Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

The modern world has many advantages, but one issue that many of us are facing, particularly those who spend their days working in front of a computer, is the feeling of being disconnected from the natural world. The good news is that a growing movement known as biophilic design might be just the answer and is being utilized by designers and architects around the world. Cities, in particular, are embracing this trend, and if youre looking for a living space that will help you reconnect with Mother Nature, heres what you should know about biophilic design.

The Basics
At its core, this design movement is all about creating a living space that feels like its a part of nature. That means much more than just incorporating green spaces. Equal emphasis is placed on using natural materials, such as wood and stone, to capture natural light throughout the day, and simply being able to observe things happening outside, like the sunset or a snowstorm.

Design Solutions
Breaking down the barrier between indoor and outdoor spaces is a big part of biophilic design. A retractable glass wall, for example, can capture sunlight in the winter and in the warmer months be opened up to allow fresh air to flow through the home. Additionally, you can bring the outdoors inside with indoor gardens or living walls. Even feeling connected to animals can play a role in biophilic design, like a koi pond, where you can relax while watching fish or attracting birds and butterflies with specific types of plants.

The Benefits
The main argument, of course, is that when we feel closer to nature were more relaxed and in tune with our surroundings. Additionally, biophilic design is considered to be an environmentally friendly solution because it typically requires using clean, natural materials to build homes that use less energy. For instance, if you can design a home to capture a natural breeze, then you may not need air conditioning in the summer. Or, by capturing adequate sunlight through performance glass windows you can reduce the heat required to keep your home warm in the winter. If thats not enough, its an added bonus that this also means lowering your bills.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

We all want the best for our pets, but theres no denying that they can take a toll on the house. From signs of wear and tear to less than pleasant odors, the last thing you want is your furry friend to scare off a potential buyer. Whether youre getting your home into tip-top shape before putting it on the market or you simply strive to maintain an immaculate living space, here are several home features that every pet owner can benefit from.

Proper Floors and Fabrics
Dogs, in particular, can quickly scuff up your hardwood floors, which is why its best to choose a wood thats particularly durable and resistant to scratches, such as ipe or cumaru. If youre simply going to refinish your existing floors, then choosing a low sheen finish will make scratches less visible. For cats who have a pesky habit of clawing the furniture, performance rugs and fabrics usually hold up well and are worth reupholstering with.

Pet Camera
Does it ever seem like your pet only gets into trouble when youre not home? Perhaps theyre acting out because they miss you or maybe its just a rebellious side that comes out when youre gone. Either way, installing a pet camera with a two-way speaker allows you to keep a watchful eye on your pets at all times and theyll be sure to be on best behavior when they hear your voice.

Pet Washing Station
Having a designated pet washing station in your home can be a lifesaver. Sometimes they run through mud while on a walk and sometimes they just smell like, well, an animal. In any event, you can easily keep them fresh and clean with a well-designed area, usually in the mudroom, that includes a handheld shower spray, tile floors and proper drainage.

Air Purification
Even after theyve been cleaned, however, sometimes that pet odor still lingers in the house. While you may not smell it anymore, potential buyers coming to your home just might. Thats why installing an air purification system that helps to remove the smell, as well as dander, can make a huge difference before putting your home on the market.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

There comes a time in everyones life when its necessary to find a home to grow old in. Sure, this may conjure up images of shower bars and staircase lifts, but theres much more to a home where you can age in place and frankly, theres much to get excited about when looking for one. Here are a few tips to help your search for the perfect residence to age in place.

Walkability
A neighborhood where you can easily walk to restaurants, shopping and entertainment will only become more desirable with age. Being able to engage with a vibrant community without having to get in your car provides extreme convenience and if the day comes when youre no longer comfortable driving, then walkability is essential.

Space Considerations
An important factor is having a home thats manageably sized. After all, you probably dont want to deal with all of the upkeep and maintenance that comes with a large, sprawling property. However, a few extra bedrooms might be necessary for when your children and grandchildren come to visit. Striking the right balance is key to finding a home that meets your needs.

Luxurious Features
Youve worked hard and now its time to treat yourself. Whether its a backyard oasis where generations can gather or a luxury building with every imaginable amenity, take the time to identify the features that are most important to your lifestyle at this stage and dont feel bad about pampering yourself.

Accessibility
A single-floor residence is generally the preferred choice when purchasing a home to age in place, but its also important to consider the entry points. Will it be an apartment with an elevator or a house with a front door thats easily accessed? A steep staircase at the main entrance is best to be avoided, especially if theres a chance of it getting icy in the winter.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

When it comes to designing a luxurious kitchen or bathroom, few materials are as widely beloved as marble. Its literally been used for centuries thanks to the timeless and elegant appeal that it evokes, yet there are some drawbacks to this surface. Because marble is a soft and porous stone, its vulnerable to both staining and etching, which can be particularly problematic if you want to use it in your kitchen.

If youre willing to apply a sealant to your countertops a couple times a year, thats one solution. Some homeowners, however, simply dont have the time for that. If you want the beautiful aesthetic of marble countertops without having to worry about the regular maintenance, here are several alternatives to bring into your home.

Calacatta Michelangelo, Laminam
Laminam is known for producing large porcelain slabs that boast extreme durability and resistance to scratching or staining, and their wide collection of surfaces are as beautiful as they are functional. One of their most impressive is Calacatta Michelangelo, which bears striking resemblance to the iconic gold veins of Calacatta Borghini marble and will give your home a seriously lavish look.

Statuario Maximus 5031, Caesarstone
If you love the deep-veined pattern of Statuario marble, then this engineered quartz surface from Caesarstone is well worth consideration. Statuario Maximus comes in a polished finish that requires minimal maintenance so you can skip the waxes and sealants while still enjoying the look of a marble kitchen.

Et Marquina, Silestone
Black marble tends to be more common in modern or contemporary settings and if you want to capture that look in your home, then Et Marquina from Silestone is the answer. The black surface has white veins and is practically identical to Nero Marquina marble in terms of appearance. However, its made from a combination of quartz and other raw materials that make for a high-performance surface you need not worry about staining.

Published with permission from RISMedia.