In many homes, the mudroom is the first room you see when entering the house.  It is what you are greeted with on a day-to-day basis, and what your guests will see first when they come over to your house.  This room usually has no frills and serves as just an entry point, but with MOSS Building & Design, we can help Loudoun County homeowners turn their mudroom into a functional and stylish entry point.  Below are a handful of ideas to transform your mudroom into a valuable part of your home. 

Welcome Center 

Mudrooms are a great starting point for organization throughout the home.  By turning your mudroom into a Welcome Center, you can create a haven of organization that helps when you leave the house for the day and finally get home for the evening.  Welcome Centers utilize various methods of storage and organization, including shelving, drawers, coat hooks, closets, and anything else your heart desires. 

Imagine this.  After you wake up in the morning and get ready for a day out, you head to your mudroom to leave.  Your keys are hanging on a hook.  Your wallet or purse are stored right next to it, and all your jackets, scarves, gloves, umbrellas, etc. are in the mudroom closet.  If you take a backpack or laptop bag with you, that is also hanging on a hook.  Inside storage cabinets are packs of tissues, baby wipes, paper towels, and any other quick-grab items.  Having everything handy in one, organized area makes a Welcome Center such an appealing option for your mudroom. 

Laundry Room 

A lot of people also like to turn their mudroom into a fully functional laundry room.  Let’s be honest.  Laundry is one of our least favorite chores that must be done weekly.  To make the task more palatable, MOSS can help you turn your mudroom into a fully functional laundry room.  With an energy efficient washer and dryer, built-in storage for all your laundry products, and a dedicated folding station, doing the laundry will become less of a hassle. 

Can MOSS still turn your mudroom into a laundry room if there isn’t already water and electrical lines run in the room?  Yes!  Your MOSS team will include specialized contractors for any of your project needs, including electrical wires for the dryer and water lines for the washer.  As long as any modification meets legal building codes, your MOSS team will be able to complete your vision. 

Pet Sanctuary 

Another unique idea for your mudroom is to create a pet sanctuary for your four-legged friend(s).  Some dogs and cats like having a dedicated space where they can eat, sleep, and relax in peace.  This may not work for every pet owner, but limiting pet activity to a dedicated area is a great way to keep the house in order and help your pets learn routine! 

Interested in designing a functional and stylish mudroom in your Loudoun County home?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire! 

Are you considering giving your home a new look with some unique additions but don’t know which one will suit you best? Don’t worry. We have sorted some Unique home additions in this blog just for you. We will also discuss their benefits and other factors you must consider while selecting a home addition. 

Top Unique Home Additions Ideas 

Here is the list of unique home additions and their advantages for you

Sunroom or Solarium:

• Increases natural light intake, elevating mood and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day.
• Solarium provides a tranquil space for relaxation, reading, or indoor gardening.
• Extends living space, allowing for more versatile use of your home.

Indoor Garden or Greenhouse:

• Indoor garden enables year-round gardening regardless of outdoor weather conditions.
• Offers a controlled environment for nurturing plants, vegetables, and flowers.
• Indoor air helps to improve air quality by filtering pollutants and increasing oxygen levels.

Mudroom:

• The mudroom helps maintain cleanliness by providing a designated space for removing outdoor footwear and gear.
• It prevents dirt, mud, and moisture from being tracked throughout the house, reducing cleaning efforts.
• Acts as a functional transition between the outdoors and the main living areas.

Home Office or Studio:

• Facilitates productivity and focus by providing a dedicated workspace away from distractions.
• Allows for customization and organization of work materials, enhancing efficiency.
• Supports remote work opportunities and fosters a healthy work-life balance.

Wine Cellar or Tasting Room:

• Provides optimal storage conditions for preserving and aging wine, protecting it from temperature fluctuations and light exposure.
• Creates a sophisticated space for wine enthusiasts to showcase their collections and host tastings.
• The wine cellar enhances the overall value and appeal of the home, especially for buyers with an appreciation for wine culture.

Library or Reading Nook:

• The library promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and mental stimulation through leisure reading and quiet contemplation.
• Fosters a love for learning and literacy within the household, especially for children.
• Adds aesthetic charm and character to the home with personalized book collections and cozy furnishings.

