Bring Your Florida Style to Your Northern Home

Just because you have left your Florida home for the summer doesn’t mean you have to leave your Florida style along with it. You can easily bring some Florida flair to your northern home. Florida style evokes images of casual comfort, warm relaxation, and eternal welcome. And that’s welcome everywhere.

Florida elements will add spice to the harmony of your home and will remind you of sun-warmed sands, wild ocean waves, and pleasant ocean breezes. Adding sea grass, bamboo, wood, teak, or rattan will instantly add an element of sunnier climes to you décor, but it may take a little bit more to create a real Florida-inspired design.

Furniture with a Florida Flair

When it comes to furniture, look for upholstered pieces with rattan arms and legs. These materials are excellent for solid, but warm and welcoming, furniture. A glass top table keeps the feeling light and airy, but makes a sturdy platform to show off coral specimens. The Twin Palms Koko Sofa from Tommy Bahama features graceful shaping and showcases a striking blend of textures, adding some Florida flair to your home. A double row of nail head trim highlights the sofa’s soft, sensual shape. The sea-inspired palette, tropical prints, and glass lamps give this room a decidedly Florida feel, and are perfectly accented by the white paneled walls.

Look to Nature for an Inspired Color Palette

Florida is a land of sun and sea, dotted with swaying palms and colorful foliage. Your color palette should reflect this with sea colors and patterns, sandy beiges and neutrals, and bright jungle motifs. Use a tropical palette to help bring nature inside your home.

Your colors can be neutral or bright, highlighted by indoor plants or wooden accessories. Nothing can be as decorative as tropical greenery. A bold wallpaper, bright tropical print, or actual plant are great ways to bring nature into your space.

Create a Space with Plenty of Light

Florida is the sunshine state, so light is an important issue in Florida style. Make sure you have enough smooth textures to reflect light, but not so many that the room seems blindingly bright. Neutral, natural colors with an occasional pop of bright coral or green will give your space a bright, airy feel. Light should emanate from low positioned lights, pendant lights, or even traditional chandeliers.

Your windows can give your space a feeling of freedom and closeness to nature. Play up your windows with wooden blinds or sheers that let in plenty of light. Fabrics should be light and pastel to give the space a feeling of freshness.

Accessorize to Emphasize the Florida Feel

Florida décor includes a variety of elements – ocean waves, swaying palms, burnished sunsets, and melodious birds. Choose accessories that emphasize these elements such as animal or botanical-themed art on the walls and accessories such as pillows and area rugs. Bowls filled with tropical fruit and some interesting pieces of coral or seashells add to the Florida feel.

Your Florida house décor isn’t complete without large palm plants or easy to care for bamboos. Orchids, birds of paradise, and bromeliads freshen up the room. These motifs can also be used on fabric accessories.

Once you add these touches to your Northern home, you’ll feel like you are in sunny Florida all year long.

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What to Look for in a Recliner

Recliners are practically synonymous with comfort. You may not consider recliners a modern piece of furniture, but they are now available in a surprising range of styles – from classic to elegant – and offer a variety of new features and functionality.

Bells and whistles are key when shopping for a recliner. And although there are a growing number of styles available, choosing the right recliner involves more than just aesthetics. Size, shape, and fit of the chair are all important factors to consider. The best fit will provide the most comfort, and unlike shoes, comfort is paramount in a recliner.

Below are six tips to help you choose the perfect recliner.

Choose Your Can’t Live without Features

Make a list of your must-have features. Do you want a rocker, glider, or swivel base? Do you want a power recliner that will recline at the press of a button? If you are short on space, a wall hugger might be the one for you. Perhaps you are looking for a recliner with built-in massage to ease the stress of your day, or if you know you might be napping in your recliner, consider a lay-flat model. For example, the Casual Three-Way Recliner from Natuzzi Editions lets you find the position that best suits you, whether napping or watching TV. It’s gentle, power motion is suitable for all levels of mobility.

It Has to Be Comfortable

Make sure the recliner fits the size of your body – proper fit will mean more comfort. When testing a recliner, sit in it for as long as you need to determine if it is comfortable for you. It usually takes your body about 15-20 minutes to relax, so go ahead and take as long as you need. Make sure your feet touch the floor when in the sitting position and that your head comfortably fits the headrest.

Find Your Style

Narrow down your style preferences. You may think that the only styles available are bulky recliners that stand out like sore thumbs in your existing décor, but with so many new styles available, you can easily find one that fits. The Bradington Young Recliner above doesn’t look like a recliner, but gives you just as much comfort and relaxation as a standard recliner. Whether you want a modern, sleek chair, or something more traditional, there is definitely one that will suit your style.

