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10th Annual Food Drive 2023
Downsizing For Retirement: A Step-by-Step Guide
Downsizing for retirement takes planning, hard work and time. It involves organizing your current home, donating unwanted items, putting your house up for sale and moving to a new location. Some people hire experts to help, while others rely on friends and family for support.
Millions of older Americans are choosing to go small in retirement.
According to a Zillow report, 46 percent of baby boomers who sold homes in 2017 were in the process of downsizing.
Downsizing is a major decision, influenced by unique financial and emotional factors.
Decluttering a large home is no easy feat. Selling your house, finding a new one and moving your belongings adds further complexity.
In this guide, we explore the reasons people downsize for retirement and share advice from experts on how to navigate the transition.
We also look at other aspects of the process, such as getting your home market-ready and estimating moving costs.
Determine Your Reasons for Moving
Moving is a stressful experience at any age. Downsizing for retirement carries unique challenges.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 2017, nearly two-thirds of older Americans had moved or anticipated moving in retirement.
Source: Merrill Lynch
Before you get started, determine why you’re moving.
In a 2018 study by Merrill Lynch, the number one reason given by respondents for moving in retirement was to be closer to family. The desire to reduce expenses came in a close second.
Not everyone makes the conscious decision to downsize. Sometimes a move is immediate and necessary because of rapidly declining health, the loss of a spouse or an unexpected financial crisis.
Understand your own motivation for moving. Weigh the pros and cons so that you feel comfortable with the decision.
It can be helpful to consider the following questions:
- Where do you want to live?
- Do you want to live in the same area or a different state?
- What style home will be practical to navigate?
- How much space do you need to be comfortable?
- What sacrifices are you willing to make?
- How much time and money can you commit to the moving process?
It’s also important to communicate early and often with your family.
If you’re married, discuss any concerns your spouse may have about the process.
Make sure your kids know what’s going on, too. Let them come over and help you sort through items, especially if they grew up in the house. This can prevent conflict and resentment down the road.
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Financial Aspects of Downsizing
Saving money is one of the primary reasons people downsize in retirement. Cheaper housing is an easy way to boost your budget and increase your retirement savings.
Financial Advantages of Downsizing in RetirementIncreased Cash FlowSelling your home will likely result in a windfall of cash. This can boost your savings and grow your retirement nest egg.Cheaper MortgageIf your current home isn’t paid off, a new home with a lower monthly mortgage payment can give your budget room to breathe. The money you save each month can pay for a yearly vacation or finance a grandchild’s future education.Less Cleaning and MaintenanceAmericans aged 55 and older spend roughly $90 billion on home renovations each year — 47 percent of the national total. A newer home will likely need fewer repairs and have lower upkeep costs than an older home. And you probably won’t spend as much money hiring help to take care of the property.Lower Utility BillsSmaller spaces and fewer rooms mean lower utility costs. If you’re moving to a home with new windows or energy efficient appliances, you may save even more.
But before you make a move, get a handle on your finances. Hidden costs and poor planning can eat up potential savings if you’re not careful.
“Selling a home isn’t cheap,” Alan Caldwell, a financial advisor based in Nashville, told RetireGuide. “And you almost always spend more money when you move than you planned to.”
That’s why Caldwell, founder of On Track to Retire LLC, says it’s critical to get estimates from moving companies and set a budget in advance.
“During major life events like a move, we tend to think, ‘Well, I’m in a special time right now. It’s OK to spend money because I can control it later,’” Caldwell said. “But you need to be careful and track your spending as you go.”
Expenses to Consider Before You MoveHomeowners Association FeesYou’ll owe monthly fees if you move to a neighborhood, townhome or community with a homeowners association, or HOA. HOA fees vary widely, but some sources estimate costs between $100 and $700 per month. Fees are based on the services the HOA provides, such as lawn care. The more services and amenities, the higher the HOA fees.Getting Your House Market-ReadyStaging is the process of preparing your home for sale in the real estate market. It can mean many things, from painting the walls and installing new flooring to landscaping improvements and replacing bathroom faucets. It’s not cheap, but it may be necessary if you don’t want your home to sit on the market forever. Add critical home repairs to your to-do list, too.Homeowners Insurance and Property TaxJust because you move to a smaller home doesn’t mean you’ll save money on homeowners insurance. Location also matters. External factors, including crime rates and proximity to natural hazards, can increase insurance premiums. Compare rates on the same coverage with different insurance companies to get the best deal. Be aware of changes to your property tax bill, too.Real Estate Agent FeesThe standard commission for a real estate agent is about 6 percent of the home sale price. If you’re selling a $250,000 home, the buying and selling agents could take a total of $15,000. “That’s a ton of money,” Caldwell said. His advice? Be aware that closing costs and agent commissions will decrease your final payout.Purchasing Items for Your New HomeAfter you downsize, you may still need to buy things for your new home. “We tend to spend a lot of time at Home Depot and Target when we first move,” Caldwell points out. Budget for these expenses before you move and only buy what you absolutely need.
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Start Downsizing
You’ve decided to move. Now it’s time to start downsizing your current possessions.
But where do you start?
It isn’t a simple process. People have created entire careers out of helping others downsize for retirement.
It may seem daunting, but don’t let the task ahead overwhelm you.
“Decisions about what to keep and what to do with the rest can create decision paralysis,” Anna Novak, downsizing expert and owner of Simply Downsized LLC, told RetireGuide. “It’s a huge reason people have a hard time getting started.”
Novak and other experts recommend setting goals and timelines. Hold yourself accountable.
“Generally, once people know where they are going and can envision themselves there, they can start the process of letting go and get excited about a positive change,” Novak said.
Start Small, Give Yourself Time and Make a Plan
Rushing a move can amplify an already stressful experience.
Experts, like Novak, suggest starting small. Tackle one room before starting on another. Give yourself enough time to do the job right.
You won’t finish everything in one weekend. Most experts say the downsizing process takes at least six months to a year to complete.
So it’s helpful to put a plan in place.
You can find free detailed plans for two-year, one-year and six-month timelines on HomeTransitionPros.com.
The website also offers a 15-minutes-per-day plan along with a “Planning for Downsizing” workbook with checklists and activities to help you prepare.
Be Ruthless — and Realistic
It’s easy to fall in love with objects — and often very difficult to let them go.
“Downsizing involves letting go of 70 to 80 percent of the belongings it took you 20 to 30 years to accumulate,” Novak said.
Be realistic. Take a hard look at each item in your home. Identify the things that are most useful or loved. If you haven’t used something in more than a year, donate it or throw it away.
Downsizing involves letting go of 70 to 80 percent of the belongings it took you 20 to 30 years to accumulate.
ANNA NOVAKDOWNSIZING EXPERT AND OWNER OF SIMPLY DOWNSIZED LLC
Get in a habit of finding obvious things you can get rid of, such as duplicate household items, outdated paperwork, clothing that no longer fits and old magazines.
Document Your Current Space
It may be easier to let go of your home if you can remember how it once looked.
Take pictures of rooms in your house before you start downsizing. It can be comforting to look back at your old place or see the progress you’ve made getting it organized.
Measure the furniture you want to bring and write down the dimensions to ensure it will fit in your next place.
Document furniture arrangements and the placement of family photos on the walls. You can reference these later when you unpack in your new home.
Donate and Sell Items You Don’t Need
Selling unwanted items is a good way to raise extra money for your move.
It also helps to clear space, and there’s satisfaction in knowing that your old items will benefit others.
You can use websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to list belongings. You can also try apps like LetGo, OfferUp and NextDoor.com.
Make sure to accept only cash offers to avoid scams. You may also want to meet people at a public place for these transactions.
For smaller items, or those with lesser value, consider holding a yard sale. Other options include selling to collectors, used bookstores, online auction sites or music stores.
Return items to the people they belong to. Is your 40-year-old daughter’s prom dress still hanging in the closet? Ask her if she wants it. If she doesn’t, get rid of it.
Some charities, such as the Salvation Army, can pick up items from your doorstep free of charge.
Another option is a website called Give Back Box. Just pack your unwanted items in a box, go to the website and print out a free shipping label.
The box will then be mailed to a local charity. Give Back Box will even email you a receipt for a tax deduction.
Consider Hiring an Expert
A growing industry of professionals offers services to help retirees downsize.
Senior move managers specialize in helping older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation or aging in place.
They even have their own trade organization — the National Association of Senior Move Managers, or NASMM. Its membership has grown from 650 in 2012 to roughly 1,100 in 2020.
Similarly, professional organizers can help you declutter your home, offer emotional support, facilitate the disposal, donation or sale of unwanted belongings and set up systems that help you stay organized.
These professionals work alongside you. They do not provide cleaning services.
Costs can vary by state and job, but rates usually range between $75 and $150 an hour.
That may seem pricey, but the time and effort you save might be worth it.
“It’s like hiring a wedding planner for a wedding,” Mary Kay Buysse, executive director of NASMM, told RetireGuide. “Yes, you can probably do the job yourself. But if you want it done seamlessly and want less stress in your life, then hiring a professional is a smart move.”
Buysse said these professionals often offer a menu of services that can be tailored to fit your budget.
“It isn’t an elitist thing or something that only people with lots of money can afford,” Buysse said. “Sometimes families will only hire someone for part of the process.”
Home-service provider directories like TaskRabbit and Angie’s List are good places to find local help.
You can also use the NASMM’s online directory to find a senior move manager near you.
How To Invest Your Home Sale Proceeds
Cope with Your Emotions
Wading through a lifetime of memories is daunting — and draining.
Downsizing can uncover a well of emotions, including sadness, anxiety, stress and grief.
If something’s been a part of your home life for 40 years, it’s not easy to say goodbye.
MARY KAY BUYSSEEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SENIOR MOVE MANAGERS
According to a 2018 letter from the Harvard Medical School: “Understanding the triggers for these feelings and using strategies to navigate them may not change how you feel, but it may help the downsizing process go more smoothly so you can focus on your next chapter.”
If you find yourself in emotional turmoil, talk to someone. Invite a friend or family member over to help you sort through rooms.
Loved ones can listen to you reminisce about sentimental objects while providing you with a gentle push to let go of things you no longer need.
“If something’s been a part of your home life for 40 years, it’s not easy to say goodbye,” Buysse said. “Our items tend to become like members of the family.”
Even venting to an old friend over the phone after a stressful day of decluttering can calm your nerves and keep you focused.
If you don’t have someone to lean on, consider professional help. You may want to visit your primary care doctor or speak with a therapist.
Selling Your Current Home
Selling a home can be a time consuming, complex process.
But if you’re downsizing in retirement, it’s also important to understand taxes and how profits from your home sale can affect government benefits.
Beware of Capital Gains Tax
The Internal Revenue Service and several states levy capital gains tax on the difference between what you paid for your home — known as your cost basis — and what you sell it for.
The good news is that this probably won’t affect you. You can usually exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains on real estate if you’re single and $500,000 if you’re married and filing jointly.
So, if you first bought your house in the 1980s for $200,000 and you sell it today for $400,000, you won’t owe capital gains tax.
A few things may disqualify you from claiming that $250,000 or $500,000 exclusion. For example, the house must be your primary residence and you must have lived in it for at least two out of the last five years.
If capital gains tax is unavoidable, you may still qualify for a zero percent tax rate in 2021 if your income is less than $40,400 for a single person or $80,800 for a married couple filing jointly.
Otherwise, you may pay either a 15 percent or 20 percent tax rate. It depends on your filing status and income.
The Impact of Selling Your Home on Government Benefits
Owning a home won’t prevent you from collecting certain government assistance benefits, such as Medicaid or Social Security Income (SSI) disability.
