Xeriscaping continues to gain popularity around the world as people discover the benefits of this landscaping technique. In Latin, xero means dry and scape means landscape or view. As an official landscaping technique, xeriscaping seems to have ‘originated’ in the 1980’s as a result of ongoing, multi-year droughts plaguing the Western, United States, but people have been planting to match their climate for centuries. Landscapers–from California to the Rocky Mountains–were seeking a way to create gardens less dependent on irrigation without sacrificing aesthetic-appeal. Denver Water, the largest and oldest public water utility in Denver, Colorado, coined the term and began to formally define the main principles of xeriscaping for members of the Denver community interested in modifying gardening practices to save water. Though it began in an effort to engage in water conservation in dry areas, it evolved to include a broader set of goals captured in the guidelines below. Many arid communities, from the deserts of the southwest to the chaparrals of California have adopted xeriscape principles. Given the routine dry periods these regions experience, xeriscaping is very logical. As recently as 2006, researchers identified that in the southwest 60-80% of water used by individual households was for landscape irrigation (watering a lawn accounts for a majority of it). Installing xeriscape gardens, as a Nevada study showed, reduced water bills by 50% (with massive 70% average reductions during summer months). Participants also reported reduced labor effort of 26.4%, since their new yards required less maintenance, like lawn mowing and manicuring.

Xeriscaping doesn’t just have to be for arid climates. These principles can be implemented in all ecoregions and lead to positive outcomes like reduced weeds, the creation of dense native plantings, less yard maintenance, minimized use of pesticides and fertilizers, and reduction of non-native lawns. In an attempt to understand why people choose to engage in xeriscaping, researchers in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada identified two neighborhoods with homeowners that had engaged in xeriscape landscaping. Twenty families were interviewed regarding their choices for their yards, their motivations, and the consequences of their gardening choices. They discovered water conservation took a back seat to aesthetics and the joy of gardening as the primary motivations for adopting xeriscaping principles.

Xeriscaping does not come without costs. One study found that modifications were between $1.30-$2.00 per sq ft depending on whether homeowners did the work themselves or hired a contractor. These inputs are upfront costs for materials like native plants, mulch, stones, and tools. Over time, however, there are substantial savings with lower water bills and reduced maintenance costs. There are also cash-back incentives and rebates associated with improving resource use in your landscaping in some areas. Check with local city and state websites to determine what might be available in your area. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Swamp coolers are an effective method for cooling indoor spaces. However, depending on the climate where you live, evaporative cooling might not be the most effective option for you. Thus, understanding how evaporative air coolers work will help you decide if this is the right cooling solution for you. How Evaporative Cooling Works Evaporative cooling occurs naturally all around us. For example, you feel it when you step out of a pool on a hot day and immediately feel a chill. These cooling effects occur because as dry air passes over water, the dry air will absorb some of the water. This absorption occurs when the temperature and vapor pressure of the water attempt to equalize with the air. As a result, water molecules turn into gas molecules and heat switches from the higher air temperature to the lower water temperature. Since the air circulates naturally, the area around it is cooled. To consistently cool your home, residential evaporative air coolers build on this natural phenomenon, using a fan to draw warm, stale air inside the unit, where it passes over water-moistened pads to be cooled. During this process, the air is cooled up to 20 degrees. Then, the cool, rejuvenated air is circulated throughout your environment. Since the cool air is continually circulating and creating a breeze, your ambient temperature will feel lower than the actual temperature. The key to effectively cooling your home with an evaporative cooler is hot, dry air such as what is found in desert areas like the southwestern United States. In fact, evaporative coolers are most effective during the hottest times of the day and when humidity levels are below 60 percent. Although the name “swamp cooler” sounds like it would cool muggy, swamp-like conditions, these machines would actually be ineffective in warm, humid areas like the southeastern United States because the air is so heavily saturated with moisture. Evaporative coolers tend to work best when relative humidity is 60% or less; however, evaporative coolers can work in humid conditions when they are used in semi-outdoor (loading bays and docks, garages) and outdoor conditions (sporting events, festivals) for moisture evaporation. Because of the potential for moisture build-up indoors, an open window or door is required for use and not recommended for indoor use in humid climates. For people living in more humid climates who are searching for a cost-effective alternative to traditional central air conditioning systems, consider portable air conditioners or window air conditioners.