Home Theater or Entertainment Room:

• The entertainment room offers a premium experience with immersive audiovisual technology and comfortable seating.
• Provides a convenient venue for family movie nights, gaming sessions, and social gatherings and reduces the need for frequent outings to cinemas and theaters, saving time and money in the long run.

Multi-Purpose Room:

• Maximizes flexibility and functionality by accommodating a variety of activities and needs and adapts to evolving lifestyle changes, such as growing families or shifting interests.
• Optimizes space usage and efficiency by consolidating multiple functions into one area.

These were the Home additions to consider, but the list is incomplete. There are more ideas on the website. You can also contact us to learn more about home design ideas.

Factors to Consider in Choosing Best Home Addition

Choosing the best home addition for you involves carefully considering several factors, including your lifestyle, needs, budget, available space, and long-term goals. Here are steps to help you make an informed decision:

Assess Your Needs and Priorities:

• Consider how you currently use your home and identify areas that could benefit from additional space or functionality.
• Determine your priorities, whether creating a dedicated workspace, expanding living areas for entertaining, or enhancing relaxation and leisure activities.

Evaluate Available Space and Budget:

• Assess your property to determine the available space for a home addition, considering zoning regulations, setback requirements, and structural feasibility.
• Establish a realistic budget for the project, taking into account construction costs, materials, permits, and any associated expenses.

Research Different Types of Home Additions:

• Explore various home additions, such as sunrooms, offices, entertainment rooms, or outdoor living spaces.
• Consider each option's benefits, functionality, and aesthetic appeal in relation to your specific needs and preferences.

Consult with Professionals:

• Engage with architects, designers, and contractors specializing in home additions to gain insights and expertise.
• Discuss your ideas, goals, and budget constraints with professionals to explore viable options and develop a comprehensive plan.

Consider Long-Term Value and Resale Potential:

• Research the average costs and expected returns for home additions in your local real estate market and compare the initial investment required for each project with the potential increase in property value and resale price.
• While prioritizing resale potential, consider how the home addition will enhance your quality of life and meet your needs and preferences.

Think About Lifestyle and Future Needs:

• Consider how your lifestyle may evolve, including changes in family dynamics, work arrangements, or recreational activities.
• Choose a home addition that can adapt to your evolving needs and provide long-term functionality and enjoyment.

Visualize the Finished Space:

• Use design tools, sketches, or virtual renderings to visualize how the proposed home addition will integrate with your existing property and complement your overall aesthetic preferences.
• Consider architectural style, interior layout, and exterior landscaping to ensure cohesion and harmony.

Seek Inspiration and Gather Ideas:

• Explore home improvement ideas through mediums like lifestyle magazines, websites, and social media platforms to gather inspiration and ideas for your home addition project.  You can also contact Home Addition Services to know about some unique home addition ideas.
• Take note of design trends, innovative solutions, and creative layouts that resonate with your taste and lifestyle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey towards transforming your home with unique additions is an exciting opportunity to enhance your living experience and the value of your property. By exploring  options like sunrooms, indoor gardens, home offices, and entertainment rooms, you can tailor your space to suit your lifestyle and preferences. However, the decision-making process should consider available space, budget, long-term value, and future needs carefully.

Consulting with professionals like MOSS Building & Design and seeking inspiration can further guide you in creating a space that reflects your personality while accommodating practicality and functionality. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, your home can become a haven of comfort, style, and versatility for years.

Rustic Charm: Home Remodeling with Sliding Barn Doors

Sliding barn doors have become increasingly popular in home remodeling projects over the past few years, and it's not hard to see why. These charming and versatile doors have a unique aesthetic appeal that can instantly elevate the look and feel of any space. Whether you're aiming for a rustic farmhouse vibe or a more contemporary design, sliding barn doors offer an elegant and stylish solution.

Understanding the Appeal of Sliding Barn Doors

Before delving into the specifics of choosing the right sliding barn door for your home and installation tips, let's explore the history and aesthetic impact of these doors.

