Design Note: Maximize Space Without Sacrificing Comfort

Whether it’s a home in the city or a cabin in the woods, one of today’s hot renovation trends is to maximize living space. Rather than endure moving, ambitious renovators are taking down walls, installing bigger windows and changing out old patio doors with double glass doors or sliders. The result is an open airy space with better traffic flow and lots of room for family and friends to gather.

However, with every renovation benefit comes a challenge or two to overcome. Depending on the finishing materials, oversize rooms can lose acoustic qualities. They also tend to become a little drafty. Even if energy efficient windows and doors are installed, an expanded great room with more windows will be cooler. To maintain comfort (and avoid cold feet), install surfaces that are textured, soft or have insulating qualities.

Cozy Up Your Fabric

Upholstery fabrics like chenille, velvet or cotton twill are soft to the touch and wonderfully comfortable.

Pillows, Throws and Scatter Mats

You can never have too many soft accessories in a family room. Toss cushions and throws encourage afternoon naps while scatter mats keep the chill of tile or hardwood floor at bay.

Ultimate in Beauty and Warmth – TORLYS CorkWood™

Until recently, the only hardwood options were real wood or a laminate version of wood. Both are great options in terms of style, but neither promote terrific acoustics or add warmth under foot. Cork, on the other hand, is a natural material known for its sound absorption qualities, resilience and heat retention.

Good news! TORLYS just introduced an amazing line of gorgeous cork flooring featuring hardwood-style planks! The collection is called CorkWood, and its floors combine the beauty of wood, the resilience of laminate and all the comfort and warmth of cork.

Want to install TORLYS CorkWood in your home? Visit your local TORLYS dealer today!