The new year presents a fresh canvas, giving you an opportunity to revisit your aspirations for both yourself and your home. This issue of Good to Be Home is full of inspiration for the months ahead, including transformative home-design ideas, a guide to help you know if it’s the right time to sell, two seasonally appropriate and belly-warming recipes, and a list of statement-making ceiling upgrades.
Your bedroom is your personal sanctuary, so it’s important to keep it comfortable and stylish. Whether you’re thinking of simply swapping out a few decorative elements or conducting a complete overhaul, the enclosed guide takes a closer look at various upcoming design trends you can incorporate into your space.
When it comes to selling your home, it isn’t always easy to determine when to pull the trigger. However, there are key factors that may indicate now may be the right time. This issue explores ten of the most common telltale signs and offers a flowchart to help you decide the best option for you.
Bread comes in many diverse forms and flavors, making it a staple ingredient for some of the most beloved dishes across the globe. Inside, discover two delicious recipes for a classic meatloaf and decadent bread pudding from Marie-Laure Fréchet’s Upper Crust cookbook that emphasize bread’s versatility in both savory and sweet culinary creations.
White ceilings have long been a traditional element in homes, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick with it. Find out how you can embrace the transformative potential of statement ceilings by turning this fifth wall into a work of art.
Here’s hoping you have a wonderful start to 2024! As always, it’s a pleasure to send you this magazine.
Even more than your home itself, your bedroom is your personal refuge. No matter what stresses, deadlines, or general aggravations the world throws at you, retiring to this space grants you an escape where all your obligations slip away. So, naturally, it should be the most comfortable and intentionally curated room of your home.
This year, surprising decorative elements are expected to either make a comeback or cause fresh waves in the design sphere. Practical and attractive, each means to seamlessly blend irresistible comfort with soothing visual appeal. To keep your bedroom up to date with a new year of style and enjoy the finest luxury every day, embrace the following trends.
Cool or even frigid winter weather may be in full swing, but resist the urge to arrange a bulky, overly dressed bed. Instead, adorn it with two to three layers of warm, cozy fabric—such as a fitted sheet, top sheet, and quilt—for a well-tailored appearance that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
To help achieve this effect, limit your bedding to a unified color scheme or pattern so all your linens and pillows blend into what looks like a singular, sculpted object. Sets like these shams and compatible duvet cover by CB2 create a simple, pared-down look, while this warm waffle-weave one from AllModern sticks to a single smart and stylish neutral color. Such snug sets accommodate cold sleepers without overwhelming their mattresses with bulk.
If you’re interested in updating your bed itself, select one with prominent side rails to conceal the edges of your mattress where you neatly tuck in your linens. You can also opt for a piece with a sleek frame and a headboard that sits flush with the wall. (Check out this streamlined bed by Article for inspiration.) Select a low-profile bed, and you’ll achieve a breezy look that feels refined and elegant.
Apply the principle of neat, restrained fabrics throughout the rest of your bedroom. Try to limit your window dressings to a single layer, though don’t be afraid to get creative. For instance, you could hang long drapes or sheer curtains with a few inches of extra slack that gathers on the floor for romantic appeal and a leisurely appearance you’ll adore. If your aim is to block obtrusive sunlight or improve privacy while preserving your views, consider having your windows tinted so they can remain exposed whenever possible, installing thin drapes or solar shades to frame them handsomely.
Meanwhile, keep extra throws and blankets put away rather than cast over the arms of chairs, settees, or benches. Of course, you may be concerned that scaling back your fabrics will make your room feel less cozy; in that case, lay a medium-pile rug with a simple geometric pattern for added softness without visual clutter.
This year, fashion a captivating bedroom design with a bolder, more mature palette. Sophisticated colors like plum, sienna, merlot, and stone gray have become popular options for bedrooms going into 2024, eclipsing the breezy and wholesome appearance of previous frenzies such as the all-white or nautical-hued Cape Cod bedroom.
While this may feel like a jarring change if you’re accustomed to light, sunny bedroom tones, opting for dark and intense colors will create a sense of privacy, making your bedroom feel like a haven from the overstimulating sunlight outside. If you’re worried about committing to dark paint or furniture, there’s a low-risk alternative: pepper deep shades into the room with new linens and accent decor. Then incorporate various lighting sources such as table lamps and bedside sconces to craft a warm vibe after sunset.
Old-fashioned furniture tends to be more intricately detailed than newer pieces, which makes it the ideal complement to the restrained look of contemporary bedroom decor. Did you inherit a vintage chest? Dust it off and shuffle it out of storage so it can regain life in your bedroom. Or make a dedicated trip to your local antique store to find the perfect fit. Mind your color scheme, though, to ensure these furnishings feel cohesive with your bedroom’s other features—a tight color palette can unite contrasting pieces, even if they’re from very different time periods.
