Lindsey Binz Home Company

Interior Design. Real Estate

Therapeutic Thursday

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I have many types of therapy, but my most favorite is probably a toss up between Prayer and Pinterest. When life starts feeling a little hectic (which is pretty much all day-everyday)
I have to frequent my Happy Place.
 Even if only for a quick shout out or a sneak peek.
 
Here are some of my favorite pins as of today!
Love this cozy dining space! I wonder if it comes with a personal Chef? 
Wowza!!! 
I am in Love with these Floors! 
No Words.
Though the photos on Pinterest are usually Perfect, 
I have to remind myself that the spaces only looks that way during the shoot.  
In Real Life 
Nothing and No One is ever perfect, but Grace is Everything! 
SO… I guess that my favorite types of therapy are connected after all!
Happy Thursday

Get Real…Estate… Finding and Making a Neutral Territory!

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One of the first questions I’m asked when working with clients is
“What is the best color to paint for Resale”?
Hmmm…. Let me think!
Resale or Not,  a nice Neutral is a great backdrop for any space. 
A light, clean, organized space appears large and a fresh coat of paint gives the feeling of a well-maintained home.
 Two very important aspects of home showings and living, for that matter!
Via Martha O’Hara
Many people think of neutral as boring, but it can be a wonderful canvas to display your personality (boring or not)! Teal, brown and black are really great colors to use in an otherwise neutral space. 
via Oly studios
Neutral doesn’t mean Colorless… If anything, it allows you to bring in color throughout your space. 
Think of it as one big blank canvas!
via Pinterest
Plus, choosing rich neutral hues throughout helps potential buyers envision how their personal style can be brought into the house.  
Which Neutrals you say????
 Some of my personal favorites are Sherwin Williams Kilim Beige , Believable Buff and Universal Khaki

I like to specify Sherwin Williams paints and most paint shops will match colors from any company. 
They can come really close, but it may not be an exact match. 
It’s best to use paint from the same company throughout each space.

Painting your walls, ceiling and trim all the same color can help expand your space visually and give an illusion of higher walls.
BUT, ALWAYS be sure to choose the correct finish on each surface.
I like to use semi gloss on all trim/mill work, satin/eggshell on walls and flat on ceilings. 
I NEVER, NEVER, NEVER like to use Flat paint on walls.
 It is not washable and to me,, that is just not an option!!!
You never know when the dog might shake his wet coat in the living room or the kids might wipe their peanut butter and jelly covered hands down the hallway!!! 🙂 

via House Beautiful
Via Elle Decor
I love how the light colored walls contrast with the dark floors and furniture. It’s such a clean and classic look!  It works in every style.

via At Home in Arkansas
via Traditional Home

Let me know if you need some input on colors for your home~ I would love to Help!

I’m gonna let it Shine

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Get Real…Estate
Styling to Sell or Stay, with the right Lighting
One of the best ways to add STYLE to your home is with good lighting.  
Most houses that are not custom built or have not been updated by home owners will have very common looking lighting or a “Home Depot Special”  as I like to call it. (Sorry to all my builder friends out there) I am not saying that shopping at Home Depot is all bad- but if you do like to shop at the De-pot, please be sure to do so with a selective outlook. 
Many people tend to overlook the importance of good lighting. It’s either, not in their budget or they simply have never lived in a well thought out space. Whether you realize it or not, the right or wrong lighting can make or break a room or even an entire home. If the pictures below resemble the lighting in your home, it might be time to consider an update.  Especially if you are getting ready to sell.
images from Google
Natural light- is above all the best type of lighting.  
Recently I have been obsessed with steel framed windows and doors. There is just something about the sleek simplicity just makes me happy.  It just so happens that my hubby works in the Structural Steel biz 🙂 so I am hoping that my home will soon be getting an upgrade! 

paulbarbera

Unfortunately not all homes can take advantage of this God given gift, due to many factors. 
However,  if you are able to soak up the Sun, then by all means take advantage of it with windows and complementing window treatments (or none depending on who can see through them).

