Fall Changes to Your Home

Across the country we are seeing a change from "green carpet of grass" to a tapestry of gold and crimson leaves!  Late summer's yellow and purple flowers transition to the tan and brown tones of winter.  Autumn gourds and pumpkins line our steps.  Nights are cool, and although the days may still be warm and sunny, a chill often nips the air!  

As we stroll along the golden carpet of leaves the trees have left, you may want to consider the carpet and flooring inside your home.   Some of us will be hosting family & friends for the holidays and that is reason enough to change and update the flooring, others of us just like to change things once in a while. Whatever the reason, there are many options to consider, the style and color you choose can set the mood of a room.   Just as the brilliant reds and yellows of the falling leaves may alter the landscape the color, design and texture of new flooring can dramatically alter or update the look of a space. 

Wood Floors

•     Classic
•     Clean, Simple Look
•     Durability
•     Work with any decorating style
•     Accent or throw rugs can update or change look of room with little expense
•     Natural beauty
•     Superior quality
•     Many options: bamboo (environmentally friendly); cork (good choice for those that have allergies and affordable); oak; hickory; cherry; and don't forget patterns! 

Tile Floors

•     Adds Elegance
•     Color options galore
•     Texture options
•     Many options: slate; ceramic, cement; mosaic
•     Reminders - use rugs with non-slip backs; slippery when wet. 

Carpet

•     Classic
•     Colors
•     Textures
•     Patterns
•     Carpet Tiles
•     Commercial-grade updated looks and extra durable

If your budget doesn't allow for new flooring, work with what you've got.  

• Hardwood floors can be refinished.
• Carpet can be cleaned
• Cover up "problem" areas with accent rugs or furniture. 
• Add runners or area rugs to change the feel of a room. 

Carpet runners add a touch of warmth and personality to narrow spaces such as hallways.  Be sure to measure your space before making a purchase and search for a store that will allow you to take your rug home and try it in your own surroundings.    Area rugs can help "ground" a space - create a gathering area (i.e. dining area, living room) - set the mood of a room.   Area rugs let you 'try out' a new decorating scheme, especially in a child's room where you know they will out-grow a theme with age. 

Other ways to bring Fall indoors:

• Add scents - candles or air fresheners - infused with spicy-sweet ginger, pumpkin, cinnamon-apple and brown sugar!

• Add seasonal blooms - sunflowers, asters, mums (if your home is on the market put a red mum by the front door)
• Add pillows - pile them on, in rich fall colors to match the leaves outside.  

Happy Fall!  

Oh, by the way, don't forget it is time to "fall back" your clocks this Sunday too!  

Susan