For the past two years, homeowners have reimagined their basements as bonus entertainment spaces. Ahead of the curve, Heather and Jimmy Graham started renovating their basement long before the recent trend. “We built our house about eight years ago, and we got to a point of not having finished the basement,” Heather explains. “Then, we decided we needed more space indoors because we couldn’t use the outside spaces year-round.”

Different Influences: Because Mediterranean design finds inspiration from several different countries and cultures, the styling depends on each person’s individual tastes; while there are many variations of Mediterranean design, all are marked by a warm and timeless feel. Bright, striking blues mostly originate from Greece, Moroccan influences show off an abundance of texture and wood carvings and tilework and terracotta come from Spain. Each country brings its own flair, combining to create fingerprint ideas of Mediterranean design.

Melissa Haupt didn’t need much convincing when she was asked to open her home for the Deck the Halls of Glennon Homes Christmas Tour in 2020. An accomplished hostess, she loves entertaining. “It’s a great cause, and I was happy I could contribute,” says Haupt.

Classic

I believe dining benches are a classic and do not see them going anywhere anytime soon. Adding a bench is an effortless way to give your space a contemporary flair while providing additional storage and seating that is needed during the holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. Depending on the type of bench, it can help anchor a heavy table and allow your eye to move throughout the room. Dining benches are practical and functional for a lot of families and there are a multitude of styles that can work for any design. Savannah Sells, Youtopia Designs.

Add the warmth of a fireplace anywhere inside or outside your home with a standalone heating element. With options for gas, wood, electric or pellet, a freestanding stove can fit any style and space.

Cozy up to the warmth and sound of the crackling flames because it’s officially fireplace season! When it’s time to throw another log on the fire, reach for your stash stored in an aesthetically pleasing log holder.