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    Get the Look: Polished Nickel

    June 26, 2015 10:56 PM by emily.bailey

    Friday, June 26, 2015

    Get the Look: Polished Nickel | Schlage

    This blog features Schlage employees who are passionate about the products and services they support.

     

     

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    Inspired by the glamorous flair of the 1920s and 30s, Polished Nickel is a designer finish that says “contemporary” without shouting it. For homes with reflective accents, stainless steel appliances and mirrored surfaces, Polished Nickel provides a complementary flourish that won’t overwhelm its surroundings, making it a forgiving finish that’s still completely modern.
    Wondering why Polished Nickel is such a popular designer finish
    • Polished Nickel is ideal for rooms that have grey walls, reflective surfaces and mirrors, glass and bright lighting
    • Give your home a timeless, sophisticated look by pairing Polished Nickel with stainless steel appliances, as well as reflective towel rods and plumbing
    • Polished Nickel hardware is an intriguing, unique alternative to Satin Nickel hardware
    • It's warm and lustrous, creating a look that is both glamorous and adaptable
    • Polished Nickel is a designers’ finish that suites with reflective lighting and plumbing, and makes a similar impact on the home.
    • Polished Nickel will perfectly match homes with lacquered surfaces and glass accents, but is adaptable enough to coexist with other modern styles.
    Check out a few of our favorite spaces featuring this gorgeous finish:
    Kitchens - For kitchen projects, Polished Nickel is a forgiving, modern finish that will match your new stainless steel appliances.
    Bathrooms - For bath projects, Polished Nickel is a forgiving, modern finish that will match your new reflective towel rods and plumbing.
    Bedrooms - Polished Nickel lets your glamour-inspired style be reflected in your door hardware, fixtures and other accessories.

     

     

    Love the look of Polished Nickel, but afraid to go over the top? No worries! Try starting with smaller accents and fixtures, like your door knobs and levers. Then build on that by adding accessories, lighting, and plumbing until you've reached the look you want to achieve. Get more information on Polished Nickel door hardware here!

     

     

    7 Essential Elements That Will Turn Your Bathroom Into an Oasis

    June 22, 2015 11:46 PM by emily.bailey

    Sunday, November 30, 0002

    7 Essential Elements That Will Turn Your Bathroom Into an Oasis | Schlage

    Thinking of creating your own in-home spa bathroom? Here are 7 elements that are sure to turn your space into an oasis.

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    There are few things more relaxing than a day at the spa! Why not bring a few of those spa-like elements into your own home so you can unwind anytime you like? Below are eight of our favorite bathroom elements that are sure to make you feel like you're in your very own oasis.

    1. Freestanding Baths

    Goodbye bulky, hard-to-clean garden tubs. Hello sleek, beautiful freestanding baths! Freestanding bathtubs are the perfect way to give your bathroom oasis a modern touch. You're sure to relax when your bathroom is both stylish and easier to care for.

    2. Open-concept showers

    For small bathroom spaces, open-concept showers provide a great way to make the space appear both larger and stylish. Finish out the look with a rain fall shower head or massaging jets.

    3. Heated Floors & Towel Racks

    There's no reason to torture yourself immediately after a long, relaxing bath or shower by stepping out on a cold tile floor and grabbing  a towel to wrap up in as quickly as possible. Keep the relaxation going by installing heated floors and towel racks. 

    4. Mirror Defogger

    Save time when you need to get ready after a long shower by installing a mirror with a built-in defogger. Gone are the days of wiping off your mirror and leaving streaks behind!

    5. Light Fixtures

    With the right lighting in place, you can create a perfect and relaxing retreat.You can find a vast variety of ambient lighting to match your personal style from our friends at Build.com. Just keep in mind proper placement to ensure the perfect environment for getting ready in the mornings.

    6. Organization

    Having the right organization in place to store everything you need in your bathroom is the key to a relaxing retreat. Don't let cluttered countertops and wasted space keep you from unwinding after a long day. Consider installing bathroom vanities with ample storage solutions or open shelving to allow you to keep everyday items in an easy to reach space.

    7. Candles

    Finally, don't forget to complete the ambiance with relaxing candles. Find a scent you enjoy and get ready to leave all your worries behind at the bathroom door!

