Blog - Page 11

Mixing New and Old Furniture Pieces for a Look that’s All YOU! Tuesday, January 15, 2019

If you are lucky this season, you may get a few new furniture pieces to add to your home. But how will your new end tables pair with your grandmother’s sofa? Or maybe you’re buying yourself a new bedroom set and just aren’t ready to get rid of your old set just yet. Don’t worry, you can do something to help them find new life. You can repurpose your old pieces and make them feel new again.

Credenza Bar

Adding a bar or wine fridge to the kitchen is all the rage right now, but back in the 50s and 60s you were likely to find a small, mobile bar in the corner or a long Credenza bar up against a wall. Even if you have a new modern bar in your kitchen, don’t put your vintage bar by the curb! Sometimes all you need with American-made furniture is cleaner: brass polish along with furniture polish will spiff it up.  If you love entertaining and celebrating with cocktails, then the credenza is for you. Make it the highlight of your living or dining room.

Coffee Table

Even if your new furniture is traditional or farmhouse style, you can always do a mid-century coffee table. So don’t put your great-uncle’s retro table to the roadside just yet. Contemporary tables are typically low-profile and relatively simple, and they complement almost any design scheme.

Chaise Lounger

Whether it’s a stand-alone chaise lounge or one that’s part of a sectional sofa, these beauties pair together function and fashion. They are also timeless, versatile, and can easily go into a living room, office, or bedroom. Sometimes the fabric may need to be updated, but the style of the Chaise lasts forever.

Consider moving your chaise from the living room to the bed room. Placing it in a corner and adding a floor lamp and side table will make a perfect reading nook.

Low-Profile Accent Chairs

Accent chairs are an American staple. Often patterned and sleek, an accent chair can add a pop of color to any room. If you have a pair of low-profile chairs, relocate them to the foot of your bed in the master bedroom. Add a small, narrow table between them and you’ve created a seating area with the unobtrusive feel of a bench.

Dining Room Chairs

Once you’ve updated your dining room, you may be at a loss for what to do with your old chairs. Place one or two in the corners of a large room as accent chairs. This is especially popular with bentwood chairs. Bentwood chairs are strong, lightweight, and have been used in homes since the 1850s. They complement any decor from classic to contemporary.

Small Dining Room Table

If you are upgrading from a smaller dining room table to a larger one, don’t give your old table away just yet. Some rectangular shaped tables could make a nice buffet if you have the space. Others can find a new home in your home office as a work space. If you do crafts, consider using the old table as a craft area.

Focus on how the new and old pieces feel together. Don’t worry so much about design rules as how you want your space to look and feel.

Home Furniture Supports March of Dimes and Donates Thousands to Help Premature Babies Sunday, January 13, 2019

“It was five weeks before delivery, and they were like, ‘We have to deliver now.’ When she came out, of course she was little, she was 4lb, 6oz.”

 

Tammy Louis, a cashier at the Baton Rouge Home Furniture Plus Bedding location, has firsthand experience with March of Dimes. When her daughter was born prematurely, she wanted to give back to the organization that supported her during those first scary moments.

 

“As they started to assess her and tried to feed her, she wouldn’t take the bottle. They had to rush her to the NICU.”

 

Louis says March of Dimes was there for her family. The organization advocates for policies to protect mothers and premature babies. They have pioneered research to find solutions and empower families with the knowledge and tools to have healthier pregnancies.

 

“March of Dimes is willing to help and donate to the NICU,” explains Louis. “Being a part of Home Furniture, I think it is very important that we donate to March of Dimes.”

 

In March of 2016, employees, customers and the company itself donated over $5,000 to support premature babies and their families. For 80 years, March of Dimes has helped millions of babies survive and thrive. The organization works to level the playing field for all moms and babies, no matter their age, socio-economic background or demographics.

 

“It helps out parents such as myself who have gone through a lot more than I have. It helps them with the process of their babies being in the NICU,” says Louis.

How to Choose An Accent Chair That Will Elevate Your Living Room Thursday, January 10, 2019

Nothing brings function, color, and style to a space better than an accent chair. Whether you choose a transitional, modern, or traditional piece, your family and guests will benefit from the comfort and coziness it brings. Accent chairs offer extra seating, a pop of color, added texture, and dimension to a space.

 

Before making your accent chair purchase, you’ll need to determine the style of your living room. The answer may not seem clear cut, but typically people will gravitate to a particular look. Also consider how you will use your accent chair. Think about the area you want to place the chair. If you want to snuggle up by a fire to drink your morning coffee, you may want a more durable accent chair. Leather chairs are always a great choice. If you decide to get a chair that will rock, swivel or recline, you will need more room and space than a standard chair.

 

Here are a few more tips to consider before choosing your accent chair.

 

Add Texture

An easy way to add interest to a room with a neutral palette is with a chic, standout armchair. Feel free to stick to the same color of your other furniture, but use the chair to add an interesting texture. If the rest of your room is leather, use cloth on the chair. Or if your living room furniture is microfiber, choose a linen chair.

 

Play with Patterns

The best thing about accent chairs is that they are there to stand out, so you can have fun with stripes or patterns. Don't worry about mismatching. Just place it in the spotlight as the signature piece.