How do swamp coolers compare with traditional air conditioning systems in terms of cost-effectiveness, energy-efficiency, and environmental impact?

The goal of both of swamp coolers and traditional ACs is to cool your space. However, swamp coolers are available at a lower overall price point, are more energy efficient, and are much more environmentally friendly than traditional air conditioning systems. Evaporative air coolers come in a variety of designs and capacities – evaporative coolers by brands like Hessaire, Whirlpool and Honeywell can easily be moved from room-to-room, or sit them outside on patios, decks, or pavilions. Further, brands like Portacool offer efficient swamp coolers for industrial spaces like barns, auto garages, hangars, docks, warehouses, and more. More importantly, many swamp coolers require only minor to moderate setup, such as placement of air filters or window mounting.

• Energy-Efficiency: The use of simple technology to cool your indoor air helps portable air coolers excel at energy-efficiency. Compared to air conditioners that use compressors and refrigerants, swamp coolers use only water, a fan, and pump to saturate the cooling media to create cool air.
• Cost-Effective: A 36-inch evaporative air cooler operating for eight hours typically costs less than one dollar because the only costs associated with operating it are water and electricity. This is almost three times cheaper than traditional cooling costs, as  operating swamp coolers costs up to 50 percent less.
• Environmentally-Friendly: For environmentally-conscious consumers, swamp coolers are an ideal solution for keeping cool without harming the environment. Unlike traditional air conditioners that use refrigerants to cool your home, swamp coolers use a natural process that cools the air using motion and water. This process won’t add ozone-harming pollutants or other chemicals to the environment.

Furthermore, swamp coolers actually work best when fresh air is available, such as from an open window or door. This constant circulation ensures that your indoor air is fresher than it would be with traditional air conditioners that require an airtight space to operate. Plus, the evaporative cooling process naturally humidifies dry air – reducing dry air symptoms such as itchy eyes, throat, or skin. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

With a heady series of updates, the return of printed wallpaper remains high on most decorators design agendas, with continued interest going into 2019. For 2019 expect to start seeing inspiring wallpaper updates to bring life and great design to any space, from commercial to residential. Unique floral prints and patterns are also making a big comeback as we’re noting more botanical-inspired wallpapers on the market. Texture also features heavily for the best wallpaper options for 2019, helping to create an interesting, cozy environment in your home. We are also seeing a move back towards more traditional wallpaper designs inspired by the past; there is plenty of flocked inspired paper available, and we are seeing more traditional designs and colors make a refreshing come back as well. There’s such a wide variety of things going on in the world of wallpaper at the moment (even sustainable and eco-friendly options) that are certain to inspire you. Here’s our take on the most stylish wallpaper ideas for 2019 and beyond.

BIRD PRINTS

Add a sense of play in any room in your home with bold bird printed wallpaper with an oversized scale to really maximize the look. Our interior designers love Salamndre’s iconic and wildly popular flamingo and various bird prints. They’re great for adding depth in a room via an accent wall or for small areas like powder rooms and entryways.

GRAPHIC GEOMETRY

Channel the heady spirit of the Art-Deco era with a graphic and symmetrical geometrically printed wall covering that’ll be sure to never go out of style while adding a sense of every day glamor in your home. To get the look right and keep it timeless, go for classic colors that you won’t tire of as trends come and go.

PERSONALITY-FILLED

Another playful and iconic print, take a cue from Fornasetti’s hanging plate-inspired graphic wallpaper that’ll energize even the simplest of spaces. It’ll be sure to spark conversations and create a lot of daily joy thanks to its witty and bold print.

