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Call Early for Your Moving Services Estimate – Enjoy Big Savings!

By Heather McDonald, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Heather is the Office Manager for Ferrick Bros. Moving Company. From start to finish Heather gathers all important details about client moving needs, she sends quotes and executes contracts. She helps coordinate move logistics and convey important client needs to the folks facilitating the moves. Heather is there to help answer questions, confirm critical details and she is there in the end to follow up with clients and gather feedback about their moving experience.
Ferrick Brothers Moving Company
moving services

Most people and businesses planning their next move tend to forget something really important before they’ve even gotten started: a moving services estimate. Whether you’re planning a same-city “mini-move” or a long-distance relocation, calling early for a moving-services estimate could save you a lot of money – up to 50% on moving costs, in fact.

Ferrick Bros. Moving Company is a family-owned regional moving company serving commercial, residential, and industrial customers in the Newburyport area and beyond. As a locally owned and operated moving and storage company, Ferrick Bros. offers highly competitive pricing compared to national chains.

Be sure to get your FREE Moving Services Estimate as soon as you begin the moving process! Visit our website for a same-day online estimate or, for best accuracy, we’ll come to you. Online estimates are not as accurate as getting a quote from the owner, Bob Ferrick, either on the telephone or a free, in-house estimate.

Click here to get your moving coupons from Ferrick Bros!

  • $25 off any job between $500-$999
  • $50 off any job between $1,000-$2,000
  • $100 off any job over $2,000

Call us anytime 24/7 at 1-978-476-4229 for additional cost-saving moving services and storage tips. Same-day service available.

Ferrick Bros. also provides packing, unpacking, and pad-wrap services, and free boxes and other packing supplies are available upon request. We also understand that some moves require storage options as well. Ferrick Bros. offers furniture storage and portable storage facilities to fit any storage need.

Let Ferrick Bros. Moving Company do your heavy lifting for relocating your business office and equipment, moving into a new house or apartment, and/or transporting your specialty items with care.

Our strong reputation in the Newburyport area reflects our emphasis on best value and excellent customer service. Call or visit us online now to find out how much you could save on your next big move. You can’t afford not to!

New Construction Meets Historic Homes of Newburyport

By Blake Wilcox, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Owner, and Newburyport native, Blake founded The Joppa Group in 2016, enlisting a team of highly skilled craftsmen that bring specialized expertise and detailed project management to each home renovation project. Blake's background as a real estate developer has strengthened his position as a top residential and commercial builder. Blake brings tremendous experience managing relationships with sub-contractors as well as meeting tight deadlines, and adhering to a strict budget. His relentless determination to deliver exceptional results, is why the Joppa Group is able to exceed customer expectations.
Historic Homes of Newburyport, new construction

At The Joppa Group, we have specialized custom craftsmen to usher Newburyport’s historic homes into the 21st century, combining a blend of interior new construction layouts and designs while protecting and preserving the historic facade and charm of our homes. Redesigning historic homes for today’s uses requires a complex and time tested process of careful planning and intelligent craftsmanship. Open concept layouts and vaulted ceilings are not what post and beam homes were designed for and often are not what they are even capable of structurally without significant repair.

It all starts with a vision of how the space will be used for today’s needs, recognizing limitations of the space and developing clever designs that often blend the character of a historic home into a modern layout.  Our process often demands that we quite literally build a new construction home inside the existing historic home. We do this in such a way, that if you were to remove the original historic structure there would still be a new home standing there. Our goal is always to maintain unique attributes of historic homes, especially if they add to the structural integrity such as chimneys or wooden support beams constructed from ships. Other features that clients frequently want to maintain are built-in china cabinets, fireplaces, elaborate ceiling moldings, mantles, and other class wood carvings.

As an experienced custom home builder, this is the level of care and attention we put into the basic framing. Our true passion comes to life when we wrap the kitchen in custom cabinetry and tile work worthy of a magazine cover.  Our vision transforms into reality everywhere as we layer in thousands of feet of custom trim work through bedrooms, hallways, living rooms, and mudrooms.  The final image is accented by custom lighting and splashes of texture. Whether it’s a bold doorknob made of glass or a glass door entering a custom built pantry, our spaces are meant to pull the dreams from inside your imagination and lay them out for the world to see and experience.

Architectural Styles of Newburyport Meet Reimagined Interiors

By Mindi Poston Gay, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Mindi is Principal Architectural Designer, Assoc. AIA (American Institute of Architects) and has been practicing architecture and interior design for over 25 years. She’s a graduate of the Boston Architectural College (BAC) with a degree in Architecture and has worked in renowned architectural firms including Payette Associates, EGA Architects, Carpenter & MacNeille Architects, Essex, MA, and TMS Architects. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Design New England Magazine, New England Home Design Magazine, North Shore Magazine, Newburyport Magazine, The Boston Globe, USA Today Home Magazine, as well as Apartment Therapy, Discovery Channel and Planet Green Channel.
MPG Home Design
Architectural Styles, Newburyport, MA

Architectural styles abound in Newburyport. As you drive down High Street you’ll see examples of Cape, Mission, Bungalow, Modern Farm House, Federalist, Mansard, Greek Rival, Mid-Century, Ranch, Colonial and many more. Each style represents a different part of history and design theory.

The diversity of architectural forms is what makes this town so interesting. From timeless to trendy, Newburyport’s charm is linked to the co-existence of architectural styles. Amidst the variety, big changes are afoot. You’ll see changes happening on the outside with new porticos, garage additions, modern window replacements and material/color updates. But even more is happening behind closed doors.

Long ago, rooms were smaller and heavily divided by function. It was common to have separate parlors, dining rooms, and serving quarters – Each space designed for a singular purpose. Today’s family craves more open and flexible living. To achieve this goal, the layout of the inside of a house needs to be reimagined yet still harmonize with the exterior architectural style. Thanks to technology, structural engineering and great architectural design, most homes can be dramatically transformed to better serve a modern lifestyle.

Over the last year, we’ve noticed a common theme in renovation requests. Home owners have consistently asked, “How can I…”

  • Open up the dining or living room space for better flow with the kitchen
  • Improve overall kitchen functionality – get a bigger island, more storage, open shelving
  • Blend indoor with outdoor living – get more windows, views, and light
  • Replace dated trim and molding detail with more modern, simple lines
  • Convert a tired, cluttered bathroom to a more refreshing, spa-like refuge

No matter what the architectural style of your exterior, there are endless possibilities for interior transformations. It’s fun to explore all your options. That’s why we’re fans of dreaming big and then designing across a spectrum of change, from mild to magnificent.

In most cases, the process starts by documenting the existing conditions. Using the latest 3D camera technology, we can capture hundreds of views of an existing floor plan and stitch together a “doll-house” visual model. All key dimensions are then imported into CAD to create a baseline for new designs.

From there the architectural styles are incorporated into multiple schematic designs are developed in both Floor Plan and Elevation views. Computer modeling allows us to depict the design dimensionally to bring it visually to life. Sometimes a single design rises to the surface as the winner. Other times, a mash-up of several designs becomes the new hybrid solution. The selected architectural plan is vetted for feasibility and submitted to contractors for initial bids. When done efficiently, the Schematic Design process can take less than 8 weeks.

Whether it’s an antique Sea Captain’s home, or a conventional ranch, interior home transformations can have a huge impact on day-to-day living without noticeable change to the exterior. Of course, the exterior can be transformed as well, but we’ll save that for another blog!

The result is a better use of space, increased flow, improved views, more storage, less clutter, cleaner lines, and more environmentally friendly materials… Not to mention increased home value in a rising market!

No matter what type of house you live in, there’s a way to adapt the floor plan, wall position, entry ways, staircases and any other structural or non-structural component to improve your lifestyle.  Having an architectural strategy and an architectural plan are the keys to unlocking your home’s true potential.

Want to see the possibilities? We’d be happy to show you how our experienced Newburyport architects can take your home to the next level.

How about a Refreshing HOME-Over?

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Home-Over, Newburyport MA

How about a refreshing HOME-Over, as the chill of winter slowly gives way to spring, chances are you’re taking stock of your home and finding little things that have been nagging at you. Although the idea of “spring cleaning” seems a little cliché, there is no better time to refresh your home with a Home-Over! Re-creating your space so that it’s healthier, more accommodating, and more livable for your family can be done on just about any budget.

Top-to-Bottom Clean

Go through your house, open the windows, and clean everything from top to bottom. Look through drawers, closets, and pantries and donate, recycle, give away, or pitch anything you no longer want or need. From a health perspective, it’s time to get rid of old makeup, shampoo, and lotion. Wash dog bedding and toys and flip mattresses.

Shake out your rugs and give carpet and tile a good deep steam cleaning. Wash walls and drapery and even scrub countertops and appliances to get an in-depth clean. Cleaning and decluttering are a major step in ridding your home of negativity. While you can do a lot of this on your own, it may be worthwhile to hire a professional cleaning team to come in and handle the details on your behalf.

Rearrange Your Space

Ever wondered how that favorite armchair would look in another corner of your living room? Or how your Ficus tree would fare in the entryway instead of the guest room? Now is the perfect time to reconfigure your rooms and even re-decorate with your own things. According to Cosmopolitan, changing up how a room is situated can give you a literal and figurative new outlook. Create conversation areas, reading nooks, or change up lighting and knickknacks in different rooms for a fresh feel.

You can use an online room configuration tool to help. Again, while this is something you can probably do yourself if you’re moving heavy items or delicate pieces up and down stairs or in or out of storage, you’ll want to have professional assistance.

Make Use of All Spaces

For many people, a basement is just a damp storage area, but it’s actually a great amount of real estate if it’s refinished. Consider turning your basement into a meditation studio or a home gym, a media and entertainment room or guest quarters. You could potentially do this yourself but working with a seasoned Interior Designer and Contractor reduces headaches and ensures the project is done correctly.

Another idea is to convert your basement into your ideal home office. One of the key considerations in a basement office is having sufficient lighting.

Costs will vary based on where you live, the type of materials being used, and the specific improvements you’re looking for, working with a seasoned professional you will avoid costly mistakes.

If you need help bringing the vision of your space to life, contact Worthington Interior Design to create the home office of your dreams.

Find the Right Contractor

Whether you’re hiring a professional trade to come in and help with a minor project or you are doing a full-scale renovation, it’s important that the professionals you bring into your home are licensed, bonded, insured, and reliable. Always get written estimates and check your area contracting authority to ensure any company you employ is in good standing. Ask for testimonials and portfolio reviews of different work projects so you have a good idea about the type of work you’ll be receiving. Also, ask for timelines for completion.

Making renovations to your home space can boost the appraised value of the house as well as increase your enjoyment of the property while you’re living in it. Make honest assessments of what you can do yourself, versus what it makes sense to have a professional handle.

Founded by Interior Designer, Debra Worthington in 2003, Worthington Interior Design and Worthington Home has been born out of working with some of the nation’s top 10 architectural/interior design firms. To work with us, please contact us today!

Curb Appeal Ideas to Increase Your Home’s Valuation

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Curb Appeal - Worthington Interior Design Newburyport

As reported, curb appeal is one of the prominent contributing factors towards increasing your home’s valuation. For homeowners currently in the process of selling their house, this article by Worthington Interior Design explores numerous ways to maximize curb appeal and get the best price for your home.

 

 

Upgrade Your Home’s Exterior

Giving your exterior a revamp will give your property an instant fresh look, making it stand out from other homes in the neighborhood. Here is how you can go about it:

  • Re-paint: According to MyMove.com, popular color choices include white, dark gray, and colonial blue. But you can also go for bold choices such as mustard yellow or barn red.
  • Focus on Hardscape: Using a pressure washer, give your walkway, driveway, and sidewalks a thorough cleaning. This will help remove any dirt, mud, or grime, giving your entrance a sharp, clean look.
  • Decorate your Door: Like your walls, give your front door a fresh coat of paint or polish. Additionally, you can choose to hang plants or decorations to make your entrance inviting and comforting.

Focus on Landscaping

As reported by BHG, landscaping can help you earn an extra 7% on your home’s sale. To reap this benefit, upgrade your outdoor spaces as follows:

  • Use Flowerbeds: Planting colorful flowers will improve your lawn’s aesthetic and is bound to catch the attention of anyone passing by. Choose a local variety of flowers that are sure to bloom and accustomed to the weather.
  • Plant a Tree: When looking for a timeless addition to your lawn, a tree is the best option. Additionally, a tree helps to reduce water run-off, lower energy consumption, and act as a windbreak.

Decorate The Space

Once you have made the above-mentioned alterations; below are more ways to enhance your curb appeal:

  • Install Lights: To maintain your curb appeal post-sunset, consider additional light fixtures: exterior wall lanterns or specific landscape lighting.
  • Buy a New Mailbox: This simple, affordable upgrade will convey to buyers that you care about the details. You can add a flower bed surrounding your mailbox as well.
  • Add House Number: Is your address number plate need replacing? Popular options include number plates made from stainless steel, aluminum, or brass.

Some of these changes may seem small, they are bound to have a significant impact on increasing your home’s valuation. Visit the Worthington Interior Design Blog for more helpful design ideas.

 

Providing Cool Air Conditioning Comfort to our Community!

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Air Conditioning, Newburyport MA

Air Conditioning used to be a luxury, but modernized homeowners are more reliant on cooler drier air. Higher efficiency options allow for comfort with less operational costs as well as creative solutions for style and decor. Lombardi Oil & Gas has been installing and servicing air conditioning system for residential customers in Newburyport and the surrounding area for many years giving us the knowledge and experience to help customers understand that In addition to making everyday life more comfortable, air conditioning does much more for homeowners.