 

Mix and Match

Create stylish, yet comfortable living room décor by placing a few accent chairs in the mix. Sure, you can match the chairs, or you can choose separate chairs that complement each other: select a high back chair and a swivel chair in the same color family.

 

Go Elegant

The wingback chair is an elegant choice for any living room. It’s a dapper piece of furniture with its signature high back and contoured wings. It can go from sleek and modern to traditional and utilitarian in an instant.

 

Swivel into Style

Swivel chairs can be used in more ways than just a workspace. Choose a chair that swivels or a useful chair that pulls double duty as an accent piece. It can even be pulled into the dining room for an extra seat!

Selecting an accent chair can really change up a living space. Look through magazines and Pinterest so you can have an idea of what you may like. Remember, constructing the exact look isn’t nearly as important as capturing the style.

Home Furniture Distribution Center Employee Finds a New Hobby Running Marathons Tuesday, January 8, 2019

“My son is a runner, and he said ‘Dad you should do this too’ and I did. I’ve run two so far. It’s a lot of training, but I enjoy it.”

 

Al Ryder’s most recent marathon was in Mount Airy, North Carolina in the Mayberry Half-Marathon. Running is a hobby the distribution center employee recently picked up. It’s allowed him to travel to North Carolina, but the former Marine has worked his way around the world.

 

“I joined the Marines Corp in 1969,” says Al, “I guess I was stationed in about 10 places.”

 

He added that Japan and Norway were two of his favorite stops, “The Northern lights are real pretty, but it’s a lot of snow.”

 

He was eventually sent to New Orleans, as a helicopter crew chief, and from there he moved to Lafayette. The Monroe native, who achieved a Sergeant Major rank, was happy to be back in his home state.

 

“I lived all over the world, did all kinds of neat stuff, and I retired in1994,” says Al.

 

Al has been with Home Furniture for 12 years and jokes he actually came with the warehouse that is now the Distribution Center.

 

“Well I was working at the Auto Zone Distribution Center when it was sold to Home Furniture. I was helping close things up and they asked if I wanted to stay on. They joke a lot of times that I came with the building. I mean that was the greatest thing that could have happened to me.”

 

He says working for the company is wonderful. He likes how involved they are in the community, and loves what he gets to tackle day to day.

 

“Every day is something different. It’s really busy, and I do a variety of things. I take care of all the power industrial equipment, whatever it takes to keep us going,” explains Al.

 

Together he and his wife of 49 years, Phyllis, have 3 children, 2 sons and a daughter that is now deceased and 6 grandchildren. 

Warmer Colors Will Make You Feel at Home Sunday, January 6, 2019

If you are drawn to reds, yellows, oranges and various other combinations of these colors, you are drawn to warm colors. These colors have been known to increase adrenaline, breathing rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. The impact these colors have on your body actually make you feel warmer.

They are a great choice for rooms that need to inspire work, like a kitchen or office, or inspire conversation, like a living room. Since warm colors tend to be energizing, you may not want to use a bold warm color as your dominant color in a bedroom.

Warm colors often work well with a more traditional decorating style. If this is your style, try using muted, warm tones as your dominant colors. Contemporary and farmhouse styles usually lend themselves to a cooler palette, but you can use a pop of warm color to add flair.

Living Room

Red raises a room’s energy level, so it is a good choice when you want to stir up excitement. In the living room, red draws people together and stimulates conversation. A red recliner would be a great starter piece to help play to the reds in your living room. Bring in red throws and maybe pops of red in your area rug.

Yellow brings joy and happiness making it an excellent choice for living rooms. It’s energizing and uplifting. The shade of yellow does not have to be intense; it just needs to pick up the hue. An accent chair demonstrates a great way to introduce yellow into your space. The yellow in the pattern is clearly noticeable but not overwhelming.

Play with the browns and beige in your furniture and draw the warm colors out of them with accent pieces and curtains. Neutral colors will look warm and cozy when surrounded by warm colors.

Home Office

You can play up red in your home office by choosing red-stained wood grains or a red accent chair.  A glider rocker is great for the moments when you need to brainstorm away from the office chair. There are many options perfect for warming up an office space. A two-tone brown color will let you add warmer colored pillows that will naturally blend with the chair. You can also use red throw pillows and curtains to warm up your space.

Kitchen

Yellow is a wonderful color to add to any kitchen. Available accent cabinets would help bring out the yellow tones while adding storage along a kitchen wall. Dark brown curios or china cabinets can also pick up the warm colors of a kitchen and reflect them back. Playing to the reds and cherries of a wooden piece is an excellent way to add warmth to an open space.

Don’t be afraid of browns, beiges, and other neutral colors. Many of these colors have warm undertones that will add coziness to your space. Just remember that too many warm colors can make a room feel small and too much of any one color can be overwhelming. Find the right balance for your space.

Starting from Scratch: How to Decorate Every Room of a New Home Thursday, January 3, 2019

Decorating a home can seem like an overwhelming task. Your new place is a blank canvas just waiting for inspiration. It’s hard to envision the final picture, but the journey and creativity are part of the fun. Here are a few tips for getting started on every room of your new house.

Kitchen

This room is arguably the most central space of your home providing a place for everyone to gather together. Your kitchen should be accessible, have room to move about, and be a perfect space for making wonderful meals. Whatever theme you choose for your kitchen, be sure to stick with it. If you go for farmhouse style, make sure the appliances work with that theme. Do the same with traditional or contemporary styles.

