The term "biophilic" is derived from the word "biophilia" and centers around everything that is natural--literally, a love (philia) of life (bio). This design philosophy stems from humanity's innate affinity and need for nature. A person's overall well being includes getting enough sleep, exercise, a healthy diet, meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose and a connection to nature. This connection is particularly important during the winter months when outside activity and connection are often limited due to shorter periods of daylight. Biophilic design is a great way to bring elements of the natural world inside to help to combat winter blues. Following are six ways to bring biophilic design into your home: … [Read more...] about Six Ways to Bring Biophilic Design into Your Home
How a Strong Rental Market Is Good News for Agents
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill - As we head into the last month of the last quarter of 2025, what a strange year it's been for the post-pandemic housing market! With the current market all but frozen over it's no wonder that more people are choosing to rent rather than buy. In "normal times"--if there is such a thing anymore-- this increased demand for rentals usually leads to rental prices going up. And in some major metros that is still the case (think New York City, Los Angeles, Silicon Valley). But even as the demand for rentals has increased many rental prices continue to drop. This flies in the face of "normal" and indicates further troubles ahead for the housing market. But … [Read more...] about How a Strong Rental Market Is Good News for Agents
Transform Your Lighting Without Breaking the Bank
Do not underestimate the art of lighting your home. Choosing specific light sources, from overhead, to table top to floor, can completely alter the feel of a room for the better if done well. Strategic lighting, particularly as the weather gets colder and the nights grow longer, can give your space a calming and cozy feel. Following are some guidelines on how to transform your lighting without breaking the bank: … [Read more...] about Transform Your Lighting Without Breaking the Bank
Out of the Box Pumpkin Pie a la Julia Child
Ready to add an unexpected twist to your pumpkin pie efforts this year? Voila, enter some creative twists thanks to cooking icon, Julia Child. In particular, one ingredient transforms the traditional pumpkin pie experience as we know it to something very......French. Well, the French have always been great allies to the U.S. and even gifted us the Statue of Liberty, so why not give them some of the spotlight on what is decidedly a hallmark American tradition: Thanksgiving (and by way of association, the revered pumpkin pie). With no further ado, we present out-of-the-box pumpkin pie a la Julia Child: … [Read more...] about Out of the Box Pumpkin Pie a la Julia Child
Ways to Celebrate Winter Solstice with Hygge
Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere typically occurs on December 21st or 22nd and is recognized as the shortest day (and longest night) of the year. As such, there is no better way to beat the winter blues than with the practice of "hygge." Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) hails from Denmark and is a cultural practice that embraces feeling warm, cozy and safe. In fact, the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen claims that it is because of Danes' adherence to everything "hygge-ly" that they are rated as the happiest country in the world. Following are some tips on how to celebrate winter solstice with hygge: … [Read more...] about Ways to Celebrate Winter Solstice with Hygge