Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

Theres nothing like walking into a home that defies any particular style or period of design. When the right elements come together to truly make a living space feel timeless and luxurious, the result is transcendent. Additionally, for homeowners who may not want to update their interiors every few years as fads come and go, there is much to be said about interior design that endures. If you happen to fall into this category, here are a few rules to help you create a home that feels timeless.

Avoid Trends
Have you ever looked at pictures of your home dcor from just a few short years ago and wondered what you were thinking? Well, it was most likely trendy at the time. Rather than buying into styles that are all the rage right now, its wise to stick with design elements that have held their appeal over time.

Mix and Match
Feel free to create an eclectic mix of items that span a variety of different styles, like pairing contemporary furniture beside an antique painting. Iconic patterns, classic fabrics and natural textures are all in play, but the one common characteristic is that everything should be high quality.

Mostly Neutral Colors
For a timeless look, you certainly dont want to go painting each room in the latest color of the year. Rather, stick with neutral colors " beige, gray, white, etc. " that will always be in style. If you feel that a splash of color is in order, darker shades like navy blue, burgundy or olive green will maintain the classic feel.

Conceal Electronics
Hiding technology is a key component. When possible, everything should be wireless so as not to detract from the ambience. If you have a television in your living room, you may want to conceal it in a cabinet or behind a sliding panel. In-wall speakers are a great way to keep them out of sight or you can incorporate them into the design with stylish wood-panel speakers.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are three instant advantages you can expect when adding mature trees to your property.

Increased Property Value

Studies have shown that mature trees can increase a homes value by as much as 19 percent..

Improve Your Outdoor Space

Add instant privacy to your backyard by screening out the neighbors or create a shady canopy over your terrace that allows you to enjoy it at all hours during the summer.

Environmentally Friendly

Trees instantly help by absorbing carbon and other pollutants in the environment. Additionally, trees can help cool your home with natural shade and provide protection in the winter.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are the defining features of French Provincial homes…

Stone, Brick and Slate

The exterior of this architectural style can be immediately recognized by its stone or brick faade and slate roof.

Symmetrical Windows

Multi-paned windows are commonly featured in French Provincial style architecture and are typically arranged symmetrically.

Rustic Warmth

Exposed wood beams, weathered finishes and wrought-iron accents are all great additions.

Light and Airy Colors

Complementing the natural materials, a light color palette plays a major role in creating the casual elegance thats highly sought after.

Furniture and Decor

When decorating in French Provincial style, the goal is to achieve a sense of simple romanticism throughout each room.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Over the last few years, technology has increasingly found its way into our homes. One area that often gets overlooked, however, is technology for outside the house. As we move into the warmer months, its time to take a look at some of the best devices and systems to equip your outdoor living area.

Robotic Lawn Mower
A well-kept lawn is essential to maintaining curb appeal, but you might not always have time to get out there and push the mower around. With a cutting-edge robotic lawn mower, you can schedule the machine to regularly cut your grass, rain or shine, and ensure that the yard is always looking its best.

Smart Grill
If its time to upgrade your barbecue area, then a state-of-the-art smart grill can make the perfect addition this spring. Todays intelligent grills can be programmed to prepare food just the way you like it, each and every time, so youll never have to worry about over or undercooking again. Youll receive notifications when its ready to be flipped or taken off the grill. With one less thing to worry about, you can spend more time relaxing in the backyard.

Speakers and Lights
For avid entertainers, you can extend the conveniences of your smart home to the outdoors with lights and speakers that are controlled via your smartphone or virtual assistant. All it takes is a quick voice command and youll have the perfect ambience with mood lighting and your favorite tunes playing on the terrace.

Smart Sprinklers
Automatic irrigation systems are nothing new, but these days a smart sprinkler system can adjust your lawns watering schedule based on local weather data. If a heavy rain storm will be coming down later in the day, for example, it will know to skip that mornings irrigation so youll never have an over-watered lawn again. Additionally, soil-moisture sensors are utilized to ensure that just the right amount of water is provided for a healthy yard.

Published with permission from RISMedia.