If your new kitchen does not have all of the features you wanted, it’s OK. An island can be fashioned out of a pub table or a breakfast nook out of a small dining set. Some sets are small, fold open or closed for more or less space, and are easy to maintain.

Dining Room

Dining rooms are meant to be a separate place from your kitchen, and therefore can have a different scheme or theme for your decor without it being too jarring of a change. You can go casual or formal or somewhere in between! 

Your dining space shouldn’t be too cluttered, but accent pieces are usually necessary to complete the look. This some cabinets make a beautiful buffet and are perfect for showing off special pieces. Be careful not to overwhelm the space, and remember you’ll be carrying dishes in and out from the kitchen, so make sure you have lots of room to maneuver.

Master Bedroom

Choose a style for your master bedroom that lives in harmony with the rest of your home. A quick word on colors: choose a cooler color palette for the bedroom. For example, if you are playing to the warmer red tones in your living room, go for blues or grays in your bedroom. The cooler colors will let your body know it’s time to calm down once you enter the space of your bedroom.

For a minimal design scheme, go with a bed that makes a statement all on its own.  However, for a master bedroom with a more personal flair consider a bedroom set. Coordinating furniture can really complete a room.

The Kids’ Room

The kids’ rooms need to be their own oasis, so make sure you involve them with planning their space. A full bed is great for a tween or teen and some have added drawers help fight clutter. Also consider bunkbeds for a shared space. Don’t forget to set aside room for hitting the books! A desk with a large surface area to accommodate projects and homework is always a good bet.

Bonus Room

If you are lucky enough to have a bonus room, congrats! You can turn it into a game room for the kids or maybe a home theater for the entire family. Either way, consider a sectional sofa for comfy seating. The arrangement naturally sparks conversation and is perfect for games or movies!

Hopefully these tips will get you started. Don’t get overwhelmed and enjoy the process of making your new house a home!

Home Furniture Hosts Hydration Campaign to Help Sickle Cell Anemia Patients Tuesday, January 1, 2019

“Growing up I couldn’t do a lot of what other kids could, like play sports. I wanted to play basketball, but I couldn’t because my mom was afraid of what would happen in the process.”

Jacorion Anderson is the son of Tessa Anderson, who works in the accounting office for Home Furniture. He is also a Sickle Cell Anemia patient. Sickle Cell Anemia is a blood cell disorder and is incurable. His brother, Zhaire, also suffers from Sickle Cell Anemia - two teenagers in one family fighting every day to stay healthy.

“Every now and then I get a little weak,and I get upset because I feel like we are battling it by ourselves,” says Tessa. “It’s exciting to work for a company that does a lot for so many different causes, but to be a part of and be experiencing this particular cause and to have my Home Furniture family support me in that feels really good. It makes the battle a little bit easier.”

Tessa reached out to her Home Furniture family about the struggles all Sickle Cell patients face, especially with hydration. She mentioned her support group hosts water and Powerade drives because “it is imperative that those with the disease stay hydrated and their electrolytes be replenished.”

“If you’re outside and can’t get to water, you could pass out and probably not wake up,” says Jacorion.

After receiving the letter from Tessa, Home Furniture sprang into action. The company decided to do a hydration campaign to offer support.

“We try to do campaigns that have a personal connection to our employees.  We want them to know that HFC cares about them personally and professionally,” says Jill Mills, Home Furniture’s Community Project Organizer.

The Anderson family certainly felt the support. They had already been through so much including a stroke, surgery, and multiple blood transfusions, all in order to stay ahead of the disease.

“I would like to say thank you for all of your support in helping us fight this battle,” said Jacorion.

Too Much Beige Furniture? How to Add Color to Your Life Sunday, December 30, 2018

If you just bought a new home or are moving into a space that doesn’t have many personal touches yet, chances are its color scheme is neutral. After all, neutrals (black, gray, white and brown) are basic to the decorator’s tool kit. All-neutral schemes fall in and out of fashion, but are timelessly flexible. You need to add color to liven things up or calm things down, depending on the room.

When people think of adding color, they may think about repainting an entire room! But your furniture choices can help to add color throughout your home. Let’s look at colors that enhance mood and add atmosphere.

Red

Red increases a room’s energy level making it a good choice when you want to stir up excitement. In the living room or dining room, red draws people together and stimulates conversation. A red recliner would be a great starter piece to help play to the reds in your living room. Bring in red with accents such as throws and area rugs.

Yellow

Yellow brings joy and happiness. It is an excellent choice for kitchens, dining rooms and bathrooms. It’s energizing and uplifting. An accent cabinet would help bring out the yellow tones in any dining room and a smaller counterpart could add a bit of sunshine to a bathroom while adding storage. Note that the shade of yellow does not have to be intense. It just needs to pick up the hue.

Blue

Blue is said to lower blood pressure and slow respiration and heart rate and is considered calming, relaxing, and serene. It is often recommended for bedrooms and living rooms. You can easily play to navy blue without overwhelming your room by accenting with whites, greys or even yellows.

Green

Green is considered a restful color and is suited for almost any room in the house. In the kitchen, green cools things down, and in a living room it feels cozy! You could use accent pieces like a bookcase and TV stand to add a feeling of comfort to your family room.

