Articles Tagged "Bellevue"

A home library is a great way to add a touch of elegance to your home while showing off your books. Plus with so many wonderful bookstores around Richmond, it's no surprise if you've accumulated quite the collection! 

Whether you're looking to convert an entire room into a library or just simply looking to set up a reading nook, our real estate agents pulled together a list of tips to help you create your own DIY library.

1. Choose The Right Location
   The best location for your library is largely dependent on how much space you have available. It's also somewhat contingent on the size of your book collection. Those with a lot of space to spare and a lot of books may want to convert an entire room into a library. If you're looking to display a small number of books, consider placing them under a staircase or on a living room shelf. With a couple of bookshelves and a comfy chair, you can also convert any bedroom or living room corner into a cozy reading nook.
   
   
2. Arrange Books By Color
   Organizing books alphabetically can create a stuffy look. Instead, why not arrange your books in a more creative way? Grouping books by colors can really create a vibrant look, especially if you have a lot of bright covers. You can also consider arranging them by size, or by separating horizontal rows with vertical stacks.
   
   
3. Comfortable Seating is a Must
   Figuring out how to display your books is only one component of creating your own library. You also need a comfortable place to sit. Whether it's a big couch or your favorite recliner, be sure to add a comfortable surface, so you can curl up with your favorite read.
   
   
4. Make Sure There Is A Table Nearby
   A good table is a key part of any library. If you've transformed an entire room into a library, try to add a long center table to the middle of the room. If your library is more of a reading nook, a smaller end table can add a nice touch.
   
   
5. Add A Ladder
   Nothing creates a library vibe quite like a ladder attached to floor-to-ceiling shelving. If your library is big enough, definitely consider adding a rolling ladder into your library design, so you and your visitors can reach that top shelf book.
   
   
6. Optimize Your Lighting
   Your home library shouldn't be in a dark area of the home. If your bookshelves aren't getting enough natural light, consider adding additional lighting fixtures at the top of each shelf so you can easily read the titles. You'll also want to make sure there is adequate lighting for reading so you don't have to strain your eyes.

Looking for the perfect home among the Richmond homes for sale to display your book collection? We're here to help!

For more tips on interior design or help finding your dream home, contact us today!

Each year, paint companies and color pros choose hues that will make a splash in the coming year based on the current trends. Brighter, bolder colors were unveiled for 2020 in anticipation of a year filled with confidence and optimism. For 2021, however, things are moving in a subtle direction. The reignited passions for creating beautiful homes, along with the need for more peace and serenity, have influenced many of the expected color trends of 2021. Here are the top shades our real estate agents know so far and how you can use them in your home.

1. Aegean Teal by Benjamin Moore
   Benjamin Moore selected Aegean Teal 2136-40 for its 2021 color of the year. This intriguing, soft color is a blend of gray and blue-green. It marries green's association with nature and wellness with the tranquil nature of blue. The gray undertone helps provide a modern look to it. The color creates natural harmony and an invitation to reflect and reset.
   
   Add it to your home: This color's calming qualities make it a great option for home offices, bedrooms, and kitchen cabinetry.
   
   
2. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating by Pantone
   Pantone chose two contrasting colors for 2021: Ultimate Gray (a dull, familiar gray) and Illuminating (the bright yellow of lemon skin). These colors combine to reflect a sense of resilience and optimism. The gray cloudy skies evoke our collective experiences over the past year of quarantine. The yellow highlights hope and light at the end of the tunnel. 
   
   Add it to your home: Perfect for upholstered furniture and walls, gray is a timeless neutral that provides a foundation for interiors. The yellow adds a dash of positivity and brightness when used on wall decor, accent furniture, the front door, and accessories like throws and pillows.
   
   
3. Satin Paprika by Rust Oleum
   Popular spray paint brand Rust-Oleum chose its 2021 color of the year, emphasizing warmth, calm, and comfort. Satin Paprika, an earthy red hue, anchors other trending shades the brand has chosen, curated to complement modern boho aesthetics, outdoor living spaces, and midcentury modern style.
   
   Add it to your home: To add this earthy, spicy hue to your space, try spraying a few coats on accent furniture or update wall decor for a vibrant feel. The color pairs well with earthy tones like black matte and brass finishes.
   
   
4. Passionate by HGTV by Sherwin-Williams
   A rich, bold red, Passionate is a hue that blurs the line between modern and traditional. It is part of a larger collection dubbed "Delightfully Daring," which comprises shades of rich brown, aqua, and energetic green. When used thoughtfully in design, this red shade can easily incite emotion and add energy to a room. It creates a refreshing backdrop for nature-inspired accents and neutral furniture.
   
   Add it to your home: The warm hue of this paint looks cozy in a home library or den. Or consider adding it to your home office for a professional touch. 
   
   
5. Aqua Fiesta by Glidden
   Rather than select a Color of the Year, Glidden announced its first-ever Accent Color of the Year: Aqua Fiesta. This bright, refreshing aquamarine hue looks great on millwork or accent wall. While the color might be overwhelming if painted all over a wall, it helps perk up a room even in small doses, especially when combined with neutral colors.
   
   Add it to your home: Pair it with a cool gray to lend spa vibes to your bathroom. In living areas and bedrooms, combine with neutral accessories or cream-colored fabric for a soft look.

Are you dreaming of a new home that you can paint with some of these top colors in 2021? Contact us today to discuss your goals and start touring some of the best Richmond homes for sale.