 

 

  • Air Conditioning continuously filters and circulates indoor air, removing airborne allergens, pet dander, pollen, pollutants and more. For those with respiratory conditions or sensitive allergies, HEPA filters and air purification systems work alongside cooling units to bring needed relief.
  • Air conditioning dehumidifies the air as it cools. This is important because humidity inhibits the ability of our bodies to self-regulate temperature, and it makes cooled indoor spaces feel clammy and smell musty.
  • Many modern air conditioning offers multiple fan settings, making it possible to filter and circulate indoor air even when the Air Conditioning isn’t actively cooling helping homeowners strike a balance between cleaner air quality and lower energy bills.
  • Smart Thermostats, the latest in thermostat technology, make it easier than ever to control energy use. These thermostats can be controlled from anywhere using your smartphone, and they provide the most user-friendly interface for setting up detailed cooling schedules that will save you money.
  • As an alternative to central air systems, DUCTLESS Air Conditioning & HEAT PUMP units are Great for older homes, renovated spaces and targeted cooling and heating needs – and can provide added value with savings up to 30% in heating costs.
    • Whisper Quiet
    • Quick & Easy Install
    • Year-round efficiency
    • Wi-Fi compatible
    • Wall, ceiling or floor mounted
    • Aggressive rebates available for new installations

Suggestions to keep your Air Conditioning system running at peak performance:

Keep your outdoor condenser free from leaves and brush. Sometimes you may want to hide the outdoor unit, however, please make sure to leave sufficient room around the whole unit, for proper air circulation on top and sides.

Change the filter regularly. Your air conditioner breathes through its filter, and when that filter becomes clogged, your AC unit struggles. A dirty filter can cause your fan to wear out prematurely and can sharply increase your energy use. Make a habit of replacing these on time!

Tune up your AC unit annually. Annual maintenance from a licensed technician is the only way to get your system ready for the cooling season. You’ll experience fewer breakdowns, lower energy bills and a longer life for your air conditioner.

Consider an Air Conditioning maintenance plan. The plan will cover an annual tune-up – and give you 15% off any parts and labor.

If you experience any disruptions in your cooling system, or have interested in upgrading to high efficiency or ductless, we are happy to help!

Customer satisfaction is important to us. We will offer the best value, with reliable, quality Air Conditioning service and installation and top of line expertise, to increase your comfort, convenience and safety. Call Lombardi Oil & Gas anytime to see how we can help you 978-465-7200 * Lombardioil.com!

Five Ways to Improve Air Quality in your Home

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Air Quality, Newburyport MA

You probably filter most of the two or three quarts of water you drink every day. But what about the 15,000 quarts of air you breathe, especially inside your home?

The fact is, indoor air can be four or five times more polluted than outside air. Why does this happen? Well, it starts with the fact that today’s homes are increasingly airtight – a consequence of building and modifying them to be more energy efficient. That means that whatever pollutants gather in your home tend to stay there.

The second part of the equation is that toxic products have become much more common in the home: from VOC-containing construction materials to chemicals contained in cleaning and personal care products and furniture items, your space is filled with potentially harmful fumes. Add that to the toxic load of outdoor air pollutants like radon and pesticides, plus other indoor pollutants such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold, and viola – you’ve got bad air.

Over time, this mix of pollutants can cause asthma and other chronic respiratory problems, along with headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue.

Five easy ways to improve indoor air quality (IAQ)

The good news is that by taking some simple precautions and making smarter buying choices, you can greatly improve air quality in your home. Here are five suggestions:

  1. Replace toxic cleaning products with natural alternatives – Shop wisely for your cleaning products, or make your own: vinegar and baking soda are great natural cleaning agents that cut grease, clean drains, kill germs, and more.
  1. Choose low –VOC paint and healthier construction materials – Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in paint can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness, visual disorders, and memory impairment. You’ll pay a little more for low-VOC paint, but it’s a much healthier alternative. Look for mold resistant building materials, too.
  1. Add greenery – Plants absorb toxic chemicals through their leaves. Plant roots and soil bacteria also remove trace levels of toxic vapors. They look great, too!
  1. Maintain your HVAC system – Sign up for a Service Plan to keep your HVAC system working properly and moving air freely – and consider investing in a duct cleaning to remove allergens and mold.
  2. Consider installing a whole-house UV filter – The air filter in your home’s HVAC does a good job with dust, dirt, pollen and pet dander. But filters can’t do anything about chemical or biological contaminants like air-borne viruses, mold, germs, bacteria or volatile organic compounds (VOC). That’s where indoor air quality equipment like an UV Filter or whole-house air purifier come in.

With powerful filtering capabilities, these add-ons to your home HVAC system will keep pollutants at bay, helping your family breathe easier for years to come.

Contact us today to discuss service plan options and schedule service!

 

 

 

A Staging Consultation Helps Sell Fast and Get Top Price for Your Home

By Ashley O'Shea, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner & Principal, Ashley is a RESA Certified Home Stager located north of Boston, whose work has been featured on Chronicle and “Top 5 Most Stunning Houses to See this Weekend” by Boston Magazine. Most recent projects include a full interior design on a 3,200 square ft. luxury condominium in the Four Seasons Residence, One Dalton, Boston. Specializing in Luxury Home Shopping and Home Staging, Ashley is fiercely committed to creating beautiful homes, and providing the highest level of service with every project. She believes in being a part of the complete process, whether you’re preparing your home for sale, or creating the home of your dreams, Ashley provides fresh ideas and designs for your home. As the founder of Relux Decor, Ashley applies her extensive customer service and educational background in her every day potential from every home. This honest, passionate, outside of the box, design approach is what allows Ashley to excel at highlighting your home’s value, as well as, help you to transition through what can be an overwhelming process. In her spare time, Ashley enjoys spending time with her son, Elliot, or traveling.
Relux Decor Staging Consultation North Shore, Newburyport MA

What is a Home Staging Consultation and Why Should You Have One?

A staging consultation is the first step to giving your home that special “wow” factor that buyers are looking for. Here at Relux Decor we understand that selling your home is a huge endeavor. Our job as part of your home selling team, is to minimize the time your home spends on the market.

What to Expect From a Staging Consultation:

Relux Decor will work with you to determine the best time to visit your home for your staging consultation. We are friendly and professional and always have your best interests in mind. At the time of your home staging consultation, we will provide you with the most effective recommendations to promote a quick and profitable sale. Relux Decor will provide a full evaluation of your home, room by room and make recommendations for updates and repairs. We will work with you and your current furniture to create a basic staging plan in order to best prepare your home for real estate listing pictures. If need be, we can bring in items such as accent furniture, art, accessories, bedding, pillows and lighting to enhance your space.

Why is Home Staging Important?

Here at Relux Decor, we understand that your real estate listing photos are the first impression a buyer will have of your home. We strategically use a buyer’s perspective, so that your property stands out from the competition. We also understand that home staging is about emotion. It’s how a house makes us feel. It’s more than just cleaning, decluttering and decorating. It’s about creating emotional connections that will ultimately bring in that top dollar offer. Here at Relux Decor, we love what we do for our clients – and we are confident that you will too! If you have any questions or would like to schedule your north shore home staging consultation, please reach out.

Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips – Minimize Air Conditioner Service Calls

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Air Conditioner maintenance, air conditioner service Newburyport, MA

Minimize air conditioner service calls and improve efficiency with just a few simple air conditioner maintenance tips. Lombardi Oil & Gas has extensive experience installing and maintaining air conditioning systems for residential customers in Newburyport and the surrounding community and we hope you find these suggestions helpful.

We’re heading for an intense summer here in the Northeast, which means your home cooling system is probably going to be putting in some overtime to keep you comfortable. That makes it even more important than usual to get off to a good start with simple air conditioner maintenance as we inch toward the summer heat.  Here are 10 things to do before turning on your central air conditioner to minimize air conditioner service calls.

 

  • Check the thermostat! A thermostat it the “brain” of your HVAC system – make sure it’s up and running properly, with fresh batteries. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider installing one: it’s one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to save on your summer cooling bills.

 

  • Do a vent-check.  Move drapes, curtains, furniture, or anything else that prevents cool air from reaching your living space. Why pay to cool the back of a sofa?

 

  • Check your ductwork. Did you know that as much as 15 percent of the air you paid to cool could be getting lost between the walls of your home? Yes, duct leaks are real, so take the time for simple air conditioner maintenance and seal leaks and fix out-of-place duct joints in exposed ductwork areas. If you’ve had your cooling system for five years or more, consider investing in professional duct sealing, since many leaks are either too small to see or out of sight behind walls.

 

  • Clear the drain line. A blocked drain line will divert water to other places – like back into your house or toward your foundation. Keep it free of debris.

 

  • Check your air conditioner filter. A blocked air filter reduces efficiency, and a chronically blocked A/C filter could even put your home cooling system out of commission. Check your air filter about once a month during peak cooling season, replacing it (or cleaning it, depending on the model) when needed.

 

  • Check your electrical lines. Issues with wiring could knock out power to your air conditioner. Check electrical connections and circuit breakers before summer starts.

 

  • Clean the outdoor condenser unit. Check for debris, including leaves, twigs, and nests. Never cover a condenser unit when it is in use! Proper airflow is essential throughout the home cooling system chain.

 

  • Look for signs of a refrigerant leak. Insufficient refrigerant will make it impossible to generate cold air. Look for visible signs of a refrigerant leak, including poor cooling, ice on the evaporator coils, and fluid spots near your A/C condenser.

 

  • Consider replacing an old central air conditioner.  A 15-year-old air conditioner could have a SEER rating as low as 6 – a far cry from today’s 15+ SEER unit. That translates to hundreds of dollars in cooling bills over the course of a season – not to mention unreliable cooling on days when you need it most.

 

  • Have your equipment professionally maintained. There is no better way to prepare your air conditioning unit for the season than to have it inspected and serviced by a home cooling expert. A NATE-certified technician will replace worn parts, lubricate your system, check your refrigerant, and do all the little things that will keep your home cooling equipment running at its reliable best.

 

Summer is coming fast – be ready with expert air conditioning service from Lombardi Oil Oil & Gas. Contact us today to learn more about A/C installation and air conditioner maintenance in the North Shore!

 

Get Your HVAC Equipment Professionally Installed

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Reasons to leave installation to the pros

Homes and the HVAC equipment that goes into them are getting increasingly advanced. For example, a new furnace is a sophisticated mix of electronic and mechanical components that connect to computerized elements. If you need a furnace installed in your New England home, now is not the time to test you DIY skills. Leave it to the professionals.

The risks with an incorrectly installed furnace

When you have a professional install your furnace, you get peace of mind that everything will work optimally. If you try to do it yourself, here are some of the things that could go wrong:

  1. Lost efficiency: Improper installation can nullify the benefits of a high efficiency furnace. If your furnace isn’t installed correctly or is the wrong size, it will work harder than it should have to in heating your home. This means your heating equipment will be using too much energy to heat your home, increasing your heating costs each month. Paying now for a professional to install your furnace will save you money over the long run.
  2. Electrical problems: An improperly installed furnace can lead to an overloaded circuit breaker. If your circuit breaker trips, your heating service will be interrupted.
  3. Poor ductwork: This can cost you hundreds of dollars a year in wasted warm air. Again, spending money now for a professional will ensure you get the most out of your furnace and save you money in the long run.
  4. Fuel leaks: An improper connection to you heating system’s fuel lines can cause a fuel leak. In addition to causing poor performance and decreasing you heating system’s efficiency, a fuel leak is a serious safety issue. Don’t put your family’s safety at risk.
  5. Ventilation problems: This is another serious safety risk for you and your family.

Reasons you shouldn’t install a heat pump yourself

As with most HVAC equipment, it’s best to hire a professional to install your heat pump. Here are a few reasons why:

  1. A professional will choose the proper size heat pump to sufficiently meet your cooling and heating needs. That latter one is very important when you’re facing a New England winter!
  2. It’s a bigger job than you think. It will probably take you a lot longer to do than you think, and that’s assuming you even have all the tools you’ll need. In addition, for a layman, the instructions can be difficult to follow.
  3. A professional will get it right the first time. Unless you have previous experience, it’s worth the money to hire a professional to install you heat pump quickly, safely, and correctly the first time.
  4. Pay for peace of mind. With professional installation, you get peace of mind. You can rest assured that you unit is functioning as it should.

Call on the pros

In short, it’s best to hire a professional for all HVAC installations. Proper installation requires heat load calculations that a professional should handle. If you try to do it yourself and get it wrong, you could put your family’s comfort in jeopardy. You’re likely to end up too hot or too cold. And no one wants that.

If you’re looking for professional installation service, look no further than Lombardi Oil & Gas. You can count on us for top-notch service. Click here to see if we serve your Massachusetts or New Hampshire neighborhood.

At Lombardi Oil & Gas, we offer professional furnace and boiler installation, maintenance, and repair. Our team of professionals will make sure that you get the right equipment for your home and that it’s properly installed. This will ensure you get the maximum in efficiency and longevity from your equipment. And if you need a new water heater installed or just need your current one maintained or repaired, we’ve got you covered. We also install heat pumps and oil tanks, provide natural gas heating service, and deliver heating oil.

Are you ready to become part of the Lambardi Oil & Gas family? Contact us today for more information or to become a customer. We’re here to help you with all your heating needs for your North Shore home.

 

Why Is It Important to Get a Fall Heating Tune-up?

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Fall Heating Tune-Up - Lombardi Oil & Gas Newburyport

As autumn approaches, it’s important to start thinking about scheduling your heating tune-up. Most people remember their heater’s health only when the weather begins cooling down, but it can pay to plan ahead, especially if you can beat the winter rush in Massachusetts or New Hampshire for heater tune-up appointments.