BOLD STRIPES

Go graphic with bold stripes that’ll never feel dated as long as you stick with classic colors that are easy on the eye. Think warm neutrals and strong colors for a crisp look. Stripes are also great for making a small space appear to be larger than it really is and pair well with all kinds of furnishings and just about every design style.

CHEVRON

Though a perennial classic, modern and unexpected updates and breaks in otherwise straightforward chevron prints feel fresh and boast conversation-starting power to boot. As illustrated above, if the chevrons were filled in and not spaced apart, the wall might come off as heavy. Instead, it retains a unique look that’s bolstered by a trio of complimentary colors that are easy on the eyes.

BATIK

Batik rugs, linens, and wallpaper have been trending over the past few years thanks to their muted prints with a lived-in feel, graphic symmetry, and small scaled patterns. We love how the decorator realizing the room featured above took the pattern a step farther by creating a rich yet subtle mix of various batik patterns and prints for a densely rich, layered look. And as you can see, batik bedroom wallpaper designs are a great direction when looking to create a soothing oasis that’s still rich in print.

SOLID/TONAL

By going completely solid or tonal, you’ll give any space a more polished and sophisticated feel while adding distinctively rich texture. Plus, by going tonal you’ll be able to keep walls looking more fresh with ease than say, compared to an all white painted wall. Ultimately, tonal wallpaper will work to illustrate your attention to detail while celebrating the joys of elegant, quiet design.

ASIAN INSPIRED

It may come as a surprise to see Asian-inspired styles when considering modern wallpaper for your home as they haven’t been popular since the early 90’s, but there’s always an exception when traditional styles get glorious updates. From metallic finishes to intricate details, there’s something to said about the beauty of Chinoiserie flora and fauna elevating a room. And if Asian-inspired wallpaper wasn’t inspiring enough, look at how clever the placement the dining room wallpaper featured above is. By only placing the wallpaper within molded rectangles, the look comes off as though they are traditional screens. Pretty clever indeed.

SILHOUETTES

Though cameos and silhouettes have gone in and out of popularity since the Victorian-era, blame it on artist Kara Walker’s large scale cut paper and wall covering works featuring a bastion of surprising silhouettes, for the resurgence of silhouette wallpaper. And while Kara Walker’s are deeply thought provoking while touching on darker parts of American history, there’s no reason to not take a cue from her expressive work when say, considering the best wallpaper for girls, or options that will lend a giddy sense of play to any room. Be on the lookout for unmistakable yet intriguing elements hidden throughout with modern silhouette wallpaper.

TERRAZO

With Terrazo, that 80’s era marble-inspired flecked print, seriously trending over the past few seasons on everything from upholstery to bathroom accessories, it was only a matter of time that it would appear as a riotous contender when considering modern wallpaper for your home. Playful, abstract, and forever-cool, Terrazo wallpaper ideas are great for a home with transitional or mid-century modern interior design as it works perfectly with the era’s and mood of both. Plus, since its background is usually based around a common neutral, it will help any room appear larger and brighter.

ANIMALIER

Perfect for sultry bedroom wallpaper designs, animal prints from cheetah to leopard to zebra can lend any space a distinctive sense of elevated glamor that’s not for the tame at heart. Rev a room up a notch by bringing in a full-on print or an accent wall featuring a sumptuous animal print that will make any area or room a stand-out to be remembered.

ILLUSION WALLPAPER

For conversation-starting wallpaper ideas, consider going for a trompe l’oeil or illusion wallpaper for an unexpected and playful approach. From faux foliage to doors like the paper panel pictured here from Maison Martin Margiela, there’s plenty of fun options to bring into your home. The key here is that they should feel photo-realistic and should not be intended to replicate nature scenes like a 70’s era rumpus room would. No pond scenes, no faux brick prints. Instead, keep it elegant with a print that evokes the familiar for a grown-up take on playful interior design elements.

