be all the rage this fall. From rich, saturated colors to bright, vibrant shades, keep it constant even until next spring!

Have a trend you just love?! Email it to me and I’ll feature it on our blog! Admin@NissouRealty.com., And for more fall trends, check out my Pinterest page at Pinterest.com/NissouRealty

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,

Colorful Front Doors to Brighten a Home

We’re always looking to brighten up a home. Could it be as simple as brightening your front door? Check out these great front doors we’ve found!

For more inspiration to brighten your home, check out our Pinterest page at http://www.pinterest.com/nissourealty/bright-front-doors/

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,