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Outdoor Elegance: How to Create a Tranquil Garden Retreat with Classic Elements

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Classic gardens have always been the epitome of elegance and timeless charm. Rooted in European traditions, particularly the French formal gardens, this style is all about symmetry, order, and balance.

Classical architectural elements often feature prominently in American homes, so it makes sense to extend that elegance into outdoor spaces. And while you might picture sprawling estates with expansive lawns and shimmering ponds, classic garden design elements can be scaled down for small gardens and even beautifully integrated with contemporary styles.

Here are the key elements you can use to bring the elegance and tranquility of a classic garden to your own outdoor space.

1. Simple Geometry and Symmetry

At the heart of classic garden design is the principle of imposing order on nature, which is achieved through simple geometry and symmetry. Think straight lines, clean right angles, and circles to form a well-organized layout.

Instead of being randomly scattered, your plant and flower beds should be deliberately demarcated by paving, creating clear paths that guide visitors through your garden. This structured approach also creates a sense of harmony and balance.

A key aspect of the classic garden is bilateral symmetry. To achieve this, imagine dividing your garden down the middle with the shapes and forms on one side mirrored on the other.

This mirroring creates the pleasing and calming effect that’s the hallmark of classic garden tranquility.

2. Lush Greenery

Plants play a supporting role in a classic garden, enhancing the overall structure and symmetry rather than taking center stage with a riot of colors or varying heights and sizes.

The key here is restraint. Stick to a foundation of lush greens, with one or two carefully chosen flowering colors for each season. This will make your garden feel elegant and timeless rather than busy or chaotic.

To achieve the classic, sculpted look, choose plants suited for topiary like boxwood, privet, or yew—their bushes can be shaped into clean, geometric forms like spheres and cones. You can even do playful animal designs if you’d like to add a little whimsy to your garden.

Evergreens are another essential. Varieties like junipers, olives, or holly not only thrive in dry or coastal climates but also retain their structure year-round. These will help maintain your garden’s refined aesthetic in any season.

3. Well-Defined Edges

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By now you can probably tell that clean lines are a non-negotiable in the classic garden aesthetic. They provide the frame that holds the entire design together and keep your garden looking polished and intentional. Even the most carefully curated plants and pathways will feel untamed without them.

Start by defining your garden’s boundaries, using thick, neatly trimmed hedges to enclose spaces or frame sections. Boxwood hedges are a timeless favorite for classic gardens, but other dense, evergreen shrubs work beautifully, too. Remember, regular trimming is key to maintaining that crisp, tailored look.

Stone or brick edging is another elegant option you can use to mark pathways, flower beds, or lawns. What’s more, it makes maintenance easier by keeping grass and gravel where it belongs.

Natural materials like red brick add a subtle traditional feel and are extremely durable. But if you’re going for a more contemporary look, try concrete or metal edging, just don’t overdo it otherwise you’ll lose the classic vibe.

Decking is another aesthetic, yet practical, way to define edges. For example, a raised wooden deck pairs beautifully with manicured lawns and sculpted shrubs.

4. Ornaments and Formal Features

No classic garden is complete without these timeless elements. They act as a focal point, which is necessary for giving the space structure while also adding a touch of sophistication.

Start with a centerpiece. Consider a classic fountain, a sculpted statue, or a birdbath—anything that can act as the visual anchor of your garden. A key principle here is placement: position it along the axis of bilateral symmetry you’ve established or at the “crossroads” of your paths where the eye is naturally drawn.

Ornaments can also function as “punctuation marks” throughout the garden. Some good examples are large planters, urns, or topiary trees flanking pathways, your garden’s entrance, or the seating area. Use identical pairs to enhance the symmetry and order of your design.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of furniture. Elegant outdoor lounge chairs that complement the classic aesthetic will give you and your visitors an inviting space to relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings.

5. Water

In traditional European gardens, grand fountains, reflecting pools, and serene ponds were the stars of the landscape. While your garden may not have the space for sweeping water features, smaller options can still make a big impact.