Stay Warm in Your Home This Winter with a Heater Tune-up

Nobody wants their heater to go out during the colder months when technicians are the busiest and extra blankets on the beds just won’t cut it. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common for homeowners who skip their yearly heating tune-up, and depending on what the problem is, it could take days to order necessary parts for a heater repair.

Catch Any Malfunction Before It Gets Worse – And Costlier

When it comes to a potential heating system repair, the earlier the problem can be identified and addressed, the simpler – and more cost-effective – the fix will be. A fall heating tune-up can catch minor problems before additional damage occurs. In fact, a routine inspection and tune-up can prevent some types of damage altogether by making sure the system is clean and works smoothly, ultimately extending the life of your furnace or boiler.

Keep Your Heating Costs Down This Season With a Heating Tune-up

A properly-tuned furnace works more efficiently, which helps keep energy costs down. Replacing the air filter, cleaning the condenser coils, and making sure the lubrication is adequate, for instance, allow the airflow to move with less obstruction, requiring less energy force.

Improve Air Quality for a Healthier Home

Heater components work best when they are clean and not worn. A heating tune-up in the fall means that your furnace or boiler’s performance – as well as the air quality in your home – will be at its finest, just as cold and virus season ramps up. Ensuring that your heater is properly filtering the air circulating in your home is especially important for households that suffer from asthma or allergies, since a dirty or clogged heater spreads dust, dander and other irritants around your home. If you have concerns about air quality in your home, view our tips to improve air quality in your home.

Safety Precautions Bring Peace of Mind

Not only can a dirty, rundown heater cost homeowners’ money and leave them cold, it can also be dangerous. House fires, carbon monoxide leaks, electrical issues, and other dangers can arise from an improperly maintained heating system.

Don’t forget to schedule a heating tune-up for your heater this fall with Lombardi Oil & Gas. Our courteous, friendly technicians with enhanced skills and knowledge training want to help your family stay safe and comfortable this coming season.

How do You Know When to Repair or Replace Your Heating System?

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Lombardi Oil & Gas Heating System Upgrade, Newburyport MA

Having a reliable and efficient home heating system is really important here in the North Shore, where we rely on our furnace or boiler for almost two-thirds of the year. Having a reliable and efficient home heating system is really important here in the North Shore, where we rely on our furnace or boiler for almost two-thirds of the year. If your confidence in your heating equipment is flagging, don’t worry, we’re here to help: whether you need to fix or upgrade your equipment, we have options for you. If you’re on the repair/replace fence, here are some general guidelines to help guide your decision.

Repair your equipment if:

  • Your system is less than 10 years old
  • It can be fixed with a reasonable hope that there won’t be further issues.
  • Your equipment is properly sized for your home
  • The problems are minor (smaller electrical issues, minor ductwork repairs, blocked drain lines, etc.)
  • Repair costs are 25 percent of the cost of replacement or less
  • Your monthly energy bills have risen by less than 10 percent since last year
  • Your system has been repaired less than twice over the last decade

Replace your equipment if:

  • Your system is 10 years old or older
  • Damage is severe
  • Your system is undersized for your home (for example, if you’ve built a house addition since installing it)
  • The repair costs more than 25 percent of replacement costs (especially on older equipment)
  • Your monthly energy bills have gone up by more than 10 percent since last year
  • Your system has been repaired more than twice over the last decade

Mass Save Rebates Could Tip the Scales

Sometimes the repair/replace equation is close to dead even, making your choice a tougher one. In those cases, incentives can tip the scales in favor of a heating system upgrade.

This year, for example, you may qualify for thousands of dollars in rebates and loans with zero percent interest to cover equipment replacement. Mass Save rebates in 2021 include up to $2,750 on natural gas furnace and boilers and $800 on oil furnaces and boilers. Additional savings are available for natural gas and oil water heaters – contact us today to learn more.

Considering a new heating system installation? We can help! Contact Lombardi Oil and Gas today to learn more about natural gas and heating oil heating system installations in the North Shore!

 

Post-Pandemic: Make Your Home Brighter and Livelier

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design

Post-pandemic, make your home brighter and livelier to improve your mental health and revive your desire to venture out into the world as a more peaceful, relaxed individual. Let us look at several ways to brighten your living space, preparing for your re-emergence into the world post-COVID-19:

Change up the scenery

One of the immediate things to enliven your space is to change one or more rooms.  For instance, if a room needs a fresh coat of paint, consider changing the color to one that more accurately affects the mood in that room/space. Paint colors have been shown to impact mood and mental health, choosing colors like blue, render relaxation while green is restorative. Brighter colors in living spaces reflect a jovial mood.

Spring or Summer cleaning

A deep clean after more than a year spent within the home may subconsciously affect one’s mental health. Deeply connecting to the physical nature of your living space for instance having  cluttered areas have been shown to negatively impact how people feel in both the long and the short term. Undertaking a deep cleaning project to clean out the cobwebs is a great way to relieve stress and improve your space simultaneously.

Invest in textiles

Window treatments! The subtle energy given off by having the right window treatments on your windows eludes an anxiety-free with more sunlight to brighten the mood and warm the interiors. Before you selecting fabrics/textiles; you may want to learn what are on  trend are for this year., Be it patterns, roller shades, or even blackout curtains, select textiles that resonate with the happy you!

Search for inspiration

Use the power of the internet to your advantage! Finding inspiration online is a great way to learn how to redecorate, learn more about current interior design trends, and how best to tackle certain parts of your home, like the outdoors. Seeing what others have done with their space can be inspirational.

For instance, putting your crafting skills to the test and reupholstering your furniture can be a great way to bring more color to an otherwise drab space. Reupholstering can be a great way to repurpose a well- made piece of furniture. Great idea for heirloom pieces. Most seasoned Interior Designers have workrooms to have your pieces refurbished. If you are DIYers search for “reupholstery near me,” you may discover numerous services for ways to spruce up your furniture. Prices will vary, depending on size, type of fabric, and any custom designs.

Moving on and up

As we all begin to re-enter the world after the coronavirus pandemic, we all want to come home to a safe, relaxing space.  Utilizing these tips will help you achieve a renewed sense of home as you venture outside. Are you ready to take the next step into redecorating and rejuvenating your home before you head back out into the world post-COVID-19? Contact the industry and interior design experts at Worthington Interior Design today to schedule your home’s glow-up.

Why a Paint Consultation is Important Prior to Selling Your Home

By Ashley O'Shea, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner & Principal, Ashley is a RESA Certified Home Stager located north of Boston, whose work has been featured on Chronicle and “Top 5 Most Stunning Houses to See this Weekend” by Boston Magazine. Most recent projects include a full interior design on a 3,200 square ft. luxury condominium in the Four Seasons Residence, One Dalton, Boston. Specializing in Luxury Home Shopping and Home Staging, Ashley is fiercely committed to creating beautiful homes, and providing the highest level of service with every project. She believes in being a part of the complete process, whether you’re preparing your home for sale, or creating the home of your dreams, Ashley provides fresh ideas and designs for your home. As the founder of Relux Decor, Ashley applies her extensive customer service and educational background in her every day potential from every home. This honest, passionate, outside of the box, design approach is what allows Ashley to excel at highlighting your home’s value, as well as, help you to transition through what can be an overwhelming process. In her spare time, Ashley enjoys spending time with her son, Elliot, or traveling.
Paint Consultation, Relux Decor, North Shore, MA, Color Consultation

Here at Relux Decor we assist with all aspects of home staging and Paint Consultations are our first recommendation when a client is getting ready to sell their home. Updating the interior and/or exterior paint selections of the home is worth the cost and often brings in up to 50% to 500% return on your investment depending on your real estate market. If you are thinking about selling your home, a color consultation is a great first step to get your property prepared.

What is a Paint Consultation? It’s an onsite meeting with one of our expert color consultants to assess the current color choices of the home. We make suggestions on which rooms need updating in order to have the greatest impact on potential home buyers. Paint consultations start at $150 for an in-home visit.

Why are Paint Consultations Important? Neutralizing a space is an efficient way to appeal to many audiences (in this case new home buyers). Neutral paint colors generally support all existing furniture colors, create a calming mood, and work well in any room. The right paint color will work with any style home as well, whether it be traditional, contemporary, minimalist, or coastal to name a few. However, oftentimes paint colors are not what they appear to be on the tiny little swatch you bring home from the paint store. Natural and artificial light, along with placement, have a huge impact on how the color looks in your space. Paint consultations can eliminate any mistakes and save you money on having to repaint, before you commit the wrong color to your walls.

What if I’m not moving? Paint consultations are not just for those who are relocating. Color trends change and over time paint can become chipped, dirty, or faded. If you need help narrowing down your choices, or attaining that magazine worthy look, Relux Decor can help. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Architectural Drawings: How to Turn Great Ideas into a Buildable Plan

By Mindi Poston Gay, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Mindi is Principal Architectural Designer, Assoc. AIA (American Institute of Architects) and has been practicing architecture and interior design for over 25 years. She’s a graduate of the Boston Architectural College (BAC) with a degree in Architecture and has worked in renowned architectural firms including Payette Associates, EGA Architects, Carpenter & MacNeille Architects, Essex, MA, and TMS Architects. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Design New England Magazine, New England Home Design Magazine, North Shore Magazine, Newburyport Magazine, The Boston Globe, USA Today Home Magazine, as well as Apartment Therapy, Discovery Channel and Planet Green Channel.
MPG Home Design
Architectural Drawings, Newburyport

Architectural drawings are the bridge between your vision and an actual plan that you can use for cost estimation, permitting and construction. Whether it’s a simple bathroom remodel, a kitchen renovation, or a more extensive home addition, design drawings are critical to success. Time spent with an experienced architect will help streamline projects, avoid communication related issues and extra costs associated with rework.

In technical terms, architectural drawings are a graphical representation using lines and symbols that follow specific protocols based on scale and proportion. In their most complex form, architectural drawings incorporate structural engineering details, electrical plans, framing plans, window & door schedules, and precise measurements for all aspects of construction.

What are the steps to create architectural drawings?

The first step in the design process is to capture the Existing Conditions, sometimes called “as-built” plans. Unless you purchased your home with drawings, the existing conditions need to be documented to create a baseline model. All relevant measurements are imported into a CAD software program. Computer Aided Design (CAD), has replaced hand drafting as an essential way to create, modify, analyze, and optimize the architectural design process.

Once the Existing Conditions have been established, it’s time for Schematic Design. This is a highly conceptual phase dedicated to exploring the overall use of the space, massing, circulation and functional relationships of the project components.

The architectural plans may start “sketchy” until multiple options are refined for comparison. A single design may emerge as the best solution. More often, components from several design options are pulled together to create a hybrid approach.

A complete Schematic Design set includes site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and 3D renderings. What was once limited to your imagination is now brought to life both digitally and in print.

Do you really need architectural drawings?

Smaller projects may not require formal construction documentation, however, just about every home design project can benefit from a cursory design exercise. Drawings provide answers about space utilization, materials, flow, light, storage and the connection with new or existing systems.

What’s more, a thorough set of architectural plans gives you what’s needed for both pricing and permitting. By submitting drawings, general contractors know that you’re committed to the project and they’re empowered to provide more accurate estimates to help you determine financial viability.

In the long run, a well-crafted design set saves both time and money by helping you avoid specification “gotchas” and missed opportunities to improve your lifestyle. Almost every client who skips this step in the name of savings, ends up paying more in the end.

If you want to get the most from your construction investment, take the time to have thoughtful architectural drawings created for your project. Set yourself up for success by contacting MPG Home Design, 978-255-1515.

How to Compare Moving Companies – Moving Tips

By Heather McDonald, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Heather is the Office Manager for Ferrick Bros. Moving Company. From start to finish Heather gathers all important details about client moving needs, she sends quotes and executes contracts. She helps coordinate move logistics and convey important client needs to the folks facilitating the moves. Heather is there to help answer questions, confirm critical details and she is there in the end to follow up with clients and gather feedback about their moving experience.
Ferrick Brothers Moving Company
Comparing Moving Companies, Moving Tips Newburyport

Moving is already a challenging task, so make your big day go as smoothly as possible and compare moving companies before selecting one. While cost is always an important factor, sometimes the “best deal” ends up with a u-haul pulling up on moving day, three hours late, with a rag tag crew handling your goods. Inastead, follow these simple moving tips to make sure you get the services you should not only expect, but deserve.

 

  • Moving Tip #1: A real moving company never minds coming out to do an onsite estimate, this will be one of your most important moving tips. Although some jobs are very easy to quote on the phone, you as the customer, deserve an onsite estimate if you desire it.
  • Moving Tip #2: Ask for certificates of insurance. One of the most important certificates is Workers’ Comp, a perfect example of why you should compare moving companies. Many companies who expect cash payment for services rendered do not have Workers’ Comp. If one of their workers get injured on the job, you could be on the hook.
  • Moving Tip #3: Always make sure the company has their own vehicles. The best way to do this is to check to see if they have a certificate proving an auto insurance policy. Ask the company to cc’ you an email with their insurance company who should be able to answer questions and provide you with the certificate.
  • Moving Tip #4: Make sure to sign a contract and put a deposit down for the services you are expecting on moving day. One of our top red flag moving tips, no contract means no commitment on your moving company’s part. Giving a deposit via check or credit card is your best assurance that you have chosen a company who is committed to getting your move done.
  • Moving Tip #5: Last but not least, one of the best ways to compare moving companies is to do a quick Google search with the owner’s name and the company name in the search bar. Check reviews to see how customers fared with the company, the good and the bad!

