Blog

Imagine graduating college and moving back into your parents’ house, to a room you decorated when you were 12 years old. That was me about a month ago; pool blue walls with multi-colored waves I painted myself to match one side of my reversible brown polka-dotted comforter. What a view. Knowing it was time to have my bedroom match my current lifestyle, I set about doing my own little bedroom redesign project! I’m going to walk you through my design process, introduce you to a few of the latest trends in the “young adult” world, and provide you with some great ideas for your guest room!

Redesign Your Northern VA Bedroom

I knew it was time for a change. Naturally, I turned to Pinterest for inspiration. I found that the biggest trends right now are botanicals, textures, and organic materials. I’d describe my personal home style as sort of “sophisticated-boho,” as I love pastels and light neutrals. You could probably describe me as your typical post-grad college girl, drawn to plush pillows, candles, and tapestries.

Bedroom Décor Inspiration

During my design process, these are a few of the photos I focused on for inspiration:

(Via Istome Store, Wiley Valentine, Marzena Marideko)

As you can probably tell, I love the grey/blush/metallic palette mixed with neutral whites. My favorite trend right now is the white marble and rose gold combination. (Even my laptop and phone cases are marble patterned!) Other materials like brick, wood, and velvet are all the rage right now too. Incorporate these into furniture pieces like wooden bed palettes or velvet upholstered headboards. Mixing these textures with plush rugs and chunky knit blankets instantly creates (my idea of) the perfect cozy bedroom vibe.

Bedroom Design Trends in Northern VA

Other trending accessories I found are canopies, woven wall art, and macramé décor! Mix these with string lights and botanical planters to foster a light, natural atmosphere.

(Via Pinterest, Top Cool DIY, Tina Horn)

If your style is a bit more bold and colorful, design your home with jewel tones, geometric prints, and retro accessories. Neon signs, wallpaper, and vintage Edison-style lightbulbs are some current must-haves.

(Via Dalliance Design, Decor Pad, mrkatedotcom)

Trending: Minimalist Designs for Your Guest Bedroom

If these trends are maybe too “out there” for you, or don’t exactly fit into your personal style, don’t be afraid to have some fun with your guest bedroom! The guest bedroom is the perfect opportunity to experiment with your design. These trends are still fun, cozy, and relaxing, yet a bit subdued. Kilim patterned rugs or pillows are a great way to add a bit of muted color! Small touches of texture and print can liven up any simple, minimalist space:

(Via Aspyn Ovard, The Southern Trunk, West Elm)

Home Improvements in Northern VA

We are so excited to announce that we just won the Best General Repairs/Handyman award, voted on by the readers of Washington Family Magazine! Thank you all for your continued support, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you are thinking of a home remodel, the professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

By: Pam Kopiak (PKopiak@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

Tips From the Best Northern VA Remodeler

Unless you are Harry Potter, a room under the stairs isn’t all that likely. BUT making use of that space IS pretty smart.  There are so many things that can be done nowadays.  Ideas that go beyond reading nooks and desk spaces.  Think bigger here.  Impromptu mud rooms, wine cellars and fancy dog crates for starters!  Just a few of the many ideas you can dream up.

Abbreviated Mud Room

Need better storage for all those jackets, shoes and backpacks but don’t have a large area to dedicate to a proper mud room?  No worries!  Use that space under the stairs for a small footprint/big impact solution.  Out of sight but super useful – perfect!

Dog House

Have a puppy you need to contain during the day but sick of that unsightly crate?  Or maybe you want a space your dog can feel comfortable in while he slumbers through the night (fingers crossed).  Look no further than that stairway.  It can be the solution to all your pet needs, while aesthetically pleasing at the same time.

Wine Storage

Is it “wine o’clock” pretty often in your home? Maybe you would like to have a space to store all your wine! Forget the simple wine fridge. Do it right and dedicate an entire space to your collection. Create a wine cellar on the main floor for easy access. Light it up and it can be a beautiful display for all your house guests to enjoy.  You might just want to put a lock on this space!