Sized Just Right

As with any piece of furniture, keep in mind where you will put it and how much space you have. Measure the space where you intend to place the recliner and the recliner itself. When measuring the recliner, be sure to measure it while fully reclined. This will give the total amount of space the recliner will need. Recliners generally need between 1-3 feet of space from the wall. A reclining chair and ottoman set is another way to save space and maximize comfort.

Don’t Compromise Quality

Consider the quality of fabric, wood, and metal from which the recliner is constructed. The right recliner will provide years of support and comfort. If you are considering a power recliner, look for quiet motors, heavy screws, and easy-to-use levers or handles.

Once you’ve decided on comfort, style, and function, prepare to have fun shopping for your new recliner.

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Set the Stage for Sweet Dreams with Universal Bedroom Furniture

There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to make you feel better in the morning. However, the importance of sleep goes beyond boosting your mood or getting rid of under-eye circles. Getting enough sleep is an essential to staying healthy: it can benefit your weight, heart, mind, and more. With the Home Collection by Universal Furniture you can easily set the stage for sweet dreams.

Begin with Color to Support a Relaxing Atmosphere

Color is an important design tool that can help you create the mood you want in any room of the house. Restful browns with cream accents provides a toned-down palette that makes this bedroom into a restful retreat. Decorated with classic style, this serene bedroom exudes glamour without looking overdone. The dramatic arched headboard with bead board panels evokes a seaside country cottage.

Bare windows continue the theme and let in plenty of sunlight. Overall, you want the linens, window dressing, and accessories to support the relaxing atmosphere with gentle transitions instead of high contrast.

Simplify to Create a Soothing Space

Painting the walls and ceiling in light neutral shades such as cream or taupe — that is soothing in itself. Keep the artwork simple and leave some of the space above the bed empty. This “white space” will contrast with the dark headboard to create an understated elegance. Beautifully balanced, nothing detracts from the serene mood you are trying to create.

Keep dressers and bedside tables uncluttered and cleared of everything except essential items. All you need is an alarm clock, lamp, books, a pitcher of water and a glass on the bedside table and simple glass vase for seasonal flowers and a few books on the dresser. This dresser features protective cedar lining in the bottom drawers that give you a protective, snag-free surface for your clothing.

Though usually light, white, or soothing blues are used in serene bedrooms, they can also be decorated in a deeper, more masculine palette. Dark neutrals and subdued patterns, silver, white, and charcoal accents provide the right mix of neutrals to ensure a restful, relaxing retreat.

If you need help designing a bedroom filled with sweet dreams with the Home Collection by Universal Furniture, schedule an appointment with a Baer's Furniture design professional today. It's free!

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Get Your Bookshelves Ready for Read Across America

Read Across America is an annual celebration of reading held on Dr. Seuss’ birthday. March 2. In support of the goals to motivate children to read and create lifelong successful readers and learners, here are some tips that inspire not just reading, but curiosity and learning.

Bookshelves work as storage spaces for books and display spaces for curios and souvenirs. However, your books and accessories don’t have to jockey for a position on your bookshelves. When the shelves are mindfully arranged, they can be transformed from a lowly storage unit to a stylish expression of your interests.

Simplify

Using the “less is more” technique, resist the impulse to pack the shelves with all your accessories and books. Choosing a tone-on-tone color scheme for figurines and vases will create a clean look. But be sure to mix up shapes to avoid monotony. Step back every once in a while as you go to assess your arrangement. Mix larger items with smaller ones, tall books with short ones, or try placing a few off-center until you get the look you like. The Cherry Creek Traditional Modular Wall system from Hooker Furniture give you plenty of options to display books and objet d'art.

Create Empty Space

As you are organizing your bookcase, remember to leave some empty space to let the eyes rest. Changing the orientation of your books by stacking some of them on one shelf, placing them vertically on another, and mixing their orientation on a third shelf will make your display more interesting. Using the books stacked horizontally as a riser for smaller pieces, and placing accessories and artwork on top of the unit will also create visual interest.

Stagger Accessories

Mix up the placement of collectibles and art to create a visual rhythm. Colorful book covers will stand out against the warm wood finishes of a bookcase. Alternating the placement of bright pottery and framed artwork or photographs will keep the eye moving smoothly from shelf to shelf. You can personalize the look by using framed prints of photographs you’ve taken. The Brookhaven Three Piece Open Bookcase by Hooker Furniture offers functional storage and plenty of display space with adjustable shelves.

Artful Displays

Display your favorite pieces by giving them a shelf of their own. This also helps keep you from overwhelming your room with visual clutter. Try a few shelves that highlight your special pieces mixed in with shelves of books. Keeping it airy and uncluttered lets your books and artwork take center stage.