As you hunt for well-worn classics to spotlight, pass over excessively adorned pieces (a Louis XIV–style armoire, for example) and instead select timeless options such as a 1960s vintage dresser or rustic chest. The right one should add warm, authentic character to the room without stealing too much attention.
Bedroom furniture tends to be consistent across most homes: a bed, two nightstands, and a dresser. However, these usual ingredients can make your room feel ordinary. To subvert expectations, work an unexpected feature into your bedroom decor.
For fun and whimsy, place a bold, contemporary art piece above your bed, or hang a crafty light fixture like this chandelier by West Elm from the ceiling to make an eye-popping statement. A well-sculpted piece of furniture like this carved patterned nightstand by West Elm, meanwhile, satisfies the practical benefits of a bedside table in a mold-breaking silhouette.
Your bedroom should be a comfortable sanctuary, but it should also feature invigorating elements that you’ll love to wake up to. As you refresh your design this year, don’t be afraid to experiment with bold elements that make the space feel truly special.
Deciding to sell your home is a significant life choice, requiring careful consideration of various personal and financial factors. Fortunately, there are usually telltale signs that it’s time to sell, which can guide you toward making the right decision for your future. If any of the following statements ring true, then you may be ready to put your house on the market.
1. You need more space.
As your family expands and your needs change over time, your home might start to seem a little cramped. Whether you’re expecting a new family member, you or your partner require a home office or dedicated workspace, or your children now want separate rooms, the only solution may be to upgrade to a larger home.
2. You want to downsize.
In contrast, your home may be feeling too big and lonely. The kids have grown and ventured off to pursue their own dreams, leaving behind a quiet house and extra, unused bedrooms. If you find that you are no longer making use of your home’s full space, you may want to consider a shift to a smaller, more manageable house. In addition to reducing the square footage, this move may simplify your life by reducing the time, money, and effort it takes to maintain your home.
3. You’re tired of the upkeep.
Sometimes, the maintenance alone may be enough to spur a move. What used to be a source of pride has, over time, transformed into a never-ending cycle of chores and repairs. As a result, the idea of living in a home that requires little or no upkeep has become increasingly appealing, especially as it may free up time to spend with friends and family and do the activities you love.
4. Your lifestyle has changed.
Changes in your life circumstances, such as adopting an agonizing daily commute or getting married, can prompt you to alter your living arrangement for a more suitable one. Or perhaps you simply want to entertain and socialize more with loved ones and long for open-concept living and a contemporary kitchen with all the bells and whistles. Whatever these lifestyle changes are, selling your home for one that meets your new needs and desires may be the right choice.
5. You’re ready to retire.
The next chapter in your life brings with it fresh possibilities and opportunities. Goals like moving closer to your family or to a climate you’ve always desired may now be possible. If you’ve been aspiring to relocate or even join an active adult community for its vibrant lifestyle, retirement could be your moment to sell your home and go after your dreams.
6. You have equity in your home.
Tapping into your home’s equity by selling can be a great way to boost financial goals such as saving for retirement or starting a business. To help determine if you’re ready to cash in, reach out to a trusted real estate agent, who will be able to furnish you with a precise assessment of your home’s present market value and offer expert guidance on how to get the biggest return for it.
7. Your neighborhood has appreciated in value.
Home values in many neighborhoods have risen greatly since early 2020, with some areas experiencing double-digit percentage increases. While the market has cooled somewhat in recent months, inventory remains low in most parts of the country, so experts predict that home prices will continue to rise, albeit at a more moderate pace. If your neighborhood is highly sought-after, now might be a great opportunity to sell your home and capitalize on the market.
8. Your neighborhood has depreciated in value.
Conversely, your home may have actually lost value instead. Reasons for this include neighboring properties whose maintenance has fallen to the wayside (making your home look less appealing to potential buyers), a recent increase in commercial development in the area, deteriorating infrastructure nearby, or a decline in the quality of the school systems. While it may be challenging to say goodbye, selling your home before prices drop even further may be the best way to protect your investment.
9. Your home has become a financial burden.
Homeownership has traditionally symbolized the American dream and been a means to establish financial stability. Nevertheless, you may instead find that your financial situation has worsened since you purchased your house, making it challenging to cover expenses like your mortgage, utility bills, and property taxes. In that case, selling your home might make the most fiscal sense—especially if it has accrued equity, which might enable you to purchase a more affordable home.