 

Follow these simple moving tips to compare moving companies and you’ll be home sweet home without the headaches on your next move!

If you’re planning an upcoming move please consider giving a call to Ferrick Bros. Moving Company, the earlier the better. We are able to provide our most competitive pricing when customers contact us early in the moving process.  We welcome the opportunity to give you peace of mind about your upcoming move and work very hard to ensure a very positive experience on moving day.

Design and Renovate your Basement

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Design, Newburyport MA

Design and renovate your Basement creating a multi-use retreat for your family.  After plowing through winter and spending so much more time at home you may decide the basement can be renovated to include more storage space, entertainment, and a new exercise room. Meeting with your Interior Architect which is your Interior Designer to discuss your ideas on how to renovate your basement!

How about a storage space for luggage or winter clothes? Or adjacent to your exercise room with your new Peleton and yoga home studio you might want to add an additional bathroom?

There are so many ideas that can be compartmentalized easily in a basement it like extra space you never realized you had available.

Your basement might walk out to the backyard and the idea of a prep kitchenette might also be an idea for your basement renovation.  A beverage fridge or even an icemaker and small fridge can help you get the burgers made and ready to go on the grill as soon as the weather warms.

These days your wildest ideas are not so wild anymore and sitting down with your Interior Designer to develop a plan that will become your construction documents for the General Contractor your Interior Designer vets while managing your project and construction administration will make your project a smooth experience. You see your Interior Designer is your Interior Architect for the inside of your home.

So, creating another hang out space for your family to entertain and workout will expand your home value. Design and renovate your Basement to include a workbench or arts and crafts area for your children’s school projects will give your kitchen table a break!

If you are thinking of any renovation or redesign for your home, Worthington Interior Design has well over 25 years creating more livable and well- designed homes as well as workable office and commercial space. So, get in touch Worthington Interior Design 617-633-3005 and let us design and renovate your Basement, Office, or Retail space! Happy Spring!

View more Interior Design blogs!

Updating the Outside of Your Home

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Worthington Interior Design Hydrangeas in front of White House

Updating the Outside of your home is as important as the inside now that Spring is upon us! Take an inventory of your wood or brick siding, fences, driveway, windows, and doors!

As an Interior Designer for the inside of your home we are equally concerned with your home from the outside as well. Do you need some painting, staining or even a new roof?  It ALL MATTERS and now updating the outside of your home will keep your home and your value going up and up!

Painting, try a fresh new color and adding shutters or installing new windows so the fresh air can keep you COVID-19 safe is paramount these days.

Lighting as we always say is the probably the most important aspect of your home! Outside lighting for ‘way-finding’ or ambiance has so many options these days. As we live near the coast and the salt air can wreak havoc with many metals used outside. However, many companies are offering their designs in ‘marine-grade’ products, so just ask. Using a copper just remember it will patina to a green or verde finish over time!

This leads me to hardware companies like Baldwin and Classic Brass are both quality companies that will make your front or back door stand out and last for years. We refer to this as your ‘door jewelry’ and we can never have enough beautiful jewelry!

So how did your walkways and steps weather the New England winter? Updating the outside of your home’s walks can mimic a pattern you have on your home, so it brings continuity to your home. Using granite outside in New England is forever and you will be glad you spent the extra money to get durable products.

Windows are always an item that can keep your energy bills in line. If you had some window issues this past winter addressing them now will bring you peace of mind.

So, step it up and begin updating the outside of your home for 2021! View more interior and exterior design tips from local experts at Worthingington Interior Design.

Home: Our Nest, Our Pad, Our Abode, Our Digs

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design

Home: Our Nest, Our Pad, Our Abode, Our Digs are all affectionate ways to refer to our sanctuary. Now that we have all endured an exceptionally long stretch at home you may have come to realize your house needs some Interior Design Attention.

Since the weather is cooling down and we are all going to be spending even more time at Home: Our Nest, Our Pad, Our Abode, Our Digs the walls may need a new coat of paint or even you might dare to try some wallpaper in the powder room? Your sofa may need a new fabric, your favorite chair may need replacing with a much more comfortable Lee Relaxor ?

Each room in your home may need a little “Tszuj” as Carson Kressley says, “Give it a little flare!”We at Worthington Interior Design are all about making a few little design changes to your Home: Our Nest, Our Pad, Our Abode, Our Digs to get a big result!

As simple as painting our chimney after it was repointed; has given our home a fresh new look. Interiors of your home is so personal and whether you like plaids, florals or solids we can turn a room in your home into a stunning new place to read, or have cup of coffee or simply view your yard from a different place.

With all the new styles in porcelain floor tiles, faucets, and vanities a new kitchen or new bathroom it is a great time to tackle a renovation. Worthington can redesign, specify, bid your project to get the best contractor and pricing for you. We manage the construction process, obtain best pricing for fixtures and furnishings. With our seasoned experience your renovation is in good hands.

We also consult on outside work- say you are looking at a new fence we can offer many options that work with your home’s style and get it done for you.

Our sources are endless! Whether it’s a new door, bathroom reno, children’s playroom or new nursery get in touch with Worthington Interior Design today to schedule an appointment.

Let us give your Home: Our Nest, Our Pad, Our Abode, Our Digs a new YOU!

Happy Autumn

Finding the Best Agent Just Got Easier

By Robert Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
CEO/Owner & Residential/Commercial Sales Specialist for Bentley's, Robert has been the #1 agent in the Greater Newburyport market since 2011 per MLSPIN.com and Bentley's Sales Records. Robert's success is due to his dominance with on-line real estate marketing, strong negotiation skills, and good old fashioned work ethic. Robert has a strong sales, marketing, and finance background and always does what is necessary to get the deal done, and make his clients happy. Experience and proven reputation are key when you are making the largest financial transaction of a life time. Call or text 781-858-5115.
Finding the best agent just got easier, Newburyport MA

Finding the best agent just got easier.  In partnership with Zillow and Trulia, RealTrends.Com is a national site that provides rankings of Real Estate Agent performance.  They have been tracking Real Estate Agent performance at the agent, team, and brokerage level for the past eight years and provide consumers the data necessary to make an educated decision.

Buying and selling a home is typically one of the largest financial transactions you will make in your life time.  Therefore it is critical to choose a local experienced agent with a proven track record.  Do you purchase or sell a car without checking ratings websites?  Almost all people research properties online, but researching agents is also an important part of the equation.  You need someone you can count on to get the job done.

In real estate, like many other fields, the more transactions an agent has done, the more capable they are of effectively advising their clients.  At the end of the day, you don’t need a new best friend, you need someone with extensive knowledge and experience, which directly correlates with sales performance.

Three Simple Home Refresh Ideas

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Home Refresh, Worthington Interior Design, Newburyport

Three Simple Home Refresh Ideas after this Pandemic. Now that we have been inside for over a month and Spring is here in New England; have you started to see what soft furniture pieces need a facelift? How about reassessing your kitchen and its current function? Has your kitchen been getting a lot of use offering 3 meals and miscellaneous snacks every day? Are the walls in your common spaces looking dingy?

During the evening hours have you decided you need some fresh and crisp new window treatments? Rugs or anything you might want to replace once this pandemic passes? Most of us will be sticking closer to home even after the Pandemic so you may want to get scheduled with us at Worthington Interior Design no matter how small your refresh may be.

First would be to qualify which room you think deserves the attention first? The family room where the TV, games and puzzles have been camping for the past month? We can start small after we get a sense of your overall desired look and style. How about we venture together to redesign or revise layouts for your mudroom or kitchen. These spaces are used so much and you may have found you need a new way to best utilize these over-used rooms?

Secondly, your home interiors may need the same item refreshed in a few rooms, for instance the window treatments. Plantation shutters are a great investment for both maintenance free cleaning as well as resale!

Thirdly, once we meet we can help you decide which part of your home will give the best overall and quickest ‘refresh’ before summer comes.

Worthington Interior Design has many unique sources to give your home your touch of style. We do not have to always go to the usual retailers as Worthington has far reaching vendors who offer great style at reasonable price, wonderful quality and USA made.

So how about setting up an appointment for us to explore 3 Simple Home Refresh Ideas after this pandemic!

 

Happy Spring 2020

Call Worthington Interiors to get on our schedule: 617-633-3005

 

Biofuel Also known as Bioheat is the Evolution of Oil Heat!

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
Biofuel and Bioheat Newburyport

Biofuel, also known as bioheat is a blend of ultra-low sulfur heating oil with renewable biodiesel made from organic and recycled products such as soybean oil, used cooking oils, inedible corn oil, canola, tallow, fats and algae. With biofuel, homeowners can burn a better, safer and more reliable fuel resulting in lower emissions, improved air quality and better efficiency of the heating system. For bio fuel blends up to 20%, there are no modifications necessary for your existing home heating equipment.

The environmental benefits of biofuel are significant. First, biodiesel lowers the carbon content of heating oil. Secondly, biodiesel is made from renewable, organic sources. And research conducted by leading authorities such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the California Air Resource Board indicates that bio fuel reduces Greenhouse Gas emissions (sulfur oxide, nitrogen oxide and carbon dioxide) from 50% to 86% compared to traditional heating oil or diesel fuel. Additionally, research conducted by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) indicates that when ultra-low sulfur heating is blended with biodiesel at 20% (B20), this BIOHEAT fuel significantly reduces Greenhouse Gas emissions making BIO HEAT cleaner than natural gas.

Following extensive testing and research, American Society of Testing & Materials (ASTM), with support from the heating oil industry and the National Biodiesel Board, has set a standards for recommended percentage blends of biodiesel in heating oil. These percentage blend specifications are currently up to B20 (a 20% blend of biofuel). The heating oil industry along with the National Oilheat Research Alliance and the National Biodiesel Board are committed to introducing higher blends of biodiesel into the heating oil marketplace and these organization are conducting ongoing research on higher percentage blends of biodiesel in heating oil.

To learn more about bioheat, visit DiscoverHeatingOilMass.com

To start enjoying the benefits of Biofuel with a 20% Blend, contact us at Lombardi Oil & Gas

Visit Lombardi Oil & Gas, sponsor of the upcoming Greater Newburyport Green Expo on April 11th.

Quality Service and Repair – Protect Your Heating & Cooling Investment!

By Charity Lombardi-Simard, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Charity is president of Lombardi Oil & Gas. She is second generation in the family business that was started by her father in the 1950’s. Her interest in the industry is the continued evolution and fast-paced movement into cleaner and more efficient energy. Her vision for the business is to maintain a personal culture with the community and to provide options and service to those that heat with fuel – with focus on hi-efficiency equipment, use of new technologies and Biofuel delivery. In her personal time, Charity is active in the Icelandic Horse Community, with 2 of her own. She travels regularly to Iceland to train and supports promotion of the breed in the US.
Lombardi Oil & Gas
service and repair, Newburyport MA

When inviting someone into your home for service and repair on your gas/oil heating or ac system, you want to ensure that you have partnered with a qualified, company that you can trust. We recommend for your safety and comfort, that the company be licensed and insured properly with both General Liability and Workers Compensation, technicians should be wearing company uniforms, always arriving in a marked company vehicle fully stocked with parts and tools and be fully licensed and trained. If you are using services of Fuel Oil Delivery, reputable companies will be taking extreme care with safe delivery process for environmental protection of your property. They should offer to check your oil tank to make sure its safe for delivery, and be sure that there is an accessible fill pipe and properly working vent whistle. We recommend Bioheat Fuel Oil, a cleaner energy option for your home. An Automatic Bioheat Fuel Oil Delivery program is highly suggested as it ensures that your fuel level doesn’t get too low, potentially stirring up any bottom residue, and clogging up filters. Also, drivers and routing programs can help to uncover any service issues, no heat issues and excessive usage. All Heat/Hot Water/AC systems should be serviced annually to keep them operating at peak performance while checking all safety features, and helping to prevent more costly breakdowns.

Homeowners Choose Lombardi Oil & Gas for their service and repair comfort needs!

If you need Bioheat fuel oil delivery, service and repairs on heating, hot water or AC, a consult/estimate for an upgrade to your heating system or conversion installation to high efficiency, you can count on us. We commit to offer the best value, with reliable service and installation and top of line quality and expertise. Over the past 60 years, we have kept our service area very localized to Newburyport and its surrounding communities so that we can be local and service local, quickly and efficiently. We have built our business on customer loyalty, referrals and providing unparalleled and quality customer services.

Choose us and count on:

  • Quality Gas or Oil Heating Service and Repair or Installation
  • Quality Water heater service and repair, or installation
  • Quality Central Air Conditioning and Ductless Mini-split heat pump, service and repair or installation
  • Value & Service that we stand behind
  • Automatic Delivery option for Bioheat fuel oil delivery
  • Payment plans on Bioheat fuel oil delivery
  • Option of Cap, Pre-buy and fixed price oil programs
  • Self Service account access
  • Senior and Pay per delivery discounts
  • Gas or Oil heating service plans, including Annual Maintenance and Oil Tank Insurance
  • 24-hour emergency service for our Bioheat oil delivery customers and Gas Service Plan Accounts
  • Company is Licensed & insured. All In home service technicians are full-time employees of Lombardi Oil & Gas, licensed, trained and have had full background check
  • Our commitment to exploring new heating and air conditioning technologies to promote energy conservation and efficiency for our customers. Including: Bioheat Clean Fuel, High Efficiency gas or oil heating systems, On demand Hot Water Heaters, Heat Pump heating and hot water systems and smart thermostats.

Customer satisfaction is important to us. We will offer the best value, with reliable service and installation and top of line quality and expertise, to increase your comfort, convenience and safety. Call us to see how we can help you!