A classic fountain is a popular and easy-to-incorporate choice. It’s an elegant focal point and adds movement and calming sounds to your space.

But don’t feel limited to just fountains. Other water elements like a swimming pool or even a small, decorative pond can also work beautifully. A pool spa, for example, adds a contemporary element while still complementing the classic garden aesthetic.

Align your water feature with your garden’s symmetry—this could be at the center of a pathway, at the end of your visual axis, or surrounded by manicured hedges.

Bringing It All Together

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The true beauty of the classic garden style is its versatility. The above principles can be adapted to fit a modest courtyard just as well as a sprawling backyard.

Remember, symmetry, clean lines, and keen attention to detail are what bring the charm and serenity of a classic garden oasis to life. Plan your classic garden on paper first to ensure you have the right symmetry, and then get to work!

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Invest in Texas Secondary Markets – Beyond Austin and Dallas

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While Austin and Dallas continue to make national headlines for their booming real estate markets, savvy investors are turning their attention to Texas’s secondary markets, according to Central Texas Real Estate Brokers. These emerging cities offer compelling opportunities for both seasoned investors and first-time buyers looking for sustainable growth and better value propositions.

The Rising Stars of Texas Real Estate

Texas’s secondary markets are experiencing a remarkable transformation, driven by factors ranging from corporate relocations to lifestyle preferences shifted by the pandemic. Cities like Waco, Tyler, and San Marcos are emerging as attractive alternatives to the state’s primary markets, offering a combination of affordability, quality of life, and strong economic fundamentals.

Waco: More Than Just Magnolia Market

Once primarily known for its Magnolia Market at the Silos, Waco has evolved into a robust economic center. The city’s population has grown by approximately 8% since 2020, with median home prices still hovering around $265,000 – significantly lower than Austin’s $525,000 average. Major developments include:

  • The emergence of a vibrant technology sector, with several startups choosing Waco as their home base
  • Baylor University’s expanding research programs attracting talent and investment
  • A $1.5 billion investment in infrastructure improvements over the next decade

Tyler: The East Texas Economic Powerhouse

Tyler’s diversified economy and strategic location have positioned it as East Texas’s primary commercial hub. The city has seen steady population growth of about 5% annually since 2021, driven by:

  • A thriving medical sector, with UT Health East Texas and CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System expanding their facilities
  • The development of new industrial parks attracting manufacturing companies
  • A cost of living 15% below the national average
  • Median home prices around $285,000, offering attractive yields for investors

San Marcos: The Innovation Corridor’s Rising Star

Positioned strategically between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is benefiting from the growth of the Texas Innovation Corridor. Texas State University’s presence provides a steady stream of educated workforce talent, while the city’s natural attractions and quality of life draw both young professionals and families. Key indicators include:

  • Population growth exceeding 12% since 2020
  • Major employers expanding operations, including Amazon and Texas State University
  • Median home prices around $320,000, representing strong value compared to nearby Austin
  • The San Marcos Regional Airport’s expansion creating new economic opportunities

Economic Indicators Supporting Investment

Several economic indicators suggest these secondary markets are poised for continued growth:

Job Market Strength All three cities have unemployment rates below the national average, with job growth in diverse sectors including healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing. This employment diversity helps insulate these markets from industry-specific downturns.

Infrastructure Investment Significant infrastructure projects are underway in each market, including:

  • New highway expansions improving connectivity
  • Downtown revitalization projects
  • Enhanced public transportation systems
  • Updated water and utility systems supporting growth

Education and Workforce Development The presence of major universities and technical colleges in these cities ensures a steady pipeline of skilled workers, attracting employers and supporting long-term economic growth.

Real Estate Market Dynamics

These secondary markets offer several advantages for investors:

Affordability While primary markets have seen prices soar beyond many buyers’ reach, these secondary markets maintain relatively affordable entry points while showing steady appreciation.

Higher Yields Rental yields in these markets typically range from 6-8%, compared to 4-5% in primary markets, offering better cash flow opportunities for investors.

Growth Potential With continued population growth and economic development, these markets show strong potential for long-term appreciation without the volatile swings often seen in larger markets.