Addition Contractor in Northern Virginia

If you need more space to remodel the home of your dreams, look no further! We are your own stop shop for all of your home improvement needs.  The professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, or would like a free estimate, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

It is mid-February and I am sitting outside (short-sleeved) watching my Z3 and Z4 battle invisible droids in our back yard.  You read that correct… short-sleeves and battling OUTSIDE in the middle of February.  I don’t know what Mother Earth is planning for us in the next few weeks, but for right now I am going to enjoy this weather while I fantasize about the glorious Summer months ahead!  Currently, at the top of my list is to hit the gym hard for the next few months as well as start planning our outdoor space. Here are a few of my favorite local Vienna MOSS remodels that allow homeowners to really take advantage of beautiful weather.

Sunroom

Sunroom additions are one of the most popular home additions in home renovation.  Sunrooms enable you to enjoy the sun even if the temperature isn’t where you’d like it to be.  As the seasons transition; you can enjoy the stress-relieving rays of sunshine through single or double paned windows!  Like this sunroom addition in Vienna, VA.  Notice how the beautifully large windows bring the outdoors in, while the warm colors generate a feeling of coziness!  The perfect place for family game night or to sip some lemonade and read a good book.

Indoor Pool

Nothing says summer like the smell of chlorine!  Some enjoy that feeling so much that they decide to have it all year round with the addition of an indoor pool.  Quite the fantasy for my children and reality for this lucky family who added an eternity pool to their home.  Who says summer has to end?

Pool House

If you already have a pool (lucky you), consider adding a pool house!  Perfect place for your guests to change and hangout while soaking up the sun.  Perhaps think about making it a multi-use guest house as well.  We all have a Kato or two in our lives, don’t we??

Outdoor BBQ

I know from experience that after all that playing out doors I have a hungry MOB. One of our favorite things to do is to grill!  My husband would be ESTATIC and cook up a storm in an outdoor kitchen like this one. Eating corn on the cob and some fire-cooked burgers is the perfect end to a long summer day.  Aren’t you ready to cook up some memories?!  It’s not too late to get a jump start on YOUR summer projects.

Best Home Remodeler in Vienna

Did you know that not only was Moss Home Services just voted The Best Handyman 2017 by the readers of Arlington Magazine, but Moss Building and Design is also the reigning Best Remodeler?! Thank you so much for your support throughout the years, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you are thinking of a home remodel, the professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

Until Next Time,

Z

 By Pam Kopiak (PKopiak@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

If your home is anything like mine, most of your house is about accommodating others.  The living room is for gathering with family and friends.  The kitchen is for making food for the family, and in my house it functions as homework central.  The bathrooms?  Let’s not go there.  Where is your personal space?  Your master bedroom of course.  If you are thinking of adding a master suite to your home, consider some additions that will make it a luxurious retreat.  Now is the time to pamper yourself.  Or as Tom and Donna from Parks and Recreation would say, now is the time to “ Treat Yo Self.” Here are some things to consider.

Keep Your Master Suite Open and Bright

Making a space feel special is more than just adding some ornate furniture and calling it a day.  It is also about the physical design of the room.  Consider opening up the space with tall ceilings and cutting out custom windows to maximize on natural lighting.  Perhaps you could add a sitting area to read in after the kids have gone to bed.

Small Touches Have a Big Impact on Your Master Suite

As they say, it’s all in the details.  A little lighting can go a long way.  Recessed lighting and dimmer switches to set the mood can make a big difference and create a certain ambiance.  You could also consider details like heated flooring. You’d never have to wake up to a cold floor again (dreams can come true). For more information on floor heating, see this article by Remodelista. 

Top Your Master Suite Off with a Luxury Master Bathroom

The bathroom space of your master suite can also be luxurious. I cannot get enough of the trend of chandeliers in bathrooms.  They instantly add a sense of glamour to the space.  This Burke, VA bathroom remodel feels open and luxurious and would definitely be a space I could see myself relaxing in.  For more info on creating a luxurious master bathroom, check out our previous blog on the subject.