Lombardi Oil & Gas is a home heating, AC and fuel oil delivery company, located in Newburyport, MA. Lombardi Oil & Gas has been servicing the greater Newburyport community for over 60 years, offering personal quality service. Lombardi Oil & Gas has built their business on customer loyalty, referrals and by providing unparalleled and quality customer services. Over the past 60 years they have established deep community support of local organizations and businesses. Lombardi Oil & Gas is available to its regular accounts for peace of mind 365 days of the year. Homeowners Choose Lombardi Oil & Gas for their delivery of safe, reliable, quality and forward thinking services.

Renovating Your Loo Working With Worthington, Expert Designer

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Renovating your Loo, Newburyport MA

Modernizing and renovating your Loo or powder room can be exciting when it comes to shopping and selecting dramatic tiles and finishes, fixtures and bathroom furniture; but before you begin here are a few important renovating items and questions we will discuss:

 

 

 

  • What are some current upgrades where you can make your money back at the other end?
  • When you are thinking of renovating your loo first think about what your needs maybe.
  • Need to save space or create better function in the power room or bathroom?
  • What level finish are we going for? Home Depot , Semi-Custom, Custom
  • Are we upgrading to accommodate more people?
  • Do we need to replace the tub with a walk in shower?
  • Do we need a no- threshold to the shower?
  • Is there a window in the bathroom and where is it and should it go or remain?
  • Is the water closet ( Loo/Toilet) old and need to be change? Design a separate room within the bathroom?
  • What are the advantages of wall hung with Geberit housing or floor mounted?
  • Storage needs- drawer and cabinet space, dual sinks?
  • What materials are timeless and easy maintenance-wise
  • Can we donate my old vanity and fixtures to be recycled?
  • Flooring material upgrade or change?
  • Do we use the same plumbing location or not?
  • Structural issues
  • Lighting needs
  • HVAC system needs
  • Exhaust fan needs
  • Accessory options- towel heater, hooks, towel bars, toilet rolls
  • Shall we paint or use a hip new wallcovering- will wallcovering work in this space?
  • How long are we going to live here, how much do we upgrade?
  • Will my selections be eligible for a rebate and are they energy conservative?

Where to start can be overwhelming unless you have a good Interior Designer to work with to keep your renovation within your budget while developing your vision to include your wish list.

Don’t worry if you do not know what you like; it’s better to know what you don’t like as far I’m concerned.

Make no mistake any renovation you embark upon with limited knowledge will come with many surprises!

Hiring Worthington Interior Design early on in the process will guarantee you have a great team to help you navigate the contractor’s role and requirements. No need for you to settle on a new bathroom you so deserve.  Call Worthington Interior Design for expert guidance renovating your loo, 978-255-3001.

 

How Best to Prepare and Organize Moving to a New Home

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design

How best to prepare and organize moving to a new home. The good news is our step by step checklist is easy to follow. We break these tasks down into smaller tasks to ensure you will not miss anything regarding the move. After all, you want to make the entire transition as smooth as possible for you and your family. Thus, you can properly plan your move with the help of these essential tips. Here’s our useful checklist: How best to prepare and organize moving to a new home-

 

  1. Budget. First things first, you need to set up a budget for the upcoming move. Without a definite budget plan, you may have a hard time going through the entire moving process. A few months before moving into your new house, be sure to set aside enough money for the relocation itself. The earlier you dedicate money for your move, the better.

 

  1. Moving inventory. Don’t wait for the mover to provide you with an inventory of all your belongings. It’s important you have an inventory of your own to make sure you know what you’re moving. That way, you’ll be able to plan your packing efficiently.

 

  1. Unused and unnecessary items. After the inventory, it’s about time to walk through your house and identify the items which you don’t use or need anymore. Remember, moving is the best time to sort and purge. Deciding on items you are keeping, disposing and possibly donating will enable you to save on your purchase of moving boxes. Be sure to take photos of items you are donating for tax purposes.

 

  1. Size of your new house. It’s essential to check and measure the size of your new house so you’ll have an idea what items you should bring to your new place. Before your final move-in date, be sure you’ve visited your new home and have the area measured to figure out what furniture and other home items you should include in the transit.

 

  1. Moving Quotes. Be sure these moving quotes are written and binding. Not only that but you should make sure the price offered is within your budget; make sure you give yourself ample time to gather and analyze your quotes. The key here is to get your estimates early enough before the move. Moving company pricing/quotes can be affected at different times of the year: around school stops and starts, moving at the end of the month, just before or after the summer and around big holidays. So be smart and book early!

 

  1. Moving insurance. While you’re making some arrangements with your prospective moving company, check whether they are bonded and have adequate insurance for your move and belongings protection. Thus, always look for a licensed and insured mover for the safety of all your belongings.

 

  1. Utilities. Arrange to have your local services turned on at your new house: water, electricity and internet services. It’s better to have these utilities and services live at your new house just before moving day to avoid extra hassle with regard to your family.

 

  1. Packing supplies. Be sure to have all the necessary packing supplies beforehand so your packing task is efficient. Fragile furniture and kitchen wares, may call for bubble wrap and specialty containers. Using colored markers with smart labels for your moving boxes will allow the moving foreman to create teams for the movers to deliver the boxes and furniture to the proper floor or room correctly. Proper labeling will make for move time efficiency with less errors of moving boxes more than once.

 

  1. Secret Best Moving Tip. Use one (1) box and label it OPEN FIRST BOX! Here’s what to pack in the OFB: chargers for all your phones etc., coffee maker or teapot, coffee, filters, teabags, coffee mugs or tea cups, knife, fork and spoon set for each family member, Paper plates, toilet paper, paper napkins, roll of paper towels, Kleenex, bottle opener, hand towels, bath towel for each family member, toothpaste, dog or cat bowl, animal food, leashes and bags for walking dog, and plastic trash bags. You will be so happy when you arrive at your new house and you order a pizza!

 

  1. Change of address. Be sure to stop mail at your current address. Visit your local post office and inform them about the move. In addition, fill out additional change-of-address forms for your subscriptions etc.to be forwarded to your new address.

 

The Bottom Line

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful!  If you’re too busy to make the necessary preparations in advance, hire competent movers to minimize the burden of moving. Entrusting your move to the professionals knowing they’ll handle your needs properly – from packing to safely transporting to your new house.

Design Techniques to Perfect Your Family’s Interiors

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Design Techniques, Interiors, Worthington Interior Design, Newburyport

Here’s 5 Design Techniques to Perfect Your Family’s Interiors whether you have just moved or browsing for interior design techniques.  Worthington often suggests these ideas which can be incorporated with minimal effort and money. Sometimes adding small things make the most impact. Adding a mirror or a precious heirloom to a room-scape instantly personalizes your home. Obviously painting and rearranging furniture will alter your space as well.

 

5 Design Techniques to Perfect Your Family’s Interiors most likely includes the perfect place or room to hang out. So adding some of these design elements can enhance your family’s room and experience while watching TV or playing games:

  • Try a large sectional sofa or 2 sofas
  • Oversize ottomans
  • Floor pillows
  • Game table for puzzles or games
  • Add SONOS surround sound system for your music and theater experience and you can add on speakers or rooms, even outdoor speakers.

 

Take a look at these ensuring a perfect interior for your family clever ideas to inspire you!

 

  1. Enlarge your room with lighter colors
    Your Living Room may have larger windows which help to reflect natural light and enhances the room size. Choose some soft tones and layer texture an pattern to complete the space. If you prefer cozier spaces you may opt for darker color tones. View more detailed recommendations for selecting interior colors.

 

  1. Adding a decorative mirror
    Mirrors are always a win-win within the Interior Designers “bag of tricks”. It can amplify, warm or create space within space. Group several sizes of the same shape of mirror and you have an instant art wall ensemble.

 

  1. Mixing old and new and implementing “High ‘n Low” design techniques
    Place your family heirlooms together in a grouping of like-kind or scatter pieces among your new furniture pieces and rooms. Worthington Interior Design makes it a standard practice to reflect you and your family’s history, travels, and hobby into your home’s interiors. High ‘n Low is our technique for adding less expensive treasures from some of your favorite retailers (i.e. Ikea, Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel) alongside your family heirloom -art work, antique chairs, rugs or accessories. The juxtaposed items create an interesting interior design effect.

 

  1. Slipcovers offer style options
    Slipcovers for sofas and chairs offer you design styles for 2 or more seasons. You can have your piece already upholstered in a heavy fabric suitable for winter and fall but try adding a linen or cotton chintz slip cover for spring and summer. Your options for fabrics and color are endless.

 

  1. Rugs
    Here again, adding rugs or cotton colorful throw rugs ( i.e Dash & Albert) for the summer can give your space your own design twist. Or you may add heavy carpets and rugs for the winter and fall and actually take up the rugs for spring and summer! They are quick fun and easy design ideas giving great design impact. There are endless possibilities for perfect house plans ideas for your family.

 

Make an appointment today with Worthington Interior Design, voted 2019 Best Interior Designer, 617-633-3005.

Commercial Interior Design What and How

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Commercial Interior Design, Newburyport

Now seems like a good time to introduce you to our other design service Commercial Interior Design what and how. Commercial Interior Design is comprised of office, retail, and hospitality/restaurant type of projects. When commercial clients are outgrowing their existing space, need test-fits of spaces for lease, or just a new venture or business that may require commercial style space; hiring a qualified Interior Designer can make your project a smooth success!  For instance, when we perform interviews to gather programming to analyze your needs and plan for future growth—this stretches your funds and insures value earned.

Designing for Retail or Hospitality/Restaurant clients is best served when their brand is threaded throughout the design, selected space and in all their marketing materials and signage. Worthington Interior Design is very adept at analysis merged with creativity to bring a winning commercial interior design space to life.

It was once said “Trendy is close to Tacky” so it’s enormously important for us to listen to our client’s needs and deliver stellar design that is both highly functional and unique. Timeless design for commercial interior design spaces is curated and studied. Each client is different each company or hotel is different offering their clientele a unique experience to work with them. So its incumbent upon interior designers like us at Worthington Interior Design to stay educated and informed to meet each type of commercial client we encounter.

After Programming is gathered, Space Planning is taking the client’s requirements and developing the space plan to mirror the program. Once the Space Plan is approved we move into the next phase of work called Design Development.

Design Development is where we develop the 3D aspects of the space plan. We address the walls, ceilings, floors and lighting. Each of these components is presented with materials or photos or samples. The client works closely with us as we begin to bring their company to fruition.

Construction Documents are drawn for actual construction. Any consultants required are engaged. These may encompass acoustical, structural engineering, or lighting consultants. Each consultant submitting design and construction drawings is included in the overall clients complete set of construction documents (CDs). The next step is to bid out the plans, select a General Contractor and manage the Construction Administration.

Worthington Interior Design is well versed in all areas of Commercial Interior Design. So if you are looking to be on the cutting edge with your unique business, commercial interior designers are well worth having on your team!

Work With an Interior Design Pro..11 good reasons why!

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Worthington Interior Design Newburyport

WID has written about this very topic many times over; but if you are still not convinced read an article written by an Interior Design colleague below. A designer offers 11 ways a pro can help you get the most joy from your remodel while minimizing headaches along the way.  Yanic Simard May 22, 2018, Houzz Contributor, Founder, owner and principal designer of the award winning residential interior design boutique firm Toronto Interior Design Group…

When people consider hiring an interior design professional for the first time, they often don’t know what to expect. Television can make it seem as though designers are magicians. This can create the illusion that designing, purchasing for and executing a vision can happen in a day; that concepts cost next to nothing to achieve; or that these professionals do nothing but shop, cause drama and have the time of their lives spending clients’ money.

That’s good entertainment, but it’s not reality.

In the established design industry, the career is serious business. It takes years to master the art of interior design. It is complex, calculated and practical. A design professional is often part creator, part project manager and sometimes even part therapist, helping homeowners to determine their dream design and bring it to life while helping them to breathe through the complexities from start to finish. Design professionals have learned over the years to wear many hats to benefit their clients.

Here are some of the top reasons for entrusting your project, whether it’s big or small, to a professional designer.

  1. Designers keep it real. It’s important to have big design dreams, but it’s also important to have a good idea of your design limitations. Television shows can make it seem as though anything is possible, no matter your space or your budget. In reality, every project has limitations, whether from the physical structure (like immovable walls and support columns) or other factors.Design professionals can help you determine which of your goals are realistic for your project and warn you of potential issues before any work or buying begins. This ensures that your plans are achievablewithin the budget you’ve set.
  2. Designers see potential. When it comes to your space, design professionals see not only the limits, but also the potential. It’s easy to get used to a furniture plan or functional layout in your space, or to think that there are no other options. But trained eyes can help you see possibilities you might not have considered. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or just refreshing your style, a design professional can help you get the best from your home.
  3. Designers use a time-tested process. Knowing your project’s limits and potential is just the beginning of a process that design professionals use to make sure a project stays on track from start to finish.Each designer may have a unique way of doing things, but ultimately an experienced professional will have a tried-and-true method that will help guide the project and make sure nothing gets missed.
  4. Designers can save you money. Yes, bringing in a pro to help manage your project can even save you money. There are financial considerations that you might not see upfront, including the considerable potential cost of mistakes.That said, while professional design can prevent expensive errors, it is still a luxury. But it’s one that can be considered an investment in the enjoyment of your home.
  5. Designers speak many languages. Some design professionals may actually speak many foreign languages, but all speak languages you might not be aware of, such as “contractor,” “architect” and “permit approval officer.” Communication is key in any design project, and mistakes and hiccups usually occur when a seemingly simple conversation or request is misinterpreted by one or both sides. An experienced professional will know how to properly communicate your design vision to the relevant tradespeople and suppliers, with detailed drawings, documentation and follow-ups to make sure your design dreams don’t get lost in translation.
  6. Designers bring the best tools. Design professionals use a range of software programs that produce accurate drawings and 3D visualizations of a space. Whether you’re moving walls or ordering furniture, you might find it tough to picture in your mind exactly how things will fit and look. Proper drawings will ensure that the pieces come together the right way, and in good proportions, so you don’t have to return items and start again.