But selling your home is a different story. This boosts your income, and the sudden cash may disqualify you from Medicaid and disability benefits.
For example, you must have less than $2,000 in countable assets to keep your Medicaid or disability coverage. Selling your home will net you more than $2,000.
To keep Medicaid, sale proceeds must be legally spent down or protected by the end of the following month.
With SSI, you have three months to buy a new home after selling your old one. If you do so and have less than $2,000 in your bank account, you will keep your SSI benefits.
If you don’t, you will lose your benefits for each month your assets exceed the permitted limit.
If it takes you more than 12 months to spend down money from your home sale, you may have to start the entire disability application process from the beginning.
And keep in mind that you’re not allowed to transfer money to a family member.
There are several legal ways to work around government benefit asset limits after selling a home. Consult a trusted legal professional for more information.
Moving Costs and Other Expenses
According to an October 2020 poll conducted for North American Van Lines, 45 percent of people who recently moved said the experience was the most stressful event in their lives.
One way to cut down on stress is by developing a solid moving plan that fits your budget.
Average Moving CostsCost to Rent a Moving TruckRenting a moving truck, such as a U-Haul, can cost between $90 for a small truck and a local move to $2,000 for a large truck and a long-distance move. The cost depends on how far you’re traveling, how much truck space you need, how long you keep the truck and gas.Cost to Hire a Moving CompanyHiring a moving company to transport your belongings can cost between $80 to $100 per hour for short distances and $2,000 to $5,000 per load for long distances. Hiring a mover typically costs $25 to $50 per hour for each worker. The overall cost depends on the size of your home and the distance you’re traveling. Moving heavy objects or navigating staircases can cost extra.Full-Service Movers CostAccording to HomeAdvisor.com, hiring a full-service moving company usually costs at least $2,300, but it depends on distance and the square footage of your current home. You may be able to spend as little as $900 for a local move, or as much as $10,000 for a cross-country move. Make sure to get visual estimates and total cost estimates. Understand the difference between binding and nonbinding estimates to avoid expensive surprises.Cost to Rent a Moving ContainerRenting a moving container can cost an average of $3,000 a month, according to Move.org. Moving containers cost an average of $2.50 per mile to transport. But the total price may be as low as $250 for a small container and a local move to $4,000 for a large container and a cross-country move. You can request a moving container from companies such as PODS and U-Pack. They drop off the container, and you load your belongings into it on your own time. The container company will then pick it up and drop it off at your new location. If you’re downsizing, you may also consider renting a storage unit.
DID YOU KNOW?
As of 2018, you can no longer deduct moving expenses from your federal tax return. There’s an exception for active-duty members of the Armed Forces.
Source: Internal Revenue Service
This can allow you to keep items that are too difficult to part with.
Things You May Want to Place in a Storage Unit
- Memorabilia
- Boxes of old family photos and letters
- Oversized items
- Antique furniture or family heirlooms
According to Zillow, the average national cost of a storage unit ranges from about $50 per month for a small unit to $300 or $400 for larger units.
If your main reason for downsizing is to cut costs, you need to be mindful of this added reoccurring expense.
Expert Tips on Downsizing for Retirement
Vickie DellaquilaCERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
Vickie Dellaquila is a Pittsburg-based professional organizer with nearly two decades of experience. She is the owner and founder of Organization Rules, Inc. and has given presentations at several national conferences and conventions. She is also the author of the book, “Don’t Toss My Memories in the Trash: A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Seniors Downsize, Organize, and Move.”
Be prepared for an emotional journey.
Downsizing is extremely emotional and physical work. You’re going through a lifetime of memories. It’s exhausting. Let yourself experience those emotions, whether you want to cry, laugh or be angry. Giving yourself enough time will also help you process those feelings.
Downsizing takes time — so start now.
You’ve spent a lifetime accumulating stuff. It’s going to take time to go through it all. I always tell people to start now. You may be able to do it in a month, but I tell people to give themselves at least six months. A year or two years is even better.
Put downsizing on your calendar — literally.
When you start the process, put a downsizing session on your calendar, the way you would a doctor’s appointment. So, from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, I’m going to work on the kitchen. Stick to it. Try to avoid procrastination.
Start downsizing the unused areas of your home first.
Start with areas you don’t really live in, like spare bedrooms, the basement or the attic. Many times, these spaces have lots of things you aren’t using, or that you forgot you had. The garage is another good place to start because this is usually an exit route. It can be physically easier to move things out of this space.
Get a floor plan if you can.
If you know where you’re moving, getting a floor plan will certainly help you make decisions. It can also help you figure out where everything will go and how much space you really have.
Finding a New Home
When you’re looking for a new residence, take time to consider your needs. Make sure the space fits your lifestyle, budget and level of independence.
You may decide to purchase a new home, move in with family, transition to an assisted living facility or rent a townhouse or condo.
A great freedom in retirement is the chance to live where you choose. You may have bought your former home because it was in a good school district or close to work. Your life is different now, so explore your options.
Look for housing that puts you closer to things you care about, like your family, an airport, public transportation, a grocery store or your favorite nature preserve.
It’s also critical to be realistic about what your physical limitations will be in the future. For example, a one-floor house will be easier to navigate than a two-story house.
Downsizing Without Moving
Moving to a new location isn’t right for everyone. Some people want to stay in their home but still want greater financial independence.
There are a few options if you’re interested in downsizing without moving.
Ways to Downsize in Retirement Without MovingRent Out a RoomRenting a room in your home, or even converting the property to dual occupancy can increase your monthly income. But be careful and selective with potential renters. Speak with a legal advisor who can help you draft a simple lease agreement for your new tenant. Research your rights as a landlord. Lay out clear ground rules and restrictions before you let someone move in.Consider a Reverse MortgageSome seniors opt for a reverse mortgage to boost income and age in place. A reverse mortgage allows people aged 62 or older to stay in their homes while drawing on the equity they’ve already built. But there’s risk involved and a long-term financial impact, so make sure to get independent financial advice first.Pretend You’re Moving and Declutter AccordinglyIt’s always a good idea to declutter and organize your space — even if you’re not going anywhere. Selling unwanted or unused items can also raise money you can reinvest in home repairs or save for the future.
Downsizing for retirement means something different to everyone. It’s often stressful and requires careful planning and financial considerations.
But it can also be a rejuvenating experience. Focus on the positive aspects of the transition, and work toward making your new space feel like home.
- Written by Rachel Christian
- Edited By Lee Williams
- Financially Reviewed By Ebony J. Howard, CPA
- Published: December 14, 2020
- Updated: June 5, 2023
- 20 min read time
- This page features 25 Cited Research Articles
5 Popular Reasons Homeowners Are Selling Right Now!
Selling a home is a significant decision that homeowners often make due to a variety of factors. Understanding the common motivations behind selling can provide valuable insights into the current real estate landscape. In today’s housing market, five prominent reasons stand out as the driving forces behind homeowners’ decisions to sell.
- Change in Life Circumstances: Homeowners often sell their houses when significant changes occur in their lives, such as starting a family, getting married, divorcing, or changing jobs. These life events may necessitate a move and a different living situation.
- Need for Different Features and Amenities: After spending considerable time at home, homeowners may realize that their current property no longer meets their needs and desires. They may desire features like walkability, outdoor space, a pool, or other amenities that their current home lacks. This realization can motivate them to sell their house and search for a property that better aligns with their lifestyle preferences.
- Financial Considerations: Homeowners may decide to sell their homes due to various financial factors. Some may be motivated by the opportunity to maximize profits, especially when the housing market experiences rising prices. On the other hand, homeowners who are concerned about their ability to afford their next purchase or who are worried about high-interest rates may choose to delay selling until the timing becomes more favorable.
- Relocation: Homeowners may sell their properties when they need to move to a different area, whether it’s across the country to be closer to family or for job-related reasons. Relocation can be a primary reason for homeowners to sell their houses and find a new home in their desired location.
- Equity Growth: Homeowners who have owned their properties for a few years may see that their property values have increased. This equity growth can be a motivating factor for homeowners to sell their homes, especially if they are looking to leverage their equity for other purposes, such as purchasing a new property or investing in different ventures.
It’s important to note that these reasons are not exhaustive, and individual circumstances can vary. Homeowners’ decisions to sell are influenced by a combination of financial, personal, and market-related factors. Feel free to reach out if you are thinking of selling anytime soon, let’s start the conversation!
10TH ANNUAL PAPER SHREDDING EVENT
26 awe-inspiring real kitchens – and how to steal their style
Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/87518/26-aweinspiring-real-kitchens-and-how-to-steal-their-style
Achievable dream kitchens with bags of character
@girlandgrey / Instagram
Our kitchens may be the most functional spaces in our homes, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. We’ve rounded up the most amazing real kitchens across social media to show just how far a little creative thinking can go. Bursting with colour, character and ingenuity, get inspired by these beautiful schemes and try out their clever tips in your own home!
Glamorous black and gold kitchen
metals4U / @littleedwardian / Instagram
Bursting with creativity and drama, this bold scheme by Reece and Paul of @littleedwardian is a masterclass in uniqueness. Subtle but smart neutral cabinetry allows an incredible black terrazzo countertop and splashback to take centre stage. Reece says: “Our breakfast bar is a real focal-point of the kitchen. The resin based terrazzo worktop is a statement piece, but we like to contrast textures by incorporating metallics in the kitchen.’
Glamorous black and gold kitchen
metals4U / @littleedwardian / Instagram
The daring vintage-style scheme is packed with quirky attention-to-deteil. A striking aged brass oven extractor fan cover balances the busy patterned splashback while ‘tube-style- gold finish wall lights echo the Art Deco vibe. Reece and Paul advise: “When transforming a space, it’s so important to think about all the little detail. Every view matters because we see space from different angles, so it’s important to think about the materials we use and the placement of things.”
Eclectic family kitchen
@projectsfromwaltonroad / Instagram
With an eye for colour, pattern and design, Charlotte Jarega of Jarega Interior & Designs knows how to make a space work with form, function and “an added touch of that little something you didn’t know you needed”. She knocked through her own 1930s house to create an open-plan kitchen, diner and living area, with an industrial-style kitchen island with concrete worktop and vintage star tiles as the striking focal point.
Eclectic family kitchen
@projectsfromwaltonroad / Instagram
The patio doors flood the open-plan dining area with light to show off an array of quirky and original design ideas from Charlotte. An old ladder is suspended over the dining table to display hanging Edison lights and paper decorations. On the textured green feature wall, a pink neon typographic light looks super funky while trailing foliage ties in urban botanical vibes.
Fairytale country kitchen
@the_koo_koo_nest_ / Instagram
Gloucestershire cottage owner Kathie describes her Instagram feed @the_koo_koo_nest_ as “country life with a dash of pink” and it certainly is! Her incredibly idyllic kitchen teams a romantic paint combination of Dusky Blush Pink by Frenchic paint and a rich forest green tone by Lick, both offset further by balancing neutral walls. The rustic and botanical blend with trailing plants on wooden shelving and a farmhouse hero, cream AGA.
Fairytale country kitchen
@the_koo_koo_nest_ / Instagram
The gorgeous country kitchen would not be complete without a ticking stripe Roman blind to frame the casement windows, in pink of course. A deep butler sink perfects the scene that’s used to prepare and arrange Kathie’s many bouquets of British blooms and flowers.
Huge farmhouse-style family kitchen
Christopher Peters
The hub of the home is certainly the kitchen for the owners of this grand farmhouse kitchen. A huge central kitchen island (painted in Little Greene’s Hicks Blue) is the nerve centre for weeknight meals, studies and social family time. Gold pendant lights highlight the focal point and pay homage to the original sprung bells mounted above the cool grey cabinetry installed by Christopher Peters.