Investment Strategies to Consider

Different approaches can be successful in these markets:

Single-Family Rentals The strong job market and population growth create steady demand for rental properties, particularly in neighborhoods near major employers and universities.

Multi-Family Development Growing populations and relatively low construction costs make multi-family development attractive, especially in areas targeting young professionals and students.

Commercial Investment Retail and office spaces in growing districts offer opportunities for higher returns, particularly in areas undergoing revitalization.

Looking Ahead

While these secondary markets offer compelling opportunities, investors should consider several factors:

Due Diligence Research local zoning laws, development plans, and economic indicators specific to each market.

Timing Different submarkets within these cities may be at different stages of their growth cycle, affecting optimal entry points.

Local Partnerships Building relationships with local real estate professionals, property managers, and contractors is crucial for successful investment outcomes.

Conclusion

Texas’s secondary markets present a unique opportunity for investors seeking strong returns with lower entry points than primary markets. The combination of population growth, economic diversity, and quality of life improvements makes cities like Waco, Tyler, and San Marcos particularly attractive for long-term investment. As these markets continue to mature, early investors who position themselves strategically stand to benefit from both appreciation and steady cash flow opportunities.

The key to success in these markets lies in understanding their unique characteristics and growth drivers while maintaining a long-term perspective. With proper research and local market knowledge, investors can find valuable opportunities that may not be available in more saturated primary markets.

Wallpaper vs. Paint: When to Choose Each for Maximum Impact

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When it comes to transforming interior spaces, homeowners and designers have long debated the merits of wallpaper versus paint. Legendary wallpaper manufacturers like Cole and Son wallpaper, known for their intricate and luxurious designs, have elevated wallpaper from a simple wall covering to an art form, challenging the traditional dominance of paint in interior design. Each option brings unique advantages and considerations that can dramatically impact the look, feel, and value of a space.

The Visual Language of Walls

Paint: Simplicity and Versatility

Paint has been the go-to wall treatment for decades, offering unparalleled versatility and ease of application. Its strengths lie in its:

  1. Color Flexibility: With virtually unlimited color options, paint allows for precise color matching and customization. Whether you’re seeking a bold statement or a subtle backdrop, paint can accommodate virtually any design vision.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to wallpaper, paint remains the more budget-friendly option. A gallon of quality paint typically costs between $30-$60 and can cover approximately 400 square feet, making it an economical choice for large spaces.
  3. Easy Maintenance: Modern paints come with washable and scrubbable finishes, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, children’s rooms, and spaces prone to dirt and marks.

Wallpaper: Depth and Complexity

Wallpaper offers a level of design complexity that paint simply cannot match. From subtle textures to elaborate patterns, wallpaper transforms walls into canvases of artistic expression.

  1. Design Complexity: Manufacturers like Cole and Son specialize in creating wallpapers that are more than just wall coverings—they’re visual narratives. Intricate botanical prints, geometric patterns, and historic reproductions can instantly elevate a room’s aesthetic.
  2. Texture and Dimension: Unlike paint, wallpaper introduces physical texture and depth. Embossed, grasscloth, and metallic wallpapers create visual interest and tactile experiences that paint cannot replicate.
  3. Durability and Longevity: High-quality wallpapers can last 10-15 years, compared to paint’s typical 5-7 year lifespan. While initial installation costs are higher, the long-term value can be significant.

Cost Comparison: Breaking Down the Investment

Paint Costs

  • Materials: $30-$60 per gallon
  • Primer: $20-$40 per gallon
  • Tools: $50-$100 (brushes, rollers, tape)
  • Average Room Cost: $200-$500
  • Labor (if professional): $500-$1,500

Wallpaper Costs

  • Materials: $30-$300 per roll (depending on quality)
  • Adhesive and Supplies: $50-$100
  • Average Room Cost: $500-$1,500
  • Labor (professional installation): $1,000-$2,500

Design Scenarios: When to Choose Each

Choose Paint When:

