Design a library that will give your abode major appeal with these tips.

Identify the Style

Determine the look that youre going for. Is it a moody traditional look or an eclectic modern one?

Consider the Functionality

If your library will function as a home office, include space for a desk and keep the overall ambiance in mind.

Built-in Bookcases

Consider the size of your book collection and if youll be using the shelves to display artwork or other objects.

Comfortable Seating

Whether its a chaise lounge or plush leather chairs, the furniture should be comfortable and sophisticated.

Thoughtful Lighting

Recessed lighting is best for reading, whereas wall sconces can contribute to the ambiance.

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We all want our homes to be as healthy a living environment as possible, and for todays luxury homeowners, wellness features continue to be among the most sought-after. Home gyms and amenities that rival a 5-star spa are certainly on the rise in an effort to promote physical and mental wellbeing, but one characteristic that cant be overlooked is indoor air quality, especially for urban dwellers. These days, you can purchase freestanding air purifiers that come in sleek designs or integrate a whole-house purifier into your HVAC system. If you dont currently have one in your home, here are four reasons you may want to consider adding an air purifier.

Air Pollution
Air purifiers can significantly reduce airborne pollutants that find their way into your living space and are unsafe to breathe in. Whether you have a new carpet that may be emitting toxic chemicals, or you live in a city and are worried about harmful emissions affecting your indoor air quality, youre better off playing it safe by filtering your air.

Pets
As much as we love our furry friends, they can wreak havoc on the air in our homes. For starters, they leave fur and dander throughout the house that gets stirred up and can lead to itchy eyes and a runny nose for anyone who suffers from allergies. Additionally, nobody wants their house to smell like pets and a purifier will help to remove any dander and unwanted odors to keep your living environment fresh.

Pollen and Dust
If you suffer from hay fever each allergy season or feel like theres always dust floating around your home no matter how often it gets cleaned, then an air purifier could be a lifesaver. Todays state-of-the-art systems are an effective solution for eliminating pollen and dust particles throughout your dwelling.

Viruses and Bacteria
With flu season right around the corner, an air purifier is the perfect way to combat germs that cause colds and viruses. Its especially important to circulate fresh air in the winter months, when we tend to keep the windows shut and the air in our homes becomes stagnant. If you want to keep feeling your best all year long, purifying the air in your home is essential.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Heres everything you need to know about butcher block countertops…

The Basics

There are three different types of butcher block counters to consider:

1. Edge grain is made by stacking planks together so the side of each piece is seen
2. End grain is built using square-shaped pieces that give it a grid-like appearance.
3. Face grain is made by laying slabs of wood flat together so the width of each plank is visible.

Types of Wood

Maple, cherry and walnut are all popular options, while bamboo can be a great eco-friendly alternative.

Care and Maintenance

A food-safe oil finish will provide a protective coating that is resistant to heat, moisture and stains, while still retaining a rich appearance.

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Everyone loves the pristine look of a white kitchen. From traditional elegance to contemporary cool, the monochromatic color scheme lends itself to a variety of styles in the cooking space. If youre thinking about designing a white kitchen in your new home, here are a few tips to help guide you in the right direction.

Go Big On Marble
Marble has long been, and will continue to be, one of the most luxurious materials you can bring into your home. In particular, Calacatta marble is a hallmark of the white kitchen thats perfect for creating sophisticated countertops and backsplashes. The deep veining pattern is a good way to provide a sense of depth so that your cooking area doesnt feel too stark.

Warm It Up With Wood
Whether its white oak floors or wood beamed ceilings, a little bit of wood can go a long way in a white kitchen. By adding natural material, you can easily warm up the ambience and make it feel like a more inviting space for the family to gather in. A careful balance between white and wood in the kitchen creates an effortlessly timeless aesthetic.

A Touch of Texture
When youre sticking to one color, a strong sense of texture becomes all the more important in your kitchen. There are plenty of different ways that you can add it, like terrazzo floors, exposed white brick walls or beadboard cabinets. Recently, concrete floors have become a trendy look in white kitchens, but keep in mind that theyll have to be sealed regularly to avoid staining.

Introduce Accents
If were being honest, a white kitchen doesnt have to be entirely white. In fact, introducing an accent color is advised to mix it up a little bit and give the eye something to rest on when one enters the room. This can be anything from barstools and pendant lights to colorful kitchenware that you keep on display with open shelving.

Maximize Natural Light
Natural light has a serious impact on the way a white kitchen feels. Sun exposure helps to create a light and airy atmosphere and without it you run the risk of the space feeling a bit cold. Likewise, focus on warm lighting to set the tone in the evenings after the sun goes down.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Is it time to update your decor? Whether youre looking to spruce up your home before putting it on the market or you need new furniture for your next place, thoughtfully designed interiors are essential. For the fashionistas who want to bring haute couture into their house, these five luxury clothing brands have home collections that are worth getting excited about:

Armani Casa
Armani recently unveiled a home collection at Milan Design Week, and its a must-see for every fan of minimalism. Inspired by natural elements and Asian landscapes, it includes everything from table settings and lighting to a stunning chaise lounge. Clean lines and exquisite finishes are consistent throughout, epitomizing the essence of Italian craftsmanship.

Hermes La Maison
The renowned purveyor of leather goods has made a foray into houseware with the Hermes La Maison collection. The wide range of home goods maintains the fashion houses timeless look and sophisticated style, with items for every room. The elegant bath linens, sleek leather chairs and tableware galore will breathe new life into your home.

Kate Spade Home
The Kate Spade Home collection is utterly effortless. True to the iconic designers hallmark style, playful prints and patterns are at the center of this line. They have the perfect breezy look, with floral bedding, citrus-patterned plates, and a powder pink toaster that every kitchen needs. Theres even a cocktail set that will come in handy at your dinner parties.

Fendi Casa
Known for being bold and lavish, the fabulous style seen in Fendis clothing carries over into the designers home line. Fendi Casa is a chic, contemporary collection that will transform your house, inside and out. The outdoor furniture, kitchen cabinets and breathtaking living room decor will all be appreciated by the fashion-forward homeowner.

Bottega Veneta Home
Bottega Veneta Home is all about neutral tones and rich textures. Simultaneously simple and opulent, the collection can lend itself to virtually any setting, from traditional to contemporary, and exudes meticulous craftsmanship with every piece.

Published with permission from RISMedia.