Create a Book Nook

Create a bright book nook or reading space in a corner with plenty of light. Add a comfortable, upholstered chair, reading lamp, and accent table. Fill the shelves with sculptures, trophies, framed art, and, of course, groupings of books. The loose, informal design helps the eye move from shelf to shelf. The Danforth Low Bookcase from Hooker Furniture holds just the right amount of books and, since it is a small shelf, doesn't over power your reading nook.

Gallery-Style Display

Bookcases aren’t just for books and art doesn’t have to be hung on the walls. Use a wide assortment of accessories to create a gallery-style display. Photographs, small statues, books, or pottery – you can use whatever you would like to display. Beware of overcrowding, you want to create a space that invites visual exploration. And you might just inspire someone to read.

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Baer’s Furniture Reviews: Best of 2016

Baer’s Furniture works hard to ensure that every customer leaves the store satisfied and happy. In fact, they are looking to provide customers with a “wow” shopping experience. These days, shoppers’ expectations are pretty high. Still, Baer’s Furniture is dedicated to giving shoppers an experience they won’t forget.

Customer Engagement, Executional Excellence, and Brand Experience at Baer’s Furniture

Baer’s trusts their staff to provide furniture shoppers with a memorable experience that keeps them coming back for more. The Baer’s Furniture sales staff is genuinely caring, polite, and not only invested in helping, but also dedicated to doing their best to ensure that customers get exactly what they want.

“Baer’s is my go to store for all my designing needs,” says Jessica Shirer. “Ben is always very helpful … He goes above and beyond, and I highly recommend asking for him if you visit.”

Read more of Jessica Shirer’s review.

Words of praise are worth more than gold to any business. But in order to get them, they must achieve executional excellence by patiently explaining all steps about what to expect and providing the best advice.

“As a first time buyer from Baer’s Furniture I have to say that it was a great experience. The employees were very polite and helpful,” according to Elaine Fernandez. “The furniture was delivered just as expected … [It] also looks beautiful in my home.”

Read more of Elaine Fernandez’ review.

“The delivery went smoothly, it was quick and efficient. The gentlemen were cordial and kind,” says Johanne Messina. “We love our new purchase.”

Read more of Johanne Messina’s review.

Making customers feel special and making sure they are always getting quality furniture at the best possible price has long been a hallmark of the Baer’s Furniture brand. This old-school practice is one of the important pillars of the “wow” experience. And this doesn’t end once a customer has left the showroom.

“Jonathan and his partner made sure everything was in place with the delivery,” explains Sally Smith Caeiro. “The directions were not exactly correct so I talked him through... I will buy more in time from Baer's and highly recommend their quality and service.”

Read more of Sally Smith Caeiro’s review.

The Simple Things That Create “Wow” at Baer’s Furniture

Experts have identified 28 elements of a great shopping experience, but it’s really not that complex. Baer’s counts on their experienced and dedicated staff to set the stage for a great experience. And they are usually not disappointed.

“Sales people were great,” says Bonnie Dessart. “… saved me money on mattress set with adjustable base. Very happy with my purchase.”

Read more of Bonnie Dessart’s review.

“Dawn was excellent,” according to Annette Azzara. “She helped us select the perfect furniture for our new home.”

Read more of Annette Azzara’s review.

Today’s consumers demand better value in everything they purchase, and that includes the experience itself. The best way to lay a foundation for customers to have great retail experiences is to provide friendly, experienced, customized service to consumers. In fact, it is one way a furniture store can survive in a challenging economic environment.

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Keep Your Leather Furniture in Tip-Top Shape

When you invest in leather furniture from Baer’s, you know you are getting quality that will stand the test of time. You might think that leather is tedious or difficult to care for, and that it is easily mistreated by pets and children, but these claims are baseless. And even though your leather couch, sofa, or loveseat will look better as it ages, proper maintenance is important. Caring for leather correctly is, in fact, no more difficult than caring for most other types of upholstery. Follow the dos and don’ts below to ensure that your furniture ages gracefully.

DON’T Use Oil Soap

Cleansers such as oil soap may seem harmless, but they will darken and stain the leather. Even a mild dishwashing soap, so gentle on your hands, will remove more than just the dirt from your leather furniture. It might also remove or spoil the color. And while you may use saddle soap on your saddle, leather shoes, or catcher’s mitt, don’t use it on your leather sofa.

DON’T Use Detergent or Soap

No matter how mild, don’t use detergent or soap. Even if this seems like a repeat of the above, it’s worth repeating. We can use gentle cleansers or soaps on our skin because it is still living and can replace any oils the soap removes. A leather couch doesn’t have that ability, so it will become brittle, dry, and damaged over time if you use soap or detergent. So why not use soap and apply oil after, just like we do for our skin? Because, as mentioned previously, oil will stain or darken the leather.