If you are looking for ideas on how to update your master bedroom, the professionals at Moss Building and Design are always available to answer questions and share ideas.  If you would like to discuss your remodeling plans or have general questions call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

By: Zaiba Hasan (ZHasan@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

Remodeling Trends

One of the BEST perks of working with MOSS is getting the 4-1-1 of all things home-related BEFORE it hits the main stream.  Having just attended the area’s largest Home and Remodeling Show (Dulles Expo Center), allowed an attendee the opportunity to see anything and everything you would need to see before embarking on your remodeling journey.  Whether it was feeling an “always fluffed” bamboo pillow, testing out the no-drip paint tray, or meeting with amazing MOSS peeps (like myself), this show was an explosion on your “remodeling senses!”  However, if you were one of the few that missed out, here is a summary of the top trends/ideas in the remodeling world for this upcoming year!  You are welcome.

Goodbye Granite

Let’s get this straight. Natural stone will ALWAYS be a part of the renovation world!  However, quartz (an engineered stone that LOOKS like marble) is really taking the home-building world by storm.  With printing technology at its finest, the “movement” within the pieces really do mimic real stone without all the negative attributes (porousness, maintenance, etc.) that accompany real stone.

Porcelain Tiles

Like it’s quartz counter-part, porcelain tiles have come a LONG way from the 80’s/90’s. You are now able to choose from 100’s of styles and sizes that can transform your kitchen, bathroom, mudroom into the room of your dreams-WITHOUT breaking the bank!

Mixing Metals

Gone are the days where our metals must match.  Silver to silver, brass to brass (blah, blah/boring, boring)-you get the picture.  In fact, mixing metals creates that customized look that speaks to YOUR tastes.  Nothing says “generic build” like matching accessories!  So, you now have permission to change it up!  Fun times.

Spa Bath

Homeowners are consistently carving out serenity areas in their homes. In fact master bath remodels are only a close second to kitchen remodels.  Jacuzzis are being ripped out in favor of deep soaking tubs. Steam and massage showers are being installed like gang busters, and chrome therapy is all the rage!

Decorative Accents

When you are done putting an outfit together, what finishes “the look” are your accessories.  Whether it be a scarf, some cool earrings, or an amazing HOT pink lipstick. The same holds true for home remodeling.  Paint, lighting, and accent walls are the “accessories” of the design/build world. This is what can really add the special “oomph” to a space.

Best Remodeler in Northern Virginia

No matter how big or small your remodel ends up being, MOSS has a design solution for you. Did you know that not only was Moss Home Services just voted The Best Handyman 2017 by the readers of Arlington Magazine, but Moss Building and Design is also the reigning Best Remodeler?! Thank you so much for your support throughout the years, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you are thinking of a home remodel, the professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

Until Next Time,

Z

By: Pam Kopiak (PKopiak@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

Time to Change Things Up

I recently vented to my friends about how much stuff there was in my house after the holidays.  It was totally overwhelming.  I have 3 children, the youngest being just six years old. So as you can tell, we already had too many toys laying around. But, I am probably preaching to the choir here.  Aren’t most of us swimming in a sea of toys and misplaced children’s items?  Well, enough was enough.  I was spurred into action.  That toy room that I had begun to despise HAD to change.  And so it began.

Before

This is what I was dealing with before I decided to take drastic measures.  This doesn’t even begin to tell the story because I had already taken down the old drapes that really made the room feel closed in.  Also, the clutter is present, BUT had been straightened up somewhat (all my son’s legos were strewn about before).  There was too much stuff in such a small space!

After

Sometimes it can be very difficult to decide what to do in your own space because you have blinders on.  I had seen the space as a toy room for six years so I was having a hard time envisioning it as a different space.  I turned to my good friend, Wendy Pilch, of Spendalla Personal Shopping for some design advice.  I had already seen her gorgeous home and knew she would be able to guide me in the right direction.  And that she did! 

By clearing the room out first, we were able to configure a plan to transform the small space into a sort of tween hang out spot.  We started by mounting the tv on the wall and changing the outdated light fixture.  The next step was to change the window treatment which really made a difference.  And thanks to my HandyMOM 101 Patch It skills, we were able to patch right over the holes left by the curtain rods and tiebacks.  The final step was to fill the room with all new accessories.  New pillows, painting, mirror, and two poufs.  Poufs?  Yes, apparently they are the new thing right now and I am loving them.  The space feels entirely transformed and now I can’t keep my 11 year old out of there!  I call this a success.