It’s important to realize that even adding a pop of these colors will change the mood and feel of your room. People living in rentals may not have the option to repaint a beige scheme, and that’s OK! Using your furniture to highlight your chosen color palate is just as effective. For homeowners looking to repaint, be sure to choose a shade or two lighter on the wall than what you may initially think. Any one of these colors could be overwhelming to the senses. Instead, use your accent pieces and furniture to draw out the richness of each hue.

The Right Furniture Pieces Will Create the Perfect Reading Nook Thursday, December 27, 2018

It’s nice to slow down once in a while and curl up with a good book. With cold weather (hopefully) around the corner, fall is the perfect time to cozy up with an engaging story. A reading nook is a great way to inspire reading time. Although a soft chair, plush throw pillow and ottoman can be an invitation to crack open a favorite read, creating an entire reading nook will let you take a breath and relax.

The perfect reading nook should be a corner dedicated to quiet and calm. The right furniture pieces will help make this nook possible.

The Location

Start by scouting for the perfect location. Maybe use an unused portion of your bedroom? The quiet of an empty guest bedroom also makes a great location. Do you have a picture window in your living room? Or maybe a landing on your stairs? Pick a spot that’s out of the way of the hustle and bustle of your home: an empty spot away from the TV and the sounds of chaos are ideal.

The Chair

Once you’ve chosen your oasis, it’s time to find the perfect place to rest your bones while you read. A big comfy chair is the natural choice. If you have room for a recliner, some have deep-set sitting room and a plush, supportive back pillow. It’s great for sitting and stretching out. If you prefer to rock while you read, a glider will lull you into relaxation and offers a place to put your feet up.

Your chosen reading nook may not have room for a recliner, and that’s OK. There are lots of comfortable options that take up little space. Some options have a more contemporary flair and a deep-set sitting area that will make you want to sit with a good book for hours.

Put Your Feet Up

Another must-have for the perfect reading nook is a place to relax your feet. An ottoman that compliments your chair is a great addition. Make sure you take the chair height into consideration. Some are perfect for a low-profile chair, while others would go great with a taller chair. Test the ottoman with the chair before deciding.

Side Table

You’ll need a place to hold your book when you’re not reading and a nice surface to place your cup of tea. A side table will help complete the look of your reading nook. Hopefully your reading nook will be set aside just for reading and relaxation, and if that’s the case, you may not need much storage.  

You can finish off your reading nook with a throw blanket and reading lamp. Make sure the space feels warm and inviting. Hopefully it can serve as an oasis in your busy home life.

Home Furniture Supports Flood and Hurricane Victims Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on the Texas Coast, dumping more than 50 inches of rain in parts of the Houston area. Thousands were flooded out of their homes and more than 80 people were killed.  The devastation in August of 2017 was swift, and the recovery is still ongoing a year later.

As of last month, 15 percent of homes damaged or destroyed by the storm are still unlivable. People lost everything, including beds and furniture. That’s where Home Furniture stepped in. The company and its Texas-based employees managed to donate $100,000 in mattresses so the victims could start rebuilding their lives.

They also provided cleaning supplies and other essentials to fellow employees who had flood damage.

Home Furniture joined companies around the country in offering funds, goods, and their own employees and offices to help with disaster relief. Corporate donations surpassed $200 million as the business community came together in support.

Home Furniture is no stranger to helping flood victims. Just the year before in August of 2016, much of Louisiana was under water.  Historic floods devastated parts of south Louisiana after a slow-moving system dumped more than 20 inches of rain from Baton Rouge to Acadiana.

East Baton Rouge, Ascension, Livingston and Tangipahoa parishes saw the most widespread flooding. In all, it's estimated that 50,000 to 75,000 structures flooded, according to the National Weather Service, and 13 people died in the flood.

During that disaster, Home Furniture donated supplies and essentials to employees facing the brunt of the storm. They then donated $100,000 worth of mattresses to those in need.

The company chooses projects that impact the entire community they serve. With the support of their employees, they are truly making a difference.

How to Design a Glamorous Master Bedroom Thursday, December 20, 2018

Your master bedroom needs to be a reflection of who you are: a place where you can truly relax and be yourself. Some people prefer to play it safe and opt for more traditional themes, but others like a bit of glitz and glam. Your master bedroom can play to your more glamorous side. It can be more “you” than any other room in your home!

Style

The great thing about a master bedroom is that it doesn’t have to be in step with the rest of your design scheme. You can outfit this room just for you. However, even with a ritzier bedroom, choose a cooler color palette than the rest of your home. For example, if you are playing to the warmer red tones in your living room, go for blues or grays in your bedroom. The cooler colors will let your body know it’s time to calm down once you enter the space of your bedroom.

The Bed

The size of your bed very much depends on your needs. A king or queen size bed is typically the norm. For a luxury look, choose bedding that is high quality and has lots of flair. Ornate patterns, interesting textures, and lots of throw pillows will add style to any bed.

For a master bedroom seeking to attract some attention, consider a bedroom set. Look for something with a tall headboard that makes a statement. Fabric options are always eye-catching. Plus, a bedroom set will effortlessly coordinate your look for an impressive presentation. Your glamourous bedroom must look “pulled together.” It shouldn’t be a hodge-podge of family heirlooms or repurposed pieces.

Look for pieces with a bit more ornamentation for your glamorous bedroom. Carvings, intricate hardware, and interesting patterns will finalize your look. 

