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Service makes the difference in selling interior design
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesHomeowners have challenges. Designers have solutions. So why aren't more homeowners turning to designers for help with their renovation, remodeling and decorating needs? Cost is a factor for some, but it is not the deciding one in many cases. Often the decision comes down to service, whether the prospective client views you as the answer to their prayers or another provider they have to manage.
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Success shortcut: Reach out to the right realtors
Fred Berns Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesIf "How do I work with higher-caliber clients?" is your question, successful local realtors may have your answers. When it comes to landing fat-cat clients, success leaves clues. You'll find lots of them when you hang around high-end real estate professionals, the ones who sell multimillion luxury properties to the area's most affluent buyers.
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Putting a third ‘i’ in building
Michael J. Berens Construction & Building MaterialsToday's built environments are all about performance — and not just building performance. Yes, on the engineering side, they have to deliver on energy and water conservation, improved indoor air quality, reduced waste, resilience and more. Increasingly, they also are being asked to influence the behaviors of occupants and to safeguard their health and wellness, as well as their privacy and safety.
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Interior designs slowly veering toward the cool and casual look
Bambi Majumdar Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesIt seems casual chic has really arrived in the 21st century. Every facet of life is reflecting more natural flair rather than set norms, including interior design. An increasing number of designers are veering away from the rigid trends of sticking to a genre or style in their projects. Instead, their work seems to be more of a blend between their tastes and client preferences.
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Aging boomers keep kitchen and bath remodels booming
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesRealtors are waiting on millennials to revive home sales. But when it comes to custom home building and remodeling, aging is where the action is. Whether they are looking to stay in place in their current homes — homes that were not designed to accommodate the changes that come with aging — or build the home of their dreams, baby boomers are investing in upgrades and modifications that will make their homes more accessible and supportive in the years ahead.
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Strong student housing market produces new decor styles
Bambi Majumdar Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesThe student housing market is looking stronger and stronger. What naturally ensues from this growth is demand for better and nicer interior décor for the sector. Traditionally, student housing décor has always meant low-budget projects. But professionals are giving it another look thanks to the rapid growth of the industry. Let's take a look at the predominant décor trends that are ruling this young sector.
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Who’s buying luxury home goods?
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesOnce synonymous with wealth, opulence and exclusivity, luxury has become more accessible. Consequently, it now means different things to different groups of consumers. Today, luxury is linked with other values besides just the accumulation of riches and power. Appealing to the luxury home goods shopper requires a deeper understanding of how they view themselves and what motivates them to buy.
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Why smaller remodeling projects can have a bigger impact
Bambi Majumdar Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesThe Appraisal Institute, the nation's largest professional association of real estate appraisers, advised homeowners across America in March to opt for minor upgrades instead of major home renovations. According to them, this is the best way to realize better return on investment in this economy.
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More evidence of positive effects of nature in built environments
Michael J. Berens Construction & Building MaterialsIncreased daylighting is now a common strategy for reducing energy consumption in buildings. It has the added benefit that it is also good for occupants. Exposure to sunlight and natural views have been shown to improve mood, increase productivity and enhance wellness.
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The co-op: A new model for remodeling and design firms?
Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & FixturesBusiness is booming in the remodeling industry. Profits, not so much. Looking ahead to better days, consumers are undertaking long-delayed home improvements. But their wallets are stuck in the recession. This makes it tough for smaller firms to increase their fees and eke out a bit more profit.
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