The History of Barn Doors in Home Design

As the name suggests, sliding barn doors originated from actual barns and were primarily used for functional purposes. These sturdy doors allowed farmers to easily access their livestock or store their equipment while providing a rustic charm to their surroundings.

However, the history of barn doors goes beyond their practicality. These doors have a rich heritage that dates back centuries. In medieval times, barn doors were not only used for agricultural purposes but also served as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. They were often adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.

Over time, the appeal of barn doors transcended its utilitarian origins, making its way into residential architecture and interior design. Today, it has become a symbol of contemporary rustic elegance that adds character and flair to any home.

The Aesthetic Impact of Sliding Barn Doors

One of the key reasons why sliding barn doors have gained immense popularity is their ability to create a dramatic focal point in any room. These doors serve as a visual statement, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetics.

When it comes to aesthetics, sliding barn doors offer a wide range of options. From traditional wooden doors with a weathered finish to sleek and modern glass doors, there is a style to suit every taste and interior design theme. The versatility of sliding barn doors allows homeowners to express their creativity and personalize their living spaces.

Moreover, sliding barn doors have the power to transform the ambiance of a room. They can instantly add warmth and coziness to a space, making it feel more inviting. On the other hand, a metal barn door can introduce an element of industrial chic, creating a contemporary and edgy atmosphere.

Another aesthetic advantage of sliding barn doors is their ability to maximize space. Unlike traditional hinged doors that require clearance for opening and closing, sliding barn doors glide along a track, saving valuable floor space. This feature is particularly beneficial for small rooms or areas with limited square footage.

In addition to their aesthetic impact, sliding barn doors also offer practical benefits. They can provide privacy when needed, separate different areas of a room, and act as a sound barrier. These doors are not only visually appealing but also functional, making them a popular choice among homeowners.

Choosing the Right Sliding Barn Door for Your Home

Now that you understand the appeal of sliding barn doors, let's discuss how to choose the perfect door for your home.

Materials and Styles: From Reclaimed Wood to Modern Metal

When it comes to materials, there is a vast array of options to choose from. Reclaimed wood offers a charming and authentic look, perfect for that rustic farmhouse style. On the other hand, modern metal doors provide a sleek and contemporary design that complements minimalistic interiors.

Consider the overall style you want to achieve, the existing decor of your home, and the level of maintenance you're willing to invest in when selecting the material for your sliding barn door.

Size and Placement Considerations

Before finalizing your sliding barn door, it's crucial to carefully measure the dimensions of the doorway. The door should have enough space to slide freely without obstructing any adjacent furniture or fixtures.

Additionally, consider the placement of the door within your home. Sliding barn doors are often used to separate open-plan spaces or serve as a statement entryway. Carefully assess the layout and functionality of your home to determine the most suitable location for your new door.

Installation Tips for Sliding Barn Doors

Once you have decided on the perfect sliding barn door for your home, it's time to install it. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process.

Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you start the installation, gather all the necessary tools and materials. You'll typically need a drill, screws, a level, a measuring tape, a stud finder, and hardware specific to your selected sliding barn door system. Take the time to organize your tools to ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Begin by identifying the location of the studs in the wall where you plan to install the door. Use a stud finder to locate them accurately.
2. Measure and mark the spots where the hardware for the door will be mounted, ensuring that they align with the studs.
3. Install the hardware according to the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Attach the door to the hardware, making sure it is level and secure.
5. Test the sliding mechanism to ensure proper functionality.
6. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth and effortless sliding motion.

Maintaining Your Sliding Barn Door

Once your sliding barn door is installed, it's essential to properly maintain it to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

Cleaning and Care Tips

The maintenance requirements of your sliding barn door will depend on the material you choose. Wood doors may require periodic cleaning and application of protective coatings to prevent warping or damage. Metal doors, on the other hand, may need occasional dusting and polishing to maintain their sleek appearance.

Regularly check the hardware to ensure there are no loose or worn-out components. Lubricate the sliding mechanism if necessary to guarantee smooth operation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter any issues with your sliding barn door, such as squeaking, misalignment, or sticking, don't panic. These problems can often be easily resolved with minor adjustments or maintenance.

Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional if you are unsure how to address these issues. In most cases, small adjustments or repairs can restore your door to its optimal condition.

