This or That: Living Rooms

Planning on sprucing up your space for fall? One of the areas of the home that can see the most change on a seasonal basis is the living room. Throws and pillows are easy to replace, and are a great way to incorporate the latest trends into a room without making a major investment or commitment. The potential for fluidity within your living room means you can try new things out, get a little festive depending on the upcoming holidays, and continue to adapt your space as your family changes.

If you’re feeling inspired to make a change, we’ve got to ask: which of the two living rooms below would you try and emulate? Do you prefer Option A’s warm grays and welcoming art? Or are you more interested in the fun patterns and bright space that Option B presents? Where would you rather gather your family for game nights or host a book club?

OPTION A

Image via My Full House

OPTION B 

Image via Inspired By Charm

Our Choice: Option B

Although we can appreciate the coziness of Option A, our heart lies with Option B. Yes, it’s a little showy and the patterns are a lot for the eye to take in, but we find that charming. Option A is neutral and soothing and perfect for a small space, but our dream living room is a bit funkier.

Don’t agree? We want to hear from you! Connect with us on Twitter or Facebook and let us know what you think. 

Did you know that connecting with us on Facebook has perks beyond sharing your thoughts on home decor? It's the place to get celebrity style tips, home show updates, and ticket deals! Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets to the Marketplace Events Home Show nearest you when you visit our Facebook ticket deals. 

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This or That: Kitchen Design

For many households, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s a high traffic area that sees a lot of enjoyment from every member of the family. We may spend a lot of time in our bedrooms, TV rooms, and bathrooms, but the kitchen is very central. It’s where we gather to cook, eat, and chat about our days. And when it comes to a space that sees as much action as the kitchen tends to, design and decor are important. So we’ve got to ask: which of the kitchens below do you prefer? 

Where would you rather help with homework and sip your morning coffee? Option A’s colorful cookery? Or Option B’s modern creation? Which kitchen would you rather have in your home?

OPTION A

Image via Country Living

OPTION B

Image via Better Homes and Gardens

Our Choice: Option B

As much as we enjoy Option A’s whimsical color scheme and quirky retro touches, Option B is our favorite. The space is bright, open, and airy. Some may argue that an all white kitchen is dull, but it’s also classic. A bold color can sometimes come with an expiration date – what seems unique and fun can start to feel tired after you’ve seen it day after day, year after year. White tends to have a more long term appeal. Colorful accent pieces, like a yellow vase, can add the color you need and are much easier to replace.

Don’t agree? Connect with @HomeShows on Twitter and tell us what you think. We’d love to hear from you! Plus, check us out on Pinterest to see more kitchens that we love, and to get decor ideas for the rest of your home.

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This Or That: A-DOOR-able Front Doors

A recent trends that's been gaining popularity is having a loud front door - and no, we're not talking about your doorbell volume. Painting your door a non-traditional color is becoming more and more commonplace. Rich tones like eggplant and ox blood were easy to adopt, but now homeowners are attempting more vibrant colors like chartreuse and magenta.

Check out the painted doors below and let us know which one you'd prefer. Would you dare to try Option A's sunny hue? Or would you feel more comfortable with Option B's purple perfection? Which choice makes you yell shut the front door (so I can look at it)?

Option A

Image via Bob Villa

Option B

Image via Bight Bold Beautiful

Our Choice:

Although we really like both doors, we prefer Option A. The yellow complements the white trim and antique lantern, and isn't too flashy. The plants surrounding the door are also a very playful accent. This seems like a lovely door to kiss goodnight in front of or to lock up every morning on your way to work.

You probably have a few colorful front doors in your neighborhood, so we have to ask: what color is your door? Have you thought about painting it recently? Is there a color that you absolutely would not paint your door? Let us know below. And of course, for  more home design tips and inspiration make sure to head to the Marketplace Events home show nearest you - US Shows and Canadian Shows.

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Bright Ideas: 8 Lighting Options

It's time to light up your whole house in a much more unique way!  Once the walls are painted and the furniture is chosen, many tend to think the house is complete...but what about the lights?  Lighting can add a lot of charm to a space; this charm should be unique in every room.  So whether it's a chandelier here, and a few pendant lights there, don't be a afraid to make lighting an added feature in every room.

8 Bright Light Ideas

1. Go contemporary in the dining room

2. Have fun in the kids rooms

Image via BHG.com

3. Mix the old with the new in the kitchen 

Image via Jodi Mockabee

4. Add a little rustic charm in the game room  

5. Create a focal point, go big and industrial anywhere

Image via Lonny

6. Be romantic by your kitchen table

7. Add a little color and symmetry to the bedroom 

Image via Lonny

8. Add a chandelier to the kitchen

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