Pinterest
Lighting is as much decoration as it is utility, when you carefully select the fixtures for a space.  The pendant in the photo above is perfect for this cozy nook. It’s shape complements the bent wood dining chairs and the antique brass finish is a nice, soft contrast to the black iron windows. You may not be able to splurge on a high end light, but don’t be afraid to try something unique. 
 Here are some cool pendant lights that will fit most any size budget.  I know you will be pleasantly surprised.

 

Galvanized buckets can be purchased in my booth ~Tusk #143~ at Midtowne Antique Mall. Let me know if you need it wired, I can get that done too!
We personally have the Ikea Pendant hanging over our breakfast table and get so many compliments. 
Closets and Hallways are the perfect place to add some unexpected flair and personality with ~not your run of the mill ~ lighting.  These lights, from Restoration Hardware, really add character to this gallery hallway.
Houzz.comm
In a recent closet design project, I replaced the standard florescent fixture with this unique alloy shade and Edison style bulb. 
www.lindseybinzhome.com
I love this classic style flush mount light from Circa Lighting. It can be used in most all styles of homes.
circalighting.com
 Sconces are another way to add some interest to a wall.  
Lisa Sherry Interieurs

You can have them hardwired to a switch or buy the plug in type and use a wire cover… or Don’t cover it!
Try the SIMPLE DIY project pictured below- Transform a desk lamp into an industrial wall sconce and give it a fresh feel by wrapping the cord in your choice of colored duct tape or simply spray paint it~ just the cord or the entire lamp.

Pinterest

Hope you have been inspired to Let it shine too!

Search & Rescue

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One of the biggest trends right now is Reusing, Re purposing and Recycling. 
As it turns out, I grew up in a family that has a great appreciation for things with a history.
 I have many interests, but I do believe that the “Search and Rescue” of cool and unique items, is probably my most favorite.
 I especially love to mix these found objects with more modern and classic pieces. It is a sure way to keep your decor from “Going out of  Style”. 
 I think that you should never “re decorate” completely, but rather re arrange, add to and pass down for others enjoyment! After all, if the items we are seeking were never passed down ,we wouldn’t have the opportunity to give them new life!
Living Room Designed by Lindsey Binz Home
As I continue my journey as a designer,
 I am happy to say that I have found a Niche and it’s one that suits me just fine. 
If you have been following me, you might know that I have partnered with my Mom and Aunt and some friends who are also into this treasure hunting lifestyle. 
Between us we have 7 booths at Midtowne Antique Mall here in Little Rock.
105 N. Rodney Parham Road  
We have all enjoyed it so much, that we each have a space dedicated to fit our personal styles.
My new booth Tusk will be located on the Front Perimeter Aisle.
I’ll be getting all moved in the next couple of weeks,
 so hopefully you can stop in and check it out. 
It will be a mix of old and new! 
I love Estate Sales, Antique stores and even PICKING through peoples homes and storage buildings looking for treasures that need some love.
 To me, it’s a therapeutic and a thrill at the same time! It is a great outlet for me to “shop” with out going over budget. Well, there is an occasional splurge, but sometimes that is necessary! 
Closet ASDH 2013
Here are a couple of shots from my space in the Arkansas Symphony Designer House that I completed a few weeks ago.
 Many of the items were found on my frequent tag sale stops and Midtowne antique Mall.
 Most will be FOR SALE in Tusk.
Message me if interested in any of these items
Guest Bathroom ASDH 2013
Photo Credit http://danielledavisart.com/
 Heirloom Hardware and Home is another great shop in Midtowne-
My dear friend ,and original partner in Linger, Geralyn is the proprietor. 
She also has a great site for people wanting to buy or sell online.
 It’s a great way to get exposure if you have some pieces that are ready for a new home-
 And of course, so you can make room for more great finds in yours.
 Like her pages on Facebook
Another friend of mine, Lori, who was also a part of Linger has a booth located next to HHH.
She has a real knack for Up~cycling and creating unique accessories and furniture.
She loves to use Chalk Paint and does Custom orders!!!!

