As the spring season takes Jacksonville in its embrace, the air fills with a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. Homeowners across the city are catching the seasonal wave, eagerly embarking on home improvement projects to give their living spaces a fresh, welcoming vibe. 

Among the myriad areas of focus, the bathroom emerges as a pivotal space, ready for a seasonal makeover. Updating your bathroom enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home, significantly boosting its functionality and comfort.

In the spirit of embracing the new season, let's explore some essential tips to get your bathroom spring-ready. These tips are designed to transform your bathroom into a harmonious blend of style and practicality, ensuring it stands out as a refreshed, serene haven in your Jacksonville home.

No. 1

Declutter and Organize

Begin your bathroom makeover by decluttering. Sort through your cabinets and shelves, removing expired products, unused items, and anything that clutters your space. Embrace the minimalist approach—keep only what you use and love.

After decluttering, invest in smart organizers for your drawers and cabinets. Compartmentalized storage solutions can dramatically improve your bathroom's functionality, making your daily routines smoother and more enjoyable. A decluttered and organized bathroom not only looks better but also feels more spacious and welcoming.

No. 2

Deep Clean

With your bathroom decluttered, the next step is a thorough deep clean. Tackle every nook and cranny, from the tiles and grout to the often-neglected areas like vents and light fixtures. Consider natural cleaning solutions for a safe and eco-friendly clean. Washing any rugs and shower curtains can also breathe new life into the space. 

Don’t forget to clean your bathtub. However, if it’s in outdated condition, consider getting it replaced. To find out your Jacksonville bathroom remodel cost, contact a professional company like Quality Craftsmen. They have been in business for over 30 years and offer top-notch bathtub replacement services within your budget.

No. 3

Update Fixtures

Refreshing your bathroom's look doesn't necessarily require a complete overhaul. Sometimes, replacing old, worn-out fixtures can inject new vitality into the space. Consider upgrading faucets, showerheads, and even towel bars to modern, sleek designs that reflect the freshness of spring.

Opting for water-efficient fixtures can also add an element of sustainability to your bathroom, aligning with the season's renewal theme. This simple change can have a profound impact, elevating the entire look and feel of your bathroom.

No. 4

Fresh Coat of Paint

Never underestimate the transformative power of paint. A fresh coat in a new color can work wonders—instantly brightening and expanding your bathroom's visual appeal. For spring, consider light, airy colors that reflect the season's vibrancy.

Soft pastels, soothing blues, or warm neutrals can create a tranquil backdrop, enhancing the sense of space and light. High-quality, moisture-resistant paint will ensure your bathroom's walls not only look beautiful but are also protected against humidity and wear.

No. 5

Incorporate Plants

Introducing greenery into your bathroom is a delightful way to welcome spring indoors. Plants not only add a pop of color and texture but also purify the air, creating a healthier environment. Choose varieties that thrive in humid conditions, such as ferns, peace lilies, or aloe vera. Placing a few well-chosen plants around your bathroom can transform it into a serene, natural oasis, enhancing your daily routines with a touch of greenery.

These initial steps towards getting your bathroom spring-ready in Jacksonville lay the groundwork for a space that’s not just refreshed in appearance but revitalized in spirit. The aim is to create a bathroom that feels both renewed and deeply personal, a perfect sanctuary to welcome the brighter days of spring.

No. 5

Optimize Lighting

Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and functionality of your bathroom. Spring calls for bright, invigorating light to mirror the vibrant outdoors. Consider upgrading to LED bulbs that offer a brighter, more energy-efficient illumination compared to traditional bulbs. If your budget allows, installing a dimmer switch can add versatility, allowing you to adjust the lighting based on the time of day or your mood.

For those with natural light sources, ensure your windows or skylights are clean and unobstructed to maximize the infusion of natural light, enhancing the freshness and openness of your bathroom.

No. 6

Refresh Towels and Bathmats

An instant and cost-effective way to inject color and texture into your bathroom is by updating towels and bathmats. Opt for soft, plush towels and mats in bright or pastel colors that complement the spring theme. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your bathroom but also increases its comfort level.

Consider eco-friendly materials like bamboo or organic cotton for an added touch of luxury and sustainability. Coordinated sets can unify the look, creating a polished and inviting atmosphere.