Storage

Depending on your needs, you may want to invest in quite a bit of storage for your master bedroom. Older homes typically have small closets, while newer homes offer walk-in closets in the master bedroom. If storage is a priority, there are beautiful options to consider.  The Emily Bedroom specializes in storage with drawers all around the bed frame and ample storage in the dresser and chest. The Abbey Bedroom set is more suited for a master bedroom with a walk-in closet. Its dresser and chest offer great storage options, but the bed is made to be eye catching and luxurious.

Sitting Area

Master bedrooms should feature an area to relax that is separate from the bed. Create a small seating area using plush and noticeable pieces of furniture. Two accent chairs, a small table, and a rug are perfect for limited space. For a more glamourous look, choose high back or wing back chairs. Accent the furniture with plush or furry pillows. Also, adding an area rug will help separate the space. The rug should be plush and oversized to add a more luxurious feel.

Create a space that fits your needs and reflects your style. A glamourous bedroom is all about the extra touches. Go bold!

Home Furniture: The Story of Our Culture Sunday, December 16, 2018

“We put the customer and our employees first, that’s how it’s always been.” – Larry Dominque, Beaumont Home Furniture location.

 

Larry Domingue has been with Home Furniture for 23 years, so he knows what he’s talking about. He describes a culture that centers around service, and family, and a true commitment to each other and to the customer. Everything thing else springs from there.

 

“I did an employee walk-through not that long ago, and one of the people couldn’t believe our CEO was down here in the warehouse just talking and checking things out. They were blown away,” says Larry.

 

Most people are blown away when they see for themselves the company culture at Home Furniture. People describe it as “the greatest company to work for” and that there really is “an open-door policy,” from the people at the top on down.

 

One sales associate in the New Iberia location says he is constantly impressed with how the mangers back up promises made to the customers. The emphasis is always on how they can improve the furniture buying and owning experience for the people spending their hard-earned cash in one of their stores.

 

“We really want to build our employees so they can take care of the customer,” explains Larry.

 

He went on to say they focus on their people, even if it means they may spread their wings one day and fly off to another job at another company. While they’re here they’re number one.

 

“We have people that come back and thank us for the atmosphere and how we gave them a start. College kids that started in the warehouse want to come back after a few years and shake your hand.”

 

That type of attitude is unique to find in a company as large as Home Furniture. Home Furniture has six stores throughout South Louisiana and two in Texas. What could become cumbersome for a company their size is second nature to Home Furniture.

 

They Treat everyone well from the warehouse worker to the sales associate to the customer emulating a true sense of duty to each other and everyone who walks through the door. The rewards run deep when everyone is family.

The Right Furniture for Homework Spaces Will Put School Front and Center Thursday, December 13, 2018

Every home is different. Some have lots of quiet space for thinking and working, while others have to make use of multi-purpose areas. Whatever your situation, you need to create a homework space for your students. Show them that academics are a priority by creating a study space dedicated to homework and school projects. The right furniture for the homework space will help your kids stay organized and be creative.

The space can be in the bedroom, dining room, office, or kitchen. You can create a quiet area anywhere! The key is a comfortable setting that is free from distractions. As you are evaluating each spot, consider the following:

Here are a few ideas.

In the Dining Room:

As one of the few large working surfaces in the house, a dining room is a natural homework area. You can make the space more dedicated to homework by adding pieces that provide storage. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice the look of your formal dining room. A hall tree has hooks for each backpack and drawers for keeping homework supplies out of sight. Its gorgeous barn wood exterior will not clash with the formal setting of a separate dining room.

In the Kitchen:

If you have an eat-in kitchen, breakfast nook, or large island, the kitchen can be a great place for homework. The drawers and cabinets provide lots of storage. Try dedicating a cabinet and drawer to homework supplies. If your kids will be working at the island, make sure they have supportive barstools. Stools without a back will be hard on little bodies after a while.

In a Shared Bedroom:

If you have more than one child in a room, creating separate study areas for each of them can be tricky. If you have the space, line up separate desks along one wall and place a dresser or a set of shelves in between them to make clear zones.  The homework area will remain sleek and unimposing while being separate and functional.

In a Home Office:

You can share your work space with your child after school. Maybe invest in a desk of their own for the space. Something that will not ruin the grown-up look and feel of your office space, but has room for a laptop and notebooks. Look for a desk that could be perfect for handwriting assignments for younger students and computer work for older students. Make sure you also spare some room for storage of homework supplies.

If you do decide to dedicate some of your office working space to homework, let your kids create and hang some art or frame a photo of the family and keep it on their desk. Make sure they realize the space is truly “just for them.” A dedicated homework space will get your child in the mood to work. Stick to a consistent schedule in a consistent space, and homework time will become less of a hassle.

Creative Bedroom Storage Ideas Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Somehow bedrooms become a catch-all for many of our odds and ends. Your children’s bedroom is probably home to books, clothes, sports equipment, and more. Your master bedroom may have a collection of discarded shoes on the floor, bags of clothes for donations, and yoga supplies. Your spare bedroom could also be home to your craft space and office space. Clearly, storage in the bedroom needs to be a priority. Let’s look at a few creative bedroom storage ideas.