Here are some of Harmony’s latest Editions – stop by her space soon before they are gone!
 Dwellingz- located on first aisle in Midtowne   is always neatly stocked and ready for customers. 
My friend, Julie- the Dwellingz Chick-  is very talented on the sewing machine and furniture painting too
(something I would love to learn very soon)
She also does custom orders!
Here is one of her latest creations.
I’m secretly hoping she will gift me one of these pillows (life is better at the lake, indeed)
for giving her a little cross Marketing on my little blog! 🙂
 Fellow Interior Designer, Krista Lewis, has been at Midtowne for a few years now. 
Her booth ,Brass Tacks, is located just a few down from the new location of Tusk.
In addition, she recently opened a kids clothing and decor space.
It’s located right past TUSK on the front Aisle. 
You won’t miss it! 
Last, But Most Definitely NOT least is 
Twin Treasures 
Thanks much to these 2 ladies (my Mom and Aunt Jan) also Identical Twins, for passing on this wonderful past time of Treasure hunting to ME!!!!
They have been a search and rescue team for as long as I can remember. 
They have been so kind as to let me in on the fun…So…
Look for many of their items to also be in Tusk, since we will occasionally shop as a Trio!
Hope you have enjoyed this little teaser and it has inspired you to get out and HUNT!

Guest Post on At Home in Arkansas- Bringing the outdoors in

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image via Tumbler
Spring is such a wonderful season. 
Taking advantage of the blessings it provides, is one of the best ways to make your home feel fresh and new. 
Whether you are trying to sell your home, or plan to stay, it is something that all should be able to enjoy.  There are so many simple ways to bring the outdoors in.
 From minimalist arrangements to much larger projects.
Though a mess and chaotic at times, a home should always have the potential to be serene. 

If you came to my house right now- I’m pretty sure Serenity would NOT be the first word that pops in your head. However, if you stay and see what we have planned, you might think- okay I can see that…in about 15 years- when the kids are in college! Just Kidding 🙂

google image 
 In fact, many of the EASY and mostly inexpensive “projects” done with nature, can be done with the kids help. Not to mention it will give you something to do as a family when you have one of those never ending “I’m sooooo Bored” days with your 7 year old. 🙂

Think of it as a science, math and art lesson all rolled into one. The grammar part comes at the end, when you get a chance to write about it on your blog!!! 🙂
For some great ideas ( and pretty coffee table decor) to try, get the book 
Bring the Outdoors in 
By Shane Powers

You can use many things from your own backyard – or purchase from a local nursery. 
Pintrest

            Many types of ferns grow great indoors and are easy to maintain (so says the internet )

And what a great reason to use some of these great planters to add to your interior decor. 
shopterrain.com
If you just need some greenery for a few days, try clipping a few sprigs to display alone in a pretty container filled with water. 
You could even add food coloring if you want some color! 
pintrest
A Terrarium is a fun project to create- and each kid can have their very own.
Also a great gift idea for those teachers that get to see those sweet kids faces everyday of the school year!
And you know I always LOVE an excuse to pull out the Vintage Glass Jars and Galvanized Pots.
We just stocked up our Booth “Tusk”,  located in the Midtowne Antique Mall in Little Rock
with lots of old buckets with a nice patina that would look awesome in a grouping.
Springtime Apple Blossoms-Arkansas State Flower (History Lesson too!!!)
No flowers blooming… No problem
Try this idea of leaning tree trunks in any room
Or simply arrange some rocks in a nearby entry way.
I LOVE THIS
Via Apartment Therapy
A fun idea that also serves as a treat, is to a plant citrus tree in a pretty container in your kitchen.
The fruit would be a great snack and make the room smell nice too!!!
Apartment Therapy has a step by step guide to help you.
This one may be a little advanced for myself- seeing as it needs watering.
 I have a tendency to overlook that step!
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/growing-citrus-indoors-129910

Thanks so much for reading my post. I would love to hear your feedback on what types of nature you like to bring indoors.