No. 7

Update the Shower Curtain

The shower curtain often serves as a focal point in the bathroom, offering a significant visual impact. Updating it can be a quick and affordable way to refresh the entire room. Choose a design that reflects the essence of spring—think light colors, floral patterns, or geometric designs that bring a modern edge.

This change alone can transform the ambiance of your bathroom, making it feel brand new. Look for water-resistant and easy-to-clean materials to ensure your shower curtain remains fresh and inviting all season long.

No. 8

Enhance Storage

Efficient storage solutions are key to maintaining the serenity and organization of your bathroom. Spring cleaning offers the perfect opportunity to reevaluate your storage needs.

Adding floating shelves provides space for decorative items or essential toiletries, keeping them within easy reach without cluttering the countertops. Over-the-toilet units or freestanding cabinets can offer additional storage without taking up much floor space. Additionally, consider using baskets or decorative boxes on open shelves for an aesthetically pleasing way to conceal items.

No. 9

Add Personal Touches

Personalizing your bathroom makes it more than just a functional space—it becomes a reflection of your style and a haven for relaxation. Incorporate elements that speak to you, whether it’s art prints, fragrant candles, or a vintage mirror.

These personal touches can transform your bathroom into a space that feels uniquely yours. Consider seasonal scents for your candles or diffusers to further enhance the spring ambiance. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where you feel at ease and rejuvenated.

Takeaways

Revitalizing your bathroom for spring doesn’t have to be an overwhelming project. By focusing on decluttering, refreshing key elements, and adding personal touches, you can transform your bathroom into a bright, welcoming space that reflects the renewal the season brings.

Remember, the essence of spring is all about new beginnings and fresh starts. Embracing this season by updating your bathroom can significantly enhance your home’s appeal and your overall well-being. So, take this opportunity to create a bathroom that not only looks great but also serves as a peaceful retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

As you implement these tips, you’ll find that even the smallest changes can make a big difference, bringing the essence of spring into your home.

Real estate investment in Las Vegas and other residential growth markets is on the rise, and seeking the right property to add to your portfolio is more lucrative than ever. If you are looking for new build homes Surrey is also an option to consider adding to your portfolio.

In this article, we provide the most sought-after options on the market. The real estate market of 2023 has an impressive array of residential properties that cater to different lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a savvy investor, or a renter seeking your dream space, understanding the most sought-after property types can be your ticket to making a wise decision. From sprawling single-family homes that are spacious to trendy studio apartments, let's dive into seven of the hottest residential property types that are desirable in 2023.

No. 1

Single-Family Homes

Amidst the ever-changing real estate landscape, single-family homes are timeless investments, captivating families and individuals alike with their allure of privacy, abundant space, and a sense of ownership. These cherished abodes beckon with the promise of a personal oasis, complete with a sprawling yard, a welcoming driveway, and endless opportunities for customization, allowing homeowners to weave their dreams into reality.

No. 2

Townhomes

Striking the perfect balance between apartment living and single-family homes, townhouses have gracefully won the hearts of first-time homebuyers and those seeking a warm sense of community. Nestled within shared walls, these cozy abodes foster a neighborly spirit, creating a tapestry of camaraderie. To add to the allure, some townhomes surprise with private yards, offering residents the ideal blend of personal retreat and shared serenity.

No. 3

Studio Apartments

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the popularity of studio apartments has soared, capturing the interest of young professionals and urbanites seeking a chic, yet affordable dwelling. These compact living spaces offer a world of possibilities, proving that less can indeed be more. If you are looking to find a studio for rent, it would be best to approach an agency that knows the location and market to show you the best properties. Innovative storage solutions, multifunctional furniture, and smart design choices hold the key to making the most of your studio apartment, transforming it into a harmonious haven that reflects your personal style and meets your everyday needs.

No. 4

Luxury Homes

In the realm of opulence and exclusivity, luxury homes reign supreme, enchanting affluent buyers with their grandeur and refinement. Every facet of these majestic residences is meticulously designed to embody sophistication and extravagance, from exclusive features to cutting-edge amenities. Nestled in prime locations that embrace nature's beauty or the city's glittering lights, luxury homes stand as paragons of modern living, where every nuance reflects a masterpiece of craftsmanship and taste.