1 - Choose Spacious Dressers and Chests
Not every bedroom is blessed with a walk-in closet. For the bedrooms in your house without a walk-in, choose dressers with lots of room and storage options. This Lakeleigh Chest of Drawers has two large drawers on the bottom for bulky sweaters or yoga blocks. The smaller drawers on top can house jewelry or neck ties. There is also a shelf behind the sliding door, and the top can be home to a TV. This piece gives more options than a standard 4 drawer chest. This Titan Dresser also offers more options than a standard dresser with a cabinet front and center.

If you do have a walk-in closet, consider putting an older dresser inside for even more storage, making your closet easy to use and decluttered.

2 - Add Shelves and Accent Drawers
Choosing pieces that are not standard fare opens up even more possibilities. For example, this Bolanburg Bookcase would look stunning in any bedroom and add storage for books, toys, fans, and more. It also offers another surface area in the bedroom for clocks or pictures. A lingerie chest can house way more than actual lingerie. These small chests don’t take up a lot of space and can hold socks, swim suits, jewelry, under garments and much more!

3 - Under the Bed
There is always wasted space under the bed. Some beds like this Duncan Full Bed, for the kid’s or guest room, and this Emily King Bed for the master bedroom come with storage options underneath. Others may just offer the space but no drawers. You can always use plastic bins and hide them underneath a bed skirt. Under-the-bed storage is great for seasonal clothes items that don’t need to be accessed every day.

4 - TV Stand
If you have a TV in your bedroom, make sure the furniture holding it pulls double duty. This Maverick TV stand could easily hold shoes or exercise equipment. Choose a stand with drawers or shelves for holding all sorts of items. Chances are the TV in your bedroom won’t be used for gaming and movie night, so the shelves are free to hold other things

5 - Storage Nightstands
Opt for a nightstand that can pull its weight. Yes, a large surface area is important, but don’t neglect the space underneath. For example, this Chateau Nightstand has a drawer for your glasses and toiletries plus a cabinet for books or slippers.

Go beyond what you typically think of as “bedroom” furniture. Be creative with your space and your bedrooms will look decluttered in no time!

 

A Beginner’s Guide to Curio Cabinets Sunday, December 9, 2018 If you are new to the world of Curio Cabinets, you probably have a few questions before making an investment. Let’s start with the most basic: why would you want a curio over a china cabinet? Since a china cabinet is designed to display Chinaware, the sides are typically enclosed. Curio cabinets have glass sides and a mirrored back so that the decorative detail of each item in the cabinet can be seen from all sides.

A curio cabinet can be used to showcase pretty much anything from vintage tea sets to collectable figurines. They also come in a variety of styles, sizes, and types.

Before You Shop

Before heading to the furniture store, decide how you will be using the Curio. Will you be displaying your trophies, souvenir dolls, or figurines? Give some thought to how large your collection is, and if you would want a curio cabinet that is larger to allow for future additions.

Take measurements. Make sure that it will fit, both vertically and horizontally, into your space. Keep in mind that not all curios are the same shape. You may want to look for own with curves which will make it stand apart from the typical rectangle shape.

Decide what features you would like your Curio cabinet to have. Will you be displaying a mix of tall and short items? If so, then choose a curio with adjustable shelves. If you want light to shine on your collection, select a cabinet with interior lighting.

Types of Curio Cabinets

Curio cabinets come in all shapes and sizes. The size of the cabinet will largely depend on the size of what you are hoping to display. For example, a wall curio cabinet may be the perfect accent piece in a dining room to display a collection of commemorative plates. If you have less space, a corner curio may be the ideal solution.

Standard Curios

A standard Curio cabinet is typically freestanding, available in a range of sizes and constructed to hold heavy objects like large China pieces or metal trophies. Standard Curios generally have mirrored backs and glass sides. They can include features such as interior lighting, lockable doors, adjustable shelves, and plate grooves. This Sabrina Curio is a great example of a cabinet with a smaller footprint and endless features.

Wall-Mounted Curios

A wall mounted Curio cabinet uses wall rather than floor space. Designed to hold a small selection of collectibles, a wall-mounted curio is a self-contained unit that can be mounted on the wall of virtually any room in your home.

Corner Curios

Corner Curio cabinets have many of the same features a standard Curio does, but it is designed to fit in the corner of a room. This is also a great space saver!

It’s also important to keep in mind that a Curio cabinet might appear spacious on the outside but not have as much usable space on the inside, so check the interior dimensions of the cabinet before making a final decision. Also, try not to cram every valuable item you own into the Curio. Give your collectibles room to be seen as individual pieces.

Cool New Ideas to Update Your Dining Room Thursday, December 6, 2018

It’s time to celebrate the heart of your home, the dining room. It’s easy to think the heart of the home is the living room or kitchen, but the dining room is where mealtime actually happens. It’s where you gather to talk about school, work, and enjoy delicious food with friends. Many times this space is overlooked and is outfitted with a simple table and one or two accent pieces. But a dining room can be so much more if you embrace the special time you spend around the table.

Update Your Table

The table is clearly the most important feature of any dining room. Make sure you choose a table that suits both your space and your needs. Choose a table that fits easily within the room, meaning you’ll still have enough space to move chairs and walk around the table comfortably.