LARGE-SCALE FLORALS

Though it sounds prehistoric to reserve floral wallpaper for girls (exclusively) in this day and age, there’s something to be said about the intriguing, modern effect over-scaled florals can lend a more feminine space instantly. From a small bathroom to a grand bedroom, bold, oversized floral blooms will make any room appear larger, more pulled-together, and unique.

MARBLEIZED

When it comes to exciting and unexpected wallpaper ideas, our interior designers were unanimous in their appreciation for the organic feel marbleized printing techniques lend some of today’s most interesting options. And with marble a forever-trend in our books, it comes as no surprise. From marble effect printed linens to marble drawer pulls, the veiny appeal of the stone brings with it some inspiring design cues. And when it comes to wallpaper ideas, marble options are sure to create a mesmerizing effect like no other print will.

METALLIC

By now, metallics and high-shine finishes have made their way through every design facet of a modern home, and when it comes to brilliant bedroom wallpaper designs, metallics are sure to introduce everyday glam into any room with ease. The key here is to source metallic wallpaper that features either a more classical or Art-Deco inspired graphic print and motifs so the wall covering comes off as soothing and visually light as anything else will lend the risk of appearing too busy and confusing. Even better, when paired with chair rail molding as illustrated here, the eye gets a break to keep it focused on great design rather than being distracted.

ARTIST’S SKETCHBOOK

As though they were lifted from iconic fashion illustrator Antonio Lopez’s sketch book, the collage effect pictured above is full of visual wit and a terrific sense of inspiring play. Frankly, there’s nothing like it and a similar wallpaper is certain to make your home as unique as you are. And while the style is not for the shy, go ahead and take a risk every now and then as sometimes happy accidents can be found in unexpected routes.

THE ULTIMATE MATCH-ALL WALLPAPER

Speaking of risks, with a vibrant, colorful wallpaper similar to the room illustrated here, you’ll be able to bring in just about any colored items and furnishings you want as the sky is the limit when it comes to mixing and matching. And since the pattern here is minuscule, you won’t need a heavy hand or oversaturated hues to bring it all together. In fact, with such a heady print, you could even bring in a classic beige sofa and finish it off with coordinating pillows and throws for continuity.

A MODERN MURAL

While we aren’t ones to recommend preprinted murals, there’s something to be said about the unexpected and intimate appeal of the wallpaper featured here as it boasts a wonderful collage of varied buildings and fruit for the ultimate in unique, graphic wallpaper that no one else will have. The key in making it work is to again, go for subtle colorways to keep the look light handed and refreshing. Perfect for an accent wall or trim, a modern mural will have guests scanning the surface with a sense of intrigue that they’ll never forget.

OVERSIZED PAISLEY

A more classic wallpaper option for 2019 and beyond, bold oversized paisleys will give a room a sense of feminine play while riffing on historic silhouettes to boot.

PALM LEAVES

Continuing to gain traction over the past few years, palm leaves are still a heavy-duty wallpaper trend continuing into 2019. More textures and details are being introduced into modern wallpapers, and the intricate details of the palm make for a chic option. Palm printed wallpaper is available in all manner of designs – whether you are looking for something more masculine, something bright and bold, or something more calming. Palm fronds don’t have to be all out 70’s inspired. We are loving the depth and coziness that a palm wallpaper with a black background lends a space and the light airiness that a white paper with bold green palms provides.

COPPER/GOLD TONES

Copper and gold tones are an easy way to add instant glamor to any room and are heavily featured throughout wallpaper ranges; whether as a statement-making copper textured paper or embedded within a design. Warm metallics like these haven’t been popular for decades, but they are back, and feel so fresh this time around. Copper and metallic gold tones warms up modern wallpaper and add a touch of luxury to easily elevate any space. Imagine a stunning gold wallpaper with a geometric white pattern across it – this look would evoke everyday glamor and an art-deco spirit– especially when teamed with unexpected colors and details like the neon painted beds above.