No. 5

Condominiums

A vibrant trend in urban living, condominiums beckon urban dwellers with their chic appeal and contemporary charm. In these sleek havens, shared amenities reign supreme, offering residents an exclusive taste of luxury living, free from mundane maintenance worries. With the city's heartbeat just minutes away, condominiums grant convenient access to cultural hotspots and a plethora of entertainment options, making them a coveted choice for those craving a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

No. 6

Duplexes and Multiplexes

Duplexes and multiplexes have carved their niche in the real estate world, alluring both savvy investors and multigenerational families with their enticing benefits. For investors, these properties present an enticing opportunity for rental income, with multiple units under one roof yielding a diverse pool of tenants. On the other hand, multigenerational families revel in the convenience of living close yet independently, fostering a close-knit dynamic within the home. With the potential for rental income and the allure of affordable housing, these properties are a win-win for both investors and tenants seeking a comfortable place to call home. With the flexibility to adapt to various living arrangements, duplexes and multiplexes prove to be versatile gems in the real estate market.

No. 7

Co-Living Spaces

In the modern quest for connection and affordability, co-living spaces have emerged as a novel solution that resonates with young professionals and individuals in search of a vibrant community experience. These dynamic living spaces blur the lines between shared and private living, encouraging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of belonging. Enjoy the best of both worlds as you revel in private quarters while relishing communal spaces for collaboration and socializing. Embrace the spirit of co-living, where like-minded souls come together to weave unforgettable memories and make a home that truly feels like family.

Takeaways

In the exciting world of real estate in 2023, a wide range of residential properties awaits your exploration. From the spacious havens of single-family homes to the chic allure of studio apartments, you will find a property type that perfectly suits your desires and needs. By delving into the popular types of residential properties, you can confidently embark on the search for your dream investment property. Explore these enticing options, and discover the property type that will form the foundation of the next chapter of your real estate portfolio in 2023.

For a while now, I’ve been shopping for a minimal raw wood floating shelf, but to no success. Knowing that adding shelving to your walls will enhance your space, I always make it an effort to do so. I have always loved floating wood shelves in particular. So, I decided to take it into my own hands and design one that was not only pretty and the exact aesthetic I was going for, but inexpensive and easy to make.

This post is meant to provide the exact measurements and supplies that you will need. I also filmed a video of me making this exact shelf from start to finish so that you can easily visualize each step and refer back to it if you decide to make one for yourself.

All supplies besides the drill set (which was purchased at Ikea) where purchased at Home Depot, so this is an easy one-stop project. It is a very affordable project as well at under $15 for all supplies, and you could easily make multiple shelves for under $10 with leftover supplies.

Watch the video below for a quick tutorial on how to make this floating shelf!

SUPPLIES

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• 1 - 0.75” depth x 5.5” width x 24” length piece of maple wood board

• 60 sandpaper for wood (comes in pack of 5 sheets)

• 2 - #10x3” phillips wood screws (comes in pack of 2)

• 2 - EZ Ancor drywall anchor that hangs up to 75lbs (comes in pack of 4)

• #12-24 Everbilt machine screw nuts (comes in pack of 10)

• 3/4” diameter x 48” length wooden dowel (cut down to 2 - 7” pieces.

• Drill bit and phillips screwdriver

INSTRUCTIONS

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STEP 1

Cut dowels

Home Depot has a saw station that you can use to cut down your wooden dowels. Cut 2 - 7” pieces. With remaining wood, you could easily make 4 more pieces depending on if you are making multiple shelves. Of course, you’d need to adjust your amount of supplies if that is the case.

STEP 2

Sand dowels

Sand down the ends of the wooden dowels until smooth.

STEP 3

Drill dowels

Drill one side of each dowel 2” deep and at a circumference that allows for the head of the phillips screw to be completely inserted. I drilled my holes to a width of 1.25 cm since my screws had a lip that wide.

STEP 4

measure your wall

Measure the width of the wall you are planning to hang your shelf on. Since the piece of wood is 24” in length, you will need to leave an equal amount of space at each end in order to center it on the wall. This amount will depend on your individual space. Once you’ve identified how much space you need for each side, measure 3.25” from each edge of the piece of wood. This is where your wooden dowels will be placed and where you will place your holes in your wall. Use a leveler to make sure that everything is even before drilling your holes. I just downloaded a leveler in the app store and used my phone to do this.

STEP 5

Install drywall anchors and screws

With your drill bit, drill your holes into the wall and then screw the drywall anchors in place with a phillips screwdriver. Take your phillips screws and run a screw nut through each before you install them. Screw in until secured and tight (about 1”). Leave a 2” allowance to insert the wooden dowels into.

