This New App Lets You Play (and Compete) to Design Your Own Home

1. Bromeliad Plant

The Bromeliad is a unique, low-light indoor plant that's great for spaces with limited natural sunlight. It can even thrive under fluorescent light, making it a solid choice for offices or rooms without windows.

It also loves humidity, so it does particularly well in bathrooms where moisture is abundant. The best part? They're non-toxic to pets, meaning you can enjoy some colorful blooms worry-free.

2. Snake Plant

Sometimes referred to as "mother-in-law's tongue," the Snake Plant is the ultimate low-maintenance houseplant. It can survive for months without light and requires very little water, making it ideal for even the busiest plant parents.

For optimal care, just water it every two to three weeks, and it will flourish with minimal additional effort.

3. Boston Fern

The Boston Fern also does well in areas with indirect sunlight, and it loves humidity.

To keep it happy, simply ensure the water stays consistently moist and mist the plant periodically. Regular pruning every few months will prevent it from becoming too unruly as well.

4. Prayer Plant

The Prayer Plant is known for its unique foliage that opens and closes with the sun, giving it the appearance of "praying" as day turns to night. Even with this cool behavior, though, it's quite easy to care for.

This variety thrives in low to medium light and appreciates humidity, so it's best kept in bathrooms or kitchens. All you have to do is water it when the top quarter of the soil feels dry.

5. Spider Plant

The Spider Plant is one of the most popular houseplants, and for good reason. It's flexible and extremely simple to care for.

It can adapt to low light conditions and prefers comfortable room temperatures. Just make sure the soil is always slightly moist to keep your Spider Plant happy.

6. Parlor Palm

This variety is a resilient and attractive low-light plant that can brighten up any space with its feathery, arching leaves.

While it thrives in medium light, it can also tolerate lower light conditions. Otherwise, it enjoys humidity and extra moisture, but it doesn't require frequent watering. Every two weeks is typically enough to do the trick.

7. Wax Plant

Wax Plants are super easygoing when it comes to light and care. They flourish in bright light, but they also adapt well to lower light conditions, making them a versatile pick for a variety of spaces.

They're also able to bounce back if you forget to water them every now and then!

8. Sago Palm

Have you always wanted a palm tree in your home? If so, the Sago Palm offers the perfect opportunity.

Even though this plant does best in bright, direct light, it can deal with lower light conditions due to its adaptability. However, it's important to note that it's particular when it comes to watering.

You should only water the Sago Palm after the top inch of soil has dried out. Over-watering is the quickest way to harm this plant.

9. Monstera Deliciosa

Known for its large, dramatic leaves, the Monstera Deliciosa is surprisingly adaptable. It can tolerate low-light conditions while growing at a slower pace.

Just keep in mind that, while stunning, this variety is toxic to both humans and pets, so it shouldn't be ingested.

10. Calathea Peacock

Featuring pink and red flecks, the Calathea Peacock is a stunning addition to any indoor plant collection. It can flourish in bright light and handle up to eight hours of sunlight per day.

Yet, at the same time, it's also perfectly content in lower light conditions and is non-toxic.

11. Money Tree

If you're searching for a larger indoor plant that does well in medium, indirect light, look no further than the Money Tree. It's sure to be a standout in any room and is extremely easy to care for.

Simply plant it in a well-draining potting mix and place it a few feet away from a sunny window.

12. ZZ Plant

New plant parents shouldn't overlook the ZZ Plant, which is beloved for its low-maintenance nature. It can tolerate low light and can go weeks without water!

Just be sure to water this variety whenever the soil has dried out entirely. Also, remember that it is toxic to both cats and dogs.

13. English Ivy

English Ivy enjoys high-humidity environments and doesn't need bright light to flourish. So, it's ideal for moist, low-light areas, just like your bathroom!

It has fast-growing vines and can quickly become a lush addition to your space. You can consider using a hanging planter or vine supports to guide its growth and keep its spreading under control.

14. Red Anthurium

The Red Anthurium is an excellent choice if you want to add a splash of color to your space. Sometimes referred to as the flamingo flower, it features stunning red blooms that can last up to eight weeks.

It does well in low to medium light, too, making it a versatile option for all sorts of spaces.

15. Begonia Rex

Last but not least is Begonia Rex, a low-light indoor plant that prefers bright, indirect sunlight because direct rays can scorch its leaves. To keep this variety comfortable, ensure conditions remain humid and around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

THE BEFORE

Prior to the renovation, the home was stuck in the past with a lime green exterior and a late 80s/early 90s design aesthetic, including dated flooring, cramped rooms, wall-to-wall carpeting, bulky kitchen cabinets and granite (granite!) countertops. Drumroll on the after....

THE AFTER

I'm in awe of this transformation. Amanda and Taylor enhanced the home’s original features, including the floor-to-ceiling windows, slate roof with beautifully patinated gutters and accents, and kept original lighting fixtures while adding a fresh coat of paint and modern landscaping. Gorgeous!

THE BEFORE: ENTRY AND LIVING ROOM

Before diving into the renovation, take a look at the original living area and entryway. The space feels not just overdone, but also cold and uninviting. The bulky staircases (plural) dominate the entry, while the divider adds nothing to the warmth or flow of the space. The furniture feels stuck in another era, and that tiny rug? A total eyesore!