Get Real… Estate: Restoration and Simplification

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 I am very inspired by history.  
As in Yesteryear,Vintage, Antiquity…Old-  
Unfortunately the years have not always been kind to many of the items I find.
 So a restoration is, almost always, essential.  
The idea of taking a previously “loved” (or in many cases not so loved) item and giving it a new life 
seems to be an ever growing trend. 
Add caption
 Funny, one of the reasons I am so drawn to this concept is because I am more of an Un~trender.
 I am very particular and love the thrill of discovering a unique and uncommon item.  
Or even turning a common item into something other than it’s intended purpose.
To me, Different is Good!
That is also true when styling your home for Sale.
Standing out is Good. 
 Keep in mind, though, you need to keep it somewhat neutral .
  Finding this balance can be somewhat of a challenge. 
Always remember, Simplification is key. 
 Here is an example of a table made from recycled wood and metal. 
Go to instructables.com for the how to.
via instructables
I also know some local places that build custom pieces. I can help you with the design. 
www.lindseybinzhome.com
A great way to add style to any space is by using reclaimed wood to cover a wall.  
Discarded wood pallets are a cheap (sometimes free) way to stay in budget.  
All you need is a saw, a nail gun or hammer,nails and the found lumber.
http://www.justagirlblog.com/diy-pallet-wall-part-2/
If you love the idea of using recycled wood somewhere in your home,
 but want to run far away when you hear the term DIY.
Don’t worry. 
 There are endless options available for purchase. 
 These great pendant lights would look great over a kitchen bar or dining table.
betterlivingthroughdesign.com
I think certain art should be reserved for when you don’t have your house for sale.
 It can sometimes be too personal and distract from what buyers are actually there to see, THE HOUSE.
via Fab.com
Since eating is pretty much universal, these letters are a great choice for a kitchen or breakfast area. 
They can be purchased 
or made at home. 
What a fun project for those rainy spring days. 
Drinking the wine for the corks may be a little fun too!
Garage Sales and Estate Sales are great places to find unique items at reasonable prices to restore.
Books are always in style and are perfect for bookshelves!!! And any other surface for that matter. 
I love hunting for old books. To me, it’s the ultimate hi~story…and at a usually small price tag
via google image
I recently found this woven lamp at a local estate sale. 
 All it needed was a little clean up, some paint and a new shade. 
I was especially drawn to the shape and texture of this one.
via lindseybinzhome.com

Lamps are one of the best ways to liven up a space. 
They not only serve as a source of light, they add ambiance and finish off a room.
A sure way to have potential Buyers remember your house~ have this one on display!
via google image
Who doesn’t need a little humor on their house hunting trips!

Lindsey

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Make your Grass Green…
Though, it is a lot of work, having a nice and neat outdoor area is very important when it’s time to sell your house. It can very well be what makes a Buyer decide to buy a house or not.  

This is the time of year that having a nice exterior can help sell your house. It can also help not sell it, if it is not maintained properly. 

First make sure they can find your house. As if the big sign in the yard is not a give away!
via Lindsey Binz Home
No Really, the pizza man can’t find you if you don’t have your street number posted.
I know this, because we didn’t have them for a while! 

via urbanthreads

This is a cool and EASY DIY project – all you need is a piece of wood (painted color of your choosing), a few nails and thread or twine to create this cool 3D effect. 

Or… you can buy some!
Via Clockwise from top: Modern Dwell House Numbers, Custom House Numbers, Custom House Numbers, Design Within Reach
Make the most of ALL of your Real Estate. Bring the indoors – out. Extend your living space into the porch , patio or even yard. 

via indulgy.com
What a charming little corner for a morning coffee or four… 
via southern living
I think I might buy this one without even going in
OR at least sit for a while and have some sweet tea.
via The Studio B Photography

I  know this is not common, but come on,  How Lovely.
 I could sit here and read for hours.

