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WFH Adjustments You Can Make Today

If you’re like most of America, you’re probably trying to figure out this whole “work from home” thing just like the rest of us. The hustle and bustle of the kids doing schoolwork, the dog asking to be taken out, and your entire neighborhood gallivanting outside are all scenarios we’re still trying to wrap our heads (and ears) around. To make your new norm a touch more manageable, we’ve come up with a few tips for adjusting your new at-home work-space to create a tranquil set up.

Supplies, Supplies, Supplies

Remember that feeling of starting school with a whole backpack’s worth of fresh new school supplies? Well, Normandy Designer Leslie Lee believes that feeling should continue to thrive into adulthood. “I always purchase quality supplies that I find fun and helpful to use,” Leslie exclaims. “I have a ton of erasable pens in pretty much every color, and it’s just a fun way to express my individuality and make my work look a bit more vibrant.”

Aromatherapy

Tranquility is just a touch (and smell) of a button away. “For me, running an essential oil diffuser (lavender or eucalyptus are my favorites) or even burning my favorite candle in my work area always works wonders to help lighten the mood,” says Leslie. “Not only is the smell pleasant, but the sound of the water from the diffuser is very relaxing as well.”

Neat & Tidy

Keeping your work-space organized and tidy is always a smart idea. “At the end of every work day, I take a few minutes to gather and sort all my documents and supplies,” Leslie mentions. “This lets me to keep everything situated so I know where it is the next day, so I don’t walk into my work-space and feel overwhelmed with clutter.”

Sound Cancellation

Looking to drown out the sound amidst the home chaos? “Headphones are my modern day saving grace,” Leslie says. “They allow me to feel focused on whomever I’m talking too. They’re also great for when I’m listening to my favorite podcast or song.”

Natural Light

Natural light is another contributing factor that instantly alters your mood, which in turn makes you more productive. “I always try to work in an area with lots of natural light,” Leslie notes. “This gives me the option to crack open a window and let in some fresh air to feel a bit refreshed.”

If your at home work space is far from being fixed with just a few minor adjustments, you may want to set up a time with Leslie to discuss more extensive changes for your home. To view our past work, visit our photo gallery or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

Radiator Covers: The Perfect Accent to Your Vintage Home

home radiator coverIn the Chicago area, we are known for our beautiful architecture. While we’re lucky enough to live in and among beautiful new homes and striking vintage houses, older homes can provide some unique challenges. Take heating for example, modern homes often have forced air for heating and cooling, but older homes often come with a boiler and radiator system.

“While radiators aren’t necessarily an issue from a functional perspective, remodeling your home often means updating the look, and the look of a radiator isn’t usually compatible with all design styles,” notes Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe. “Radiator covers can be just the answer you’re looking for to cover up these problem areas and create an aesthetically pleasing space. Not only are these covers a decorative solution, but they can also provide additional counter-top space in areas such as your bathroom or kitchen.”

Radiator covers serve as a safety precaution as well. “Since radiators run hot, bumping into one may result in an injury,” Ashley says. ”Especially in tight spaces such as bathrooms, or for families with younger children, radiator covers conceal the surface heat and add an extra layer of protection for any mishaps that may occur.”

When choosing a radiator cover for your home, be mindful of the durability of your materials. “Since the Midwest experiences cold and hot temperatures and extreme humidity swings, wooden radiator covers will consistently expand and contract throughout the year,” Ashley notes. “This causes painted finishes to crack and stained finishes to separate and expose unfinished areas. For heat bearing systems, consider implementing a metal mesh within the vents for a functional yet durable exhaust area.” This not only is a more durable solution, but offers an opportunity to create a stylish design that fits over the aesthetic of the room or house.

Most importantly, be creative when installing radiator covers. When approached as an opportunity, these tiny-but-might concealers can be used as a focal point in a room. “Creating a standout piece is a perfect option to add an authentic touch to more traditional-styled homes,” Ashley adds. “You can also use a variety of counter-top materials such as marble, which give you the added benefit of transferring some of the heat, making it the perfect spot to leave your gloves so they are warm and ready to wear on even the coldest days.”

Radiator covers are one of those authentic touches that can give your home that extra level of polish. If you’re planning an addition or major remodel to your vintage home, set up a time with Ashley to discuss the possibilities. Make sure to also follow Normandy Remodeling on Instagram and Facebook for even more home tips and inspiration

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