  • You want maximum color flexibility
  • Budget is a primary concern
  • Dealing with imperfect walls
  • Seeking quick, DIY-friendly renovation
  • Frequently changing design preferences

Choose Wallpaper When:

  • Desiring complex, artistic wall treatments
  • Looking for long-lasting design impact
  • Wanting to hide wall imperfections
  • Seeking sound and thermal insulation
  • Aiming for a luxurious, high-end aesthetic

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Paint Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Quick application
  • Easy to touch up
  • Low initial investment
  • Endless color options

Cons:

  • Shows wall imperfections
  • Less durable
  • Limited textural options
  • Requires more frequent repainting

Wallpaper Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Unique design possibilities
  • Covers wall imperfections
  • Long-lasting
  • Adds texture and depth

Cons:

  • Higher initial cost
  • Complex installation
  • Difficult to change or remove
  • Potential for moisture damage

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Modern consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental considerations. Paint has made significant strides with low-VOC and zero-VOC options, reducing harmful emissions. Similarly, wallpaper manufacturers are developing eco-friendly materials using sustainable production methods and recyclable components.

Final Recommendations

The choice between wallpaper and paint isn’t binary—many designers now blend both techniques. An accent wall with Cole and Son’s exquisite wallpaper, complemented by painted walls, can create a stunning, layered design.

Consider your:

  • Budget
  • Design vision
  • Room’s function
  • Long-term aesthetic goals

Conclusion

Whether you choose the simplicity of paint or the complexity of wallpaper, remember that walls are more than mere boundaries—they’re canvases for personal expression. Each option offers unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs, style, and space.

Ultimately, the most impactful wall treatment is one that reflects your personality and creates the atmosphere you desire.

Top Five Unique Woodworking Project Ideas to Elevate Your Home

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What makes a house feel like a home? Creating a space that reflects your personality and style isn’t always easy. There’s a delicate balance when it comes to designing and personalizing interiors that are comfortable and lived in, but are timeless and classic too. While adding curated wall art or throw pillows can help liven up a space, interchangeable decor isn’t enough to upgrade the overall look of your home.

Sometimes all it takes to elevate your home is a little bit of imagination and inspiration. Older homes may have lost their charm over the years due to outdated upgrades, wear and tear, or simply poor design choices. While it does take a certain eye to know what lines and details look best in some spaces, you don’t have to be an interior design expert to realize the full potential of your home. Sometimes the answers to your decor dilemmas come by solving problems that are already there with the help of custom woodworking. Read on and we’ll show you how you can infuse the natural beauty of wood into your home to create visually stunning living spaces.  

Drop-Down Desk

Image: https://www.pexels.com/photo/crop-person-making-notes-in-notepad-4126743/

(Caption: Drop down desks help create extra work areas in small spaces.)

Do you have an unused nook in your home? A narrow space that overlooks a stunning view? A drop-down desk might be just the thing for you. Through the help of custom woodworking, you can create a desk that perfectly fits a tight corner of your home. When you’re all done with your project or with work, simply return the leaf to its vertical orientation if you wish to open up the space again. Modular furniture offers an excellent way to elevate your home for a custom, designer look. 

Fireplace Mantel

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(Caption: A new fireplace mantel can warm up the look of your hearth.)

Is your fireplace mantel outdated or mismatched? Consider upgrading your hearth with a new mantel that better matches your decor. Whether you choose a rustic design or a mantel hand-crafted with custom woodworking, you’ll be sure to love the way a fireplace refresh warms up the look of your home. 

Decorative Paneling

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(Caption: Decorative paneling can help add visual interest to any area.)

With custom woodworking, you can turn a bland, basic wall into a stunning statement. Wood offers the perfect way to infuse a little bit of nature into your decor in a timeless and sophisticated way. Consider creating a built-in headboard out of wood paneling for your primary bedroom or installing wooden panels in your entryway hall to bring the natural warmth of the outdoors in. 

Built-In Shelving and Cabinets

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(Caption: Built-in shelving and cabinets are a decorative storage solution.)