To update your current look, go for a completely different style of table. If space is limited, a smaller, round table lets you fit the largest number of diners in the smallest amount of space. Small tables are usually best for breakfast nooks and eat-in kitchens but do work well in a smaller dining room. For larger spaces, a long, rectangular table with extending leaves works for both every day and the holidays.

Consider a dining room set with a bench if you’ve always had one with chairs. Or add a pub table for extra height, especially if your dining room is a multiuse room. A pub table can serve as the perfect homework spot or center for game night.

Update Your Seating

There are so many seating options for the dining room such as Bentwood chairs, cushioned seats, barstools, benches, and more. Don’t limit yourself to just one style. Eclectic seating can give your dining room extra flair. As long as the look flows well with the rest of your home, consider multiple seating options at one table. A great example is a bench with chairs or bentwood chairs mixed in with cushioned seats. Just take the height and multiple uses of your dining room table into consideration.

Update Your Lighting

A multi-use room needs multi-use lighting. Think of all the ways you use your dining room. Ample brightness is perfect for helping out with homework, while soft lighting is much better at creating an intimate dining atmosphere. The real key is layering. Make sure to use a mix of lighting sources including floor lamps, wall fixtures, and windows.

The shape of your light fixture is also important, s choose a shape that complements your dining table.  For example, hang a rounded fixture above a round table and choose a linear fixture to hang above longer and rectangular tables.

Show Off Your Style

Make a style statement by displaying a favorite collection of dishes such as your wedding china or your grandmother’s tea set. Update your dining room by showing your guests your best collections. Choose a Curio or two that help your displays make a statement.

Don’t ignore your dining room. It can serve multiple functions within your home. Treat it as an important center. Play with styles until you find the one that is perfectly you!

Designing a Contemporary Master Bedroom Sunday, December 2, 2018

Your style is a little more modern than most. You like straight lines and sleek pieces that look clean and concise. You are drawn to contemporary furniture and are hoping to bring the look to your master bedroom. We have some tips to keep your style on point!

Contemporary furniture refers to furniture styles that came about after the 19th century. These pieces tend to utilize lighter wood tones, brighter fabrics, and newer materials. A contemporary-styled master bedroom features a focus on clean, light, and functional furniture. Steer clear of anything bulky and look for eye-catching simplicity.

 

Bedroom Sets

A wonderful example of a contemporary style is the Harlington Bedroom Set. The lines are straight, the furniture is light, and the wood is the star. The two-tone feature of the wood is an art piece all its own. It does not need frills to be noticed because the furniture is minimal yet eye-catching. It’s the perfect statement for a contemporary master bedroom. The Ashville Bedroom Set is another great example with a slightly different feel. The gray wood is muted, and the lines are crisp. The low profile of the bed really lets the headboard stand out.

 

Accent Furniture

If you already have the perfect bed in mind, you may want to focus on your accent pieces. The perfect contemporary accent piece is low profile, understated, and functional. Focus on pieces that fit effortlessly into the room without overwhelming the space. The Emily Chest uses the curve of the wood as a focal point. Notice how the drawer knobs are plain, yet still stand out against the dark wood. The piece makes a statement without being garish.

For your dresser, avoid anything with embellished curves. The Warner Dresser makes great use of a square mirror and understated drawers. It has lots of functional space without the excess of extra doors and panels. Here’s another option: a Russell Dresser with beautiful light wood. Lighter wood works beautifully with contemporary design.

Nightstands should be sturdy but not appear bulky. Look for pieces with a larger surface area that still appear to be minimal in design. The Marshall Nightstand offers drawers and a great surface area but still remains sleek and minimal.

 

Sitting Area

If your master bedroom has the space, a sitting area is a wonderful addition. Look for low-profile pieces that match the contemporary lines of your bedroom set. Solid colors and few embellishments will always flow best. The Augusta Accent chair would complement any contemporary bedroom. Pair it with a low-profile loveseat and area rug for a pulled-together look.

Choose artwork that mirrors your furniture, but go bold with the colors. Look for clean lines, solid colors, and unique nature settings.

 Just remember, contemporary style favors light over dark, solid over busy, and function over frills. 

Downsizing: Choosing the Right Furniture for Small Spaces Thursday, November 29, 2018

Whether it’s a tiny dining room, small living room, or limited space in the bedroom, space is an important factor in design. Limited space can present unique challenges for furniture and storage. But there are a few tried and true methods to maximize your space. Here are a few tips on designing for small spaces. 

Downsize Dining Room Table

Small, round tables aren't just for breakfast nooks or eat-in kitchens. Look past the giant dining table and give yourself some extra space by opting for a small, round dining table instead. Something like the Tuscan Dining Set is perfect for limited space. A table with folding leaves is also a great option.

        
Daybeds

Daybeds can also be a major space saver in the bedroom. It’s great for a young adult just striking out on her own. A daybed in a studio apartment serves as sofa and bed, saving money and space. Also, it works well in a bedroom with limited space. Adding a daybed can double floor space in an instant!

        
Zone Living

If you have a small living space that serves as your kitchen, dining room, and living room all in one, create zones for each use. Use rugs of different textures and shapes to define your living area and dining areas. Make sure your kitchen storage stays in the kitchen area. There is no need to have the zones bleed over into one another. 

        
Embrace Ottomans

Not only do ottomans serve as a place to put your feet up and add extra seating, but some also act as storage. Ottomans can be tucked out of the way when not in use and pulled up to the TV for football games. Look for ottomans that can serve as storage as well. These typically open from the top and offer ample place to store blankets, games, and toys. 

