Why do YOU Love Living at Cedar Commons?

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Decorating Your Apartment: Part One

Decorating doesn’t have to be as scary as you think. Begin by selecting the style that best suites you and work your way from there. Use this guide to help you with all of your decorating endeavors. We're sharing Part One here but stay tuned for Part Two for more styles!

Contemporary

Contemporary is really a fancy name for a combination of many popular decorating styles. Most contemporary looks consist of clean, sleek lines, simple accents, and neutral colors with a few bold accents. Most apartments that feature this style have an open, spacious layout so that it is easier to blend each area of the home together. You may choose to use ultra dark wood or very light wood depending on the feel you are going for. You want your home to feel clean, airy, and simple yet sophisticated when you are finished with your design. Try finding furniture with a neutral color scheme and accessorize with accents of color. This way you can change your design as often as you wish without breaking the bank. Always take the “less is more” approach with contemporary design.

Cottage

If feeling cozy, comfortable and relaxed in your home then cottage design may be for you. This design style allows you to really express your personality and allows your guests to feel warm and welcomed in your home. You may want to consider drawing inspiration from the beach, country fields, or other parts of the natural landscape that surrounds you. Cottage design is often inspired by nature due to the fact that nature has many calming, relaxing sceneries to offer. Colors that are often used in cottage style design include soft blues, greens, yellows and whites. If you want your home to be cohesive yet stylish while still having a “lived in” look then cottage design should suite you well.

Traditional

While trends come and go, traditional design always remains the most popular style for homes across America. Traditional design is influenced by English and French design and usually exudes elegance, warmth and classical elements. Homes in the 18^th and 19^th century began using this style to help determine social classes within the household. Don’t let that fool you though, traditional design may look expensive, but can be pulled off for a lot less than you would think.

Visit our Facebook page for more information on design trends, styles and tips!

March means spring fever, and the promise of warmer days ahead!

March is upon us and definitely gives us spring fever. Unfortunately, it has been known for its reputation as the snowiest month. The light at the end of the snow tunnel though is that March at least gives us spring teasers of 60 degrees and sunny days! So, take advantage of those days and start some spring activities.

Try a test run of some summer recipes on your grill outside or start concocting some festive beverages for the upcoming season. If it's a rainy or snowy day, stay indoors and get started on some early spring cleaning or rearranging.

March is also known for St. Patrick's Day. Irish or not, it's a reason to celebrate! Be festive and try some green recipes for meals, desserts or drinks. One of our favorite recipes at Cedar Commons in light of St. Patty's Day is a fun Green Eggs and Ham appetizer (a.k.a. festive deviled eggs). You can print or follow the quick and simple recipe here at http://www.food.com/recipe/lindas-green-eggs-and-ham-appetizers-260558.

Have a great St. Patrick's Day and enjoy your new dish! And remember, Spring is just around the corner so savor these last weeks of winter and snow, if you must.

Turn February Blues into Cupid's Woos

February can be a dull and dreary month – with the coldest temperatures and the most snow. (A fact proven especially true this year!) However, we can make it a more exciting and happy month to get through. Not only is it the shortest month of the year, but we also have Valentine's Day to look forward to.

Be creative this Valentine's Day and make your love a special card or project. Everyone has a Valentine, whether it's your significant other, a secret admirer or love interest, or a favorite family member, friend or co-worker. Make that special someone's day with flowers, candy or a simple card to express your love and appreciation to them in your life!

Also, President's Day is Monday, February 21st, so kids and some occupations get a long weekend, while the Greece Central School District gets the whole week off for their February recess. Enjoy the break, kids. This is a great time to take advantage of some snow fun like sledding or skiing, or escape the winter and head south for a vacation.

Hope this gives you a fun-filled February to look forward to and to all our residents, have a very Happy Valentine's Day!

~Kelli Jean

Start The New Year Off With New Decor!

With the new year now in full swing and resolution promises put forth, there are many new and exciting things to look forward to, especially for your home.

At Cedar Commons, we strive to make sure you feel comfortable in your home and leave the decorating up to you! So this new year, embark on new decorating ideas for your apartment. You are free to hang up any wall decor, and even paint your walls. Just ask our friendly office staff for more details on painting. You can find great and inexpensive decorating ideas at http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/index.html.

If you don’t feel like tackling a new decorating approach and still want a change for 2011, simply rearrange your furniture for some exciting interior design changes. With the large spacious rooms at Cedar Commons, there are many ways to set up your living, dining, and bedrooms. For some arrangement ideas you can search "feng shui" to get some great tips!

We hope you enjoy your home and make it more unique to fit your style.

Welcome home to all of our new residents and everyone have a very happy New Year!