Huge farmhouse-style family kitchen
Christopher Peters
The matching slate-coloured AGA also ties the classic with the more contemporary. While glossy metro tiles and cabinets hand-painted in a combination of Little Green’s Slaked Lime Dark and Farrow & Ball’s London Clay, complete the calming effect. This real kitchen renovation by Simon Williams, a chartered surveyor, and his wife, Ellie, a primary school teacher was a huge investment, but money well spent.
Fresh green and white kitchen
@kittymccall / Instagram
Artist Kitty Mccall has poured her love of pattern and colour into her home in Folkstone and not scrimped on the kitchen. Crisp white walls allow the ‘L’ shaped run of Farrow & Ball Emerald Green painted cabinetry to zing! “The kitchen colour brings me so much joy”, @kittymccall says. “I find it makes the space feel so uplifting and fresh”. The antiqued mirrored splashback reflects the colour into the rest of the room.
Fresh green and white kitchen
@kittymccall / Instagram
Opposite the vibrant kitchen cabinets, a mahogany (charity shop bought) dining table and chairs have been given an explosion of colour by being reupholstered with Kitty’s own busy and bright ‘Imaginarium collection’ of floral fabrics.
Navy blue Shaker kitchen
@elle_the_home_bird / Instagram
This inviting navy Shaker-style kitchen is suitably sympathetic to the age of Elle Hervin’s (@elle_the_home_bird) family home. Relocating the kitchen into the old dining room created plenty of new space to include a large kitchen island and chimney breast hearth for a huge range cooker.
Navy blue Shaker kitchen
@elle_the_home_bird / Instagram
The marble-effect open-shelves with gallery rail are a DIY upcycle project made from plain wooden planks, roll-out ‘marble’ effect vinyl and brass fixtures. Mounted onto dove grey toned shiplap walls, they are just the ticket to enhance a farmhouse feel for less.
Charming country-style kitchen
IKEA
When homeowner Edna (@ednas.house) set about transforming her kitchen, she wanted a warm and welcoming space to share meals with her family. Simple pale blue cabinetry and white square tiling are offset with green floral wallpaper. Open shelving showcases vintage homewares for an added injection of character, with mounted china plates referencing the scheme’s country inspiration.
Charming country-style kitchen
IKEA
Practicality was a key part of Edna’s plan too – she wanted to include clever design features that would support her green-fingered hobbies. This clever ladder-style plant stand is secured to the wall and offers the perfect spot to grow aromatic herbs without taking up additional workspace. Pretty smart!
Rustic kitchen with grasscloth walls
Liz Kamarul
Mural artist and home stager Liz Kamarul created this incredible kitchen full of colour and geometric shapes for One Room Challenge. Liz explains: “It has been infused with colour and personality while still remaining functional which is so important for a kitchen”.
Eclectic kitchen with grasscloth walls
Liz Kamarul
Army green subway tiles offset exotic grasscloth wallpaper while charming ‘Hula Hoop’ rattan scones add to the organic character of the space. Liz Kamarul’s signature mural artwork creates a subtle but stunning focal point above eye level on the ceiling to complete the beautiful space.
Geometric blue and white kitchen
The Otto House
When The Otto House and her husband moved into this property, they needed a quick fix budget makeover to make their kitchen liveable for a few years while they considered an extension project. By stripping off the lime green paint and repainting the existing cupboards a smart white and blue, they totally transformed the look of the room.
Geometric blue and white kitchen
The Otto House
The pair breathed new life into the kitchen’s old white tiles by adding a splash of colour with budget-friendly blue geometric stickers for a finish that’s crisp, clean and retro. Simple open shelving enhances the nostalgic vibe, offering a space to display vintage tins and Kilner jar storage.
Rich emerald green galley kitchen
@Imjessicabrigham / Instagram
A hot colour trend, these deep emerald cabinets have us green with envy! This charming galley scheme has been lovingly nicknamed the ‘dark green kitchen glamazon’ by its owner @Imjessicabrigham. Brass handles and accents add a glamorous vintage feel and beautifully offset the dark rich tone of the units.
Rich emerald green galley kitchen
@Imjessicabrigham / Instagram
For the splashback, iridescent penny mosaic tiles, a surefire kitchen trend, enhance the refined grandeur of the space, while rustic light wood shelving adds a warming homely touch. Brass light switch plates and gold tile trims streamline the look for a polished finish.
Boho pink kitchen with rattan units
Earthly Urban Interiors / Instagram
When Christin of Earthly Urban Interiors set about planning this bright and beautiful kitchen, her main objective was to create a bold pink scheme. The completed vision is an eye-popping mix of retro cupboards, natural wood units and stunning bottle-green tiling.
Boho pink kitchen with rattan units
Earthly Urban Interiors / Instagram
The boho-style elevated cabinets were a crafty DIY project, made from wooden frames and a roll of rattan. The units were raised to the ceiling to create space for stylish open shelving below. Existing worktops are now cleverly covered in concrete for an industrial feel, while the patterned splashback offers a stylish contrast to the pretty pink, candyfloss cupboards.
Glamorous gold and white kitchen
@sugarandcloth / Instagram
Yearning for an airy, stylish kitchen, Ashley Rose of Sugar & Cloth achieved a thoroughly glamorous scheme thanks to fresh white walls and pale marble waterfall worktops. The kitchen island has been given a Hollywood makeover with gold-framed bar stools. The warm metal touches carrying through the room to the tap and appliance handles, adding an air of opulence.
Glamorous gold and white kitchen
@sugarandcloth / Instagram
The soft pink pantry door conceals a laundry room and lifts the cool white scheme. Transforming a large kitchen like this can seem like a daunting and costly task, but choosing relatively neutral cabinetry and worktops ensure the main structure of the kitchen stands the test of time. You can then swap out fixtures and fittings as interior trends change.
Stylish navy kitchen with a statement floor
Place of My Taste
Created by Aniko of Place of My Taste, this Shaker-style kitchen is a masterclass in sophisticated design. While the scheme looks fresh and new, the cabinetry is in fact seven-year-old dark wood IKEA units that have been transformed with a lick of navy paint. Blonde wood shelves complement the natural worktops, while a round dining table in the same hue is the perfect spot to grab a quick meal.
Stylish navy kitchen with a statement floor
Place of My Taste
Our favourite feature has to be the amazing statement floor tiles which balance out the simplicity of the units. Rustic accessories, such as the jute rug, rattan plant pot and placemats, add a homely, tactile finish, while wooden utensils and chopping boards complete the au naturel theme.
Colourful kitchen with graphic tiling
@dabito / Instagram
Part of a one-room guest house studio created by Dabito of design studio and blog Old Brand New, this sumptuous green and pink kitchen has us head over heels. The cabinetry has been painted a warm moss green, offset by a stunning salmon pink wall and graphic monochrome tiling. Previously a blank canvas, this killer colour combo has completely transformed a lacklustre space.
Colourful kitchen with graphic tiling
@dabito / Instagram
A white quartz worktop overhangs the units to form a micro breakfast bar. An oak floating shelf runs parallel to the cabinetry for space-saving open storage, while brass accents add an expensive flourish to the final scheme.
Minimalist black and white kitchen
IKEA / Topology Interiors
Black kitchens are taking over our Instagram accounts and what’s more, this dark trend works surprisingly well in small kitchens too. Documented on Topology Athina’s cool and compact space perfectly balances monochrome tones for a stunning modern scheme. Team black IKEA base cabinets with white upper cabinetry to maximise the sense of space, then pair with black appliances and fixtures which pop against the pale backdrop.
Minimalist black and white kitchen
IKEA / Topology Interiors
Shiny white chevron tiling from Topps Tiles creates a subtle yet stylish focal point – proof that you don’t need a huge budget to make a wow-factor statement. Interesting design extras like the built-in wine rack and matt black gas hob show exquisite attention to detail, while brass fixtures add a warming accent.
Luxurious pared-back pink kitchen
Wu Haus
A chic and stylish space, Alison Wu of lifestyle blog Wu Haus, enlisted some clever budget-friendly ideas to execute her dream kitchen. IKEA cabinetry combined with compatible door fronts offers an affordable alternative to pricey high-end units without compromising on a stunning designer finish. Walls skimmed with a pink Venetian plaster complete this luxe yet understated kitchen.
Luxurious pared-back pink kitchen
WuHaus
Upper cabinetry was stripped away in favour of open wood shelving, creating an airy spacious feel that leaves plenty of room for statement pendant lighting to steal the show. Minimal accessories and touches of gold are key to achieving this luxurious less-is-more look.
Cool and contemporary family kitchen
@andthentheywentwild / Instagram
With plenty of creative imagination, Nicki Bamford-Bowes of @andthentheywentwild proves that you can combine a beautiful aesthetic with practical family living. The large light-filled kitchen features striking blue-black walls balanced by contemporary white units. A wall-mounted craft station is the perfect solution to keep children occupied while dinner is being prepared, and we love how the ceiling space has been utilised as a bookshelf.
Cool and contemporary family kitchen
@andthentheywentwild / Instagram
The monochrome shelving alcove is stunning yet relatively simple in design. Nicki tiled the splashback herself, opting for black paint behind the dark shelving to create a bold contrast. Pops of pastel across the accessories and pendant lights are the ideal way to balance out this dark feature.
Traditional kitchen with antique charm
@colonialfarmstead / Instagram
An array of salvaged furniture forms the basis of this striking vintage-inspired kitchen. Lovingly assembled by Tammy of @colonialfarmstead, the eclectic design consists of a butler table, classic white units, an antique red cabinet and a beautiful copper farmhouse sink. A historic portrait creates a quirky focal point and draws the traditional scheme together beautifully.
Traditional kitchen with antique charm
@colonialfarmstead / Instagram
A bargain find picked up from an antique store, the handsome red cabinet on the worktop adds rustic charm to the space thanks to its time-worn finish. Antique extras, from the pendant lighting to the taps and vintage-style copper accessories, complete the enchanting look.
Sleek and contemporary black kitchen
@deense_zomer / Instagram
Blogger @dennse_zoomer prides herself on her eye for design, something that’s clear to see from her ultra-contemporary dark kitchen. Jet-black cabinetry looks sleek and minimal against a crisp white backdrop, while pops of colour are introduced through quirky accessories.
Sleek and contemporary black kitchen
@deense_zomer / Instagram
Balancing out the dark and dramatic units, glass pendant lighting, a colourful graphic clock and bright crockery add a welcome lift. Wire wall-mounted shelving brings an industrial twist to the space, and pops of foliage soften the austere lines of the cabinetry.
Romantic French country-style kitchen
@homeonfernhill / Instagram
This beautiful, romantic design is the creation of Pamela of @homeonfernhill. Soothing mint green cabinetry is paired with French country-style seating, a wooden beaded chandelier and an antique dresser to create an elegant space that’s perfect for entertaining.
Romantic French country-style kitchen
@homeonfernhill / Instagram
The stylish wooden cabinets were repainted from dark grey to this refreshing shade, imparting a light and airy feel to the kitchen. Marble worktops and glossy metro tiles complete the polished style. Decorative accessories like the Greek urn, distressed mirror and green glassware add to the whimsical aesthetic.
Retro pink kitchen packed with personality
@soozidanson / Instagram
Instagrammer @soozidanson‘s snug kitchen is a riot of colour and retro charm. The fabulous pink floral wallpaper steals the show, especially against the vibrant fuschia laundry door. Modern additions like a ceramic hob and chandelier-style extractor fan bring the look up to date with a touch of glamour and bling.
Retro pink kitchen packed with personality
@soozidanson / Instagram
The upcycled bureau has been adorned with retro-inspired wallpaper offcuts, providing a stylish space-saving solution in the compact colourful kitchen. Fashion and textile designer Orla Kiely was a big influence on this unique kitchen design and its bold uplifting colours.