10. The cost to renovate is too high.
If your home requires significant improvements to its aesthetics, structural integrity, or essential systems, you may find yourself pondering the age-old question of whether it’s wiser to renovate or relocate. Renovations, although potentially transformative, can come with a hefty price tag that you may not recoup, even if you sell your home down the road. It’s a complex situation that involves weighing the costs and benefits along with your personal preferences before committing to one option or the other.
In the end, the decision to sell your home is a personal one. To make an informed choice, seek guidance from your real estate agent. They can address any concerns and give you insights into the current market conditions and the estimated value of your home, helping you determine if now is the time to make the move.
Bread is a staple food that has been enjoyed all over the world for centuries. Its many forms, flavors, and applications reflect the diverse cultures and traditions of its creators, which is showcased by Marie-Laure Fréchet’s Upper Crust cookbook. These recipes highlight the artistry of bread, using it to elevate everyday dishes to new heights of flavor and sophistication.
Dive into the ultimate comfort-food experience with this classic dish that’s fitting for any dinner party.
Moist, flavorful, and topped with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, this decadent dessert is the perfect way to use up stale bread.
© Upper Crust: Homemade Bread the French Way by Marie-Laure Fréchet. Flammarion, 2021. Photographs © Valérie Lhomme.
Craving a classic comfort food? Look no further than this mouthwatering meatloaf. Made with perfectly seasoned ground beef and a savory glaze, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Serves 8
LA BONNE IDÉE
Crafted from simple ingredients, including bread, milk, eggs, sugar, and spices, this bread pudding is baked to golden-brown perfection. The extra touch of rum and plump raisins adds a hint of sweetness, making it an instant favorite.
Serves 6
LA BONNE IDÉE
You can swap out raisins for pitted prunes or very thinly sliced apples.
Rather than just a blank or neutral surface, a ceiling can be a significant design element that adds depth, personality, and unique visual impact to a space, enhancing the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the room. Just look at Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. For four painstaking years, the artist dedicated himself to creating an enduring icon of artistic excellence that, to this day, compels visitors to tilt their heads and crane their necks in awe of its intricate beauty.
While we may not all possess Michelangelo’s extraordinary talent, we can take a page from his book and introduce a touch of that splendor into our own homes with statement ceilings. There are various ways to create one, and the design possibilities are virtually limitless. Here’s a closer look at some popular techniques and ideas for transforming a ceiling into a work of art.
White ceilings have been the norm in homes for many years, but there’s no reason you have to stick with tradition. Painting the ceiling a bold, dark color can actually make a room appear larger. For example, a black ceiling contrasted with light-colored walls draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of an elongated room. If you prefer a less dramatic look, choose a color that complements the existing decor and paint in the room, which can lend a cozier and more cohesive atmosphere. Whatever you opt for, painting your ceilings is a relatively inexpensive project that can make a big impact on your home.
If you aspire to channel your inner Michelangelo, or at least capture a glimpse of his genius, consider adorning your ceilings with hand-painted murals, whether you tackle the endeavor yourself or enlist the help of an imaginative friend. A mural depicting a forest sky, fluffy clouds, or a star-studded night can be a delightful addition to a bedroom, bringing a touch of the great outdoors inside so you can bask in the wonders of nature while relaxing. Or go for a colorful, abstract mural that brings a new level of energy into your living room. Your only restrictions are your imagination, so get creative and make your ceilings pop.
Over the past few years, wallpaper has slowly found its way back into homes across the nation, with more people using it to bring in a maximalist element to their spaces. And though hanging it on the ceiling may take a little extra effort, doing so is a great way to enhance the aesthetics of a room, especially when it coordinates with the rest of the decor. Imagine how beautiful it’d be to have a floral pattern or abstract detail on the ceiling of your bedroom, living room, or bathroom. Just note that because wallpaper on the ceiling will be viewed from farther away, you’ll want to pick a pattern without small, intricate details that could get lost from a distance.
Adding architectural elements can bring texture and dimension to a space and make it feel more luxurious. For instance, intricate molding along the edges of a ceiling, reminiscent of the styles often found in homes during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, introduce elegance to an otherwise blank space, while naturally stained wood beams can play well with neutral walls and cabinets in a dining room or kitchen. Meanwhile, coffered ceilings (grids of sunken panels) create drama and extravagance, but they generally only work well in larger rooms with walls at least nine feet tall since the square or rectangular coffers take away from the available height. You can further enhance the drama of this ceiling design by installing recessed lighting, which accentuates and enriches the depth of the coffers.
When upgrading a ceiling, it’s important to consider the main style and purpose of the room as well as the cost of making it over, which can vary quite a bit. Ultimately, a statement ceiling offers a creative opportunity to transform a room’s design, turning an often overlooked surface into a captivating feature that leaves a lasting impression.
