Monthly Archives: March 2015

Silicon Valley homes replacing lawns with California Native Succulents

Yesterday, 03.24.2015, San Jose Mercury News writer Eric Kurhi reported that the Santa Clara Valley Water District is proposing reducing water use by 30 percent and limited watering of lawns to twice a week.

Though Gov. Jerry Brown announced new conservation rules last week to help cope with the four-year dry spell, the water district’s latest push is more of a reaction to a new analysis that showed above-average seasonal rains haven’t done much to bolster Silicon Valley’s groundwater reserves.

Courtesy Sunset Magazine - Water Wise Garden

Courtesy Sunset Magazine – Water Wise Garden

Many homeowners are coping by letting their lawns die and replacing the landscaping with succulents and water-wise California native plants. Consider lawn alternatives, such as hardy ground covers, decks, patios, containers, ornamental grasses or cut-flower gardens. Continue reading

PAINT is the # 1 Best RETURN on Investment to Prepare your Home FOR SALE in Silicon Valley

The Number #1 return on your investment, today, is painting your home prior to marketing it For Sale in Silicon Valley. Yellow accent against grey is “in.”

The 50’s design schemes were gold and green. Today, the Buyers actively out canvasing for homes love freshly painted rooms, however, choose your hues wisely because the “right” color can make all the difference. Today’s neutrals are in the grey shades, which enhance blue, yellow, black, charcoal, white, pink, pumpkin, orange furniture and accessories.

One of my favorite pastimes is visiting New Home developments to observe new design trends and color schemes. We are seeing less and less of “beige” and “tan” interior paint tones, and more “grey” tones that reflect soft mauve and grey-purple hues.

Grey is the “New Beige” If you are seeking inspiration and more ideas, please visit C.B.I.D. HOME DECOR and DESIGN for examples of great color tones and paint recommendations.

 

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