Want a Hearty Look?
Today’s modern-decor home spas rival the best commercial and club spas for hydrotherapy Aman Bangkok and all-around pampering. Replace unattractive wall tiles, or paint them with special epoxy paint. If you don’t have a great shower, clean the stall and hang a clear curtain to let in more light. Even if your budget is less impressive, you can create a hip, restful environment in your bath. Use a good quality low luster (not flat) paint on walled areas. Use pale neutral colors to visually expand the space and create a soothing feeling.
But you’ll have landlord-imposed limits on what you can do with, and to, your space. When you’re renting, you’ll want to create a personal look in ways that are easy to paint over or take with you when the lease expires. If you want to do more, negotiate with the landlord and make sure all exceptions are indicated in your lease. Small condos can be great first homes or a smart way to downsize in retirement, but even if mortgage interest rates are low, condo assessments may not be. You’ll typically be required to restore the space to its original condition but leave any improvements you’ve installed. That may include anything from custom window shades and chandeliers to kitchen cabinets. No red-painted walls, for example, because the color is difficult to paint over.
Brilliant cobalt, yellow, violet, red, and other paint box hues vibrate throughout the space, but there’s just enough white to keep the look under control. On the next page, see how to make a modern kitchen that’s both sleek and inviting. It takes a little more vision to create a kitchen that’s definitively modern but also warm and inviting — a kitchen that can take center stage while entertaining. It’s easy to have a state-of-the-art modern-decor kitchen that’s filled with stainless steel. State-of-the-art styling doesn’t have to be cold.
Industrial loft conversions need kitchens installed from scratch, but their open layout is a step ahead of the game. If your older city apartment or house hasn’t been updated yet, the kitchen is key. A kitchen renovation isn’t simple, especially in elevator and walk-up buildings, but it’s almost always worthwhile. Keep appealing architectural elements if they work (skimpy doorways, no; tiny hexagonal tiles, yes), but upgrade appliances for performance and energy savings.