Elegant grey Shaker kitchen
@talesofsilverdale / Instagram
This super-sized kitchen is Jane’s favourite room in her home – and we can understand why! Documented on @talesofsilverdale, it’s a DeVOL design, so not a low-budget choice, but the investment has paid off. The refined Shaker-style cabinetry is painted in a beautiful warm grey tone, offset beautifully by the limestone flooring to create a restful, calming space.
Elegant grey Shaker kitchen
@talesofsilverdale / Instagram
An inspired design choice, the kitchen island with downlighting warms the cool grey scheme, while a display of pink and green accessories arranged across a row of open shelves adds a colourful contrast. A vase of eucalyptus is the perfect finishing touch with its silvery green leaves.
Stylish pink and navy kitchen-diner
@at_home_at_170 / Instagram
A trendy two-tone design, Amy of @at_Home_at_170 has created a glamorous family kitchen-diner, complete with petrol blue cabinets and an exquisite rose-pink patterned splashback. On-trend hexagon tiling adds an effortlessly cool architectural edge to the scheme, while pale wood shelving and countertops tie the design together.
Stylish pink and navy kitchen-diner
@at_home_at_170 / Instagram
The two-toned aesthetic is carried through to the snug dining zone, with navy blue paint running across the lower quarter of the wall, contrasting with a crisp white hue across the upper section. The retro table and chairs add a vintage twist and quirky graphic artwork imparts a personal feel.
Modern mountain kitchen
@girlandgrey / Instagram
Home renovator and Girl&Grey blogger, Courtney Equall transformed their 1980s kitchen into a ‘bright and open space with Northwest vibes’. Three large black-framed windows fill the newly opened-up space with natural light, showcasing the sage green cupboards wrapped in white quartz stone countertops.
Modern mountain kitchen
@girlandgrey / Instagram
The slatted wood hood cover ties in with warm wooden shelving and a blonde wood floor, working with the exposed white brickwork to add a warm rustic feel. A huge butler sink and black faucet are practical and stylish, while brass elements like the cupboard handles unify the room and add a touch of lustre to the laid-back mix of finishes.
Rustic cabin-style kitchen
@tiffyandflow / Instagram
Bursting with charm, this rustic kitchen was created by @tiffyandflow for under £1,000 ($1,198). Warm wood cladding across the walls gives the small space a cabin-style vibe, balanced out by sleek white worktops and lower cabinets. A traditional rug evokes a country aesthetic and injects a splash of colour.
Rustic cabin-style kitchen
@tiffyandflow / Instagram
A key focal point, the stylish dark grey open shelves are filled with an array of quirky homewares, offset beautifully by the reclaimed wood. Industrial-inspired additions, including the exposed bulb lighting and metal signs, add a striking modern edge to the rugged scheme.
Tiny home kitchen
IKEA
This compact white kitchen in Tokyo is part of a tiny home that’s just 25 square metres. The all-white palette and clever storage maximise the space and make use of every inch. A wooden topped peninsula adds warmth, doubles as a breakfast bar and divides the living space from the kitchen
Tiny home kitchen
IKEA
Painted a brilliant white, the wooden beams and DIY storage add a certain rustic charm, warming up the cool walls and cupboards for a homely feel in this compact space.
Nursing Homes in California
With its sandy beaches, towering mountains and ancient redwood forests, sunny California offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and modern living. The state has a population of nearly 40 million people and some of the largest cities in the country, as well as charming small towns and lively villages. California has an array of high-quality health care providers and is home to some of the nation’s top-rated hospitals and nursing homes.
Nursing homes are best for seniors who need a high level of care, including those with chronic or progressive health conditions. As well as offering a secure environment, nursing homes provide residents with access to 24/7 nursing care on-site, as well as medical, rehabilitative therapy and pharmaceutical services. Highly trained staff provides around-the-clock supervision and can offer assistance with eating, personal care and medication administration. By providing information on the cost and availability of nursing homes in California, this guide is designed to help seniors and their loved ones find the ideal location for long-term care.
SeniorAdvice’s Guide to Nursing Home Care in California
The SeniorScore in California is 70, which indicates that the state is an overall pleasant place for seniors to live. California’s highest score is in the General Quality of Life section, at 72, partially due to its sunny, warm weather that persists all year. California’s low score of 51 in the Finances category is influenced by its high overall cost of living.
In the Health & Safety category, the state earned a relatively high score of 67. Residents of California have access to high numbers of hospitals and Medicare-registered health care providers. The state has a very high number of senior living communities, making it easy for seniors to get the care they need. The average life expectancy here is longer than in the rest of the nation, at 80.8 years compared to 78.6.
California has a slightly lower senior population than the national average, which contributes to its Recreation & Leisure score of 59. Despite this, it has a wide range of elder-friendly amenities and entertainment options. These include 6,451 churches, 942 golf courses and an average number of municipal parks in communities across the state.
Nursing Home Care Costs in California
In California, seniors in nursing homes typically pay $9,794 per month for semiprivate accommodations. This is nearly $2,000 higher than the national median of $7,908, indicating that California is among the costlier states in the nation for institutionalized care. In Oregon, rates are even higher at $10,342, and in Nevada, facilities charge slightly more competitive rates of $9,216. Rates in Utah are below the national median at $7,178, and in Arizona, care costs are relatively affordable at $6,540.
- California: $9,794
- United States: $7,908
- Oregon: $10,342
- Nevada: $9,216
- Utah: $7,178
- Arizona: $6,540
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in California’s Top Cities
Nursing home costs throughout California vary considerably, ranging from $7,559 in Madera to $11,566 in San Francisco. In Visalia, rates are well below the state median at $8,517, and in Los Angeles, California’s most populous city, seniors pay $9,125. Nursing home residents in Chico pay $9,201 per month, and in San Diego, facilities charge $9,384. Care costs in Sacramento exceed the state median at $10,646, and in Santa Rosa, nursing home residents pay $11,300.
- Santa Rosa Area: $11,300
- Madera: $7,559
- Los Angeles: $9,125
- San Diego: $9,384
- Sacramento: $10,646
- Chico: $9,201
- San Francisco: $11,566
- Visalia: $8,517
Senior Care Cost Comparison in California
Nursing home care is the most expensive long-term care option for California seniors, with residents paying $9,794 per month for semiprivate accommodations. Those who need short-term or intermittent skilled nursing services may save thousands of dollars by living in assisted living, which costs $5,250, or by receiving skilled nursing services at home via home health care, which costs $6,101. Those seeking basic homemaker services in their own homes pay $6,101 for in-home care, and those who attend daytime adult day care facilities pay the lowest monthly rates of $1,842.
- Assisted Living: $5,250
- In-Home Care: $6,101
- Home Health Care: $6,101
- Adult Day Care: $1,842
- Nursing Home Care: $9,794
Medicaid’s Coverage of Nursing Home Care in California
Qualifying seniors in California may pay for nursing home services via Medi-Cal, the state’s Medicaid program. Currently, over 13 million people are enrolled in this health insurance program, about 2 million of whom are aged 65 and over or who have disabilities. Across the state’s nearly 1,200 nursing homes, about five in eight residents rely on Medi-Cal to cover their care costs.
Medi-Cal pays for services that are deemed medically necessary. These services include:
- Some prescription medications
- Doctors’ office visits
- Adult day health services
- Some dental services
- Emergency medical transportation
- Home health care
- X-ray and laboratory costs
- Orthopedic devices
- Eyeglasses
- Hearing aids
- Durable medical equipment
- Nursing home costs not covered by Medicare
Older adults at risk of nursing home placement may qualify for the Home and Community-Based Alternatives Waiver. This waiver provides care management services to help older adults delay or avoid nursing home placement by obtaining services they need in their own homes. A multidisciplinary team comprised of a nurse and social worker administers services and coordinates long-term care services in the community. Unlike Medi-Cal, which is an entitlement that guarantees coverage to everyone who qualifies, the HCBA Waiver has limited enrollment slots, and some qualified applicants are placed on a wait list until a slot opens up.
Eligibility for Medicaid in California
To qualify for nursing home coverage through Medicaid, California seniors must meet asset limits. Single applicants can have up to $2,000 in countable assets, and married applicants can have up to $3,000. If only one spouse is applying for coverage, they may have $2,000 in countable assets and the non-applying spouse can hold up to $137,400.
While California doesn’t impose income limits for those applying for Institutional Medicaid, applicants aren’t permitted to keep all of their monthly income. Instead, most of their income must go toward covering nursing home costs. Seniors can keep $35 per month as a personal needs allowance and whatever they need to cover Medicare premiums. If they’re married, their spouse may be entitled to a Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance of up to $3,435 per month to prevent spousal impoverishment. Any income the individual receives in addition to this must go toward their care costs.
Monthly Income Limits | Asset Limits | |
Single Applicant | No Income Limit | $2,000 |
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant) | No Income Limit | $2,000 for applicant $137,400 for non-applicant |
Two-Person Household (Dual applicants) | No Income Limit | $3,000 |
In addition to meeting financial requirements, those applying for Medi-Cal must be:
- Legal U.S. citizens or residents
- Permanent residents of California
- At least 65 years old, blind or disabled
- Require nursing home level care
Applying for Medicaid in California
California seniors have several options for applying for Medicaid. They may submit an online Medi-Cal application via CoveredCA.com. Those who prefer to fill out a paper application can send the completed application to Covered California at P.O. Box 989725, West Sacramento, CA 95798 or to their local county office. Once they submit the application, the approval process typically takes 3 – 6 months.
Information You Will Need
To apply for Medicaid, seniors must be able to produce documents that support their eligibility for the program. These include:
- Social Security Number
- Proof of age, such as a birth certificate
- Proof of permanent residency in California
- Proof of all annual income, including pensions, retirement savings and government benefits
- Policy numbers for existing health insurance coverage, including Medicare
Medicaid Application Assistance and Resources in California
Several programs help older adults navigate the Medi-Cal application process, helping them understand available coverage, necessary documentation and where to obtain care. Through the following resources, seniors can get help with applying for coverage, getting the most from their benefits and appealing denied claims.
Resource | Contact | Service |
Health Consumer Alliance | (888) 804-3536 | The Health Consumer Alliance provides free in-person and over-the-phone help for those who are having a hard time obtaining health insurance coverage. Its representatives can help older adults understand their health insurance rights and dispute denied claims. |
Medi-Cal Managed Care Ombudsman | (888) 452-8609 | California has a dedicated Medi-Cal Managed Care Ombudsman that advocates for beneficiaries. Seniors can contact the ombudsman if they feel a claim has been handled unfairly or if they need help resolving medical billing errors. The ombudsman can also help older adults connect with the right department to address issues regarding their coverage. |
Medi-Cal Managed Care Health Care Options | (800) 430-4263 | Medi-Cal Managed Care Health Care Options provides up-to-date information on policy changes that impact beneficiaries, such as the upcoming elimination of asset limits. The office can also help older adults choose the right plan for their needs or make changes to their existing coverage. |
Medi-Cal State Fair Hearing | (800) 952-5253 | Medi-Cal State Fair Hearing has a toll-free helpline that connects seniors with their local County Welfare Department, which can help them address problems such as canceled policies or denied coverage. |
Medicare’s Coverage of Nursing Home Care in California
For seniors who meet certain requirements, Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay. This benefit is only available to those who have been hospitalized for at least three days (not counting the date of discharge) so it’s typically used by those who are recovering from an injury, illness or surgery.
For those who meet the above requirements, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days in a skilled nursing facility (per benefit period). It’s important to note that the first 20 days are covered in full, but starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.
