How to Make Your Home Warm and Inviting

Gulfstream Homes — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 19:36:13 +0000

Designing the perfect home doesn’t only mean making it just right for your family, it also means making it cozy for guests. After all, it’s no secret that Southwest Florida is probably the best place to be in the country this winter, and with all the ice storms, sub-zero temps and gloomy days, visitors can’t wait to ditch their boots and coats and slip into their bathing suits for a much-needed tropical vacation. When visitors are knocking at your door, it’s nice to welcome them into a home that you’re proud of, one that emanates cheer, comfort and of course, relaxation. From subtle tweaks to full-blown renovations, here’s how to make your home warm and inviting.

Open Up the Entryway

If you’ve ever taken a second to notice a supermarket or a department store, these buildings have what are called “decompression zones” meant to help shoppers get their bearings and decide which direct to head off in first. The same goes with your home, as guests may need a moment to take it all in and get settled when they first step inside. If you’re building a new home or renovating an existing home, keep this in mind and try and opt for an open, airy front entrance, so everyone, including you, can take a moment to take in your surroundings. High ceilings and lots of light help to make this space refreshing and calming.

Opt for Warm, Neutral Tones

Cozy colors set the mood of the space, and when it comes to making your guests feel at ease, paint color can play a big role in this, which is why warm tones are in right now. Stick to some of the following paint colors to create an inviting atmosphere:

Rich Cream
Muted Taupe
Soft Gold
Rustic Green

In choosing a more natural color palette, you’re setting the tone for the home, which can really place guests in a more relaxed state.

Give Guests Their Own Space

No one wants to feel like they’re in the way of their host, and one way to alleviate this feeling is by having a dedicated space for guests. Whether it’s a simple room or a spacious guest suite, guests wants to feel like they have their own decompression space during their visit. Many designers recommend decorating this space hotel-style to bring a sense of relaxation and comfort to these temporary living quarters.

Showcase Your Views

Nothing says paradise better than breath-taking views of the water or the gentle sway of palm trees, and if you’re lucky enough to have a home with these views, it’s best to make them the center of attention. Large windows to let the light in, as well as sliders to open up into the outdoor living area make the space simply spectacular, not only for your guests, but for your everyday Southwest Florida lifestyle as well.

Your Inviting Space

From minor accents to major upgrades, choosing how your home feels is as important as how it’s built. Keep these tips in mind the next time your northern friends ring you up asking for a temporary reprieve from the snow, so that you can make their stay as comfortable as ever. When it comes to your Southwest Florida home, nothing beats a cozy oasis in paradise.

The team at Gulfstream Homes can’t wait to help you design the perfect home for you…and your guests! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

Contact Us

The post How to Make Your Home Warm and Inviting first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Stunning Ceiling Designs You’re Going to Love

Gulfstream Homes — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 18:04:21 +0000

If you’ve read any interior design blogs, popped on Pinterest for some design inspo or visited any home improvement stores, you may have realized just how many flooring design options you have, but what about your ceilings? Surely there must be more options than just plan white. When it comes to design, the ceiling tends to take a backseat to everything else, but why? It takes up just as much room as the floor, and we think that it should matter just as much! You may be surprised to find that there are more ideas than you originally thought for designing your ceiling to complement the style of your home, and we’ve picked out some of our favorites.

Here are some stunning ceiling designs you’re going to love.

Wood Beams

In the age of modern farmhouse style, the beamed ceiling is making its presence known in many Southwest Florida homes. Contemporary, rustic and giving off a coastal feel, wood beams create that Hamptons home look that’s highly desired, no matter where you live. For an even more beachy feel, go with a crisp white paint to lighten and brighten up the space.

Colorful Coffered Ceilings

Coffered ceilings are a spectacular way to add texture and depth to a room; however, this particular trend takes the coffered ceiling design a little bit further. Instead of traditional neutral tones for the ceiling, colorful, vibrant hues are taking charge. Think bright navy walls with a navy coffered ceiling to match, or opt to make a statement with the ceiling by painting the walls of the room in neutral tones and the ceiling a bright color to add some interest to the room.

Walnut Paneling

If you’re looking to add a natural, tropical touch to your home, walnut paneling will get you there. The rich walnut tones give the space an earthy feel, and combined with simple furniture, your space will feel like a tropical getaway in no time.

Geometric Tiles

Geometric shapes are really making their appearance in many modern homes, and the ceiling may just be the perfect spot to incorporate this trend. Neutral tones or vibrant hues can don this space, so finding the look for this area is based on preference, and a tetris-style arrangement makes this design more interesting.

Other Ceiling Design Trends

When it comes to your ceiling, you’ve got loads of options to make this area as dialed in as the rest of your home, so get creative! Other unique ideas include:

Wallpaper
Plaster designs
Murals
Custom fixtures
Linens

Whether you’re looking for sophisticated luxury or tropical vibes, these ceiling designs can help you pull this space together perfectly. So, don’t forget about your ceiling and be sure to have fun with this element of your home. After all, you’ve got a big area to cover, so why not make it interesting? Find the look you want for your home and add in some exquisite ceiling detailing to tie it all together.

The Gulfstream Homes team is ready to help you build or renovate a home in Southwest Florida! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.