     

    Tell us, what elements would make the perfect bathroom oasis for you? Comment below to let us know! If you're considering a bathroom refresh, let us help you by entering our Re-Treat Your Retreat sweepstakes for your chance to win a $4,500 bathroom makeover and create the retreat you deserve!

    2 Must-Try Finishes: Polished Nickel and Satin Brass

    June 18, 2015 12:34 AM by admin

    Thursday, June 18, 2015

    2 Must-Try Finishes: Polished Nickel and Satin Brass | Schlage

    Introducing our two new finishes: Satin Brass & Polished Nickel! Here's what you need to know to get this modern look in your home.

     

     

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    Welcome to the Schlage Family, Polished Nickel and Satin Brass!

    If you've stepped into a home decor retail shop or boutique lately, you've probably noticed a few design trends coming through in a number of ways. More and more, we are seeing furniture, lighting and other accessories adopt unique, warm and sparkly finishes, particularly Satin Brass and Polished Nickel.
    We are proud to say that we now offer a wide range of door knobs and door levers in Satin Brass and Polished Nickel, two designer finishes. Now you can use door hardware to coordinate with and complement other elements in your room, really creating a cohesive designed look.
    “As décor and design trends change, we {Schlage} recognize that consumers are always looking for new ways to express themselves through their home’s unique style without sacrificing quality,” said Steve Down, Allegion residential leader. “It’s the smaller details and finishing touches that bring a home’s style together."

    New to Polished Nickel and Satin Brass?

    We can help. Here's what you need to know about these two gorgeous finishes.

    Polished Nickel

    Polished Nickel will add a glamorous, luxurious edge to any project. Inspired by the glamorous flair of the 1920s and 30s, Polished Nickel is a designer finish that says “contemporary” without shouting it. For homes with reflective accents, stainless steel appliances and mirrored surfaces, Polished Nickel provides a complementary flourish that won’t overwhelm its surroundings, making it a forgiving finish that’s still completely modern.
    2 Must-Try Finishes: Polished Nickel and Satin Brass | Schlage

    - For kitchen projects, Polished Nickel is a forgiving, modern finish that will match your new stainless steel appliances.

     

    - For bath projects, Polished Nickel is a forgiving, modern finish that will match your new reflective towel rods and plumbing.

     

    - It's a finish that allows you to reflect your glamour-inspired style in your door hardware.

     

    - Polished Nickel will perfectly match homes with lacquered surfaces and glass accents, but is adaptable enough to coexist with other modern styles.

     

    - Polished Nickel is a designers’ finish that suites with reflective lighting and plumbing, and makes a similar impact on the home.

     

    Our Industrial Designer Ted Roberts says..."Mirrored and reflective surfaces are prominent in the Glitz & Glam style and from this perspective Polished Nickel is a perfect coordinating finish. The reflective characteristic of the finish fits perfectly in this type of decor while its warm tone adds softness and a refined appearance."

    Satin Brass

    Satin Brass is a designer finish that brings a classic look into the 21st century. Whether you’re looking to match brass lighting and plumbing, or just accentuate a traditionally elegant home while keeping it up-to date, Satin Brass is an ideal finishing touch to a current project—or an intriguing first step in a new one.
    2 Must-Try Finishes: Polished Nickel and Satin Brass | Schlage

    - An updated, more modern take on brass that still complements your existing brass finishes

     

    - Satin Brass allows you to express your flair for understated style; its subtle hints of gold add a touch of drama to any room in your home

     

    - Ideal in rooms filled with dark woods, brass accents, warm tones, and traditional furniture

     

    - Satin Brass is a traditionally-styled designer finish without the designer price tag

     

    - Satin Brass allows you to update one room at a time, without clashing with Bright Brass you may still have in other areas of the home.

     

    Our Industrial Designer Ted Roberts says..."Satin brass, with its warm metallic tones is another excellent choice adding rich warmth and shimmer to the room. This finish coordinates especially well with black and blues creating bold visual contrast."

    For more design inspiration, check us out on Pinterest and Schlage.com!

     

     

     

     

    Get the Look: Satin Brass

    June 17, 2015 1:03 AM by emily.bailey

    Wednesday, June 17, 2015

    Get the Look: Satin Brass | Schlage

    This blog features Schlage employees who are passionate about the products and services they support.

