Search results for "Quick tips" in Home Design Ideas

To create a colonial outdoor living space, we gut renovated this patio, incorporating heated bluestones, a custom traditional fireplace and bespoke furniture. The space was divided into three distinct zones for cooking, dining, and lounging. Firing up the built-in gas grill or a relaxing by the fireplace, this space brings the inside out.

Kitchen design and remodel with black and white cabinetry, gray and white leathered quartzite countertop and slab backsplash, a marble niche, polished nickel fixtures and a butcher block walnut, Sub-Zero Wolf gas range top, stainless steel double oven, and refrigerator. Nearby fireplace has a newly designed mantel, tile surround and hearth, and painted to match black kitchen cabinetry.

The mudroom serves as the home's hub to get in and out the door. The custom lockers offer a spot to stash coats, backpacks, and other out-the-door essentials. This space also features wood grain tiles and a schoolhouse light - details that complement the home's original character.
Photo Credit - David Bader
Find the right local pro for your project

Fall weather brings out the variety of textures and colors in the landscape beds.
Inspiration for a huge mid-century modern partial sun backyard stone landscaping in Chicago for summer.
Inspiration for a huge mid-century modern partial sun backyard stone landscaping in Chicago for summer.

Moonwallstickers.com
Traditional Spanish Tile Stickers
This set consists of 16 wall tile stickers which you can attach easily.
Designed to makeover your kitchen tiles , backsplash tiles or bathroom tiles , each sticker perfectly matches your tile-size (please select a size above) since we deliver pre-cut parts.
These wall tile covers can be added to liven up your tiles without any real work or commitment, Traditional Spanish Tiles are the perfect choice.
Just peel them off when you get tired of them.
Transform your bathroom or kitchen wall tiles, quick and mess free with Traditional Spanish Tiles .
All our self adhesive stickers for wall tiles are:
Very easy to install on any sleek and clean surface.
Ideal for renters to improve a kitchen backsplash
Ideal for both Kitchen and Bathroom tiling.
Made from solid, durable material.
Heat and water resistant.
Can be applied over existing tiles, directly onto the wall or onto any smooth non-porous surface.
Will cover existing tiles without showing the tile underneath.
Complete instructions included with each set.
Instalation Instructions:
Clean the tiles you wish to cover using a non-abrasive cleaner.
Align Tile with the top of the tile.
Adjust as needed then press firmly with a straight edge tool (a credit card works perfectly) from top to bottom, carefully pushing out any air bubbles.
The tiles can be installed by anyone without making any mess.
Note: Your tiles should be clean, smooth and free of irregularities.
Materials & Characteristics for your sticker
.Made of Antibacterial PVC, high quality and resistant to abrasion or washing.
.This wall tile stickers are water-resistant and can bear temperature up to 70°C / 158ºF.
.For cleaning just use a cloth and normal bathroom cleanser.
.They’re fully waterproof.
.Fitting instructions are supplied with all our tile stickers and installation is as easy as peeling from the backing sheet and applying the design to the tile smoothing down with your finger.
.Printed on a white background .

Example of a mountain style l-shaped open concept kitchen design in Boise with shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, ceramic backsplash, an island and white countertops

Photography by Kara Mercer.
Example of a large classic l-shaped enclosed kitchen design in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, beige cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, marble backsplash, an island and white countertops
Example of a large classic l-shaped enclosed kitchen design in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, beige cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, marble backsplash, an island and white countertops

This drawer is an excellent storage area for spices, it sits adjacent to the cooktop for quick access during food preparation. Vogt Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless u-shaped travertine floor kitchen pantry remodel in Phoenix with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, distressed cabinets, granite countertops, yellow backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and two islands
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless u-shaped travertine floor kitchen pantry remodel in Phoenix with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, distressed cabinets, granite countertops, yellow backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and two islands

Matthew Niemann Photography
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Austin
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Austin

Victoria agave with a queen butterfly.
This is an example of a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.
This is an example of a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.