Every home can always use a little extra storage. Why not make that storage a decorative addition to your decor? With built-in shelving and custom cabinets, it’s easy to elevate your home and solve storage problems all at the same time. Keeping your shelves and kitchen cabinets organized is easy too when you customize your new storage to meet your unique needs.  

Decorative Doors

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(Caption: Custom doors help add charm and elevate your home.)

Doors are often the most neglected and most used features in any living space. However, custom garage doors, front doors, and interior doors can add tons of charm and style to the look of your home. Consider the style and architecture of your residence when selecting a door with custom woodworking to create the best overall aesthetic.

Multigenerational Living Spaces in Luxury Homes: Creative Designs to Meet Everyone’s Needs

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Today’s modern world has witnessed an upsurge in multi-generational living options among high-end homes. No matter whether it is grandparents, parents, children, or extended family members sharing one living space, the challenge lies in designing a home that meets each generation’s specific needs, preferences and lifestyles while upholding luxury and elegance that high-end properties demand. Reaching an ideal balance requires thoughtful design, functional spaces, and an emphasis on comfort without compromising sophistication. One element that can assist in striking this delicate equilibrium between luxury and functionality is grass cloth wallpaper. With its natural texture and luxurious finish, stonewalling brings warmth and character to walls while simultaneously appealing to both older and younger generations. In this blog, we’ll examine how to design multi-generational spaces in luxury homes; offering ideas and insight into creating luxurious yet functional living environments for all age groups.

1. Flexible and Adaptive Spaces

The key to designing multi-generational living spaces is creating flexible yet adaptable areas that meet a wide variety of activities and preferences. A luxurious home must provide both shared areas where family members can gather as well as private retreats where individuals can unwind and recharge.

1. Open-Plan Living Areas: Open-plan layouts provide an ideal solution for multigenerational living because they encourage communication and interaction among family members. A spacious open concept living room, dining area, and kitchen allows different generations to gather for meals, entertainment, socializing, and relaxation. To maintain an air of luxury consider using natural materials such as hardwood flooring, marble countertops or grass cloth wallpaper as these will bring depth and richness into a large open space while creating an atmosphere welcoming for all generations.

2. Multi-Purpose Rooms: Designing multi-purpose rooms can add versatility and flexibility to a high-end home. A media room may serve multiple functions – for instance as home theater for family movie nights, gaming space for younger residents, reading/lounge space or relaxation area. When combined with high-grade materials such as custom cabinetry and stylish furnishings, multi-purpose spaces still manage to retain an air of luxury and sophistication.

3. Adaptable Furniture: Furniture in multi-generational households must be both luxurious and practical, making life easier for everyone involved. Look for modular pieces that can easily be reconfigured to accommodate different activities or age groups; sectional sofas may be configured into multiple seating areas, while large dining tables with extendable leaves provide enough seating capacity to comfortably seat large gatherings of family. Furniture that combines adaptability with elegance ensures the space remains functional while keeping its high-end aesthetic intact.

2. Emphasizing Privacy and Personal Space

Although shared spaces can foster family unity, private retreats are just as essential in multi-generational homes. Each generation should have access to their own area where they can relax in peace – particularly those living together as generations in larger households.

1. Private Suites for Grandparents: When designing spaces to meet the specific needs of older generations, designing luxurious bedroom suites that meet these demands is crucial. A suite featuring a comfortable sitting area, an en-suite bathroom equipped with safety features and easy access can offer both comfort and independence for elderly family members. Plush carpets, soft lighting and grasscloth wallpaper in neutral tones may create an elegant setting, while grab bars in bathrooms, walk-in showers or other safety elements help make their space both accessible and stylish.

2. Adult Spaces: For middle generation individuals–often parents–creating a luxurious master suite or private retreat is key to relaxing. This space can include a spacious bedroom featuring seating areas and walk-in closets as well as spa-like en-suite bathrooms featuring high-end finishes like marble, heated floors and freestanding soaking tubs. Adding touches such as velvet upholstery, silk drapes or custom woodwork will elevate this retreat from its hectic household setting and provide much-needed restfulness.