California Medicare Support & Resources
Older adults in California can connect with several programs, websites and agencies within the state for assistance understanding Medicare benefits. The following table outlines some resources for Medicare beneficiaries that can help them make informed decisions regarding paying for nursing home care.
Resource | Contact | Description |
Medicare Counseling | (800) 434-0222 | California’s Medicare Counseling program provides free one-on-one assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, helping seniors understand their coverage and make informed decisions regarding paying for nursing home care. Through this program, older adults get answers to questions about Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans in their area, as well as Medigap, which can reduce out-of-pocket nursing home expenses. Counselors can also help seniors protect themselves from Medicare fraud and dispute denied coverage. |
Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | The federal Medicare website provides comprehensive up-to-date information on Medicare, including benefits under each part of the program, coverage limits, out-of-pocket cost-sharing obligations and private Medicare options. It also lists the type of mail Medicare beneficiaries get, including their Medicare card, the Medicare Handbook and the Get Ready for Medicare packet. |
BenefitsCheckUp | (800) 794-6559 | BenefitsCheckUp is a federal website that allows visitors to search the benefits programs in their state. Seniors can enter their zip code and basic information and get information on medication benefits, health care services, health insurance options counseling and Medicare Savings Programs. |
California Department of Insurance | (800) 927-4357 | The California Department of Insurance regulates health insurance policies within the state and advocates on behalf of consumers with issues regarding denied claims for covered services. Through the department’s website, seniors find information on Medicare’s coverage for nursing home care, as well as an overview of prescription drug coverage, Medigap plans and Medicare Advantage. The department also fields and investigates complaints regarding unfair claims practices. |
Additional Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in California
- Medicare: For the first 20 days in a skilled nursing facility, Medicare will cover the entire cost of care, and a portion of the costs up until day 100. After 100 days, Medicare won’t cover any of the costs. Importantly, seniors must also have a “qualifying hospital stay” that lasts 3 days prior to their admission to a nursing home in order to qualify for Medicare coverage.
- Aid and Attendance: Aid and Attendance may be available to veterans who receive a VA pension. This benefit is a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. It is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used to pay for skilled nursing care.
- Reverse Mortgages: For those who own a home, reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home’s equity into cash. It’s often a good fit for married couples when only one partner needs nursing care, as the other residents of the home may continue living there. Keep in mind that reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid (with interest), typically within 12 months of receiving the loan.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: For seniors who already have long-term care insurance, the cost of skilled nursing care may be covered. Most policies cover at least a portion of the costs, but it depends on the specific policy terms. It’s important to note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not be eligible to sign up for a long-term care insurance policy.
California Nursing Home Care Rules and Regulations
The California Department of Public Health is responsible for regulating and licensing the state’s nursing homes. This agency also performs periodic reviews of nursing homes to ensure a high quality of care is provided in these facilities. Below are some of California’s state-specific nursing home regulations.
Scope of Care | In California, skilled nursing facilities provide high levels of care to those who need 24-hour medical supervision but don’t need hospital care. In addition to accommodations and assistance with daily living tasks, nursing homes provide assistance with personal hygiene, incontinence, mobility, hydration and nutrition needs. These facilities also offer a full range of medical care, including pharmaceutical and physician services and various rehabilitative therapies. Residents also have access to specialized medical services such as injections, feeding tubes, foot care and IV fluid administration. |
Care Plan Requirements | Nursing homes are required to work with residents to create a personalized care plan that meets their medical, physical, social and nutritional needs. Initial assessments and periodic reviews help attending physicians, residents and facility staff develop individualized plans for the delivery of services. |
Medication Management Requirements | In nursing homes, staff is responsible for storing, managing and administering medication. This helps increase resident safety by removing the risk of pharmaceutical mix-ups and overdoses. Medications, except for some laxatives and topical treatments, must be administered by licensed nurses or trained medical personnel. Nursing homes are also required to maintain relationships with nearby 24-hour pharmacies to ensure that residents have access to their medications on a timely basis. |
Staff Screening Requirements | As part of the required infection control protocol, all staff members in nursing homes must be screened for tuberculosis. Staff members must also obtain criminal record clearance as part of the hiring process. |
Staff Training Requirements | Skilled nurses, who are available around the clock in nursing homes, are required to complete a state-approved training program before obtaining a license. All nurse assistants must undergo rigorous training on patient safety, clinical care and abuse prevention. Through a combination of classroom and clinical training, nurse assistants learn how to properly care for patients with special needs related to common conditions such as physical disabilities and dementia. |
Medicaid Coverage | Around 65% of seniors in California qualify for Medi-Cal long-term care coverage, which can be used to pay for care in a nursing home when it’s medically necessary. |
Reporting Abuse | Residents or their family members are encouraged to take up any concerns about their welfare with their local Long-Term Care Ombudsman. These volunteer ombudsmen advocate for seniors with concerns about inadequate care, unsafe conditions or improper medication management. If complaints can’t be resolved through negotiation, these ombudsmen can help residents submit complaints to the California Department of Public Health’s Licensing and Certification Division. |
Free Nursing Home Resources for Seniors in California
Seniors in California have access to numerous programs and services that help them make informed decisions regarding their long-term care plans. Through the following resources, seniors can access services in their own homes that may help them delay or prevent nursing home care. The table also includes resources to help older adults find facilities in their communities and identify ways to pay for services.
Resource | Contact | Service |
Area Agencies on Aging | (800) 510-2020 | There are 33 Area Agencies on Aging throughout California, each of which serves those aged 60 and over in designated regions. Through their local AAA, seniors can access services that may help them avoid nursing home placement, including home health care services, homemaker services, transportation and home-delivered meals. |
Long-Term Care Ombudsman | (800) 231-4024 | The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for those in long-term care facilities throughout the state, including nursing homes. The ombudsman can help seniors understand their rights, find care solutions in the communities and identify options for paying for services. They can also investigate concerns regarding substandard care. |
California Department of Veterans Affairs | (800) 952-5626 | The Department of Veterans Affairs provides benefits, advocacy and support to the state’s 1.6 million veterans. It operates county offices where qualifying individuals access benefits counseling and apply for programs that can help cover nursing home costs. The department also operates eight veterans’ homes throughout the state, which may provide an affordable alternative to private-pay nursing home care. |
State Bar of California | (415) 538-2000 | The State Bar of California provides funding for nonprofit legal agencies throughout the state and offers an up-to-date database of law offices that offer free civil legal services to older adults. Through their local nonprofit law office, older adults can get help resolving issues related to nursing home care, including unfair intake and discharge procedures, excessive or insufficient services and billing errors. |
Social Security Administration | (800) 772-1213 | There are over 100 Social Security offices in California. At these offices, seniors can get income statements, replacement Social Security cards and proof of benefits. They can also apply for benefits that may help pay for nursing home care, including Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicare. |
Meals on Wheels California | Meals on Wheels California oversees home-delivered meal programs in communities throughout the state. Through this organization, seniors can locate the Meals on Wheels program in their region and apply for services, which may help them avoid nursing home placement. | |
California Community Action Partnership Association | (916) 443-1721 | CalCAPA supports local Community Action Agencies throughout the state and provides an up-to-date database of state programs and local agencies. Through their local CAP, seniors may obtain services such as home-delivered meals, chore services, friendly visits and phone calls, volunteer-based transportation and homemaker services, which may help them postpone, avoid or shorten the duration of nursing home care. |
California COVID-19 Rules & Regulations for Nursing Homes
Date Updated: Feb. 2, 2022
Sources: California Department of Public Health & County of Los Angeles Public Health
All of the information below is based on research from a variety of sources, including those listed above. Among other types of senior living facilities, these rules apply to skilled nursing facilities. It’s important to note that since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, you should contact your local nursing home or Area Agency on Aging for the latest information.
Visitation & Group Activities
Are loved ones allowed to visit residents in-person? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
Are residents to quarantine after being visited by loved ones? | No (Conditions Apply) |
Are visitors required to mask when visiting loved ones? | Yes |
Are third-party contractors allowed in senior living facilities? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
Are temperature checks required for visitors coming into the senior living facility? | Yes |
Can residents leave the facility for non-medical reasons? | Yes |
If residents leave, are they required to quarantine when they return? | No (Conditions Apply) |
Does the state require senior living facilities to cancel all group outings? | Not Available |
Does the state allow senior living facilities to host group activities? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
Safety Measures for Staff and Residents
Does the state require senior living facilities to regularly check staff members for elevated temperatures? | Yes |
Does the state require senior living facilities to regularly test staff members for COVID-19? | Yes |
Does the state require senior living facilities to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms? | Yes |
Does the state require senior living facilities to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures? | Yes |
Does the state require senior living facilities to regularly test residents for COVID-19? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
67 stylish lighting ideas to brighten your home
Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/69774/67-stylish-lighting-ideas-to-brighten-your-home
Bright ideas and new trends to light your home
IKEA
An essential element of any room, the right lighting can take a scheme from dark and dingy to cosy and welcoming with the flick of a switch. From glamorous Art Deco lamps to neon signs and whimsical moon lamps, we’ve rounded up the best ideas and new trends to bring light into your home. Click or scroll on for plenty of illuminating ideas…
Install bedroom pendant lights
Industville / davidgilesphototgraphy / @lifeofaninteriorstylist
At present, you can’t flick over to a bedroom makeover page in an interiors magazine that hasn’t installed a fabulous pair of bedroom pendant lights on either side of the bed. The symmetrical suspended lighting option frees up space on the nightstand and creates an incredible focal statement that highlights the bed. Of course, it also means you can forgo the furniture altogether—so makes the perfect small bedroom idea. And best of all? You don’t have to get out of bed to turn them off.
Larger than life
Lightsandlamps.com
Over-blown lighting statements make interesting focal points in rooms without structural features to show off. Super-sized ceiling drums, dominating floor lamps or decorative wall lights are set to be the centre of attention in living rooms and large open-plan living spaces.
Make it monochrome
Dulux
Monochrome decorating schemes that wrap rooms in one colour or tone create a stylish and contemporary vibe. Blending lighting into the scheme adds a three-dimensional element without upsetting the balance. We love this take on the trend where a copper-toned floor lamp peeps out from Dulux’s soft Dusted Heather tone of the upper walls but blends in perfectly below with a shade of Inca Orange below.
Scalloped edges
Marks and Spencer
Like the paint decorating effect, scalloped edges are going to be a hit lighting trend in 2023. Set above a dining table or kitchen island, the wave-like curves are soft and fluid, creating subtle attention to detail that’s totally up to date.
Expose the wires
@_lifeafterlockdown / Industville
If exposed lighting cables conjure up visions of dusty construction extension leads trailing across the floor—think again! Uncovered wires create bespoke looks that offer an industrial edge in modern homes. From suspended spidery chandeliers to red braided rope lamps, there is an array of choices.
Soften with smoked glass
Next
Add a twist to popular bulb lighting with smoked glass shades and pendants that add a glamorous contrast to neutral schemes. The delicate addition adds a soft hue to create a warm traditional decorating idea that’s timeless and chic.
Feature a sculptural chandlier
Danetti
Chandeliers have been a decorative luxury lighting option for centuries. But, contemporary versions with sculptural interest are making a popular warm welcome in modern schemes. These architectural chandeliers are sleek, avant-garde, and artistic.
Pop in powder coated metals
HomSense
Powdered coated metal gives classic industrial-style lights a colourful update. Pastel tones are proving more popular than ever and will introduce pretty notes into neutral schemes or add a fresh finish to contemporary, minimalist rooms.
Have fun with novelty bases
Joe Browns
From brass monkeys hanging from ceilings clutching light bulbs to exotic bird bases propping up patterned light shades, whimsical lighting ideas that add interest to a scheme are filling up the lighting aisle shelves. We love this little pink bulldog table lamp that will sit faithfully in a retro living room with a cool, kitsch character.