Plant some annuals! 
(the bulbs will need to be planted sometime in January for the full effect)

via alakananda.files.wordpress.com0

 This might be going a little overboard, but it definitely makes a statement.

A pretty lawn enhances your home and it should be freshly cut (weekly), weeded, and edged. Flowerbeds should be weeded , hedges trimmed, and garden debris removed.
 Any areas that require new grass should be sodded rather then seeded to ensure a finished appearance.

via www.windsorcompanies.com

Unless you have beautiful paving stone like these, be sure the sidewalks and patios are also weeded and clean~ 
Can you say Pressure washer??  (my hubby’s favorite past time) .
While you have that out- go ahead and clean the the exterior, including eaves and gutters. Downspouts should have extensions to take water away from the foundation to avoid pooling.  Believe me – the inspector will write this on the report if it’s not done.

I actually think it’s okay to leave the chalk. It’s very sweet.

Okay, so if you are like me and love to have a pretty yard, but never seem to get around to the yard “work” part of it. A great way to “Give Back” is to hire someone to do your yard work.  
That way, the time that you do spend outdoors can be enjoyable and memorable!  Some of my best childhood and adult memories are being outside- either playing catch or doing cartwheels in the yard and then hanging out on the deck (with lots of bug spray) and friends ~that only bugged me after a few hours!  (Just kidding)  

If you are the DIY type (also like me), then why not get the kids to pitch in and help. If you don’t have kids in the house, enlist some of the neighbors!  I love playing the game pick up sticks (with actual sticks) . We like competition at our house, so I always have a “Race” to see who can find the most and add them to the pile.  My 3 year old especially like to fill up the wagon and pull it around- baby dolls in tow. 

A great way to teach values too

Happy Spring!

  

Lindsey

https://lindseybinz.com/2013/03/make-your-grass-green/

Clear the clutter Part I- the Kitchen

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Thanks At Home in Arkansas for letting me be a guest Blogger today!  

An important part of getting your house show ready is clearing out the clutter of unnecessary stuff. You want to give all potential buyers a feeling of order, not chaos. And,yes,it’s okay to “Pretend” that you are better organized than you really are, when your house is on the market! We all know that many of the homes, on the market, have people living in them. But, the worst is walking into a home that looks a Little too “Lived in”. I have seen it all- from Martha Stewart *clean as a whistle*, labels on every shelf to Animal House *Under~roos on the floor*, what’s a shelf? let alone a label. I am not saying that you need to channel your inner Martha before every showing, because I know that is not possible (at least for me).

photo via google

If you follow me at www.lindseybinzhome.com you know that we recently moved homes. We had about 25 showings in the first 5 days, YEP, it’s true! Let me just say I wish I would have done a little more clearing of the clutter before the yard sign went up. You never, let me repeat NEVER, want to have to turn down a showing because the house is not ready. What I’m saying is BE READY, at all times! Clear out the Clutter before the photos are taken.

photo via Lindsey Binz Home

Once that’s done, it’s easy to keep the house ready to show. If you are like me and your thoughts are as jumbled as your junk drawer, then, by all means call for help. Even if you need to pay someone to come in and counsel you between trash bag trips to the dumpster. Just kidding, if it’s that bad you might want to audition to be on “Hoarders” so they can pay you.

Okay, I’ll be serious.

Start with the kitchen drawers. All of them. First, take out everything and give them a good wipe down. Then   set aside everything that does not have an immediate purpose. Immediate meaning while you are still under the current roof. Decide if you want to toss, donate or pack for future home and put in it’s appropriate place. Lastly, get some inexpensive drawer baskets or small bowls and dishes that you already have to hold all of the items that you put back in. I love using cute containers that I have collected over the years-
I smile ,thinking of how I acquired them, when I open the drawer.
For utensils- use the molded plastic divided trays- I think they work better than the adjustable ones.

photos via house by hoff

Keep the kitchen cabinets and pantry as organized as possible~ you want to make sure everyone that comes in can see that the available space and storage is sufficient. I like the idea of using clear containers to house food items and removing the door organizer~ are those ever in order anyway???