MUTED STRIPES

Stripes saw a return on modern wallpaper designs 2019. The tones are more muted than we’ve seen in the past with striped wallpaper, but they look just as sharp. If you want something to make your walls more interesting, but without all too much color, choose a graphic grey and white stripe. For something more fun, but not too obvious, consider modern wallpaper with green, pink, and white stripes? This will add a touch of luxury to any room, while at the same time helping you introduce color (this will look great with in otherwise muted and neutral room). Stripes also evoke a put-together feel when teamed with soft neutrals, perfect for creating a warming and inviting space.

SUSTAINABLE WALLPAPER

With more and more concerns over the environment being raised, increasing the level of sustainable products being produced, and making an effort to be more eco-friendly is on everyone’s agendas. Manufacturers of wallpaper are recognizing this, and modern wallpaper ranges are beginning to feature eco-friendly production, which is less harmful and impactful on the environment. More and more wallpapers are available printed on recycled paper with water-based inks, making them much less environmentally detrimental. You also have the option to choose materials such as linen, burlap, and bamboo as an interesting alternative to standard wallpaper ideas.

BOTANICAL INSPIRATION

Think unique botanicals; not just traditional floral wallpaper with a repeated pattern covering it. This is more of an homage to the beauty found in nature – think a beautiful meadow, rather than a bouquet of flowers. Consider wallpaper that looks more like a water color painting than a basic floral print. You can go bold with colors like vibrant blues, greens, pinks, reds, and oranges, or for something a little less bold, choose more muted tones of creams, lilacs, and soft pinks. This type of design is perfect for a feature wall; adding a touch of nature and natural form to your space. If a colorful floral design isn’t for you – there are some beautiful botanical inspired designs available in grays and neutrals alike.

FLORAL WALLPAPERS

You’re probably as surprised as we are to see more traditional floral wallpaper with classic pinks and purples on a floral wallpaper making a comeback. Think festive wallpaper designed with glorious, vibrant patterns, and plenty of color. Designs like this make the perfect wallpaper for girl’s rooms – creating a charming, relaxing, and inspiring space. You can opt for cheery colors, or something more muted for a monochrome and minimalist room.

TEXTURED GREYS

Wallpaper designs 2019 are all about depth and texture. If you aren’t a big fan of color, then textured grays are a great option for you. While keeping your color scheme muted and monochromatic, they’ll add much-needed depth and warmth to a room. From busy, intricate patterns to more everyday striped patterns, texture is the key to making a rooms wall coverings feel more distinctive.

FLOCK WALLPAPER

Flocked wallpaper is also making a comeback, with new modern wallpaper designs updated for today. Keeping the traditional feel of flocking, the new designs keep it fresh and modern while embracing the traditional, luxurious elements of flocked wallpaper. Flocked wallpaper is often intricately detailed, with a great depth of color; making it perfect for bedroom wallpaper designs. Wallpaper like this will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room, and a whole room papered in flocking will cocoon you in luxury. How about a shade of champagne, for a seriously glamorous and luxurious wall covering? But, don’t be fooled into thinking that all flocked wallpaper is dark and dramatic – there are some beautiful designs out there in off-whites and light blues and greens, which are absolutely refreshing.

DARK PATTERNS

Not everything has to be light and bright, and the same can be said for trending wallpaper 2019. Think deep blues and greens with contrasting patterns in neutral tones. Perfect for a masculine bedroom, or a room where you are looking to introduce a dark feature wall. The neutral pattern tones work alongside the depth of color to create interesting wallpaper ideas, which help a room feel cool at the same time as cozy and warm.