Professionals can also give you access to a wide range of samples and materials that have been preselected from their favorite providers. A trusted designer with knowledge and taste will greatly simplify the process of browsing materials and finishes by showing you the best of the best, rather than an overwhelming array of options.

Designers may look at hundreds of stone samples, fabrics or plumbing fixtures before showing the best three or four choices to their clients.

Most designers have access to exclusive products, paint colors, hardware or other go-tos that they have used before and know work well. These recommendations from an experienced pro are invaluable.

  1. Designers save you time. Designing, building and furnishing a home is a bit like planning a wedding: You don’t realize the incredible number of decisions that need to be made until the process is already underway and the to-do lists start to pile up.

Designers are also trained to anticipate obstacles, which pop up in virtually every project. A professional with years of practice overseeing complex projects will be able to spot the ways things could go off course and then plan ahead to avoid issues. Coordinating the ordering and delivery of materials, the different tradespeople and installers, and your personal schedule can be hectic, but it’s important to make sure these moving parts coordinate smoothly, or the project can see serious delays.

With every project, not everything goes according to plan. Things come up that require quick reactions. Designers are there on hand to make the crucial decisions on the spot so you can focus on life’s more important things.

  1. Designers think creatively. It’s easy to go into a store, buy a furniture set from a display, have it delivered to your home, set it up and call it a day. But will that set from a showroom floor suit your unique space? A design professional can think creatively about your goals for your space and come up with solutions and ideas that you would never have thought of. Clients often tell me, “I never would have pictured that piece or color in my home, but now that I see it, it’s perfect.”
  2. Designers know how to edit. While it’s important to be able to think of creative features to add to the space, it’s equally important to know what to leave out. An interior design professional can guide you through the intricate process of knowing when to stop adding new elements — and how to get rid of old clutter. Ultimately, it is good editing that gives a home a collected sensibility while remaining personal, unique and true to the people who live there.
  3. Designers offer a range of services. Hiring a designer isn’t just like handing over the keys to your home and letting someone take over.  While some designers specialize in full-service offerings, others will tackle smaller one-off jobs like helping you pick paint colors, find the right furniture, select materials or simply plan a space. Of course, with different offerings comes different fee structures, which is something you’ll have to discuss with your design professional.
  4. Designers find the wow factor. Finally, this brings us to the reason people often begin a design project in the first place: the wow factor. Clients may find it hard to take risks, and that makes sense. Nobody wants to gamble with hard-earned money and lose. However, it’s important to take at least some design risks to find the dazzling, show-stopping moment that makes a project feel as though it was worth undertaking in the first place. Call or Email Worthington Interior Design today.

 

Design Ideas for Outside Living on Your Patio, Porch or Deck

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Patio, Porch or Deck, Newburyport MA

Explore easy ways to design outside living on your patio, porch or deck in Newburyport with amazing options for furniture, lighting and serve-ware! If you have enough space for a great sectional sporting an indoor/outdoor easy-to-clean material look to Restoration Hardware’s Classic Kingston collection. 14 different fabrics, 2 seat depths to fit  compact residential footprints are great. Want to get rid of your old picnic table? Wait a minute, you can paint it and apply a cool French stripe runner to dress up your 1950’s style picnic table. If you can’t bring your precious pillows outside on your patio, porch or deck have Newburyport’s 2017 Best Interior Designer, Worthington Interior Design work with you to select hip Perennials fabrics to create what looks like it belongs on the inside; but can live on the outside!

Newburyport has such a beautiful coastal setting to decorate your table with an obvious ‘sea-worthy’ theme, and there are so many great melamine dishes in marine, coral and nautical patterns it’s hard to choose. Think about introducing a different design approach of geometrics. Mixing stripes, chevrons, windowpane, hounds tooth or dot patterns to create unique outside space. All related without committing to a particular design so you can add more accessories year after year.  Anchor your outside space with a chevron rug in polypropylene, easy AND breezy!

Consider arranging your outside patio, porch or deck space whether small or large, so you have a view of your plantings and landscaping. Decorate the side of your house with all-weather artwork to resemble a room without doors and walls. Move your games and puzzles outside with comfy unique oversize to the trade cushions or poufs that Worthington Interior Design would be happy to acquire for you. Lighting with huge glass hurricanes and add a hanging a flea market chandelier from a tree with nautical rope you can find in Newburyport area marine supply stores creating a glow on your patio or deck. Just be sure candle- safety is in place. See our selection of French style Spring-Summer candles from Point a La Ligne/Bougies a la Francaise.

Also consider lighting with battery operated candles in all sizes to offer a worry-free outside! And the new LED colored sculpted sphere or globe lights with remotes will instantly set your mood to chill! Summer is all about outside, entertaining and fun. Fun can either be at the local Newbury Plum Island beaches or just a set-up game of croquet, badminton, or French boules in your own backyard!

Define your own outside albeit poolside, patio, deck or porch style with bright colors or classic neutrals! Try mixing the unexpected- turquoise with navy, red with pinks, oranges with purples and highlight with flowers in a single color for an understated elegance. With all the many ways to design living outside in New England’s beautiful coastal city of Newburyport, let us help you make the most of your patio, porch or deck decor.

 

3 Valuable Tips for Arranging Artwork in Your Home

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
arranging artwork, Worthington Interior Design, Newburyport

3 Valuable tips for arranging artwork on your walls and throughout your home. Often I get asked to help my clients hang their art or arrange their collectables in their home. First tip is to gather all the art into 1 room and begin to organize by size, subject or genre. This can take some time and is most important before anyone swings a hammer to nail! After you have made these select piles and you may mix all three ways just so you have separation. If you have sculpture pieces depending on the size or number you may need to make a special grouping for oversize or one-of-a-kinds.

Now looking at your piles, the 2nd tip for arranging artwork is to assign each piece to either a room or space that identifies with the furnishings or purpose of that room. For instance, if you have a room with a black and white color scheme you may want to use only black and white style art in that room. Or you may have a room with not a lot of color so choosing a grouping with lots of fun colors may really work nicely if the frames or pieces are not too heavy. If a room with neutral colors can be thrown off balance if the colors are too strong and the frames too heavy to hold the room or space together. In this case I would opt for colors that may be muted or pastel to go with the neutral furnishings in that room.

Tip 3 – Now that you have placed a grouping in the room or space : say you have 8 pieces of all different styles but the same subject as we mentioned above, you take the largest piece and lay it on the floor in front of the wall you are using. Then take the next few pieces say they are pair just smaller lay them next to the large piece and space them out using the middle of the large piece and do not let them exceed either the horizontal or vertical dimension of the large piece to find their final location.

Each time you lay down a piece and review if you like your arrangement be sure to take a photo of the layout recording it for hanging. Continue with the other pieces in the grouping placing them around the largest piece and relating them each piece you continue to place. This will create an interesting dialogue of your art and show you where it will fit best on your wall. If you have furniture on that wall it will also guide you with the starting heights. Many homeowners hang their art too high so keep in mind 60” above the floor onto the wall is the common site line dimension we use in the industry.

Using these 3 valuable tips for arranging artwork on your walls can make it a fun activity! However, if you need our help to solidify a special arrangement for your artwork call and make an appointment with us,  Worthington Interior Design 617-633-3005, we’d love to hang with you!

Happy spring!

See you next month.

3 Versatile Appliance Products for Your Home

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
versatile appliance products, Newburyport

As Interior Designers we are always looking for versatile appliance products to offer our clients, solving a whole host of space and design dilemmas. Hopefully you’re getting excited about the spring  weather coming soon!  So after some thought and some recent projects, the topic of versatile appliance products seemed to resonate as entertaining, doing less house work and having more fun outside is the order of the day!

The first versatile appliance product for many our clients to consider is under-counter washers and dryers from Miele. You may need to gain more space near the back door or mudroom or even laundry on the 2nd floor all while having your space still looking fresh and modern. I bet you have seen these units in European homes. They actually install them in their kitchens! Solving clients design dilemmas with laundry rooms and basements; these versatile appliance products check every box especially when it comes to our beloved mudrooms in New England! Take a look at these quiet and efficient washers and dryers for any of your space saving needs.

Our 2nd versatile appliance product is fromUline and Marvel.  Try the dual under-counter wine and beverage refrigerators.  The Uline 3000 makes a wonderfully designed product that can alleviate the headaches of storing drinks and taking up precious space and real estate in your main refrigerator. The Marvel line has a back light color and they each have some nifty options. You can even spread them apart in your kitchen if they work better with your room layout. Having these appliance products means your kids can get to their juice or other drinks by themselves at their level. You can lock a side if you want to store alcoholic beverages. You can otherwise stock these fridges with all the mixers, lemons and limes for your adult beverages;  keeping them all in one place. You will be amazed how much space you regain in your main refrigerator and how a simple appliance product for your home can make your life easier!

And third and last versatile appliance for your home is a built-in coffee system.   Miele makes a wonderful system that can be built-in to your cabinetry which immediately helps to keep your kitchen counters clutter free. It pays for itself within a year and you can have gourmet coffee right in your own home without taking up counter-top real estate. Have a party and it’s easy to offer coffee at the end of a meal without having to count people before you make a pot. Miele’s ease of use coffee system makes a cup of java well worth having it at home!

Give us a call at Worthington Interior Design and let’s make your house a home 617-633-3005!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day and spring is on its way!

See you next month.

3 Tips for Selecting Interior Colors

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Interior Colors, Newburyport MA

3 tips for selecting interior colors for your home to steer clear of mistakes or repainting and blowing your budget. First it’s good to take inventory of what furniture you have and are keeping. This includes the color of the wood, materials or fabrics you will be using in each room. Are the materials a cool palate or a warm palate? For instance if you have predominately cool colors you want to select a complimenting neutral color to enhance the room. If all your furnishings are neutral and bland you may want to liven them up with a crisp white so you won’t be overwhelmed with color. But if you like color our next recommendation is to …

Pay attention to your existing type of lighting as well as how the light comes in your windows or if you have no windows in those rooms.

Regarding the lighting– do you have a solo center fixture, lamps, sconces or recessed fixtures? All of these types of lighting affect the colors you choose. If you have lots of window light know that a strong color will lighten on the wall at the height of the day and as the day is done it will become more intense. So if you are trying to achieve a cozy room a dark tone color may work for your space.

And lastly study the floor treatments and ceilings in each room or space. Wood floors light or dark can have an effect on your color palate. Stone or tile also will also affect the interior colors you choose because natural or man-made tile happen to react to colors because of their inconsistency especially in a natural product and the man-made product is often trying to emulate the natural product.  Both can be difficult to match colors against especially if you want a neutral color palate.

What are the current ceilings treatment(s) you are working with to choose a color palate for the walls? Do you have ceiling a swirled finish, a drywall finish, beams across the ceiling to name a few or do you have an architectural feature like a coffer or cathedral ceiling? When working with existing conditions, providing you are not embarking on a full renovation, still need to play a role when you select new colors for your home.

So live with samples of your selections so you can see them during different times of the day. And if you want to achieve a simpatico relationship from room to room when it comes to color consider these 3 tips for selecting interior colors for your home.

You may always give us a call at Worthington Interior Design for a color consult to help!

3 More Reasons in 2020 to Have an Interior Designer on your Team

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design

3 more reasons in 2020 to have an Interior Designer on your team– has become a recurring underlying need among all my social media and messaging apps.

First good reason to have an Interior Designer is to have your professional assess your entire goal. So you need an electrician to hang provide artwork lighting… this is a talent and although electricians can perform the work; it’s not always from a designer’s eye. Your Interior Designer can see the focus, the type of artwork mount needed and if your desired location is the best for your art. Your Interior Designer will suggest the correct lighting fixtures because Home Depot, to the masses light fixtures are not the same as the manufacturers. Highlighting your art with the correct fixtures, amount and type of light needs to be thought through or you can have a mess and a huge electrician invoice! Interior Designers are trained in placing artwork and working with electricians to minimize mistakes and keep the cost inline.

2nd good reason to have a design firm like  Worthington Interior Design is when I read “looking for a kitchen design/layout.” WOW this is scary just writing this—a kitchen layout is more than just a simple rehab that anyone with a construction sign can offer you.

When you are approaching a project that needs experience, sources and attention to detail;  this is an Interior Designer. We learn how you live “before” you just get a layout; it is vital to staying within your budget and truly understanding how your home flows. Today so many say they are seasoned but those of us who come with valid seasoned experience in both residential and commercial projects bring you another level of service, knowledge and professionalism.

Many potential clients say they redesigned this room or closet ;  only see that it’s not easily accessible, the furniture they purchased is only 3 months old already shows wear or they spent an exorbitant amount of money on 1 closet. Utilizing a skilled professional is there to keep you feeling good about the monies you are spending and making sure you’re whole design works.

This brings us to our 3rd good reason to have an Interior Design  on your team may be because you haven’t ever hired one before! We know with all the TV shows its makes it all look so easy—but having studying for many years with a bona fide Interior Design degree it is not as easy as it looks. One mistake can be extremely costly for homeowners! Worthington Interior Design is honed with having seen most everything and most importantly what does not work makes us a great member of your home team. Most of our clients have been with us for a very long time and call us for not just design needs; but for party planning layouts, holiday designs and special events and occasions. This is because we understand the whole and the client trust to help them make wise selections continuing to save our clients monies!