        
Reclining Sofas

Want the best of both worlds? Enjoy laying on a sofa and putting your feet up on a recliner? A reclining sofa is the perfect compromise for a small space. The Legacy Reclining Sofa only takes up the space of a typical sofa but adds the versatility of two recliners. 

        
A Bigger Bed

It may seem odd, but a few large pieces of furniture can actually make a space look bigger than a lot of small pieces. A great place to try this design technique is in the bedroom. A bed like the Amarillo King Bed will fill your space without adding clutter. Pair it with small side tables! 

        
Think Taller

Utilize the space above your eyeline. Go up with tall storage options. A vertical bookcase, like the one from Grove, is tall and thin. It won’t take up much floor space but will utilize the space near the ceiling. Pieces like this also bring the eyes up, making smaller dimensions look more spacious. 

It may take a bit of creativity, but you can make your small spaces feel special and cozy. Just look for furniture pieces with a minimal footprint and maximum potential!          

Home Furniture Manager Running in St. Jude Marathon Thursday, November 29, 2018

December 1^st will be a big day for Drake Hulin and for Home Furniture. The Distribution Center Receiving Manager will be running in the St. Jude Marathon in Memphis. It’s a huge undertaking, but Drake has found ample support among his Home Furniture family.

“The marathon actually falls at a busy time of year for us,” explains Drake. “But when I told them what I wanted to do, they told me not to worry about it. They want me to run, and every manager has been very supportive.”

St. Jude is a cause close to many hearts in the Home Furniture family. In the past two years the company has donated nearly $40,000 to the cause. Home Furniture has participated in “Give Thanks, Give Hope” campaign for St. Jude since 2017, so it seemed only natural to support one of their own while he worked to meet his marathon goal.

“I’ve had so many fellow employees come talk to me about it. It’s so awesome to have their support,” says Drake. “They want to know how my training is coming along; it’s been great.”

Drake has been running for the past 3 years, mostly 5Ks, 10Ks, and a half-marathon, but the St. Jude Marathon will be his first full marathon. He’s been training every day before and after work. Working in a warehouse in the Louisiana heat hasn’t kept him from his goal. Drake thinks the marathon will be a challenge, but one he’s been looking forward to for a long time.

“The marathon route actually goes in front of the St. Jude Hospital,” explains Drake. “They actually let the kids that are able to go outside come and cheer you on. I’m looking forward to that for sure.”

His wife and two children will also be present to cheer him on. He says his family is thrilled he’s decided to take up this challenge for such a special cause. The St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend is the single largest one-day fundraising event for St. Jude. The fundraising efforts of runners like Drake will help ensure families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

“I don’t have a direct personal connection to St. Jude, but it’s just such a fantastic cause. This seemed like the perfect place to compete in a marathon.”

Drake will have the full support of his family at home, his family at work, and the community of St. Jude when he starts the marathon on the December 1^st. There is no doubt they will all be cheering when he crosses the finish line.

Tips on Choosing Furniture for Children Sunday, November 25, 2018

Having small children in the house doesn’t mean you are sentenced to years of ugly cushion stains and slipcovers. Your space has to work for every member of your family. Trying to maintain a “magazine quality” home with two toddlers is virtually impossible. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a lovely space. The trick lies in your furniture choices.

In the Kitchen

Kids, big or small, spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s important to make choices that will let them feel comfortable and safe. Small tables are perfect for eat-in kitchens and toddlers. Save your dining room from the big messes! A round table is great for minimizing bumps and bruises on corners. Also, bench seating is perfect for kids to pile together at meal time.

If you have a high counter top or an island, you may also want to consider the types of stools you choose. A sturdy barstool, that doesn’t swivel or have a fabric seat is your best choice. It makes clean up a breeze, and kids can climb on and off easily.

In the Living Room

Almost every parent has had the experience of watching their toddler fall on, or near-miss, the corner of a coffee table. It’s not the best idea to have sharp edges or pointed objects scattered throughout your living room.

In order to create a safer environment for small children, consider using a round option. That way your little ones can run around without the corners catching their heads. You can also opt for an upholstered ottoman that serves as an extra seat and one less hard surface.

Kids have a way of creating messes out of thin air. Your living room furniture will have to pull double duty, serving as stylish elements while also working as storage. Ottomans typically open from the top and offer ample space to store blankets, games, and toys. If you have the space, get a few of them and add lots of extra seating and storage. You can also look for a Coffee Table that offers extra space inside. Some slide open while others offer cabinet style doors. These tables can offer a convenient place to stow all sorts of items that may pile up in the living room.

The Kids’ Bedroom

Once your children move from the crib to a “big kid” bed, the options are endless. If you have kids sharing a room, bunkbeds are a natural choice. They are wonderful for added storage and for a room shared by kids with an age gap. If your child has their own room, consider a full bed that will grow with them. A daybed is also a great option for sleepovers and overnight guests. Daybeds can also be a real space saver if your child’s room is on the small side. Plus, you don’t have to worry about an adventurous toddler jumping from the top bunk.

Make choices in every room that will let your child relax and be rambunctious while still maintaining the overall look and feel of your home. It might take a little more forethought, but a happy home is worth it!