If you have time, give the trim and walls a fresh coat of paint. I love this stencil- such a great way to add some style to the ordinary!
Photo via domestic imperfection
I realize these next pantries are not typical, but I couldn’t resist.  They are stunning! 

via designsponge

Don’t forget to clean out the fridge too.  You never know who might open it up while at a showing!
You could even have bottled water in there for lookers. Just stick a note on the door and say “help yourself to some water”!

photo via zettas aprons

Next clear ALL counters and other surfaces of  personal items- including, family photos, paperwork, electronics, etc… nobody needs to know what type of vitamins you take or how many points you have earned on your Visa rewards card.  If you must keep certain items on your counter tops, choose only one or two, depending on your counter size, and make sure they are ones you use every day. 
 I love containers that hide all of my everyday stuff… all kinds.

photo via my designchic.com

Once you’ve cleared out ~ make a few small changes that will help you be ready when you get a call that someone wants to see the house in 5 Minutes!  Hopefully all of your hard work will save you from an AHHHH moment and you can relax!

 Here are some ideas to help.

  • Use a soap dispenser rather than tray and a bar of soap to keep the sink area clean. 
  • Keep a few (Empty) baskets and small containers handy for those junk piles that seem to accumulate daily. You can just throw in the stuff and stick the container on a shelf or in a closet.
  • Put a few drops of Vanilla Extract in small bowls through out the house it’s a great, light freshener without seeming like you are trying to cover smells. Stay away from strong sprays and candles.
  • Keep an extra trash bag in the trash can, so you can easily change it- just as you walk out the door.

One of the most important things buyers consider when house shopping, is STORAGE, STORAGE, STORAGE! You want to make sure the Storage areas look neat and not too full. Pre~ pack EVERYTHING that you are not going to need .  If you are unsure, just pack it anyway!

 It’s still okay to Live in your home, while it’s on the market.  Just make sure you keep it show ready!

  Here is a great example of a laundry closet that is functional, efficient and organized!

via better homes and garden

Happy Clutter Clearing!
If it seems a little more than you can handle, call me!

Lindsey

Pretty in Pink

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In Honor of Valentine’s Day I decided to post some rooms with pink that I think are just splendid!
 Pink is one of my favorite colors.  I think because it is just so fun and cheerful.  It can also be very sophisticated when paired with the right mix of black and white or gold. 
via google
via lonny magazine
via google
via google
via steven miller
via houzz.com
Hope you had a fun filled Valentines day with lots of Love,

Lindsey

Over Dyed and gone to Rug Heaven

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Vintage over dyed rugs are a combination of all things I like.
 Unique, Old and Relaxed!
The over dying technique was discovered in Istanbul through efforts to revitalize old hand woven rugs. The vintage rugs were neutralized and then over-dyed. There was an unexpected outcome of unique and colorful art, due to the mix of  traditional designs with contemporary flair.
There is only one problem! I can’t make a decision when it comes to the options…. I love almost all of them. There are, of course, some that eliminate themselves simply by their price tags! 
wovenonline
These rugs work in most settings and are available in differing styles and price ranges. 
via Leid
I love how this bold fuschia rug adds so much color to this Swedish rustic style space!
via kilim
I am in love with this Anatolian style above and could easily find it a home.
 Powder room maybe???
Here are some more that I could see working just about anywhere!

via abc carpet

via loomrugs

I love how the rug below has a look that seems solid- though it has a pattern.
 It helps to anchor all of the other pattern in this room~ A solid rug would have been too plain here.

via home and garden magazine

Lindsey