Calm with Japandi charm
As the latest trends are heavily influenced by the environment and sustainability, it’s no surprise that designers are looking to use eco-friendly materials in bold designs that really pack a punch. Naturally translucent, the beauty of a paper lantern is in the soft glow as the light is able to permeate through, perfect for the darker months when we’re looking for comfort and cosiness rather than clear, bright task lighting. Paper is also widely used in lantern making, which ties in nicely with the ongoing love for Japandi style.
Pick up a portable lamp
Nedgis
With the threat of possible blackouts looming, it’s no wonder flexible, battery-powered LED lamps are having a facelift. The Dipping Light portable lamp is a wireless splendour designed by Jordi Canudas. It delivers 20 hours of warm glow that is a far cry from those basic camping lamps we have been used to until now.
Colour up rattan lampshades
Le Redoute
Rattan has been a popular lighting material in neutral and rustic schemes for a while, so it’s refreshing to see a colour update in the mix. The Hilo colourful woven straw lighting range is handcrafted from braided straw and brings a fun, bohemian vibe to colourful schemes.
Light up rechargeable lamps
Pooky
Black-outs be gone as technology is changing the way we light our homes. This amber resin lamp really is a jewel as it’s rechargeable. With at least ten hours of dimmable charge, it can be moved into any dark corner to create an exotic glow without needing wires or sockets.
Set up sustainable style
Furniture Village
Our need for sustainable style hasn’t fallen short in the lighting industry. As well as LED and rechargeable interior components, design aesthetics are also getting an update. Despite glass saturating lighting looks right now, we love materials such as wood and natural rattan, too.
Use strip lights in an alcove
Hera / Architonic
LED strip lights have opened up a world of possibilities for the home decorator. Simply attach them with a double-sided sticky backing and you can use these long illuminated ribbons anywhere, plus they’re battery-operated, so no unsightly wires. One simple way to create a glowing feature is to outline any architectural features such as alcoves, tray ceilings or wall recesses. As this project proves, curves, in particular, look stunning.
Add attention-to-detail text
Aurina
Give your Edison bulb feature lamp an extra style statement by adding a light bulb like no other. Text light bulbs are quirky and set the mood with a smile.
Mix marble with metallics
Cult Furniture
From bedside lights to task lamps, table lighting is an essential consideration for any home interior. Pairing practicality with a sleek, modern design, this oversized gold-infused light bulb makes a glamorous statement with a marble-effect dome base. The combination of materials adds glamour to monochrome or Scandi-inspired schemes.
Choose an intriguing task lamp
B&Q
A good task light is a must if you want to pursue your work or hobbies on a dim winter afternoon. An angled desk lamp is your best bet. Look for a design that diffuses a little mood lighting through the shade while focusing a stronger beam on the task in hand will give you the best of both worlds. This contemporary Kiranat Matt table lamp embraces our new love of primary colours and has a striking flat, adjustable shade designed to reflect light onto walls and objects.
Display a cloche lamp
Dunelm
Glass plinth lamps allow the owner to add a personal touch to lighting that tells a seasonal story or matches a particular decorating scheme. Remove the clear glass cloche base from the wood stand to display a touch of greenery or an ornament within. The decorative element makes a timeless addition to classic and country looks.
Arrange an arc lamp
Cuckooland
Following the hot trend of curvy, wavy, and arch decorating, go for a large arc floor lamp to illuminate the area you need. Position one over the sofa for reading, watching television or just chatting with friends. You can even mix up the finishes—we love this copper design, but you could go for steel or black for a more dramatic feel.
Introduce modernist silhouettes and shadows
Ceiling lights with striking and contemporary vibes are pushing the boundaries with organic shapes. This Hiko light has been created with metal threads that curve into an uneven profile. The floating-style aesthetic glows from the centre through each narrow panel casting inviting shadows on nearby walls.
Go bold with colour and pattern
Mindthegap
This season, lighting is all about bold colours and eclectic patterns, so why not combine the two to create a truly wow-factor space that is entirely your own? Forget white walls and complementary lamps, because right now it’s time to throw out the rule book and get playful with interesting prints and palettes. Pay homage to art and the latest global décor trend and you’re sure to create a living space you’ll never want to leave.
Hang handblown glass
H&M Home
The trend for organic, rounded shapes has moved on from seating to lighting, with clear glass as the material of choice for 2023. Handblown forms play on imperfection and asymmetry, while the translucent quality means this oversized lantern feels as light and airy as a bubble.
Make it all about orbs
houseof
Taking inspiration from the recent Art Deco renaissance, orb lighting is an easy way to bring your interior bang up to date. Evoke the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties with a gold wire pendant shade that frames the spherical bulb to perfection. Pair with a complementary floor lamp, like this stunning design from houseof, to carry the curvaceous aesthetic throughout your living space.
Go tough luxe with industrial lighting
Skinflint
You’d have to have been living under a rock to have missed the huge trend for Edison light bulbs, but industrial lighting has so many different strings to its bow. From pipework wall lights to reused bulkheads and fluted glass pendants, this modern style has a rustic, textured finish that looks great in all types of décor.
Pick a pleated lampshade
H&M Home
Testament to the fact that the 1990s revival shows no signs of abating, the once-iconic pleated lampshade is making an unexpected comeback. Pair it with a weighty coloured marble base, team it with a brass lamp or add mini shades to wall lights; you’ll be surprised at how modern and appealing they suddenly look again.
Bring neon lights into the bedroom
The French Bedroom Company
The 1980s obsession also shows no sign of waning (thank goodness!), and one of the coolest ways to bring a little of this decade’s style into your home is through a statement neon light. Combine it with typography to nail two trends at once. Scared of fluorescent colours? Stick to a monochrome palette and use a clean, white light—it’s an absolute showstopper!
Illuminate an island with kitchen pendant lights
Kitchen Makers
Kitchen lighting usually requires three or four approaches: task lights for work areas, under lighting to highlight shadowy spots, and statement lighting to create the wow factor. A trio of pendants above an island definitely falls into the latter and the soft pools of light create a more ambient effect that’s perfect for socialising. There are as many styles of pendants as there are hot dinners, from smoked glass to rustic enamelware, so pick something that complements your scheme for a trendy kitchen that won’t go out of style.
Use wall lights to streamline a bedroom
The French Bedroom Company
Kill the clutter and get hotel style in one power move by incorporating two wall lights into your bedroom design. Not only do these provide the perfect reading light, they also free up space on a bedside table for more important things, like tea.
Illuminate shelves
Gera / Architonic
What better way to display your favourite objects than on this cool Gera illuminated shelf? Made from fine, anodised aluminium, this clever two-in-one solution is perfect for a home office, as it can double up as a reading light. We love how it adds an ombre effect to any wall, too.
Sparkle with a modern chandelier
MADE
The chandeliers of yesteryear might’ve been all about intricate layered tiers and crystal galore, but these days there’s a whole host of contemporary chandeliers more suited to the modern, minimalist home. Combining glass and brass, this sleek design wows with a fluted finish that casts a soft, warm glow. Use it to frame a dining table or illuminate a luxe living room.
Turn up the texture with a rattan lampshade
Habitat
Taking us right back to the 1970s, rattan, our favourite retro comeback kid, is taking over our home interiors all over again. Offering a wealth of texture and architectural interest, a woven pendant light is the way to go for those looking to make a serious statement. If you want to up the drama, opt for an oversized black rattan lampshade instead.
Add retro charm with Art Deco lighting
Original Article –
DelightFULL
The perfect addition to a period home or a new build lacking in character, 1920s-style lighting is a great way to inject instant personality into a lacklustre living space. With their warm gold hues and architectural curves, this Art Deco wall light and table lamp add a stunning vintage finish to this monochrome scheme.
Find your zen with a Himalayan salt lamp
inewsfoto / Shutterstock
Believed by some to boost your mood and improve your sleep, Himalayan salt lamps are the next big thing in zen lighting. With a soft pink pigment, these unusual lights emit a warming glow that’s perfect for cosying up a coffee table or adding a peaceful ambience to a bedroom. They’re available both as a rough-hewn rock or in a carved, polished design for a more refined finish.
Go for glass pendant lighting
Loaf
For an elegant and sophisticated scheme, you can’t beat a sleek glass light fitting. There’s no shortage of styles out there, from atmospheric smoked glass pendant lights to vibrant coloured shades. For a modern country scheme, this cowbell design, complete with industrial chain fitting, adds plenty of charm to a rustic-inspired space.
Create a spectacle with a sputnik light
Mid-century modern fans rejoice—the sputnik chandelier is back. The perfect way to make a dazzling statement in a living area, this gold and green design from John Lewis oozes glitz and glamour. For a sophisticated dining room, pair with metallic accessories and jewel-toned tableware for a show-stopping space to entertain.
Round up a mirror light
Inbani / Architonic / Baumann Fotografie
We love this statement design by Inbani, which will give any bathroom the feel of a luxury hotel. With its on-trend round shape, bevelled edge, and backlight, it has a minimalist style while fulfilling multiple functions. Mirror lights are great for smaller rooms, freeing up wall and ceiling space, and creating an optical illusion of extra inches. Plus, they are great for doing your make-up.
Colour your home with smart lighting
Phillips Hue
No smart home would be complete without an integrated lighting system, but now Phillips Hue is making it easy for anyone to enjoy the benefits of smart lighting. All you really need is a smart LED lightbulb and the app to start customising your scheme using a Bluetooth connection with your smartphone. You can set up to 10 different lights to different settings, ranging from bright white light that’s good for working to these rich colours that will create the perfect ambience according to your mood.
Curate a photo wall
Lights4fun
String up small fairy lights on a wall and use them to peg your favourite holiday photos and snaps of friends and family. It makes a wonderful alternative to traditional photo frames while adding light and illumination to the room.
Celebrate celestial
Furniture Village
Use lighting to set the decorating scheme for a room. Here, a stylish celestial pendant has been used over the bed. Teamed with a spherical bedside lantern, it sets the stage for a starry space-inspired scheme. Using moody colours, the lights take centre stage for this look.
Go wild with animal designs
KSL Living
Why not ditch the same old lighting options and go for something a little out of the ordinary? In children’s rooms, it’s especially fun to use animal-shaped designs. This blue stag head wall lamp is a great feature in this blue and red bedroom.
Lay fairy lights along a ledge
Norsu Interiors
Look around your home for areas that are lacking in light. Instead of opting for a conventional table light, ceiling pendant or floor lamp, try something a little different, such as running a length of fairy lights along a shelf.
Bring in a moon lamp
LoomisCollection / Etsy
One for stargazers and dreamers alike, this gorgeous homage to the moon makes a beautiful night light. Whether you go for an oversized orb to hang from the ceiling or a smaller lunar lamp, there are lots of options available now that these beauties have grown in popularity. Some have LED lights that change colour at a touch and others come wall-mounted with remote controls, but all have that amazing texture and shading for a lifelike appearance.
Have fun with tactile tassels
Oliver Bonas
This season there are plenty of new and exciting lighting options, including these gorgeous velvet and tassel lamps from Oliver Bonas. They come in a range of colours and are a great way to add texture to a room—we can imagine these in pride-of-place in the living room.
Mix and match shapes
Nedgis
Bring together a variety of different pendant designs and position them in a line over the dining table or above a bed. For a minimalist feel, use the same colour, or if you’re feeling extra daring, mix up colours and finishes for a cool, mismatched look.
Lead the way
Astro Lighting
Create atmosphere in your home by installing low-level lights up your staircase. Ideal for safely moving between floors at night without having to switch on the main light, you could even install a handy motion sensor.