So as I see more and more neighborhood engagement it’s important to have Worthington Interior Design, the professional Interior Designer  for our home team, to carry out your vision and save you headache and heartache!

 

5 Smart-Money Reasons to Buy an HVAC Maintenance Contract

Caswell HVAC Maintenance Contract, Newburyport

Do you regularly change the oil in your car? More than likely you do, because a poorly serviced engine runs less efficiently and can create serious – and costly – problems down the road. Heating and cooling (HVAC) systems in the home work much the same way: Service them regularly and you’ll maintain efficiency and even spot small problems before they develop into expensive emergency repairs. Here are five time- and money-saving reasons why Caswell recommends that homeowners purchase an annual HVAC Maintenance Contract.

  1. An HVAC Maintenance Contract can’t eliminate all issues, but preventative maintenance can help detect a mechanical problem before it turns into an emergency situation. Pay a service fee up-front to avoid a much larger future repair bill.
  2. Annual maintenance enables our technicians to develop a long-range view of your HVAC service system. A service technician that is familiar with your system is far more likely to spot a small problem and fix it before it turns into a major malfunction.
  3. When your heating system breaks in the dead of winter, who do you call? More importantly, who calls you back? Caswell customers with an HVAC Maintenance Contract get top priority in cases of a heating or cooling system malfunction.
  4. Annual servicing helps prolong the health and efficiency of your HVAC system, and that means lower monthly energy bills for you – a significant cost savings over time.
  5. Typically customers with an HVAC Maintenance Contract get top priority with service scheduling. In fact, Caswell will contact you with a reminder to schedule your next maintenance appointment.

No one wants to pay higher energy bills and deal with emergency repairs. With an HVAC Maintenance Contract from Caswell Mechanical, it’s far less likely that you’ll have to.

These Design Trends Could Sabotage Your Sleep

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Design Trends, Newburyport

Metallic finishes, retro dressers, and all-white color schemes are bedroom trends have a powerful impact but these design trends could sabotage your sleep. We’ve put together a list of the top trends getting in the way of the restful shut-eye you need to be at your best.

Multi-Functional Spaces

While we are all for multi-functional kitchens, living rooms, and dens, when it comes to the bedroom, this is one of the design trends you should avoid. Your body, the brain, in particular, responds to outside stimuli in interesting ways. Let’s say you create an office space in your bedroom. While it might be the best use of space, it could lead to sleepless nights because your brain may still focus on work because that’s what it’s used to doing in that space.

If you have extra space in the bedroom, use it to create an area that contributes to a good night’s rest. A comfortable chair for reading, a yoga mat in the corner for a few bedtime stretches to relax the mind and body, or an en suite bathroom where you can take a warm bath can all contribute to a bedtime routine that prepares you for better sleep.

Color Scheme

Bright colors send your brain the “awake” signal and can keep you up at night. It’s not surprising to learn that colors associated with relaxation like subdued blues and greens often contribute to better and longer sleep. Be judicious with reds and other intense colors they can keep you awake. The eyes are sensitive organs that send constant signals to the brain.

If blue and greens just don’t work for you, cool, neutral colors that cause the heart rate to drop and don’t over stimulate the brain can have a similar calming effect. Think beige and cool greys for the ultimate in neutral relaxers For those who just want a touch of color, light yellow with its cozy, happy feel can also work well in a bedroom.

Your Bed

The minimalist design trends puts mattresses just above the floor, but without the right support beneath it, a mattress can sag and cause back pain. Even if the pain isn’t enough to fully wake you, aches and stiffness from an unsupportive mattress can keep you from entering the deep sleep you need for complete rejuvenation. Box springs or other foundations are a great way to prolong the life of your mattress and give your back a break. If you still want that low, minimalist look, try a low profile box spring with a shallow depth of four inches. That keeps you close to the ground but offers the support you need.

Add a Ceiling Fan

If your bedroom doesn’t have a fan, you might want to consider one. A light may look sleek and modern, but ceiling fans can help you control the room temperature. Keeping the room at a cool 60-68 degrees helps your body stay at a lower temperature, which contributes to better sleep. Remember to run your fan in reverse or counterclockwise to ventilate the heat that rises and run your fan clockwise in spring and summer weather.

Ceiling fans also create white noise to relax the mind and reduce distracting outside noises.

If you’re picturing your grandma’s old brass accented fan, take a look at the latest fans on the market. There are now designs that range from minimalist to contemporary and modern that give you the benefits of a fan without the eyesore you may remember from when you were a kid.

 

Get your Z’s and see you next month. Happy New Year!

 

 

3 Really Cool Coffee Tables to Update Your ‘End Zone’

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
coffee tables, newburyport ma

So as we watch weekend football and enjoy libations and snacks I thought you might like to see some really cool coffee tables to update your own ‘end zone’! Okay just as we think we’re going to spend more time inside Mother Nature keeps gracing us with summertime weather. Worthington Interior Design has been busy cultivating new furniture selections for our clients.

Our first really cool coffee table to update your end zone is from OKA. The Trifoglio coffee table is 38” square made of wood with a rustic lace design known as trefoil, a classic architectural design that can make your space either casual or formal. The size is really great because it’s slightly bigger than 3’ and not too large to gather around with drinks and game day refreshments.

From this we come to the rectangular Lantau faux shagreen with gold accents coffee table. This table measures 47’ x 20” which works great in living rooms and open floor plans. The Lantau collection works with many styles of furniture so you can add some glamour without changing all the furniture in your room. The collection brings in the new trend of gold and brass we are seeing. In fact this is gilded gold leaf on the frame of this really cool coffee table! OKA says the Lantau Effortlessly elegant and deliciously opulent.”

Finding a coffee table that adds a cool factor yet is functional and wont date itself can be challenging but we at Worthington Interior Design have many, many sources to find you the best piece at a great price!

Sometimes you need a square, sometimes you need a rectangle and sometimes you need round style coffee tables. Now we are seeing many with tufted fabric tops more like an ottoman but you know placing a drink on a tray on these style pieces can be challenging, so we will work with you to find the best investment coffee table.

Our third winner is from Room and Board. We love the Gibson a mid-century style cocktail table measuring approx.. 53” x 36”.

Durable solid wood is transformed into the light, fluid profile of our Gibson cocktail table through the skill of West Virginia woodworkers. Softly beveled edges, turned legs and unique contours contribute to this table’s mid-century elegance.” Many of us have combined our living room or family room spaces and this table offers the table surface without the heavy look of furniture. Perhaps you have a view from your family room or living room and this table anchors the room without weighing it down. I love mid-century style pieces mixed withBohème or Traditional style furniturefor an eclectic look. It is both elegant and functional. Designing your own space with some unusual materials makes everything really warm and cozy.

You really can make any aspect of your home your very own ‘end zone.’ We would love to work with you on any project you have small or large. Making your house your home is what we do best.

Enjoy Mother Nature’s gift a while longer and check out these 3 really cool coffee tables to update your end zone from OKA or Room and Board. Give us a call at Worthington Interior Design to discuss your design project.

See you next month.

3 Stylish Beds for Kids to Hit the Hay after Hitting the Books

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
stylish beds for kids, Newburyport MA

You must have a look at these 3 stylish beds for kids to hit the hay after hitting the books! This time of year everyone can use a little refresh in their kid’s bedrooms. These stylish beds for kids will endure for a while since each bed style we have chosen has a timeless design. With all the websites offering children’s furniture; it’s Worthington Interior Design’s keen eye for design sourcing these treasures for your home.

While the the bunk style is chic it’s also convertible. Many shy away from bunk beds because they can look cheap but our selection here is not. Our twin bed picks are colorful and refined which transcend into high school and beyond.

Modway’s Phoebe has a sophisticated look complete with nail heads and tapered legs. Like we mentioned it can take your kids bedroom from middle school to becoming a senior’s hideaway! Your kids can choose from bright red, navy or even shocking yellow fabrics. I love the sensibility of design this bed offers.

The Austin bunk bed looks more like a genuine Frank Lloyd Wright or Richard Neutramid-century modern furniture design. This bunk offers accessories to customize your child’s bed. “Perfect for sleepovers or inseparable siblings, the austin bunk bed can be ordered as a split bunk bed for when the kids outgrow their shared space. Customize the bunk with cubbies on either side for more storage.” 

Once you decide on a style Worthington will help you with paint colors and bedding to complete your children’s look and declare their bedroom a cool place to hit the hay after hitting the books.

After a great summer it’s sometimes hard to reel everyone into a routine of studying and going to bed early; so adding a new fresh look can help everyone to get back into the swing of things. Studying can go from a chore to a happy place in your children’s bedrooms when you hit the refresh button.

Okay this brings us to saving the best for last with the Parker. I’ve presented it in this Kelly green color even though it comes in a few other colors, because it’s crisp and fun! Love the green wood stain and the styling is great.

So there you have it, 3 stylish beds for kids to hit the hay after hitting the books!

Enjoy autumn and the cooler temps and give us a call at Worthington Interior Design to help you refresh and make your home cooler too!

See you next month.

5 Best Sofas for Napping, Lounging and Reading

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Best Sofas for Napping, lounging and reading , Newburyport

Try these 5 Best Sofas for Napping, Lounging and Reading! Summer is always a great time to catch a Nap so why not try one of these cool sofas. The first sofa is the Sandra Napper Chaise. The name says super comfy and try placing it in an open loft space, alcove or  in front of a fireplace. It’s an all-around cool and chic sofa!Use a bright or neutral colored linen fabric and pair it with a light weight Brahms or Matouk coverlet.  Reading in the Sandra Napper Chaise will soon have you dozing!

Our second style sofa from Duralee is the Columbia collection in either a sectional with 2 chaises or a simple sofa. The low arm offers a comfortable angle for your pillow and head. Worthington would love to help you choose a standard fabric and voilà you have your very own cozy nest on a summer afternoon.

Thirdly, we cannot forget to mention the many styles of the famed English furniture line, George Smith. Their soft seating collections are dreamy and last forever!  It’s like the ole boxy 850 Volvo wagon that you hand down to your college age children. George Smith has classic style is timeless. From their  Standard Collection  we recommend the Classic Sofa or chaise. They have the stylish wheel foot and look fabulous in any fabric! Or venture out and use George Smith’s signature “Dog Kennel Chaise.” Once you have a George Smith piece you know true comfort!

Our fourth recommendation for best sofas for napping, lounging and reading is the Frank sofa by Mattaliano. Contact us to have a lounge on this amazing sofa in the showroom.  This sofa has wide and low arms where you can comfortably  perch or  lounge! In a  rich colored leather or a durable fabric you cannot go wrong with this fabulous sofa!

And lastly, we round out our fifth suggestion for best sofas for napping, lounging and reading from the ICON Group, Anees-Main Street Sofa.  Just sitting on this sofa in the showroom you want to fall asleep!  This is an investment piece you will love forever! Its depth and length accommodate all body types. The arm’s height and width are perfect! Our seasoned Interior Design experience has enabled us to guide our clients to invest in great furniture pieces that give years of flexibility and enjoyment. Make an appointment with Worthington Interior Design to order your next great investment piece.

While away summertime with one of our 5 best sofas for Napping, Lounging and Reading!

 

 

 

 

 

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK, they’d say Wallpaper is back!

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Wallpaper is back, Newburyport MA

If these walls could talk they’d say Wallpaper is back! Coming from Europe on the decorating scene in the past 2 years has been floral wallpapers and handmade “de Gournay” wallpapers panels.  And you know there are some very pretty florals that look updated and fresh. SO before you wrinkle your nose let me give you a few places to look for fresh floral wallpapers and how to use them.

Newburyport is known for its maritime look and feel but you can bring some eclectic wallpaper into your home, think of it as letting the garden come inside! Now if you have a finished 3rd floor or attic space that you have made into a guest room go all out like the English and use the wallpaper on the ceilings and walls. It’s okay! Take a look at English UK wallpapers- Colefax and Fowler or Designer’s Guild. Or just stay state-side and look at Schumacher wallpapers.

You still don’t believe that wallpaper is back? Another idea a little more contemporary is to try oversized geometric wallpaper on 1 wall in your foyer, up one side of your stairway or even in your powder room. Many of the geometric wallpapers have pure color which enhances your furniture or bathroom vanity. If you use the wallpaper with a strong pattern in a controlled amount you will not get tired of it and you will find you can skip the artwork and highlight the space with the type and style of light fixture.

Think about your Northshore, Newburyport home just a little bit differently and use wallpaper in a pure color against a white backdrop. You will see how much you will love the change and understand why wallpaper is back!  Your room becomes a new space in your home. Want a great fresh color look at Thibaut wallpapers or step it up a notch with Quadrille’s vast collection of unique style wallpapers!

Many of you are minimalists and would prefer no wallpapers; but I beg to differ on this with you because you may want to look at Phillip Jefferies absolutely Amazing collections of grass cloth wallpapers. They even have some with overlay geometrics, like the Greek key or oriental style design. Using one of PJ papers will warm the space and hanging paper on 1 wall can make a huge statement. Cowtan and Tout and Kenneth James have been experimenting with a marbleized or agate style wallpaper that I simply love for both traditional and contemporary spaces. The colors are warm grays, soft neutrals and even a neutral pink that can work with many shades of colors, like navy, charcoal, or rich browns.

Worthington will meet and work with you at your residence to identify where “if these walls could talk, they’d say Wallpaper is back” in your home! We have so many wallpaper options to show you, whether wallpapering a simple wall, room or ceiling in your Newburyport or Northshore home Worthington will create just the right touch!“To Define is to Limit.” -Oscar Wilde

 

Have a Happy 4th of July and see you in August.