STEP 6

Insert wooden dowels and hang

Insert the wooden dowels into the screw and nut until secure. Hang shelf and then style with finishing touches. Make sure to keep shelf flush to wall so that all the weight is held up against the screws.

Wasn’t that an easy project! If you try this project, make sure to tag me @hellolovelyliving on Instagram so I can see!

I also have another hanging wood shelf project you may be interested in too. You can see that here!

What home decor projects have you been wanting to do lately?

I can't get enough of home inspo on Instagram. I know I talk about Instagram waaaay too much, but it really is the place to go if you want to see what's in and what's trending in interior design - and not just the stuff found in magazines and other published media - in real homes with real people who just love designing and styling. 

Instagram is like a black hole because I could literally get lost for days scrolling through people's feeds, so I usually have to control my urge. It just amazes me how many talented creatives there are on Instagram. That's why I'm so addicted - because it opens my eyes to so much diversity in ideas and creativity, which in turn, makes me a better creative and inspires me to try something different. I've discovered my love for so many interior design styles through it, which brings me to the point of this post.

I've always been into interior design, and looking back, I can see that from early-on, I've always gravitated toward it. One of the first careers that I wanted to pursue was in interior design, and growing up, I was always the one rearranging the house and trying to convince my mom to buy home decor or paint the walls. I'm the type of person that would rather spend money on a pretty piece of home decor first than anything else I love -  and I do love my fair share of girly things like clothes, makeup, bags, and shoes, so that says a lot!

Lately, I've been feeling pulled toward simplifying my home and wanting to start from scratch. Over the years, my design tastes have drastically changed as well as what I value most in life and in my home. My husband and I have really figured out what's really important and what we want out of life in the short and long term. Quality over quantity has always been my motto, so I really want to create a space that represents that. I also want to get rid of the excess and create a cohesive design and style that I feel speaks for me and allows me to really look at my home and say, yeah, this is so me! I remember reading something to that effect in Emily Henderson's book, "Styled". If someone were to walk into your home, would they be able to gather about what type of person you are or would there be a disconnect? With a budget close to zero, starting from zilch seems like shooting myself in the foot, so here comes the why and how.

So, for my why, I really want to start applying the motto "design the life you love" to every area of my life. I also believe in adopting a minimalist lifestyle, which I plan to get into more in another post.  I desire a home that matches my tastes and that I can be inspired by and inspire others with. For so many years I'd always say, maybe someday when I own my own home, I'll do this and that, but I've realized that someday rarely ever pulls through. The only time we have is now. I want my home to represent my family and me, so that is my goal. I want it to be an inspiring place that I can be proud of even if it is just a rental. Home is where the heart is, right!

As for my how, my plan is to sell the old stuff I do have (furniture, misc. items, AKA "junk", etc.) and liquidate it into cash. The money will be used toward projects around the house where I can create a space for less by doing DIY projects and purchasing staple pieces that will go a long way toward the function of my home. The remaining cash balance will go toward debt, which is one of the main reasons I came up with this idea. I mean, why not sell everything, get cash out of it, use it to create a brand new space I actually love - for less - and then have leftover cash to put toward bills? Sounds like a no-brainer to me!

Being that I'm going for a minimalist look, I think I can pull it off. It will be a fun challenge to take on, and I'm excited just talking about it. We will be downsizing greatly and deciding what's more important by restructuring our home, not only in a financial sense but a design sense. I still can't decide exactly what style I'm going for, but I do know that I've been loving modern Scandinavian/Nordic, mid-century modern, and bohemian design. Let's hope that I can make up my mind soon.

Here are some inspiring spaces I've been adoring lately!

via 100 Layer Cake

via The Glitter Guide

via Dust Jacket Attic

via Gimmii

via Binti Home Blog

via Fjeldborg

In summary, I feel that nothing in life should make you feel like you are stuck with it, so if there's anything you want to ever change, be it as small as the color of your nails or more drastic like revamping your home, always know that you can do it. Life is all about change, and change is necessary for growth. In my case, I feel like taking this step is one of those things. What you surround yourself with, there you are, so why not make it count! Create your best life and live it as authentically you as possible. This is the journey I'm on at this point, and I am excited to share the process with you so that you can gain inspiration from it. Stay tuned for more to come in this series: Project Prettify!

What do you think? Would you be up for selling all of your furniture to create an entirely new space? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!