3. Youthful and Stylish Spaces for Kids and Teens: When designing spaces for younger generations in a luxury home, striking a balance between fun and refinement can be challenging. Children’s bedrooms should be vibrant yet functional with enough storage for toys, books, and personal items; use bold colors, playful patterns, whimsical art and high-quality materials that reflect your design aesthetic to create an uplifting environment; but ensure high-quality materials match up to that design style throughout. Similarly for teenagers’ bedrooms or lounges incorporating more mature, sophisticated touches- sleek furniture, study desk and decor that reflect their growing sense of identity while still fitting in with overall luxury aesthetic design aesthetic.

3. Establish Welcoming Shared Spaces

Multi-generational homes require welcoming shared spaces that foster family bonding and offer entertainment for all generations of family members, offering something suitable for every member. Creating welcoming shared spaces may take some additional planning but can make life much simpler in multi-generational households.

1. Luxurious Living Rooms: The living room is often the centerpiece of any multi-generational household, so its design should be inviting for all generations. Create an ambiance of relaxation with comfortable seating such as oversized sofas or lounge chairs so family members can gather comfortably for conversation, games or TV viewing. Include elegant design elements like custom built shelving units, designer lighting fixtures and luxurious fabrics – not forgetting an eye-catching focal point like a grand fireplace or grass cloth wallpaper feature wall can tie the entire space together creating an upscale ambiance suitable for all generations!

2. Kitchens for Entertaining and Togetherness: Kitchens are another key area in multi-generational homes, designed to promote entertaining and togetherness. High-end kitchens feature ample counter space, high-quality appliances and seating to enable family members to cook together or dine together at the island with seating. If necessary, create multiple zones within the kitchen such as prep areas for adults while children have separate lower countertops to engage in baking or cooking activities. Materials like quartz or granite countertops, custom cabinetry and designer pendant lighting all add luxurious elements while remaining functional at once!

3. Outdoor Living Areas: Outdoor spaces play an essential role in multi-generational homes, providing fresh air and room for family members to take in nature together. Create an inviting outdoor area complete with comfortable seating, firepit, dining table for alfresco meals and firewood to provide fresh air for all. Luxury properties may offer pools, outdoor kitchens or landscaped gardens which create resort-like experiences for all age groups; natural materials like stone, wood and plants make these outdoor areas feel connected with nature while upholding high-end aesthetics.

4. Accessible and Future-Proof Design

Accessibility should always be top of mind in multi-generational homes, so luxury properties should include features to accommodate family members of various ages and abilities. Future proofing allows your home to adapt as your family members’ needs change over time.

1. Single-Level Living Spaces: For elderly family members or those with mobility challenges, single-level living spaces offer independence and ease of movement. In luxury homes, consider creating a separate wing or ground-floor suite containing bedroom, bathroom and sitting area all on one level, so older family members can move freely without navigating stairs while still experiencing privacy and luxury in an independent living space.

2. Elevator Installation: Elevators provide comfort and accessibility to all generations within multi-story luxury homes, making life easier for all generations of family members. They enable quick movement between floors for daily tasks or special gatherings – with modern elevators featuring sleek materials and finishes designed to blend in seamlessly into the design of the home.

3. Smart Home Technology: Integrating smart home technology into a multi-generational household can increase both convenience and safety for all generations living there. Automated lighting, temperature control and security systems can be easily operated by family members of all ages making the home more efficient and user-friendly – voice activated systems or app-controlled features being especially beneficial to elderly family members who may find traditional systems difficult to navigate.

Designing a luxurious multi-generational home requires an intelligent approach that prioritizes flexibility, privacy and shared spaces. By including high-end materials such as grass cloth wallpaper, investing in adaptable furniture and creating functional yet beautiful spaces in your design plan, you can ensure your home remains luxurious yet accommodating for all ages. From open plan living areas and private retreats to future-proofing your home for the long term – finding balance between luxury comfort and functionality will bring success in multi-generational housing design projects. With the appropriate design decisions made throughout its design planning stages can become harmonious, stylish and welcoming environments for all members of a multi-generational household – both young and old alike!