     

     

    READ MORE

    modern take on brass? It’s not a contradiction. Satin Brass is a designer finish that brings a classic look into the 21st century. Whether you’re looking to match brass lighting and plumbing, or just accentuate a traditionally elegant home while keeping it updated, Satin Brass is an ideal finishing touch to a current project—or an intriguing first step in a new one.

    What makes Satin Brass so great, anyway?

    • Satin Brass is an updated, more modern take on brass that still complements your existing brass finishes
    • With this warm finish you can express your flair for understated style by using Satin Brass’s subtle hints of gold to add a touch of drama to any room in your home
    • Satin Brass finishes are Ideal in rooms filled with dark woods, brass accents, warm tones, and traditional furniture
    • Satin Brass allows you to update one room at a time, without clashing with Bright Brass you may still have in other areas of the home.

    Here are a few of our favorite rooms featuring Satin Brass finishes:

     

    Kitchens - The warmth of Satin Brass gives kitchens a bit of a cozy modern look that cannot be achieved with cooler finishes like Chrome and Steel.
    Bedrooms - Pairing Satin Brass with luxurious textiles, bedding and accessories makes any bedroom feel extra plush. If plush isn't quite your style, consider pairing Satin Brass accessories and fixtures with more modern lines for a clean, yet glamorous, style.
    Bathrooms - The bathroom is a great place to incorporate Satin Brass, as a little bit can go a long way. Combine Satin Brass door handles, faucets and lighting with bright white for a polished look.

     

    Tell us in the comments how you like to incorporate Satin Brass into your home's style. And don't forget to enter the Re-Treat Your Retreat Sweepstakes on schlage.com for a chance to win a $4,500 Bathroom Makeover, complete with a House of Schlage locks, a Delta Faucet bath package, a $2,000 Build.com giftcard and an Interior Design consultation from Jenny Komenda!

     

     

    7 Things You Must Consider Before Your Next Bathroom Remodel

    June 16, 2015 1:21 AM by admin

    Tuesday, June 16, 2015

    7 Things You Must Consider Before Your Next Bathroom Remodel | Schlage

    Here are seven important considerations you must think about before you begin your next bathroom remodel to ensure a perfect oasis.

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    When it comes to home remodeling projects, bathrooms are more than just a necessity - they're an extension of a homeowner's personal style. With so many stunning new trends popping up, you may be inspired to give your bathroom a total refresh. Here are seven things you must consider first to ensure you end up with the perfect oasis.
    7 Things You Must Consider Before Your Next Bathroom Remodel | Schlage

    1. Layout

    The very first step you should take before beginning a bathroom remodel is to measure the entire space. This will help you make the best decisions as far as what size bathtub should you go with, the right vanity, how far your budget will take you once you choose the right flooring or wall coverings. Take some time to sketch out your ideal layout then measure measure measure before you buy!

    2. Storage

    What kind of storage will your bathroom need to accomodate? Is there room for a linen closet? If space is limited, consider storage options like open shelving or enclosed vanities. Pedestal sinks often look great but offer nothing in the way of hidden storage and little to no counter-top space. Make sure you know how you will use the space to ensure you make the right purchase decisions along the way.

    3. Countertops

    Granite countertops add a gorgeous, upscale look to any bathroom but require more care and attention than other countertop options. If your bathroom is in a high traffic area that will be used by guests and children, you may want to consider an option that can stand up to a little more wear and tear. Check out these tips from the National Kitchen & Bath Association to make sure you choose the right surface for your lifestyle.

    4. Lighting

    When it comes to bathroom lighting fixtures, avoid the urge to only buy a recessed ceiling fixture. You should always leave space for either sconces on either side of the mirrors or a long fixture just above for adequate lighting. For small bathrooms where space for lighting is limited, consider opting for a light colored countertop to help maximize light.

    5. Utilities

    Are you planning to install a larger bathtub? Make sure you have the right size water heater to handle the added water consumption. Consider the number of people that may use your bathroom in a given period of time as well as the other activities that go on in your home that may use up hot water, such as laundry or dishes. This guide from the U.S. Department of Energy will help you determine which water heater is best and most efficient for your lifestyle.

    6. Walls

    The easiest way to give your bathroom a total refresh is to simply paint the walls but you need to be sure you're using the right type of paint first. Consider choosing a gloss or semi-gloss finish as they tend to repel water more easily and are easier to clean. For a more long-term and durable solution, consider covering your walls - or part of the walls - in ceramic tiles. Wallpaper should mostly be avoided as it is harder for it to withstand the humidity that builds up while the shower and bath are in use.