The Impact of Sliding Barn Doors on Home Value

Aside from the aesthetic appeal and functionality they offer, sliding barn doors can also have a positive impact on the value of your home.

The Return on Investment for Barn Doors

Installing sliding barn doors can be seen as a desirable upgrade, particularly for those who appreciate rustic or modern design elements. This unique feature can set your home apart from others on the market, potentially attracting potential buyers and increasing its perceived value.

Consider the market trends in your area and consult with a real estate professional to gauge the potential return on investment for your sliding barn door installation.

How Barn Doors Influence Home Buyers' Perceptions

In addition to their impact on home value, sliding barn doors can positively influence potential buyers' perceptions of a property. This feature can create a memorable impression and leave a lasting impact on visitors.

Buyers may be drawn to the charm and character that sliding barn doors bring to a home, envisioning how they can seamlessly integrate these doors into their own design aesthetic.

In conclusion, sliding barn doors offer a unique and captivating way to elevate the remodeling of your home. Whether you're aiming for a cozy farmhouse ambiance or a sleek modern look, these doors provide an aesthetic impact that is hard to match. By carefully selecting the right door, following proper installation techniques, and maintaining it regularly, you can enjoy the rustic charm and timeless appeal that sliding barn doors bring to your home for years to come.

No matter how big your home, there never seems to be enough storage space. Yet, no matter how small your room, there are always clever storage hacks to help maximize space and organization.

Winter is an ideal time to declutter and prioritize your personal belongings into well-organized and practical storage solutions for stuff you’re not yet willing to part with or still need but don’t use regularly. Here are some creative ways to incorporate storage into your interior design.

Clever Storage Ideas for Small Bedrooms

Rethink what belongs in your closet and bedroom. Store your off-season clothing in clearly marked, breathable containers sized to slide under your bed. Consider subtle darker-colored bins, decorative baskets, or antique suitcases for a textured design element. A bed-skirt will also finish the look and cover the stowage.

If you need additional space, add risers to the legs of your bed frame. You may need more help than these DIY storage solutions can provide. That’s where an expert remodeler and the designers at Moss Building & Design come in.

Vertical Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Vertical storage provides tremendous additional square-footage options for stylish storage solutions. Built-in or corner shelves showcase meaningful collections in a clean, functional process design element. A recessed wardrobe streamlines a room and limits bulky, protruding furniture pieces. A multi-purpose closet with sliding doors creates another working room within an existing space. There’s always room to convert the space under the stairs into a home-office nook.

Moss Building & Design worked with a homeowner in Oakton, Virginia, to provide a custom addition where the master bedroom features wall-lined floor-to-ceiling bookshelves to house an impressive library of books.

This multipurpose working space is another genius storage solution. The laundry table pulls out to a stainless-steel desk or additional workspace housed between recessed, symmetrical closets showcasing sliding barn doors. This multifunctional storage concept could easily be incorporated into a bedroom.

While renovating a home in Great Falls, Virginia, Moss Building & Design transformed the unused space under the stairs into a cozy nook for a laptop and office supplies instead of a closed-off closet. A similar concept could be designed into a bedroom with dormers to feature a desk and inset bookcases.

Dual-Purpose Furniture is Key

Use furniture that serves a dual purpose and provides additional storage. Instead of a bedside table, use small storage cabinets; install a floating drawer instead of a hook or shelf; and invest in a storage ottoman for linens or sweaters, as well as a place to sit while putting on your shoes.

This tucked-away pantry in one of MOSS’ renovated kitchens is another way to cleverly use storage space and keep your kitchen less cluttered. If you’re looking for help designing a kitchen like this one, we’ve got you covered.

Are you in search of additional storage solutions for all your seasonal clothing, office supplies, sports gear, holiday decorations, toys and keepsakes, books, inherited treasures, or clutter? Moss Building & Design can help you create additional storage in your attic, garage, basement, hidden nooks, or addition. Contact us at 703.961.7707 or email us at Hello@mossbuildinganddesign.com.

By: Julia Kilberg

It’s a new year, and we all know what that means: New Year’s resolutions that will make 2019 your best year yet!