String up festoon lights
Lights4fun
Not just for the garden, festoon lights look great draped just about anywhere in the home. They’re often battery-operated, making positioning much easier as you’re not governed by a power socket. Try trailing them up the banister, across a headboard, along a shelf or around window frames. The trick to making them not look like Christmas lights is to go for large white bulbs for an industrial feel.
Hang a crystal pendant
Dar Lighting
A large, dramatic crystal pendant is totally worth its investment for a wow-factor centrepiece. Showing off hundreds of strands of individual crystals, this design from Dar Lighting refracts light around the room beautifully. One of the charms of lighting is playing around with shades to cast light in unusual ways, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Soothe with a baby night light
Follow the Flow / Shutterstock
Babies need colour and stimulation, so be sure to bring some light into their nursery or around their cot. An illuminated mobile hanging above the cot is ideal, but you could also add draped paper lights, a cloud-like wall lamp or a cute illuminated star. Whatever you incorporate, be sure that it’s not blindingly bright or overpowering and just omits a soft glow.
Add a playful touch
Lime Lace
How cool is this shark-fin floor light from Lime Lace? It really adds a playful touch to whatever room you place it in. Created by German designer Moree, the fin will look great in a living room, bedroom or hallway—we can’t think of a more impressive way to greet guests. It’s made from high-quality plastic and can be illuminated in a range of colours and controlled by remote.
Light up your art
Nedgis
If you have a gallery wall of photographs and paintings, think creatively as to how you’re going to illuminate them. Instead of the typical overhead ceiling lights or spotlights, go for a flexible wall-hung lamp that you can move around and direct to your favourite piece.
Create a cosy hallway
IKEA
The right lighting is essential for a warm welcome in your hardworking hallway. Combine overhead pendants with a wall light or table lamp to layer up your lighting and create a cosy atmosphere. For extra convenience, make sure lighting can be controlled from a switch next to the front door, ideally on a different circuit to the main light so you can opt for bright, functional lighting or a soft, homely glow.
Have a light bulb moment
Tala
Making sure you have the right light bulb is essential if you want your home to feel cosy and snug. Modern LED bulbs offer a vast colour spectrum to choose from, from almost orange to cool white. If you want your bulb to emit a warm glow, pick one with a colour temperature of 2700 Kelvins or less.
Layer the lighting
Habitat
When it comes to selecting the lighting for a room, you don’t have to be stingy—layering is the key to any successful scheme. Instead of sticking to a single pendant light, build up the ambience in a living space by combining a ceiling fixture with a floor lamp for task lighting and a table lamp to create a soft glow in the evenings.
Add an antique lamp
Fritz Fryer
Take a look around antique fairs and shows to find unique lighting that you won’t see anywhere else. You can buy replicas, of course, but finding a one-off can be the starting point for a whole decorating scheme. This home office looks so stylish with this old industrial lamp from Fritz Fryer who specialises in restoring antique lighting and has a bounty of beautiful pieces.
Illuminate the windowsill
H&M Home
Don’t neglect the smaller spaces in your home—after nightfall, windowsills can become dark and lifeless without the sun streaming in. Banish the evening gloom by sprucing up your sill with a statement lamp or two. Not only will it add a stylish flourish to your home by day, but it’ll also provide a welcoming beacon after dusk.
Drape fairy lights
Graham & Green
A versatile lighting choice, string lights can work in an interior all year round. From illuminating artwork to adding a cosy glow to a snug or bedroom, there’s a wide array of designs out there to choose from. This latticed metal design casts a pretty pattern, elevating neutral walls and adding a welcome touch of warmth.
Fall for a floor lamp
Loaf
There’s an array of stylish ways to illuminate a dingy living room with a standing light. This coastal-inspired space pairs a gold-plated design with soft white walls and pops of seafoam green and royal blue. If you’re feeling daring, you could swap out the neutral shade for something bold in a contrasting hue.
Try a trio
Delightfull
Why have a single light source when you can have three—or more—in one? A multi-arm lamp really comes into its own when the season turns grey. You could, for example, use one light for reading, one to cast a soft glow on the floor and one to create an ombre wall or curtain.
Beat the winter blues
Care Co
If you’re one of the 29% of people in the UK who suffers from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a light therapy lamp will introduce a much-needed ray of sunshine into your home. These LED lights simulate the spectrum of natural sunlight, triggering serotonin production in the brain and boosting your mood.
Invest in daylight bulbs
Lumie
If the dark mornings are getting you down, a light-based alarm clock can help to ease you out of bed by simulating the dawn. The clock becomes gradually brighter over the course of 30 minutes, waking you up slowly and gently, just like the sun would. The Bodyclock wake-up lights by Lumie also come with an optional alarm beep, just in case.
Light up a vanity mirror
Hollywood Mirrors
A staple of Hollywood dressing rooms, what vanity station is complete without a mirror studded with light bulbs? A must-have for carrying out morning ablutions, the right lighting is key for a flawless look. This circular design includes a handy mirrored pedestal to make getting ready a breeze.
Install a dimmer switch
DFS
If your living spaces feel cool and clinical, consider opting for lighting with dimmer switches to add warmth to your interior. An easy way to create ambience, they can be easily adjusted to suit the occasion, from offering a soft glow on a cosy evening in, to injecting drama and atmosphere during a dinner party.
Create a cluster overhead
Rocco Borghese
Sometimes more is more! Clustering lights together can transform even the simplest fittings into a striking installation, creating an irresistible glow. Group your lights in odd numbers to create visual interest and make sure they’re fitted to a dimmer switch so you can adjust them depending on the mood.
Add a bathroom glow
C.P. Hart
It’s easy to overlook bathroom lighting, but treating yourself to layers of soft light is a luxury you won’t regret when you’re enjoying a soak in the tub on a chilly night. Tiled rooms tend to feel colder, especially if you don’t have underfloor heating, but a bit of carefully-placed uplighting, downlighting, and recessed lighting using warm-spectrum bulbs will make even the coolest white bathroom feel cosy.
Display oversized light-up letters
Graham & Green
Letter lights make a bold decorative statement and are a fun way to brighten up a dark corner. Go for an evergreen word or phrase that will withstand the seasons—if you’re opting for larger letters, stick to four or five-letter words for maximum impact.
Play with different shapes
Lights4fun
Add a whimsical touch to your lighting scheme with fun shaped designs. These sparkling stars feature strings of white LED lights wrapped around a metal frame. You could try mounting them on a wall or attaching them to a base to create freestanding table lighting.
50 paint decorating ideas you’ll want to try
Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/91682/50-paint-decorating-ideas-youll-want-to-try
Transform your home with these ingenious painting projects
George Home
A fresh coat of paint is by far the easiest and cheapest way to breathe new life into a tired room. But you don’t have to pick just one colour or even confine your creativity just to the walls. From soothing ombré to graphic murals and fabulous feature floors, we’ve rounded up the best paint techniques to transform your home. Click or scroll for more…
Dazzle with diamonds
Farrow & Ball
A plain bath panel can be an ideal canvas to jazz up with paint. Here, the chequerboard floor tile pattern has been continued up onto the bath to create a continuous striking focal point of yellow and white diamond shapes.
Design an abstract mural
LICK
It’s not just kids that love a mural. Get creative and turn a blank wall into a grown-up panorama. For a bold statement, try an abstract pattern with plenty of straight lines. First, mark out the pattern with a pencil and a ruler or metre stick. Apply painter’s tape to its edges and paint, making sure to paint just over the edge of the painter’s tape so the shape is filled. Alternate contrasting colours – ice-cream shades look great with a shot of black on a crisp white background.
Paint a home office noticeboard
Turn your home-working desk into a defined and creative office by anchoring the area with a paint effect. This office nestled under the stairs has been given true purpose with a painted triangle of russet red set neatly under the staircase.
Compose an awning
Crown Paints
Inject a nod to alfresco dining in the dining room by continuing a painted area up and over onto the ceiling. Here, a soft panel of colour creates a shaded and secluded effect ideal for intimate dining. This impression also works well over a bed or on a living room wall to highlight and feature a mounted TV.
Overlap squares
Habitat
Large squares look striking on a wall with high ceilings. This artistic design is even more effective when punctuated with the clever use of the internal door. Painting the frame and door in the same colours adds extra drama to the look.
Mimic a night sky
Furniture And Choice
This dramatic ceiling is ideal for teen bedroom schemes that focus on celestial décor. Be bold and opt for a navy or black tone for the ceilings and upper walls just like outer space but balance the darkness with contrasting chalky white over the remaining space. Intergalactic artwork will enhance the effect and younger occupiers may appreciate a scattering of luminous painted or sticker stars to gaze at.
Style up a staircase
George Home
Get creative on the staircase by painting your stair treads in various colours. These vibrant tones stand out all the more with black edging. Other fun ideas can be using tonal colour, or adding numbers, words or patterns with stencils.
Paint pretty scallops
Eliza Doodle Designs
The popularity of curves and arches means painting a scalloped shape pattern along the length of a wall is a super hot trend right now. The motif lends itself particularly well to children’s rooms. Start by painting a wall as you would two-tone but with a less refined edge. Then use a scallop stencil or paper plate to draw the curves along the top with a pencil and fill in.
Stencil a floor rug
The Stencil Studio
Looking for a stain-resistant rug that cost little more than a can of paint? If you have wooden floors, look no further than a stencilled rug painted on the floor. Here a monochrome chevron design transforms a plain white wooden floor and there is no danger of slipping or tripping as you might on the real thing. Be sure to use the correct specialised floor paint and seal if necessary.
Define with vertical stripes
Cuckooland
Give a room with low ceilings more height by painting walls with vertical stripes. When painted with the right tone and thickness the effect will elongate the walls. Two tones in complementary colours will create a subtle look whereas many panels of contrasting colours will add drama.
Frame a dressing table
Dunelm
Make your vanity a focal area by creating an arched alcove impression. Use a painted arch to emphasise a circular mirror and dressing table. Choose a gentle tone to make a subtle but stylish statement fit for a boutique hotel.
Blend the ceiling in
Annie Sloan
Wrap a room in one colour to create a moody vibe. A room with crown moulding works best for this look as the three-dimension adds definition to the single tone. A soft but pretty shade will be less dramatic. Here, a pinkish terracotta shade warms the room making it inviting while a contrasting ochre breaks up the block colour in subtle contrast.
Outline horizontal stripes
Iconic Lights
Give the classic feature wall a creative twist with a horizontal stripe. While this project doesn’t require much paint, the results are dramatic, especially when using contrasting colours. For a crisp level line, measure the height of the wall and choose a width that can be easily divided. Using a spirit level draw a pencil guide along the wall and place frog tape just outside. Paint in between the masking tape. Allow to part dry and gently peel off.
Break up colour blocks with wallpaper
Woodchip & Magnolia
This is a really easy way to add decorative design to a painted wall that is instantly eye-catching. It’s also a clever trick if you are not confident at crisp two-edging. Two-tone walls as normal and finish by adding a contemporary wallpaper border over the paint join. Choose colours that complement the wallpaper and be sure the feature is level by measuring up from the bottom of the wall.
Zone areas
Sofology
This is a great way to section areas of an open-plan room. Mark out spaces and paint them energising colours and then add in some decorative dimension with wall panels and scalloped edges.
Make windows work harder
Crown Paints
Give a country property a contemporary twist by highlighting window frames. This neutral sitting room has been given a sunny update by painting the window recess a bright shade of yellow. We love how the frame has been painted too but only halfway up.
Go retro with a rainbow
HomeSense
Give your bedroom a throwback vibe with blocks of saturated bold shades. Complete the retro look with a large and curvy rainbow design made famous by the dazzling decade.