    7. Ventilation

    A proper fan should never be an afterthought when it comes to a bathroom remodel. There are many different models to choose from that fit any lifestyle. From ultra-quiet fans that avoid disturbing your family early in the morning or even fans with humidity sensors that turn on automatically when you may have forgotten to do it yourself, be sure to take a look at all the options available to ensure your fan gets the job done.

    Tell us, what factors do you consider before a major bathroom remodel? Comment below to let us know! If you're considering a bathroom refresh, let us help you by entering our Re-Treat Your Retreat sweepstakesfor your chance to win a $4,500 bathroom makeover!

     

     

     

     

    This Year's Most Popular Home Remodeling Projects

    June 8, 2015 1:58 AM by emily.bailey

    Monday, June 8, 2015

    From heated bathroom floors to home automation installations, check out five of the most popular home remodeling projects before your next renovation.

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    Whether you're remodeling your home for resale, or ready for something new, taking a look at the top trends can help you inspire or prioritize those projects before they happen. Here's a look at five of the most popular home remodeling projects so far in 2015.

    1. Luxurious Master Bath

    Creating a master bath that also serves as a private oasis is nothing new in 2015 but homeowners are taking a closer look at more luxurious details. Heated floors and towel racks are quickly becoming a must-have feature as well as innovations that focus on a healthier home, like touchless flush and hands-free faucets. Homeowners are also prioritizing eco-friendly features like smart shower technology that reduce water consumption.
    This Year's Most Popular Home Remodeling Projects | Schlage

    2. Sustainability

    The trend of re-purposing and recycling old items like lighting and furniture is holding on strong for another year. This trend not only looks great but is often a more economically friendly project than purchasing brand new materials. What once was viewed as another man's trash is now refurbished into a beautiful and unique treasure that homeowners can cherish for years.

    3. Contemporary Upgrades

    The clean lines and minimalism that best represent contemporary style is stealing the show for 2015, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association's style report. Homeowners are quickly transitioning from traditional design aesthetics and opting for a more simple approach.
    This Year's Most Popular Home Remodeling Projects | Schlage

    4. Home Automation

    Because of the importance of ease and convenience to today's homeowner, home automation installation projects continue to grow in 2015. From creating custom settings for your smart thermostat that you can update from anywhere in the world to being able to lock and unlock your door remotely for guests that arrive when you are not yet home, home automation is quickly becoming a normal feature and not a complicated dream of the far-off future.
    This Year's Most Popular Home Remodeling Projects | Schlage

    5. Mixed Metals

    With trends like brass finishes making a comeback and the popularity of chrome, copper and more industrial finishes like wrought-iron or matte black hanging on, homeowners are opting to mix finishes rather than match the entire home. This trend stretches across lighting, hardware and even sinks and furnishings. 

     

     

    What home remodeling trend are you planning to take advantage of this year? Comment below to let us know! And if you have before and after photos, we'd love for you to share them with us on Facebook!

     

     

     

     

    How to Define Your Personal Style Before Your Next Home Remodel

    June 5, 2015 2:20 AM by admin

    Friday, June 5, 2015

    How to Define Your Personal Style Before Your Next Home Remodel | Schlage

    Here are a few steps you can take to define your personal style for a successful home remodel.

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    Whether you're moving in to a new home or considering a major remodel for your current home, the most difficult part of that process is often deciding on the style of your home. There's no need to box yourself into one specific category because, chances are you're drawn to elements that span a variety of styles. Here are a few steps you can take to understand your personal style better and reflect your personality in your home.
    How to Define Your Personal Style Before Your Next Home Remodel | Schlage

    Look at what you own

    Take some time to think about the pieces you currently own. Which ones do you love or hate? Take some time to figure out why you're drawn to certain items over others. This exercise is great for jump starting the redesign process and also helps you remove any furniture or decor that doesn't reflect the style you wish for.

    Get personal

    When it comes to the style of your home, it's most important that it represents you. If your home doesn't accurately reflect who you are and what you value, it may be time for a refresh. Write down what matters to you most. Is it time with family and friends? You may need a new space to entertain. Do you enjoy traveling? You might want to consider a minimalist approach to your space to minimize clutter and ensure you come home to an organized space. Determine what matters most to you and your current lifestyle to decide how your home can complement you best.