Beyond “eat healthier” and “work out more” resolutions, I took a closer look at what things I could do to improve my family’s daily life as a whole. One of these is to keep our home more organized. We moved to a new house in April 2018 and I feel like, in some ways, we’re still moving in. Add two kids under three years old, and our house is constantly A MESS.

I’m trying my best to unpack, store, or toss items still in boxes somewhere or have been out-of-sight and out-of-mind for the last six months. Once I completely unpack, I’m hoping to add some color to our life. I love 2019’s Color Of The Year, Living Coral, and plan to incorporate that into future home accents.

Read more about the Color Of The Year in our blog.

Prioritizing Home Projects To Make Room For Family

Some members of our MOSS team also shared their home trouble spots and New Year’s resolutions to solve them. Read their New Year’s resolutions below.

“My New Year’s resolution is to spend more quality time ‘with’ my family – instead of ‘for’ them. Our Christmas gift was a pool table, so we’re updating our basement a bit with fresh paint to accommodate this as a new space for our family to spend time together.”
Janice McLaury, Community Relations Associate

“We want to finally fix our mudroom storage issues. It’s not fitted to be convenient for the kids to put their stuff away. We’re going to do what we have to do to make it work this year.”
Jason Hampel, Owner

“I have two resolutions! First, prioritize my health and fitness – like actually block off time on my calendar for it. Second, simplify my life by doing a hard purge of my home. Taking care of too much stuff is weighing me down.”
Jeannine Miller, People Ops Specialist

“Two of my boys share a room, and their closet is in a terrible state of disarray. Shoes, cleats, books, toys, clothes – you name it. It’s in there, and it’s a mess. My New Year’s resolution is to clean, purge, and organize this closet!”
Jenn Zschunke, Community Relations Manager

Resolve To Complete Your Home Remodel With MOSS

Let Moss Building & Design help your New Year’s resolutions become reality this year. Contact us for a free in-home estimate for design and remodeling services at 703-961-7707 or email us at Hello@mossbuildinganddesign.com.

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By: Julia Kilberg

It seems like everyone is watching “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix to learn how to clear the clutter and to simplify their lives. If you’re inspired by this minimalist interior design trend but don’t know where to start, here’s some design inspiration.

Consistency Is The Hallmark Of Minimalist Home Design

Minimalism in home design is almost exactly how it sounds. It’s an interior design style that focuses on minimal ornamentation and simplicity. Minimalism in art started in the 1960s as a response to consumerism and excess in society.

Similarly, minimalism as an interior design trend encourages you to ditch embellishments, decorations, and extra furniture and furnishings.

When it comes to home design, consistency is a great place to start. Make simple color choices, and carry these choices throughout your home. Start with a neutral pallet, like white or gray, on walls. Choose artwork or simple photo frames that match. Don’t over-do wall decor.

This Chantilly, Virginia, mudroom renovation is a perfect example of how simple changes reduce clutter (or at least hide it from view) and optimize the space. This workspace-mudroom combo hides clutter behind sliding barn doors.

Create Visual Balance In A Minimalist Home

Visual balance in the interior design of a minimalist home is most easily achieved by symmetrically arranging furniture. Make remodeling design choices to achieve architectural balance in your rooms.

“Radial balance radiates outwards in a circular pattern, from a central focal point (like a chandelier, skylight, round table, or centrally placed decorative tile),” according to an article on Hunker, an online design resource.

Should you choose to renovate or remodel certain rooms in your home or embark on an addition or whole-home renovation project, consider ceiling and electrical choices closely to achieve this balance. A radial chandelier in the living room becomes a focal point and the central pillar for a symmetrical space.

Commonly, you also see symmetry in double vanity bathrooms like in this Fairfax Station, Virginia remodel.

By: Julia Kilberg

New Year, new home ideas for your renovation projects. We rounded up interior design trends you’ll see in home remodeling and design projects in 2019. If you need fresh design inspiration for the New Year, read on. We’ll have you wanting to tackle your remodeling resolutions in no time.

Multifunctional Furnishings

Modular, sectional furnishings, like the LoveSac brand, are a big hit among young families. Both practical in design and style, multifunctional furniture grows with you and changes as your living situation and needs dictate.