BRIGHT AND BOLD

Bold, bright, and compelling wallpaper designs are seeing a comeback – living room, dining room, and bedroom wallpaper designs alike are trending and are more imaginative than ever before. Bright colors and extravagant prints are here to create an unforgettable statement. Forgo the quiet wallpaper popular as of late, because making an impact is back on trend. Punchy greens and yellows are key trends, as are bold blues and pinks. If you want any room to stand out, then the sky’s the limit. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

At this year’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), one major trend was apparent: color is making a comeback in kitchens in a big way. However, the biggest surprise was its application. Instead of color making a splash on walls, it showed up over and over again on kitchen appliances. Whether you’re looking to add a hint of color to your kitchen with a small appliance or fill your kitchen with bright, bold color, you’re in luck. Kitchen appliance manufacturers are now offering a gorgeous array of color possibilities. According to a number of kitchen manufacturers, consumers have been requesting vibrant, colorful options for staple kitchen appliances that, in the past, traditionally only came in three basic finishes—stainless steel, white or ivory, and black. In response, an array of ranges, range hoods, and small appliances are now available in a variety of hues. Consumers now have the option of purchasing larger kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, and more in a virtual rainbow of colors. Companies like Big Chill, for example, offer retro-inspired large appliances in nine vintage colors. And when it comes to kitchen color trends, our own research indicates an uptick in consumer demand for maximalist designs and bold color, especially jewel-toned hues. According to BHG.com consumer insights, there has been a 50 percent increase in interest in shades of green and blue in both home decor and paint colors. In fact, Behr Paint and PPG selected shades of blue (Behr Blueprint) and green (PPG Nightwatch) for their 2019 Colors of the Year, which supports the trend toward more color in home design. Think you could never match that specific shade of teal blue or olive green in your kitchen? Think again. Manufacturers like Dacor have opened up color possibilities with the ability to match any color swatch. The DacorMatch Color System enables consumers to match wall ovens and ranges with virtually any color. BlueStar, another range manufacturer, also offers a customization option where users can create their own unique kitchen style with more than 750 colors, 10 metal trims, and seemingly endless configuration possibilities. While all signs indicate that consumers are moving to a little more color in the kitchen, there will always be gray and white kitchens. However, in those neutral kitchens, you can expect to see a variety of metallics and hardware. In addition to bold colors, BHG.com consumer research indicates a 150 percent increase in interest in shades of metallics and a 364 percent increased interest in gold cabinetry. Many kitchen appliance manufacturers are one step ahead and offer metallic options, including brass, gold, and copper, as alternatives to traditional finishes like stainless-steel and black. GE’s Café suite of appliances, which come in matte white and matte black in addition to stainless steel, offer custom hardware in various metallic hues so you can personize your appliances to make a statement. If you’re not quite ready to dive into full-on color, try adding a small splash of color to an all-white or neutral kitchen with something like a colorful vent hood. Vent hood manufacturers like Vent-A-Hood and BlueStar offer a range of color options so you can mix and match with your existing kitchen color scheme. Interior designer Erika Bonnell, who designed the kitchen above, says it’s refreshing to see color starting to make its way back “after the fifty shades of gray era!” “I always encourage my clients to step outside of the safe zone and add some personality where they can,” she says. “Color is such an easy way to do this. In this instance, we chose to add some energy to the space in the form of a brilliant turquoise powder-coated range hood. Why be boring when you can be bold!” Color isn’t limited to large appliances, either. We were excited to see the return of retro colors on small appliances in shapes and styles reminiscent of the 1950s at KBIS this year. Small appliances like mixers, juicers, toasters, and microwaves in fun vintage hues are a great way to incorporate splashes of color in the kitchen. Appliance manufacturer SMEG offers a full line of retro appliances, large and small, that embodies the glamour and rounded forms of the 1950s in throwback vibrant and pastel colors. The unique vintage-inspired designs make these appliances statement pieces you’ll want on your kitchen countertop instead of hidden away in a cabinet. Outdoor kitchens are another spot you can expect to see more color, including on grills and outdoor kitchen accessories. Weber, for example, recently introduced several vibrant color choices for both gas and charcoal grills in vibrant colors, including green, sapphire, and slate blue. In the past, grills and outdoor appliances were destined to a few monochromatic and metallic shades. Today’s colorful options let you spice up your patio with color. If a new appliance isn’t in your budget, painting the kitchen will always be in style and one of the easiest ways to incorporate a pop of color. Painting an island or a pantry door in a bright, bold color is a great way to introduce a new hue in the kitchen. BHG.com consumer insights have also indicated a 117 percent growth in black cabinets, which will help other colors in your kitchen pop. If you’re considering adding a colored appliance, you can match it to your paint and carry that color throughout the kitchen on walls, cabinetry, and other accessories. Over the last several years, kitchen designers have increasingly wowed us with stunning kitchens—unique layouts, gorgeous cabinetry, and beautiful countertops and backsplashes. With the addition of color via appliances, paint, and accessories, we finally have options to personalize the busy hubs of our homes even more. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

