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Interior design recovery robust but uneven
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesAfter several years of modest growth following the recession, the interior design industry experienced a surge of activity in 2015 that continued into the first half of this year. Although demand softened somewhat in the third quarter, in most areas of the country the industry has made a full recovery.
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How to choose the perfect railing for your next outdoor project
Faye Williams Construction & Building MaterialsRailing is essentially the frame to your outdoor space, so it's important that you find the perfect color and design style to suit your backyard. Whether your home has a rustic appeal or you prefer the minimal lines of cable and wire railings, choosing the right one will create a beautiful design accent to your deck.
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5 trends shaping today’s new home market
Michael J. Berens Construction & Building MaterialsDemand for new homes is heating up. A shortage of suitable existing home inventory may be one reason, but new home shoppers also are looking for properties that differ from the existing home stock. They are seeking houses that align more closely with their values and lifestyles. Top of mind are the following features, according to recent industry reports.
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Are you an interior decorator or an interior designer?
Susan Mulholland Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesWhy is this a question that seems never to go away? Even among members of the profession, the debate over what we call ourselves seems to be a source of turmoil. The fact is many of us who are practicing the art of interior design are both. Interior decoration or décor has been around as long as humans have been seeking shelter. From the earliest cave drawings to the many cultural identities and style periods throughout our history.
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For fall, functional kitchens with visual appeal
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesAs the remodeling industry enters the busy fall season, kitchen redesigns and upgrades continue to top the list of most-requested projects. Recent purchasers of existing homes in particular are choosing to remodel the kitchen to suit contemporary lifestyles and tastes. Their preference is for open spaces and clean lines, with an emphasis on functionality and easy maintenance. Instead of opting for gourmet kitchens with lots of gleaming gadgets, they are combining materials in interesting ways to create visual appeal.
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Leading designers ‘take it to the top’ to boost sales
Fred Berns Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesShow your best before you discuss the rest. That's the selling strategy of some of the most financially successful interior design professionals. They talk about and showcase their highest end products and services at the outset, before rolling out lower-priced alternatives.
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Another new normal for designers?
Lloyd Princeton Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesDuring the period of "conspicuous austerity" resulting from the Great Recession, consumers were reluctant to make new purchases or undertake larger remodeling projects. Designers had to adjust to the "new normal," which meant relying more heavily on design and consulting fees in a more competitive market.
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Fewer homeowners choosing design over remodeling
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesDesign activity weakened slightly in the second quarter, even as demand for remodeling and renovation services increased. The dip in design business may be attributable to a number of factors, including fluctuations in the housing market and concern about the economy — conditions that have since improved.
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Energy-efficient roofing materials for green clients
Erin Vaughan Construction & Building MaterialsYou don't need an MBA to know green means big business. When Neilsen studied consumer behavior in regard to eco-friendly products, they found that two-thirds now prefer to buy sustainable products over conventional materials.
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An open letter to future restaurant owners
Leslie LaskinReese Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesDear Future Restaurant Owner, Yes, you can design your own restaurant. You have a vision, and you make a mean (insert amazing recipe you got from your mother here). You've worked in several restaurants, or at least you've read articles about working in restaurants, and you know how you want the dining room to look. And you know how to make (insert that recipe) and understand what equipment is required.
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