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Generation Z’s Must-Haves When Buying Homes

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  Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) has developed a reputation for   being more frugal   than prior generations (such as the   millennials with their avocado toast .) The oldest came of age during the Great Recession in the late 2000s, and many saw their families struggle. And as these younger folks are just getting started professionally, they typically earn less than their millennial and Gen X peers. So it’s not surprising that with the cost to purchase a home so high, Gen Z is looking to save wherever they can. That might help to explain why owning a large home isn’t as important to this generation, say real estate and generational experts. Recent college graduate  Riley McConnell , 22, hopes to eventually move into an apartment with her partner somewhere affordable where she can launch her career. For now, the marketing and communications coordinator is currently working with her grandfather, a demographer, and living with her parents in Connecticut. She and other members of her g

What Is Hardscaping?

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Hardscaping is the use of non-living elements in landscape design. This can include things like paved areas, fire pits, fences, water features, and more. Hardscape is the opposite of softscape, which includes all the living things in your yard, like shrubs, grasses, flowers, and trees. Hardscape and landscape are typically used together to create landscape design. So, landscaping is the encompassing umbrella term—referring to the process of modifying the land to enhance its appearance and functionality—and hardscaping and softscaping are the more specific examples that fall under the umbrella. Examples of Hardscaping Patios While plants may be first of mind when you picture landscaping, it's actually common practice to do hardscaping first, and follow with softscaping. Patios are often the largest element of hardscaping in landscape design, and they play an important role of designating functional spaces in the backyard. Walkways Walkways are another highly functional element of ha

The Latest Decor Trend--A Minifridge in the Bathro

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  Also called a skincare fridge or a beauty fridge, this newest home decor trend began, naturally, with the beauty industry. More specifically, it emerged in the highly influential world of Korean beauty trends, also known as K-beauty. “No one dominates skincare like Korean trendsetters,” says designer  Nicole Cullum , of  Color Caravan . “With K-beauty now leading trends like glass skin, everyone has a minifridge close at hand for all their eye creams, serums, and depuffing tools.” If you’re unfamiliar with keeping your skincare products cool, the reason behind it is simple: It makes them last longer. Although many oil-based products shouldn’t be kept in the fridge (due to separation), many water-based ones with ingredients like vitamin C and A derivatives (including retinol) are said to last longer if stored in the fridge. And considering the high price tag attached to some of these products, it makes perfect sense that people are listening. Why you might want a minifridge for your l

8 Ways to Work on Your Yard This Winter Without Heading Outside

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  1. Pause and Reflect Think back on the past year and how your space evolved through the seasons. What were your successes? Also think about what wasn’t successful or any areas that were overlooked. Maybe it’s time to add plantings to a neglected corner of the yard. Perhaps you want to expand an  edible garden  or add a shade  tree . Now’s the time to brainstorm for the upcoming year. Noelle Johnson Landscape Consulting 2. Start Seeds It may be too early to plant outside in all but the mildest climates, but you can get your garden ready for the season by starting seeds — especially annuals and edibles — indoors. Browse seed catalogs for familiar favorites and new possibilities. Get your seeds off to a good start with the right light and consistent moisture. A sunny window will work well, or you can create your own mini plant nursery with grow lights and heat mats (available at local nurseries, home improvement stores or online). Emilie Fournet Interiors 3. Bring Your Garden Inside Kee

11 Things You Should Never Store Under the Kitchen Sink

  The area under any sink is already cramped, but   kitchen sink cabinets   pose one of the greatest home storage challenges. Between water supply pipes, the garbage disposal, and   water filtration system , there's not much room left for storage. Chances are, your   under-the-sink storage area   is stuffed with, well, stuff. And while it's smart to store daily use items there, there are several things you should not store under   the kitchen sink . It's a smart idea to clear out, clean, and  reorganize the cabinet  with only what you need. The following list of things you should never store under the kitchen sink can serve as a reference for what not to put back in the space. 1. Cleaning Products and Chemicals Most commercial cleaners are designed to be kept in climate-controlled environments with proper ventilation—a combination you won’t find under the kitchen sink. If not sealed properly, bottles of bleach and other harsh chemicals (especially undiluted) can leak and ca