Andrew selected IKEA cabinetry for its budget, modularity and good reviews.
“It also looked great, especially in combination with the aftermarket fronts and hardware,” he says.
To make their kitchen design ideas a reality, required professional help though.
“For something as complex as a kitchen remodel, I figured that the money would be well spent on getting experienced designers to do it for us. I had read good reviews about IKD and we decided to give it a try. Our first challenge was deciding what we wanted. We spent a lot of time looking at design sites, reading and trying to understand how to balance form and function and budget,” he says.
Another challenge was getting all the IKEA pieces needed for the project — especially since the remodel project began in the summer of 2020 during COVID-19. “Supply chains were not great for IKEA, which meant many items were not available. It required an online order, then three different trips to the local IKEA to get a hold of missing pieces that would be in stock for all of a day before going out again,” he describes.
He concludes: “The parts list that IKD generated was perfect and the installation documents made it really easy for our installer.” The pair also hired a cabinet installer, and although the installer was inexperienced with IKEA’s system,“he was able to quickly figure it out and it all went well.”
According to Andrew, there is one very important tip he would suggest for other IKEA customers beginning their remodel process.
“If you are on a budget, that usually means the timeline will be a bit longer, so get ready for some extended camping in your own home. With that in mind, we moved the “kitchen” into our dining room. Another tip is that an induction hotplate ($35 on Amazon) was great for cooking simple stuff,” he concludes.

With exceptional technical experience, I am routinely called upon to manage a diverse range of installation projects. I work quickly and most houses usually only take a couple hours. Generally there are two job scenarios: if you know where everything is to be hung then I can start as soon as I arrive, and if you are unsure of where you would like your art hung, I will start by getting a sense of what art work you have and do a walk through of your home to get an understanding of the space. Once we have decided what layout makes the most of your collection, I start installation.
Comprehensive, museum-quality installation services
Aesthetic advice in art acquisition to build your collection
Aesthetic advice on the layout of your existing collection to shape your space
Security installation available for high value or public spaces
Exceptional technical experience
Able to work quickly & precisely
Installation of large quantities of artwork
Installation of artwork, sculptures and mirrors
20+ years experience handling a diverse range of installation projects
Comprehensive, museum-quality art handling services
Often work in collaboration with interior designers and art consultants
Often work in collaboration with architects and developers
Can integrate art with other design elements in the house: color scheme, mood boards, swatches, and fabric samples etc..
Family Wall Installation / Gallery Wall Installation
If you have a grouping of art, family photographs or kids' art to go on one wall, I can come up with a layout that will look great. Additionally, if you want a Family/Gallery wall but nothing is framed or printed yet, feel free to call me to discuss tips on how to get the most impact from your collection.
Family Walls - grouping of many family photos on one
Gallery Walls - grouping of many artworks on one wall.

