I used to use the steam room all the time at the gym, pre pandemic.  I missed it terribly during the pandemic. I don’t have to convince you of the health benefits of Steam Therapy, I hope, but that could be another article.
I work with a lot of clients who are overwhelmed at the idea, the costs and added installation details it takes, but really if you’re working with great professionals, it’s not that hard. On average, buying and installing a steam shower only costs 20% to 35% more than buying and installing a regular shower. Considering that a steam shower can raise the resale price of a home by up to 30.7%, steam showers are worth the added investment.



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Here are some things you need to know to create a steam shower in your home:

• Space and Ventilation: You need to have enough space for a steam generator. The space should also be well-ventilated to prevent moisture build-up and mold growth.
• Steam Generator: A steam generator is the heart of the steam shower. It's important to choose a high-quality steam generator that is appropriate for the size of your steam room.
• Waterproofing: The steam room must be completely waterproof to prevent water damage to your home. This includes walls, ceilings, and floors. Specifying natural marble or travertine can have a big impact on the effectiveness of the generator compared to a porcelain surface.
• Sloped Ceiling: The ceiling of the steam room should be sloped to prevent water from dripping on you while you're using the steam shower. There’s nothing worse than the drip!
• Seating: A steam shower should have seating so that you can relax and enjoy the steam.
• Temperature Control: You should be able to control the temperature of the steam shower.
• Lighting: You should install waterproof lighting fixtures that can provide adequate lighting without being too bright or too dim.
• Door: The door of the steam room should be airtight to prevent steam from escaping. It's also important to choose a door that is waterproof and easy to clean. A transom at the top of the door should be planned to help ventilate the space after your steam.

​It definitely takes careful planning and attention to detail. The health benefits and return on your investment make this an easy decision to make.

​I've recently been introduced to Mr. Steam and their products are fantastic!

Happy Valentine's Week!  I thought this would be an appropriate post this week. I’m late to the party in writing about Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year but was prompted by an editor who was writing an article and was seeking my input for it.  This was fun!  Got my creative colorful right brain engaged!  I focus on the fine details of kitchen and bath which is a lot of left-brain work. I even had fun creating a Pinterest board as I was thinking through all this. 
https://www.pinterest.com/paulakennedyckd/2023-viva-magenta/

I have been adding my version of Viva Magenta (fuchsia) to my wardrobe and even pops of color in my own apartment with dark pink hydrangea!  I love pink to begin with which many of you already know, it's my happy color and the darker shade is a power color for me like red is.  I've always looked good in primary colors, and I love bringing this back into my wardrobe and home.

I would describe this color, Viva Magenta, as VIVACIOUS! exciting, full of energy, happy, yet the depth of the color is grounding and gender neutral. It has a bold power to it.  From a color psychology perspective, we have all the benefits of red and blue in this color, blending a power color with a stable grounding color making it appeal to many.
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Tips for homeowners.

• We're all about personalizing our spaces now, does it fit your personality and that of your family?  Your personal space, like an office, bedroom or bathroom would be a good place to start.
• Infusing this color through artwork, accessories, area rugs and plants is a great way of adding this color without having to overly commit to a wall paint or more expensive furniture piece. An ottoman like the one below.
• A fun area rug pictured below would be a wonderful way to add some spice!
• In the kitchen go subtle with accents in your dishes, love the daisy's on the mug.
• Or go bold with painted cabinets or tile backsplash, change up the "subway" tile!
• Fun with repurposing your grandmother's furniture! Give an item new life with this bold color. 
• Set the tone as your guests walk in with this spot of color in the entryway!
• If you are feeling bold and confident, and your space and family support it, expressing this color on your walls or furniture, or ceiling! Wow
• If your style is more subtle blend the color into your wallpaper or bedding.

​Remember, Pantone is not focused on home interiors.  We don't always have to take the color of the year so literally. Have fun with it, make it your own, maybe more intense, or more muted, lighter or darker.  You are free to interpret it in a way that works for you and your space. Work with a professional who can help you expertly implement this element in your space.

​Happy Thoughts!   -Paula
Certified Architectural Color Consultant