DO Regularly Apply a Leather Conditioner

Regularly conditioning your leather furniture will help keep it from drying and developing cracks. This is the main difference between caring for fabric vs leather. Leather conditioner has a cream consistency and is designed specifically to be rubbed into the leather. Think wax on, wax off. You can purchase leather conditioner at furniture and auto parts stores (leather car interiors). Follow the application guidelines of the product you’ve purchased, as they sometimes vary, and condition your leather every 6 to 12 months or as needed.

DON’T Place Leather Furniture in Direct Sunlight

Nothing is really safe for long from the strong South Florida sun, and this includes your leather furniture. Extreme temperatures can cause it to dry and crack. Regular conditioning will help mitigate any damage, but it is better to keep the furniture out of direct sunlight if at all possible.

DO Blot Spills Quickly

This may seem like a no-brainer, but don’t get complacent about your leather furniture’s resistance to spills and messes, especially grease or oil (see oils stains leather, above). Use a dry cloth or paper towels to immediately clean up spills. If you spill oil or grease, use baking powder or talcum powder to absorb it. There are also leather furniture cleaners that you can use, available from some furniture manufacturers or furniture stores, be sure to have some on hand just in case.

DO Buff Small Scratches

Your leather is likely to collect some small scratches over the years. Since leather is made from animal hide, it may dry out and develop scratches and small cracks. If that happens, you can easily buff them out with a microfiber cloth. Using a microfiber cloth, buff gently until the cracks or scratches fade.

DO Invest in a Leather Protector

When your leather furniture is brand new, purchase a professionally applied leather cleaner, such as UnitersPure available for all leather furniture purchased at Baer’s Furniture. If you have older leather furniture, have it professionally cleaned and then apply leather protector. Wipe it occasionally with a slightly damp cloth to keep it dust-free, and when needed, use your vacuum cleaner’s hose attachment to remove any debris that can gradually accumulate under the cushions and in crevices.

Following these tips will help keep your leather furniture looking good and lasting longer. Keep in mind that different leathers require different method to keep them at their best. Check with your Baer’s Furniture professional to ensure that you are using the proper method for maintaining your leather furniture.

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L-Shaped Desks for Every Office Personality

Your home office says a lot about your personality. Everything from the flooring to the paint color on the walls to the type of desk you use says something about who you are and how you work. Depending on what type of person you are, your desk may be extremely organized or extremely chaotic. Check out the three worker styles below and find the perfect L-shaped desk to suit your office personality.

The Organizer

If you are continuously organizing and reorganizing your desk and you have everything arranged in a specific order, you are an organizer. But then you probably already knew that. You like everything in its place and a place for everything. When your desk is not in order, it really affects your thought processes. You are logical and believe that all the items on your desk should have a purpose or meaning.

If this describes you, then the Hawthorne L-Shaped Desk from Aspenhome might be right for you. This desk brings essential form and function to any workspace. If offers multiple storage options and organization capabilities. Two utility drawers keep necessary items close by and the locking file drawer keeps important papers neat, tidy, and secure. As an organizer, you are a “get straight to the point” type of person, and you need a desk with traditional design and straightforward style.

The Worker Bee

If your desk is tucked into an out of the way corner or nook, covered with papers and supplies, then your desk is likely where you are most productive. It is the place where work gets done. You may try to keep your space organized, but your success at this task depends on your project. You also prefer a desk with room to spread out. The Wendover L-shaped Office Unit – computer credenza, hutch, and corner unit – from Hooker Furniture offers everything you need for a home working environment.

The credenza features a phone jack, a power bar with two outlets, high-speed data ports, and more. If this sounds like your dream desk, then you love what you do and aren’t afraid to tell the world about it. Your office space gives you inspiration, and you are sometimes so goal-oriented and focused that you forget to take a break to enjoy the simple things in life.

The Minimalist

Your desk is always clear, in fact, it may be hard to tell you even work there. It contains only the tools absolutely necessary to get your work done. You are a minimalist. You may have one or two objects to accessorize your desk, but no more than that. Everything else on your desk is absolutely essential. You don’t want a lot of items cluttering up your desk because you felt that such things will also clutter up your mind.

If you relate to this description, then the Kendrick L Desk with Hutch from Hooker Furniture will give you exactly what you need to stay organized and productive. This L-shaped desk helps you stay organized with utility drawers, a pull-out printer tray, a drop-down keyboard space, and an FC737 power bar with tow outlets, and a USB port. This desk is perfect for a minimalist. 

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