THE AFTER: LIVING AREA

The entry now is stunning, designed to make a statement with one staircase removed to create a charming seating nook and a more open, inviting flow into the cozy living space. The home now has 20-foot ceilings, an elegant formal living room topped with custom-stained cedar paneling, and a bespoke bar area showcasing beautifully restored red oak cabinetry.

Elegant furnishings with modern silhouettes and warm, earthy tones instantly elevate the home's aesthetic. The restored fireplace adds warmth and character to the room, while a well-proportioned rug enhances the cozy, inviting space.

THE BEFORE: KITCHEN

My eyes! This kitchen is a time capsule of outdated design, from the heavy granite countertops to the awkward circular layout that feels cramped and closed off.

"We opened up the kitchen to create a much more spacious and functional layout," says Taylor. "One of the key changes was expanding the kitchen’s visual space by installing double islands to create more prep space and an inviting area for family to gather."

They also removed a wall that separated the kitchen from the dining area, which not only opened up the space but also allowed natural light to flood in from both sides of the house. "The wood and paint-grade cabinetry allowed for contrast, and served as the perfect canvas for Calacatta Viola marble and absolute black slabs. The matte black hardware we used throughout the cabinetry and railings added a modern touch," adds Amanda.

Amanda and Taylor revamped the '90s kitchen into a chic and design-forward space by adding a moody breakfast nook for the family to gather. Find more banquette inspiration here!

Another challenge was optimizing the natural light — some rooms had very little natural light while others had plenty, so they introduced skylights where it was lacking. "We maximized the layout, lighting, and use of space while adding crucial design factors to make the property stand out," says Taylor.

Striking a balance between light and dark, the dining room features a rich brown and black palette that enhances its moody, earthy aesthetic while beautifully framing the outdoor views.

"The defining highlight for us is how we were able to preserve the home’s original charm while modernizing it to meet the physical and aesthetic needs of a modern family," says Amanda. The design duo kept the architectural integrity intact, but enhanced the functionality and warmth.

Taylor and Amanda restored the fireplace to its original brick, "but not how you might think," says Taylor. "We went through multiple processes to come to the final product. First attempting to remove paint, then micro cementing the fireplace, and at the very end we wanted to have the warmth and beauty of used brick. So we had to source used brick to satisfy the color and size needs for our room and proceeded to install."

Marble and matte black hardware was also used in the bathrooms, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel throughout the home.

"We chose natural materials like warm oak wood, used brick, and natural stones to blend with the moldings and historic feel of the home," says Amanda. The soft goods complement these harder materials with natural linens and vintage style rugs.

Touches of nature are woven throughout the home, subtly appearing in the artwork and décor.

The adorable kids room is a clean canvas with neutral decor and a rich amber-colored rug.

The outdoors is just as stunning. The pair upgraded the pool tile to a cle rust brown tile to modernize and warm up the pool. "We take landscaping our homes very seriously, so when it came to this home we had to go all out," says Amanda. Grass, olive trees, ficus, vines and more create a serene environment for years to come.

"The idea was to create a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape — bringing the outside in," adds Taylor. "The seamless integration of indoor-outdoor living and the design of the kitchen as the heart of the home really stand out."

10 of Wands & 10 of Pentacles:

The reading emphasizes a theme of completion and abundance. The 10 of Wands suggests that the path to your desired outcome is near, and you must persist through the final push. Giving up now would be detrimental as you are on the verge of achieving your goals. The 10 of Pentacles reinforces this message, indicating abundance in all areas of life: money, time, energy, relationships, and joy. You are nearing the end of a significant phase, described as "the end of the beginning," which will propel you forward. For some, this signifies the culmination of a project or goal, and for others, it's about finalizing the initial steps to ensure a strong foundation for future endeavors. The message is clear: complete what you've started, add the finishing touches, and celebrate your achievements. Don't rush into the next phase until you've fully concluded the current one. Focus on your personal definition of "perfect" and recognize that your own standard is sufficient.

King of Pentacles:

This card highlights themes of integrity, honesty, and truth, with a particular emphasis on discerning information. On a wider scale, it warns against blindly following authority figures, even those you respect. You are urged to conduct your own research, question what you hear, and assess how information directly affects you. There may be deception regarding finances or other matters of material value. Personally, be mindful of white lies and trust your intuition when something feels off. Rely on your own knowledge and wisdom to navigate situations, whether it's in your personal relationships or in understanding broader societal issues. The card encourages you to be discerning, to sift through "smoke and mirrors," and to ensure that you are receiving and sharing honest information.

King of Swords & Five of Cups:

These cards address the challenges of manifestation and maintaining a positive mindset. The King of Swords represents mastery and intuitive action, while the Five of Cups signifies disappointment. The message is to avoid dwelling on what isn't working and instead focus on your accomplishments and what you are grateful for. You may feel discouraged by perceived setbacks, but these are part of the learning process. The King of Swords advises you to tailor your manifestation practices to your own needs and preferences. Take notes on what works and what doesn't, and don't be afraid to adjust your approach. Avoid focusing on negativity, as it can hinder your intuitive connection and pull you away from your path to mastery. Instead, celebrate your small wins, learn from your experiences, and trust in your ability to navigate challenges. The reading emphasizes that you are learning a new skill and should give yourself grace and focus on what you know and what you have.

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