Classic Home

Classic is a word that you often hear applied to the world of design and some might conjure up ideas of something from time past that looks old. However, classic is a word which is defined by Webster’s dictionary as “serving as a standard of excellence: of recognized value”. So then, classic is a good word that projects value over time. Another word that is often heard in design is trending and some might conjure visions of the latest and the greatest things available for the home.
Webster’s dictionary defines trending as a prevailing tendency or inclination or a current style or preference. When it comes to adding value to your home choose a trend that has become and remains a classic because classics are the standard of excellence. Let’s take a peek into some homes that have applied the classics in a fresh new way, somewhere in the heart of The Villages.

• Engineered Harwood is a classic
Engineered hardwood is what we use here in Florida because it glues down to the cement slab. Engineered hardwood consist of layers of plywood glued together and the final layer on top is real hickory, oak or acacia wood. Many of these floors can be sanded but it would be very rare to need to have that done because the finishes are tough and the character of the wood hides a myriad of sins. Engineered hardwood cannot be used in bathrooms but it can be used in the kitchen. Many of my clients have it put in the kitchen for a seamless look but if you want tile in the kitchen that is fine. Tile and Hardwood can be abutted with no threshold so the transitions can be super smooth. Engineered hardwood is a classic and the modern application is to use lighter woods but a medium wood is fine as well. Engineered hardwood does add value to the home and that can be researched on the web for more facts if you are curious. The only disadvantage to engineered hardwood is that it would have to be replaced if a space had water damage. However, most homeowner insurances cover replacing all things that are damaged.

• Tile
Tile is a classic and will never go out of style. If you don’t like engineered hardwood you can select a wood-look tile and that will stand the test of time. The tile has to be a good representation of wood if you are choosing a wood look tile. Homeowners will never go wrong with a tile that looks like stone and always choose medium to light for tile because that will be more neutral and stand the test of time. Tile always adds value to the home as well.

• Luxury vinyl plank
Luxury vinyl plank has been trending for years and is really trending now. If you are considering buying this product be sure that it has a rigid core. The rigid core products have performed better over time. Luxury vinyl can go anywhere in the home including bathrooms and is a floating floor with a click and lock system. Though it does a great job of mimicking wood; when placed side by side with wood the difference can be seen. This product is generally less money per square foot than hardwood but not always enough to justify choosing the vinyl when comparing; it depends on the brand name of vinyl that is chosen. Study the maker of the vinyl that you are considering and read reviews of the product. Luxury vinyl plank is water proof, but what does that mean? If you were to have a flood, the planks still have to come up and everything has to be dried but the same planks can be put back after the incident. This will save the insurance companies money because you can reuse the same planks. The only disadvantage to the luxury vinyl plank is that is adds no monetary value to the home.

• Shutters
Shutters are the king of window design! They are a classic and will never go away. I like blinds of all types and usually the homeowner’s needs must be met when we choose our privacy treatments. However, since we are discussing classics this week shutters are beautiful, classic, and they do add value to the home.

• Granite and Quartz
Granite is natural stone and will always be a classic. Quartz is a manmade product that contains stone and it has become a classic. They both add value to the home and they are both great choices. From my customer base about 70% choose granite because it is less expensive and 30% choose quartz. The take away on the two counter tops is that they both add monetary value to the home.

• White kitchens
You may have inherited a wood kitchen and love it and that is great! However, you are going to spend money on your kitchen then you want to install something that will stand the test of time. White kitchens are classic and will never go away! They are crisp and clean looking. If you are planning a remodel and want to try a trend, then experiment on your island. The island will cost less money to change over time. Remember, HGTV shows are great and we get to see all the latest trends but this is real life and real money so choose trends that have become classics and you can’t go wrong.

P.S. –Attention all club presidents! We give free decorating seminars. It is lots of fun and very informative. Call and schedule your club today. Also, we are on-line check out our web-site at www.ruthdyer.com and you can always e-mail us at ruth@finishingtouchfl.com or Call Ruth your full service decorator at 352-804-2056.