We’re also seeing multifunctional spaces in remodeled homes. Mudrooms that double as laundry rooms keep your dirtiest items out of sight, for example. Office nooks in kitchens or living rooms are also popular when you have to make the most out of limited real estate.

Clean Before Storing

Everything from accent walls to chairs has been popular over the years. Now, look out for statement ceilings in 2019. This is a very unique way for you to add a “wow” factor to any room, but we recommend sticking with a small space for this bold design choice. A powder room or small bathroom really comes to life by adding a bright paint color, three-dimensional material, geometric beams, or a unique lighting choice. Just make sure it fits with your design aesthetic.

This bedroom remodel in Vienna, Virginia, has an eye-catching ceiling. The fan is framed by the recessed ceiling, adding depth and character to the room. You can easily picture this in a living room as well.

Dark Colors

Deep, dark colors (paired with bright accents like Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year, Living Coral) are making an interior design comeback in 2019. Dark floors and accent walls give a deep warmth to the room.

These two bathrooms offer design inspiration for unique spaces. They use dark colors without being too overwhelming. One way to add dark richness to a bathroom remodel without overcommitting to the color choice is through accent tiles in your shower.

Retro & Bold Patterns

Everything vintage is making a comeback these days. That holds true for the home design and remodeling market as well. Look for retro furnishings and bold patterns in 2019 carried throughout the home, from living rooms to kitchens to bathrooms. Mid-Century modern design choices, like terrazzo floors and tiles and art deco, are also exploding on the scene.

Choose a smaller area, like a powder room or mudroom, to experiment with bold patterns, materials, and color choices. This transitional mudroom designed in Fairfax, Virginia, makes a fun statement with its green patterned walls.

Let Moss Building & Design complete all your home remodeling New Year’s resolutions this year. Our interior designers have fresh ideas to create the beautiful home design you’ve been dreaming of. Contact us at 703.961.7707 or email us atHello@mossbuildinganddesign.com.

By: Jenn Zschunke

Fall is beckoning! With this orange and yellow season comes Halloween, Thanksgiving, and other seasonal happenings.

What else comes along and into your house? Trampled leaves, muddy shoes, piles of kids’ sports equipment, wet boots, and more.

These messy fall situations call for a solution that works: A functional, organized, and attractive mudroom.

Moss Building & Design, Northern Virginia’s top remodeling contractor, has extensive experience. We work with our customers to create the mudrooms of their dreams. Here are some of our favorite mudroom design ideas:

Organized Cubbies And Hooks

This gorgeous Oakton, Virginia, mudroom keeps the whole family organized. It has cubbies for shoes, shelves for miscellaneous items, and hooks for jackets and bags. Other cold-weather items, such as gloves and hats, are higher up until winter comes.

Sliding Doors

If your entryway isn’t from the outdoors or the garage, it’s through the front door. No matter! You can have a mudroom that comes into play when you need it. This functional Oak Hill, Virginia, mudroom has sliding doors. These doors keep the family’s belongings out of sight when out of use.

Combining Laundry & Mudroom

What a glorious thought! All the dirty socks go into the washer. Shoes go on the mudroom shelves, drawers, or cubbies! Combining a mudroom with your laundry room is a great idea for keeping the dirt away.

This Oak Hill home is beautiful and brings the two rooms together to make life a lot easier for the entire family.

Make Your Mudroom Fun & Functional

A mudroom doesn’t have to be boring. A fun color or an interesting lighting fixture makes the mudroom a room that’s suitable to visitors and family. This Arlington, Virginia, mudroom is a perfect example of how this family uses it day in and day out. Yet, it keeps an element of fun and interest in the design style.

Add Seating Options

It’s more comfortable to take shoes on and off if you’re able to sit down. We love this comfortable bench in this mudroom. You can also keep the seats uncovered as another option. The interesting wallpaper and recessed lights also add an element of comfort and calm. This makes the entry into your home via the mudroom one of ease.

Feeling inspired? Don’t let mud, dirt and fall mess get into your home. A new or renovated mudroom is the answer! Contact MOSS at 703.961.7707 or atHello@MossBuildingandDesign.com for more information.

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