All it takes are a few leaves on the ground and a cool breeze to bring to mind autumn evenings by the fire. It doesn’t hurt if “by the fire” looks like this! This unbelievable DIY Pergola Fire Pit boasts swing seating, outdoor lights, and the perfect backdrop for every holiday celebration. Get all details, including how to build your own, at Remodelaholic. Photo credit: Lauren Ashworth of Stillwater Farm

2. Outdoor Living Room

For climates where it’s practical, invest in an all-weather sofa, like this rattan sectional, and create a dedicated outdoor living space that’s functional year-round. Some of the best living areas are outside and allocating your space will encourage you to take full advantage of the outdoors. Plus, it provides a great spot for gathering when you put together a fete on the fly.  

3. Overflow Seating

Most of the time, it might just be you and your family who enjoy cool nights by the fire. But around the cool holiday seasons and because a good fire is always best shared, plan for additional seating that won’t take up tons of extra storage space during the rest of the year. Instead of opting for traditional seating, try outdoor floor cushions or ottomans like these Braided Hemp Ottomans from CB2. They allow you to quickly offer seating to extra guests when necessary. They have a small footprint in terms of storage but still exhibit style and comfort. And they’re easily placed in and around your other seating, so guests still feel like part of the crowd.

4. DIY Stump Seats

If your overflow crowds are often quite large and buying additional seating is impractical, you can always opt for DIY seats. These stump seats, cut from fallen trees, allow you to create all the seating you could possibly need. You know they will withstand the elements, plus they’re free! Get the scoop on these fire pit stumps and more from Cassie Bustamante.

5. Faux Fireplace

What if you don’t have a fire pit? Whether your climate makes a fire pit unnecessary or space makes it impossible, you can still have cozy seating near a faux fireplace. Complete with logs and a mantel, this faux outdoor fireplace adds warmth without the heat. Pair it with a large rustic table and benches for a perfect setting for your fall gatherings. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

    Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first-class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award-winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

The newest home heating (and cooling) technology is the heat pump. Using technology that is similar to an air conditioner, heat pumps extract heat from one source and deposit it in another using an indoor air handler and outdoor pump unit that circulates refrigerant. Some systems extract heat from outdoor air, while ground-loop geothermal systems extract heat from the earth using a ground-loop pipe. Above-ground heat pumps are often known as mini-split or ductless systems. Many of these systems are reversible, providing heat when the weather is cool, and air conditioning when the weather is hot. The EPA states that a heat pump can save 30% to 70% on home heating costs and 20% to 50% on home cooling costs when compared to other systems. Originally quite expensive, heat pumps have become more affordable as above-ground systems have been perfected. ​ Fuel sources: Heat pumps are usually powered by electricity, although natural gas models are also available. Distribution: Heat (and cooling) are provided by wall-mounted units that blow air across evaporator coils linked to an outdoor pump that extracts or absorbs heat from the outdoors. Advantages:

• Systems offer both heating and cooling.
• Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient.
• Individual wall units allow for precise control of each room.
• Fans are much quieter than central forced-air systems.
• No ductwork is required.

Disadvantages:

• Heat pumps are best suited for relatively mild climates.
• Installation costs are higher than ductwork systems.

Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, [email protected] or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Why a TV Over a Fireplace Is a Bad Idea