In 2026, DIY home design and renovation will become easier than ever. Free mobile apps like Houzz, Homestyler, and Planner 5D will put professional tools in everyone’s pocket, letting users visualize layouts, test colors, and estimate costs before buying materials. Experts predict that over 50% of homeowners will use apps to plan upgrades. It will save money and reduce costly mistakes. Even now, about 54% prefer mobile tools.
Why Mobile Apps are Changing Home Renovation
DIY renovation has changed a lot in recent years. Homeowners don’t have to rely on sketches or guesswork anymore. Thanks to AR, AI, and 3D renderings, apps can show exactly how furniture and cabinets will fit. By 2026, many of these tools will be free - and packed with features that rival expensive software. With just a smartphone, anyone can try out layouts, test colors, and even create detailed floor plans.
The Tech Behind Modern Design Apps
Most renovation apps now leverage AI to generate design suggestions. They are based on your space and preferences. Upload a photo of your room. The algorithms will check the sizes, lighting, and features. Then, they’ll suggest furniture layouts or color schemes. Some apps use your phone’s camera and sensor. They make accurate measurements, so you won’t need tape measures or notepads.
Top Free Apps Transforming DIY Projects
Houzz continues to lead the pack with its massive photo library and ability to connect users with local contractors. The platform now gives AI design suggestions. It looks at your style preferences across millions of professional spaces.
For anyone serious about planning their next project, exploring comprehensive resources helps narrow down what works. It’s just like in iGaming, where review platforms like Slotzilla help gamblers to find casinos with user-friendly tools, bonus rounds, and progressive jackpots that will work for them.
Planner 5D shines with realistic 3D renderings and a huge furniture catalog, letting you switch between 2D plans and 3D walkthroughs - even in VR. Room Planner helps you design practical layouts. You can easily arrange furniture and check dimensions. It offers real-time 3D views and features items from real brands.
Apps for Specific Renovation Tasks
Not every project needs full 3D renderings - sometimes you just want to try paint colors or test tile patterns. ColorSnap by Sherwin-Williams uses AR to show colors on your actual walls and even matches shades from photos. Magicplan makes creating floor plans easy by measuring rooms with your phone as you walk around. Both apps help plan renovations and communicate ideas without the guesswork.
Budget Tracking and Project Management
Renovation apps do more than make spaces look good - managing budgets and timelines is just as important. HomeZada even uses AI to predict your budget and track material prices, so DIYers don’t get hit with surprise costs. Trello is a lifesaver - set deadlines, track progress, and share updates with anyone helping on the project.
How Apps Reflect 2026 Design Trends
This year’s popular apps reflect the largest home design trends. Colorful rooms are on the rise. Zillow shows a 149% increase in listings. Plus, apps like Houzz let users test bold shades before making a choice. Cozy reading nooks are also on the rise, showing up in nearly half of listings. Renovation apps now provide templates. They include tips for shelves and lighting. This helps create cozy, thoughtful spaces.
Here’s a quick comparison of what different free apps offer:
App name
Best feature
Learning curve
Platform
Houzz
25M+ inspiration photos
Easy
iOS, Android
Planner 5D
Photorealistic 3D renders
Moderate
iOS, Android, Web
Room Planner
Accurate measurements
Easy
iOS, Android
Magicplan
Auto floor plan creation
Easy
iOS, Android
Natural materials and earthy tones will lead design trends in 2026. Warm neutrals will take over from the grey-and-white minimalism of the last ten years.
The AI Revolution in Home Design
AI is no longer just a gimmick in renovation apps. Chat features can suggest furniture layouts, color palettes, and materials for your budget. It’s like having a designer on call. Renovate AI turns photos of your room into multiple style ideas in seconds, from mid-century to rustic farmhouse. It’s great for brainstorming and getting past the “I don’t know what I want” stage.
Practical Tips for Using Renovation Apps
Getting the most from design apps requires a strategic approach. Here are essential steps every DIYer should follow:
Start by gathering inspiration. Look through photo libraries on Houzz or Pinterest. Then, dive into detailed planning.
Don’t rely solely on screen colors; get actual paint chips and fabric swatches.
Save multiple design versions. Create variations of your plan to compare options side-by-side.
This workflow helps you avoid common mistakes. It leads to better design choices before you buy anything.
When Apps Aren’t Enough
Digital tools can’t do everything. Big structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing always need a pro. Apps are great for planning and talking with contractors, but they can’t replace expertise. And always check textures in real life - that sofa might look perfect on screen, but feel different.
The Future of DIY Renovation
In 2026, renovation apps will become smarter. They’ll have voice control and better AR. Improved AI will make DIY design feel more like professional services. Creating beautiful, functional spaces is easier than ever. For homeowners, it’s important to use apps that match local materials and building codes. The biggest benefit is confidence - seeing your design in 3D makes projects far less intimidating.

Quick Kitchen Makeover for clients who are selling their home or who just bought a new home and need to make kitchen look good whilst they plan their big renovation.
See tips on Wilkinson Brochier Interiors Blog post www.wbinteriordesign.com

Quick Kitchen Makeover for clients who are selling their home or who just bought a new home and need to make kitchen look good whilst they plan their big renovation.
See tips on Wilkinson Brochier Interiors Blog post www.wbinteriordesign.com

When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.”
Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team.
A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.”
Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.”
Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style.
We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!”
A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen:
“I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.”
And advice she would give someone repainting their home:
“Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”

When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.”
Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team.
A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.”
Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.”
Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style.
We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!”
A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen:
“I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.”
And advice she would give someone repainting their home:
“Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”

When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.”
Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team.
A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.”
Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.”
Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style.
We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!”
A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen:
“I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.”
And advice she would give someone repainting their home:
“Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”
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