Create soothing stripes
Benjamin Moore
A pretty border of watercolour paint looks amazing and works especially well in soothing pinks, blues or greens. To create this effect, roughly paint from the top of your wall in your chosen lightest colour. Let it dry and then move onto the next darker shade below overlapping slightly. For a softer look keep the edges uneven.
Contrast the ceiling
Benjamin Moore
Don’t neglect your ceilings. Also known as the fifth wall, who says they always have to be brilliant white? Throw out the rulebook and go for a statement ceiling in a happy shade such as yellow or pink to brighten and lighten the space. Or, go dark with navy or black to create a dramatic cocooning feel. If you’re not sure you can brave it, give it a go in your smallest space – the downstairs loo!
Use a repeat wall stencil
Dizzy Duck Designs
Walls stencils have come a long way since floral friezes were popular. Now there are literally thousands of modern stencil kits that create stylish wall paint effects. This Tsungi Spot wall stencil painted two-tone is an ideal alternative to expensive bathroom tiles.
Frame the door
Dulux
Make a feature of a doorway by combining contrasting paint colours. Here, a terracotta tone has been used to paint the interior door and frame to make a focal point in the two-tone effect. For longevity, make sure you use a primer first and apply painter’s tape around the frame for a crisp finish.
Get creative with circles
Dulux
Give the classic feature wall a creative twist with a circle. While this project doesn’t require much paint, the results are dramatic. For a perfect circle, tie a piece of string to a pencil and the other end to a drawing pin – the length of the string will determine the outer diameter of your circle. Push the pin into the wall where you want the middle of your circle to be. Holding the string tight, draw a circle on your wall, then fill it in with your chosen paint shade.
Be bold with colour blocking
Dulux
Adding blocks of bold-coloured paint is one of the easiest ways to give your walls a bit of personality. With a metre stick, spirit level, chalk and painter’s tape, simply section off the areas you want to paint and fill them in one by one, always making sure to paint just over the edge of the painter’s tape so that the section is completely filled. A clearly defined colour palette is a must for this look – we love this quirky mix of chalky white, spiced honey and jade green.
Create faux wallpaper with stencils
Nicolette Tabram Stencils
You can get the look of beautifully ornate wallpaper with stencils, they are easy to use, reusable and you can simply paint over the design when you fancy a change. This one is inspired by the Arts & Crafts movement and can be used on furniture and fabric as well as interior and exterior walls. Use the separate edging stencil to finish the design across the top of the wall.
Hone in on hexagons
Dulux
Hexagon paint stencils are available to buy online, and are really easy to use to create a feature wall. This design will add interest to a dining room as shown here. Blend the pattern into the room by choosing shades that pick out the décor. Here the gold is perfectly colour matched to the brass pendant lights.
Set up a suede effect
Crown Paints
Create a soft, matt buff look to your walls with a specially formulated textured emulsion that will give your walls the same look as brushed suede. The uneven nature of the final effect is great for hiding imperfections and it’s easy to apply as you almost work the brush at random to create darker and lighter spots on the wall. If you favour neutral schemes, we think this is just perfect for a feature wall.
Add texture with a metal effect
Craig & Rose
A feature wall in a copper patina effect lends a rustic, aged look to a scheme – perfect for a vintage or industrial-style home. To create this stunning finish, you’ll need copper paint and patina-effect paint. Apply two coats of copper paint with a roller, then use the roller, a rag or a sponge to pat the wall, creating texture. Leave the paint to dry, then dab the patina paint over the top using a different sponge or brush.
Paint on a statement headboard
George Home
Give your bedroom an update with a faux headboard by applying a painted design on the wall behind your bed. Sketch out your design on paper first, then measure off an area slightly larger than the head of your bed and map out your faux headboard with a ruler, pencil and painter’s tape before painting. For best results, choose a colour that strongly contrasts with the shade of your wall.
Expose a plaster style
H&M
For a grown-up industrial feel, why not forgo paint altogether and let the natural beauty of your plastered walls speak for itself? If your wall has already been painted, you can create a faux-plaster look using two different shades of plaster toned paint – apply a lighter colour first, then daub a darker hue over it using a cloth, gently smoothing out any thick areas with a spatula.
Highlight a corner
Dulux
If you don’t want to commit to a full feature wall, why not highlight a corner of a room with paint instead? Use a metre stick, spirit level and chalk to mark the area you’d like to highlight, section it off with painter’s tape and fill it in with your chosen colour. Bold, bright colours will look great here – if you’re painting a smaller, overlooked area, it’s best to avoid shades that are too similar to your original wall hue, as they may not be seen clearly.
Two-tone walls
Furniture And Choice
Horizontally split two-tone walls are a fuss-free way to add drama and depth to a room. First, choose your colour combination. To create your dividing line, use a metre stick, a spirit level and some chalk. Apply a strip of painter’s tape just below your chalk line and paint the top colour first. Remove the painter’s tape, apply another strip just above the chalk line and apply your bottom colour.
Paint the door
Next
Take the two-tone wall effect a step further by painting doors to match. The continuity and trompe-l’oeil effect add a refined and striking finish. We love how even the bed has been brought in on the act in this invigorating blue and white bedroom.
Draw up diagonal stripes
YES Colours
For a twist on the classic striped wall, position the stripes diagonally rather than horizontally or vertically. These violet stripes are a fun way of adding pattern to a staircase wall and are easy to create with your trusty metre stick, spirit level, pencil and painter’s tape.
Brighten alcoves
Furniture And Choice
Draw the eye to any interior alcoves and supporting beams by painting them a contrasting colour, creating a shadowing effect. This works best in bright shades such as this zesty green against crisp white, or for a more subtle take, give it a whirl on a window recess. A fresh yellow will bring instant sunshine to a kitchen window. For perfect edges, mask the painting area with a good quality painter’s tape.
Paint the hallway floor
Annie Sloan
Painted original floorboards look particularly attractive. For a serene feel paint them a soft chalky cream or white. Or, if you’re feeling daring go for brighter colours. Annie Sloan created this unique and impressive painted hallway floor using Primer Red, and the design continues up the stairs for a striking entrance. We love!
Compose an ombré wall
Crown Paints
This beautiful paint effect is easier to create than it looks. Paint the whole wall in the lighter colour first and let it dry fully, then apply the darker shade to the bottom part of the wall. On a board, mix the two colours and apply this mixed paint to the middle section of the wall. Blend and blur the colours together using a clean roller. This effect works with any colours, but pastel hues such as this lemon yellow create an instantly calming effect within a space.
Get a glitter glaze
Craig & Rose
For full-on glamour, use a glitter glaze as a top coat over a matt emulsion. If the room doesn’t have a source of natural light add a statement lamp to show off the sparkle. As the pieces of glitter are suspended in a clear varnish, it’s best to try your brush technique first on a piece of card, applying liberally in a criss-cross motion or using a foam roller for bigger areas – but remember to wipe off the excess first.
Call on concrete-effect paint
Photographee.eu / Shutterstock
For a stylish grey scheme, exposed concrete walls lend a space an ultra-contemporary industrial feel, but if this isn’t doable in your home, you can create realistic faux-concrete using paint. Paint the wall in a medium grey, using sweeping, arched brushstrokes. Smooth out the brushstrokes using a wet cloth, then scrunch up the cloth and lightly dab it along the paint to add texture. Add vertical strokes of white paint using a block brush, then use a different wet cloth to blend it into the grey base.
Be brave with a dalmatian spot wall
Dulux
For a truly unique, glamorous feature wall behind a dressing table, try this simple technique. Starting with a white wall, cut out holes in varying sizes from pieces of A3 paper to create a dalmatian spot stencil. Fix the stencil to the wall with painter’s tape and fill the holes with black paint, repeating as many times as needed to fill the space.
Top up tile effects
Crown Paints
If you’ve always wanted a tiled splashback or border, but don’t have the supplies to hand, why not recreate a tiled effect using paint? Using a pencil and a ruler, draw out the ‘tiled’ area. Use tape to mask it off from the rest of your wall and apply paint in the colour you want your ‘tiles’ to be. When this is dry, measure, mark and mask off your ‘grout’ lines and paint them in a contrasting colour using a small brush.
Commission a woodland mural
Annie Sloan
Kids love having some creative input into their bedrooms and a wall mural offers the ideal opportunity to work on a project together. Start by painting the wall a deep shade, so that the mural pops. Once dry, add trees, plants, little woodland houses and cute animals, beginning with the basic outlines and then adding details. This design by Lucy Tiffney uses chalk paint and is stunning, but you can, of course, make yours simpler.
Let monochrome drip down
Rebel Walls
This striking feature wall design is incredibly simple to recreate. Paint the wall black, let it dry fully, then apply two coats of white paint to a rough section at the top of the wall. Next, load up some large syringes with the same white paint, squeeze it out onto the edge of the white section, and let the paint drip down.
Fall in love with liquid gold
Crown Paints
A foolproof way to create an instantly striking accent wall is to paint it gold – try this in a bedroom, bathroom or dressing area for a luxurious, glamorous feel. When using a brush to apply metallic paint, it’s likely that the brushstrokes will be visible. This can add a nice extra layer of texture, but if you’d prefer a smoother finish, use spray paint instead.
Design a geometric wall
Dulux
Geometric shapes on walls look ultra-contemporary – in this children’s bedroom, they’re used to add a sense of fun and playfulness. Draw each shape using a metre stick and a pencil, then apply strips of painter’s tape above and below your lines to paint your shapes evenly. To create the little cross shapes shown here, you can simply cut stencils out of A4 paper, tape around them and fill with a contrasting paint shade.
Brush on dashes
trendypeasdecals / Etsy
This look couldn’t be simpler to create. Take a small paintbrush and add small dashes to your wall, in a contrasting shade to your base colour. You can make the dashes as thick or as thin as you like, and they look great painted either vertically or horizontally. This look works well in monochrome, but dashes in bright shades would also look fantastic against a white wall in a kids’ bedroom.
Decorate a mountain mural
Dulux
To really flex your creative muscles, you could design a wall mural. This mountainscape scene in a nursery, painted in calming shades of blue, white and grey, is a stunning example. It’s fairly easy to recreate, using a metre stick and pencil to mark out the simple triangular mountain shapes, painter’s tape to section off each area before painting, and just four paint colours to fill them in. Remember to keep a little back in each colour to correct any mistakes!
Stick and peel with painter’s tape stencils
Crown Paints
If you want to jazz up a small section of your wall with a pattern, a stencil with painter’s tape is a simple way to do it. A quick search online should help you find the right design for you – we love this geometric pattern, but you could choose anything from a floral motif to a baroque design.
Choose a different colour on each wall
Dulux
For the more daring decorator, painting each wall in a room in a different shade is an easy way to make a space look striking. Avoid too many bold, bright shades – you don’t want to give yourself a headache! Make sure that when you’re painting, you mark off the edges of the walls with painter’s tape so the paint colours don’t bleed into each other.
Get practical with a chalkboard wall
B&Q
If you need somewhere to display notes, reminders or family messages – or just somewhere for the kids to scribble on – a chalkboard wall could be the perfect solution. Lots of brands offer chalkboard paint, which allows you to create a fun, interactive space to write and doodle with chalk, and is easy to wipe clean. Try a chalkboard wall in the kitchen, your home office space, or a child’s bedroom or playroom.
Catch a likeness to Venetian plaster
The Modern House
Anyone who lived through the 90s might remember the penchant for Tuscan-inspired terracotta plastered walls. Cut to 2022 and this beautifully soft, textured finish is making a comeback. Also known as lime-plaster, you can create the same tonal highlights with some clever products that are much more budget-friendly. The end result is somewhere between marble and a hand-skimmed effect.
2022 RECAP
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