    Tell a story

    Do you have items around your home you've collected throughout your travels? Maybe you have family heirlooms or something that reflects a tradition you value? Choose designs that help you showcase those items in a complementing way. This is a great way to create a conversation piece in your home while providing an opportunity for your guests to learn who you are.

    Collect inspiration

    With resources like Pinterest and Houzz, creating a mood board for your next home remodel is easier than ever! Start collecting ideas you're inspired by into a Pinterest Board or Houzz Ideabook. Clip magazine pages that speak to you. Once you have a large collection, take a look at the inspiration you've saved and look for commonalities among the styles. This will give you a good idea of the elements you must have in your space.

    Be open to influence

    Who you are evolves through time and so should your home. If you're feeling inspired by a style you never considered before, don't ignore it. Take some time to consider how that aesthetic might fit your current lifestyle. You may want to consider contacting an interior designer for a quick consultation as they can provide direction on where to begin.

     

    What factors influence your personal style? Comment below to let us know!

     

     

    8 Things You Need to Know Before Working with an Interior Designer

    June 1, 2015 2:32 AM by admin

    Monday, June 1, 2015

    8 Things You Need to Know Before Working with an Interior Designer | Schlage

    If you're considering hiring an interior designer to relieve some of the headaches of home remodeling, you'll need to know these eight things first.

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    There are many benefits to working with a professional interior designer on your next home remodeling project. Designers have a wealth of knowledge in choosing materials and pieces that function best for your lifestyle and are especially skilled in creating a space that reflects your personal style. If you're considering hiring a designer to relieve some of the headaches of home remodeling, you'll need to know these eight things first.
    8 Things You Need to Know Before Working with an Interior Designer | Schlage

    1. Select the right type of designer for your needs.

    Do you need someone to complete an entire redesign or just need a little advice to point your remodel in the right direction?

     

    If your needs align more with the latter, you may want to consider in-store designers. Many home decor retailers have their own designers on staff that will complete an in-home consultation. While these consultations are usually free, these designers are often limited in the items they recommend.

     

    Hourly designers are great for projects when you'll need recommendations and input throughout the whole process. Be sure to request examples and reviews of their work to find the best designer for your style.

    2. Know how you want the finished product to function.

    Prior to speaking to a designer, think about how you want to use the room. What activities must it support? Do you like to entertain? Do you have a large family? How many people will use it? Understanding the daily function of the space will help your designer makes the best decisions when it comes to materials and furniture.

    3. What furniture or accessories must stay?

    Tell your designer up front what pieces you currently own that must be incorporated in to the space. This could range from family heirlooms to favorite flea market finds. At the same time, you must be ready to part with pieces that you may have once loved but no longer serve a purpose for your current lifestyle.

    4. Have an open mind.

    Your designer will be the expert in knowing how certain materials fit your lifestyle best. You may love that cork flooring but your active lifestyle, pets and rolling furniture may break it down in no time. Be open to learn more about other options.

     

    It's important to also have realistic expectations. Don't get your heart set on a specific page in a magazine or photo online. These sources are great for sharing with your designer the styles that you're drawn to but likely cannot be replicated in your space.

    5. Set your budget and stick to it.

    Give your designer your budget upfront so she can make the best choices for you during the entire process. Having realistic expectations will also help you stick to the budget by understanding what your money can and cannot buy.

    6. Determine a timeline.

    One of the most important keys to staying on budget is to keep your project on track. Set expectations upfront for how many design drafts you're willing to review before you sign a contract. Don't let months pass by before your designer provides a draft you love.

    7. Be mindful of major changes.

    Big changes halfway through the project can put a major hold in the progress and result in bigger expenses. At the same time, if a certain element is going to reduce how much you enjoy your space when it's done, don't be afraid to speak up. Your designer wants you to be completely pleased with your space. Just be sure you have the right expectations when it comes to timing and budget.

    8. Be Patient

    Good design takes time. The wait may seem unbearable, but worth it in the end when you have a room you can be proud of!



    Have you worked with an interior designer before? Share your best advice with us in the comments below! For even more insights into your personal style, be sure to check out our style selector.