Add some GREEN to your Home Interiors

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Add some GREEN to your Home Interiors

Green is the color of the year, it signifies Spring is near, it means asparagus is peaking and English peas are ready! We all identify Green with the month of March for obvious reasons; so let WorthingtonInterior Design add some green to your home interiors!

So how does one begin to include the correct shade of green into their existing home you ask? Take inventory of your artwork, dishes, lamps and patterned upholstery pieces to see if you have any shades of green, green-blues, or greenie-yellows among them. Then decide if you like this shade of green, if so let’s begin.

Now green accessories are an easy and affordable way to bring the new fresh color into your home. I like to start with actual plants and flowers as they always brighten up your home after a long winter and add some green to your home interiors.

Jewel toned green linen or velvet fabrics are lush. Schumacher always offers us many options to blend green into our color palates.

Green seems to be easy to live with because it falls between yellow and blue and where many people may not like blue or yellow they will find green is easy on the eyes. Throughout my design career many of my male clients are drawn to greens and oranges especially and then to the blues. Not sure why that is but in presenting color palettes and finishes this has been my experience. Also even though I love blue I feel greens endure and one doesn’t get tired of the color as quickly.

Green also means environmentally friendly and doing our part to save the planet for our children! Every little bit of being green in our life helps everyone.

We would love to help you to bring some fresh spring colors into your home now that the weather is changing and the sun is getting warmer. Wallpaper is so cool now, Schumacher is doing it right this Spring, check out their patterns with green and add some green to your home interiors.

So how to be the envy of your friends this spring, call Worthington Interior Design so we can get you started on finding the chic and hip greens to mark the beginning of Spring!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day — as my Dad used to say “see you at the courthouse.”

“Today is St. Patrick’s Day, and for the first time in my life, I didn’t know who to call when I woke up. My family has
had a long-standing St. Patty’s Day joke for as long as I can remember. My Dad grew up in the south and had a big
boisterous laugh and always a joke on hand. When we were kids, he’d convinced us one St. Patrick’s Day that as the oldest male in the family, he was required to go down to the courthouse to get his bottom painted green. This, of
course, resulted in bouts of big belly laughs from my sisters, brother and me; so he did what anyone does when you
get a child to laugh like that…you keep the joke going. Every year, we’d laugh as we asked Dad to make sure he got
his butt painted green. Let’s face it, anytime you can say the word “butt” as a kid, you find it hilarious. He’d include
details about how long he had to wait, or how the judge ran out of paint and had to send the bailiff out to the hardware store to get more, or how he ran into his buddy while he was there. Every year as an adult, I still called Dad on St. Patrick’s Day anyway to hear him laugh and embellish the story. We laughed each year like it was the first time we’d heard the story and he loved to share this silly little joke with us.”

Convenient & Economical Home Heating & Cooling

Soffron Electrical Newburyport MA

With the different temperatures that New Englanders face during the four seasons, some are finding it nice to come home to a house that is the perfect temperature and also saving money at the same time. “The Nest” smart thermostat is what is helping your neighbors achieve this savings.

“The Nest” smart thermostat is a programmable thermostat that takes cares of heating and cooling your home. You can set it manually from the actual device hanging on your wall just like your current thermostats with the older technology. You can program the thermostat from anywhere, such as your PC, laptop, or smartphone. The app for your smartphones comes free with the thermostat.

As you use “The Nest” it will eventually learn the temperatures you like your house to be and the time you like it to be those temperatures. It will learn every time you turn the ring, you will eventually find yourself using the ring less and less to control the temperature. It will eventually take over the control of your homes temperatures and keep you comfortable at night and then it will remember what time you wake and make sure your home is the correct temperature. It does not matter the season, it will always learn and keep its memory.

What if you have a great ski trip planned but do not want to leave your home because you afraid of some frigid temperatures that you heard are coming? Not to worry, “The Nest” thermostat has an away feature where you can set it and not have to worry at all while you are away. How about security of your home, “The Nest” thermostat has you covered. You can hook up a camera to the system and watch what is happening at your home live.

“The Nest” is eventually going to help you start saving money and energy. “The Nest” has a leaf that pops up on the screen of the thermostat and that means you are saving money. You might be using heat, but you can still save money with “The Nest” smart thermostat. Contact the experts at Soffron Electrical for assistance with “The Nest” and other great energy saving products.

Making Prepping for School Fun and Fresh

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Prepping for School with Worthington Interior Design

Wow the summer has flown by and now you can begin making prepping for school fun and fresh cause
it’s almost here!

While we enjoy the best days of summer in New England dipping our toes in the warm Atlantic ocean and still playing outside until dark. Kids have the time of their lives during the summer and I’m sure they are growing like weeds!

Now, just before school begins, when we think about new school clothes; it may also be time to think
about updating their rooms and playrooms to bring along a fresh look with paint, new furniture or
bedding. With wallpaper coming on strong from the UK, it’s a single idea that comes with an instant
WOW factor! Making prepping for school fun and fresh!

Contact us a Worthington Interior Design; we have a few ideas you may want to introduce into your kids
rooms as you. Or perhaps a new born is on the way!

Simple painted graphics of mountain ranges, water, or geometric shapes make a plain wall hip!

ROMO’s, kirbydesign.com – by Jon Burgerman is showcasing new fabrics. We can reupholster a chair or
stool, make roman shades, duvet covers or add pillows using their cool fabric collection. The new
fabrics: “Rainbow Scrawl”,“Wobblepotamus”, “Mild Beasts + Mini Mild Beasts” “Mallowland” or
“Spaghetti Yeti” to name a few!

As September approaches rearranging your child’s room will help put everyone in the right frame of
mind for the start of the new school year. We always know how good it feels to change up things in our
homes; it gives us a new outlook and we can sweep out the old, bring in the new.
New baby coming we have a fabulous made in the USA source for cribs, youth furniture and bunkbeds.
They offer other furniture items for your children. Even cool wallpapers.

Worthington Interior Design would love to help with your nursery and/or give your kid’s rooms an
updated look for fall. Or even work with you to freshen up your teenager’s room. School prep their
rooms with new storage and a new design to create an inviting homework space.

Just a simple update will make coming inside more fun and new!

Ring us up: 978-255-3001; 617-633-3005

BLACK AND WHITE AND COOL FOREVER

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Black and White from Worthington Interior Design

Using the black and white in a small space can really be cool forever, you won’t get tired of this design scheme and it can look fresh season to season. You can add a hint of red- raspberry, coral-orange, easy- on- the eye greens or turquoise to change up your space.

Try a stripe of black and white on the walls but install it horizontally! Trimmed pillows or bolsters look great on a long sofa or a short settee. Upholster in black linen or velvet to give a more formal look to your living room.

The new wallpapers in black and white are looking very fresh and timeless. Make an appointment with Worthington
Interior Design to show you Thibaut Wallpaper, Fabrics & Furniture, Bridgehampton Collection of fabrics and wallpapers! We’re even getting in on the fun with using Demetrius in our foyer.

Keep wood furniture or metals accessories in their same family because black and white can be intense and heavyhanded so what surrounds them should be consistent and subtle.

Black and white comes with its own set of rules; the main rule being ‘scale.’ If you select a small scale and it appears too wimpy you lose the effect, too large and you look like the circus has come to town!

One of Worthington Interior Designs forte’s; scale and balance. We work in all size spaces and residences and we would love to work with you on your powder room, foyer or breakfast room.
So say you’d like to give black and white cool forever a chance in your home and you want to add a splash of grenadine red; give Worthington a call so we can show you where it may be best to start in your home.

With all the new outdoor furnishings you can pull black and white together with layering even outside. The chaises all can be ordered with black and white cushions. You can carry the look to the table also. Try some black and white bowls or plates with touches of a red salsa color and jazz up the outdoor barbeque!

This is one of many ‘cool forever’ color schemes we can create to work with your current interiors.

Giving your room a face-lift just before summer kicks in is like getting a new haircut. It’s fresh, crisp and simple.

Call Worthington Interior Design to get your ‘cool forever’ 978-255-3001.

 

I Saw the Light, I Saw the Light…No more darkness

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
I saw the Light, Worthington Interior Design, Newburyport MA

New Hollywood film,”I saw the the Light”, song by Hank Williams Sr.

How apropos, light and lighting are essential design elements in the interiors of your home. Throughout my career, there has been the question ‘what is the key ingredient of a successful design project?’

Always without a doubt it’s the lighting.

Exterior or interior lighting whether it’s for way-finding, safety or to beautify and enhance; it needs to be well thought out to align with your home’s architecture.

The interiors of each home may call for many types of light sources for effect, mood, tasks, etc.

Good lighting is like good music… it brings comfort and enjoyment to whatever you’re doing.

Combining music and lighting allows me the opportunity to brag about my brother, Marc. His forthcoming Hollywood film releases March 25 and will debut in our area on April 1. Starring Tom Hiddleston and Elizabeth Olsen, “I Saw the Light” is a biopic film about the great Hank Williams Sr. Our family is so very proud of this film for many obvious reasons but also because the music makes us all feel good! It seems Hank Williams Sr. has influenced so many of our great musicians like Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Beck, Johnny Cash , Keith Richards and Bruce Springsteen to name a few!

The making of this film speaks to why Hank Williams music is so unforgettable and continues to influence great bands as well as new up and coming artists. Marc says this was a complicated project recreating the layers of Hank’s life which culminated into his memorable music. The film is truly enjoyable!

As with designing your home there are also many layers: space plan, furniture arrangement, floor and wall treatments, paints, etc. All of these components lead us to lighting. High-quality lighting will enhance and give you either the calmness or the drama each space in your home deserves.

There are so many great options for light fixtures not to mention the advancement of the LED. So when you’re thinking about your next design project, kindly call us.

And no foolin’ see you at the movies on April 1st!

 

Newburyport A Destination City

By Robert Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
CEO/Owner & Residential/Commercial Sales Specialist for Bentley's, Robert has been the #1 agent in the Greater Newburyport market since 2011 per MLSPIN.com and Bentley's Sales Records. Robert's success is due to his dominance with on-line real estate marketing, strong negotiation skills, and good old fashioned work ethic. Robert has a strong sales, marketing, and finance background and always does what is necessary to get the deal done, and make his clients happy. Experience and proven reputation are key when you are making the largest financial transaction of a life time. Call or text 781-858-5115.
Newburyport A Destination City, Newburyport MA

Newburyport a destination city, serves as the hub for many North Shore and Southern NH towns.  Newburyport’s historic charm, amazing restaurant & shopping scene not to mention the beautiful water views all put Newburyport in high demand for the great lifestyle this unique community offers.  Newburyport provides the opportunity to experience city life along the Merrimack River and enjoy beautiful beaches with a quick ride or bike over to Plum Island.

Newburyport real estate offers something for everyone.  Whether you are in search of a multi-million dollar property water views, ocean and river front or just a one or bedroom condo, Newburyport is a city that you must explore.  As a city, Newburyport has a high walkability score.  Living in the downtown area you are able to enjoy the vibrant and diverse cultural environment created here in Newburyport all enjoyed without the stress of getting it a car.

Newburyport also offers convenience for commuters with quick access to both Interstate 95 as well as 495 making Boston, Southern Maine, Southern NH and points west all very accessible.  In addition, the commuter rail is a great way to travel to Boston and the C&J Trailways bus provides quick and comfortable access to Logan Airport and South Station.

Call Robert Bentley anytime with questions @ 781.858.5115.

 

Classic & Versatile, Gingham A Checkered Past…

By Debra Worthington, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
"Southern comfort meets New England proper" Debra Worthington, a well-seasoned professional Interior Designer, merges her southern upbringing and values with her New England traditions to assess your lifestyle. For your home or commercial space we design spaces with timeless beauty. Worthington Interior Design is located in Newburyport. Whether you're a traditionalist or modernist; we work in all genres- " antiques can always be infused with a bit of of playful urban-mix."
Worthington Interior Design
Gingham a checkered past, Worthington Interior Design, Newburyport MA

Here we are near the end of February 2016 and we can see fewer weeks left demarcating winter.  As you continue to nest by the fire and enjoy hearty meals, the glimmers of springtime are in the offing. So this brings me to a fabric design of the past, Gingham.

It is a design pattern that really never goes out of style and in fact it’s ageless. Depending on the scale, large or small it plays nicely among stripes, paisleys, florals and even textured fabrics and wallpapers.

Revitalize a side chair and cover it in a  brightly colored gingham and it immediately makes your space feel fresh and crisp. Dare to mix colors and you can bring a bit of whimsy to your rooms.

Large oversize scaled gingham can give you an instant ‘sophisticated contemporary feel’ either upholstering traditional dining or breakfast room chairs.

Thibaut Fine Furniture, Fabrics and Wallpapers sells it in fun colors. Need new pillows try gingham on one side and print on the other side and you can switch up your look by flipping the pillows.

Want timeless drapery or tailored style roman shades …use it as trim to finish your look.

For your child’s room use coverlets on the beds or an area rug with a gingham print…it all works.

Patterned tablecloths or dishes make for a lovely background for a Sunday brunch, especially with Stonewall Kitchen’s blueberry sour cream scones!

And when springtime does arrive simply move the party outside on the deck or patio and upholster your outdoor furniture with sun resistant mixes of gingham and stripe fabrics.

Because the age-old Gingham pattern is so versatile, it’s a simple way to add home style as March 20th rolls around…the 1st day of spring!  Contact Worthington Interior Design to discuss these and other great design ideas.  

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