Northern Virginia’s Best Remodeler

Did you know that not only was Moss Home Services just voted The Best Handyman 2017 by the readers of Arlington Magazine, but Moss Building and Design is also the reigning Best Remodeler?! Thank you so much for your support throughout the years, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you are thinking of a home remodel, the professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

By Pam Kopiak (PKopiak@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

On a daily basis, I must yell “Get out of the kitchen!” at least 3 or 4 times.  My kids seem to LOVE being underfoot as I make dinner.  Never mind the newest Xbox set up in the living room with the LATEST football game out there.  Nope.  They want to kick a soccer ball around my feet or play with their Hot Wheels across the floor.  It drives me insane, I need them out!  This is where having a kitchen basement would come in handy.

Small Kitchens

This MOSS basement remodel in Ashburn, VA features a bar set up so you could send your guests downstairs to enjoy some beverages while simultaneously entertaining your children in the basement.  Set up a movie for them on the big screen and the adults can catch the football game on the bar screen.  I consider that a win/win.

Simple Kitchen

Then there is this remodel in Oakton, VA which features a slightly more robust kitchen footprint.  Now, with that oven, the guests, or your spouse whom you also sent out of the main kitchen, could be warming up hors d’oeuvres for the kids and grabbing some juice pouches (and wine) from the fridge.  Then let the kids play soccer in THIS space downstairs.  GOAL!

Full Kitchens

Or you could go big time.  This basement remodel in McLean, VA features some BIG items.  You have the full fridge and a dishwasher.  This is not only perfect for family get-togethers but also for hosting the in-laws. This basement features a full kitchen and a bedroom, allowing you to keep the kids AND extra guests out of your hair even when you aren’t cooking in the kitchen.  Sign me up!

Best Northern VA Contractor

If you are thinking of a home remodel and have any special needs that you need to have addressed, the professionals at MOSS are here to help.  If you have general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.

By: Leora Kahn (LKahn@MossBuildingandDesign.com)

Interior Design Trends

Camille DeLew is the owner of Another Eye Design LLC, a residential design company specializing in interior decorating, room redesign, space planning, furniture selection, paint & fabric consultation, and furnishings & accessories selection. I recently picked her brain about what we can expect, interior design wise, in 2017. Here is what she had to say!

Colors To Look For In 2017

Here are a few colors to keep in mind for the new year:

• Earthy greens and taupes
• Spicy reds
• Dusky blues
• Pale pastels, such as light blue, pinks and yellows for that, “pop of color”
• Emerald green is also going to be popular with brass fixtures

Kitchens & Laundry Rooms

In 2017 you are going to start seeing the use of Black Stainless Steel in both kitchens and laundry rooms. This specific look is going to be mixed with warm gold and brushed brass metal hardware.

Reading Nooks

“Nook” areas in the home are becoming increasingly popular!  People are wanting to get away from the digital media distraction and focus more on family time and reading time.  Providing spaces that provide comfortable seating like floor cushions and over-sized chairs and soft knit rugs, will become increasingly popular in 2017.

Bedrooms

Upholstered headboards are in and will add instant glamour to a bedroom without breaking the bank! Whether it’s a glamorous dark velvet or a neutral linen fabric, upholstered headboards will continue to replace the standard wood bed frames.

Decor & Furnishings

Decor that has a Scandinavian feel will continue to be popular in 2017. Furnishings such as Kilim rugs, natural linen, and warm colored leathers.

You’ll see a lot of Lucite mixed in with casual seating, along with cork used in table bases with stone tops to give that warm, natural feeling.  You’ll see more light and airy window treatments rather than the heavy fabrics in 2017.  Expect a lot of transparent fabrics and sheers!

Plants

As much as I hate to see it go, the Fiddle Fig Tree is on its way out and we’ll start to see more of the Olive Tree, which is just as great!

Thank you so much for all of the tips, Camille!

Best Northern VA Remodeler

Did you know that not only was Moss Home Services just voted The Best Handyman 2017 by the readers of Arlington Magazine, but Moss Building and Design is also the reigning Best Remodeler?! Thank you so much for your support throughout the years, and we look forward to being your one stop shop for all your home improvement needs. If you have any general questions, call MOSS at 703.961.7707 or email Sales@MossBuildingandDesign.com.