Nothing livens up a room quite like a fresh coat of paint. If you're getting ready to list your home for sale, or just simply improving your living space this winter, painting a room can have some major benefits. In addition to improving aesthetics, paint also prevents dust build-up and keeps out moisture. While painting a room is a relatively simple home improvement project, there is a good bit of skill required. If you're getting ready to paint a room in your home, consider these 5 tips from our real estate agents.

1. Properly Prepare Your Surfaces
   Painting before properly preparing and inspecting your walls is a common mistake. If you want a perfect coat of paint, your walls should be as smooth as possible. Take the time to sand rough spots, fill cracks and holes with putty, and thoroughly clean your walls prior to painting. Wash any greasy spots with soap and water. Remember, painting over a dirty surface can result in premature peeling. 
2. Maintain a Wet Edge
   Applying wet paint over partially dry paint can result in lap marks or uneven layers. The trick to avoiding lap marks is maintaining a wet edge. In other words, always be sure your roller overlaps with the previous stroke before it has a chance to dry. You'll want to make sure you're always painting an entire wall at once. Simply move the roller up and down the height of the wall, while slightly moving over with each stroke. Also, reload your roller frequently so it doesn't become dry.
3. Protect Your Baseboards From Drips 
   Masking tape can go a long way towards helping to keep your trim safe from dripping paint. Be sure to clean any dust or dirt from your trim or baseboards before applying the tape. Then, simply apply the tape over the edge of your baseboard and press it against the wood with a putty knife. We recommend using tape that is at least twice as long as the trim.
4. Buy Quality Supplies
   The quality of your paint, brush, and roller can have a major impact on the quality of your finished product. Cheap materials might be appealing, but using them may result in you having to repaint sooner than you expected. Good paint is easier to apply and it lasts longer. Also, good paint often requires fewer coats to get the job done, which can ultimately save you money.
5. Wash and Wrap Your Rollers
   Always wash your roller before using it. Excess fluff or fibers can stick to your wall while you're painting, so it's best to rinse your roller off before you begin. Simply place the roller under running water and move your hand up and down to remove any extra fluff. Once you're done for the day, use a plastic bag to securely wrap your roller and brushes, especially if you're planning to paint more the next day. This will help ensure your materials don't dry out overnight. 

It takes practice to become a seasoned painter, but by following these tips you can be well on your way. Plus, a new coat of paint is a great way to impress potential buyers! Contact us today for more tips for getting your home ready to list among the many great Richmond homes for sale. 

Our real estate agents at Napier ERA are here to assist you every step of the way as you explore homes for sale in Richmond area neighborhoods. As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is a wonderful place to live no matter if you're looking for fantastic jobs or the best schools in the state.

Richmond is truly a place where a growing family can thrive. Schools are well-funded, with a rich slate of extracurriculars and a high degree of college placement. Many of the leading businesses offer internships for rising students. And, of course, there's the University of Richmond a short hop away.

Richmond has been around since 1737, so it's no surprise it has developed several distinct and vibrant neighborhoods. On any tour through the area, the civic pride of Richmond can be witnessed everywhere in its eye-catching architecture, well-kept green spaces, and excellent infrastructure.

Finding a neighborhood that resonates with you is one of the first steps in choosing a Richmond home. There's plenty of history and culture to enjoy everywhere you look in Richmond – but which of these cozy communities is right for you?

Let's take a closer look at some welcoming Richmond neighborhoods for you and your family:

1. Bellevue
   Bellevue is one of the most iconic local neighborhoods, combining eclectic charm with a dash of antique flair. It's a close-knit community where history and hipness mingle. Under the sight of its classical stone arch, Bellevue has been in the midst of a growth phase since 2004. Plenty of new restaurants, grocers, teahouses, coffee shops, and yoga studios have since moved in.
   
   
2. Glen Allen
   Glen Allen is located just northwest of Richmond. An area of just under nine square miles, it combines excellent amenities and education in a single locale. CNN recognized it as one of its Best Places to Live. Nationwide appliance manufacturer Hamilton Beach is headquartered here, along with the specialty small business insurer Markel Insurance Company, two top employers.
   
   
3. Midlothian
   The village of Midlothian is a short jaunt west of Richmond. Founded about three centuries ago, it supported the local coal mining village with affordable homes. These days, new residential developments are thriving, but some of the oldest churches and other landmarks in the region stand proudly right here. The housing stock includes some true "vintage" finds as well.
   
   
4. Short Pump
   Found in Henrico County, Short Pump is an affluent suburb of about 25,000 residents. Over the last few years, its growth has made it part of Richmond's Far West End. Short Pump is the epicenter of some of the best shopping in the Richmond area. That expanded in 2003 with a brand new open-air shopping mall, Short Pump Town Center, which has since become an anchor of the economy.
   
   
5. Stratford Hills
   Suburban Stratford Hills is home to about 4,500 residents. Found at the crossroads of some of Virginia's leading public schools, it is one of the safest neighborhoods you could hope for. The edge of Stratford Hills runs alongside the beautiful James River, invigorating it with a breathtaking river walk area. That serves as a hub for live music and festivals throughout the year.

When it comes to your family, only the best will do. Napier ERA supports you with the best real estate expert insight to find the ideal Richmond neighborhood to put down roots. Our real estate agents are experienced professionals who live where they work. We know how to make buying a home simple, so your family will be moving into a dream home in no time. 

Contact Napier ERA to find out more today.