• Getting Personal,Tracy Marshall

    Getting Personal

    My husband and I searched the market for quite a long time for our home. I had taken every car nap opportunity to ride around the neighborhood for two years waiting for the right home to come on the market. One night we were sitting at dinner with our children when an open house alert popped up on my phone. My husbands reaction was instantly no but I insisted on seeing it the next day. It has been a little over six years since that night and one ginormous renovation later - we now live and love every inch of our home.      I spend so much of my time in your homes, showing you other peoples homes...it is my turn to get a littler personal. All of us hunt for a house. All of us work hard to create a home. All of those homes are a constant work in progress. My hope is to use this blog to share with you everything we have learned, the fantastic resources we had available and everything in between. 

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  • Crafting a Cozy Transition into Fall at Home,Tracy Marshall

    Crafting a Cozy Transition into Fall at Home

    Interior Design Tips for Fall   Embrace Warm Colors Incorporate the rich colors of autumn into your home decor. Think deep oranges, burnt siennas, warm yellows, and earthy browns. These hues can be introduced through throw pillows, blankets, area rugs, and even wall art. A few strategically placed items can make a significant impact on the ambiance of a room. The Engel & Völkers color palette is perfect for fall. If you’re looking to go bold and paint rooms in a warmer tone, look at Sherwin Williams Pompeii Red, Egret White, & Nearly Brown. Layer Textures Adding layers of different textures is an excellent way to create a cozy atmosphere. Combine soft fabrics like cashmere, wool, and faux fur with rougher textures such as wood and metal. Drape a chunky knit blanket over your sofa, place a wool rug underfoot, or add velvet cushions to your seating area. Want to learn more about combining textures? Take a look at our 2024 Design Guide. Update Lighting As days become shorter, lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Swap out harsh, bright lights for softer, warmer options. Consider adding floor lamps or table lamps with warm-toned bulbs to create a soothing glow. Candles are also a wonderful way to add warmth and a pleasant aroma to your home. Home Improvement Projects for Fall   Enhance Your Entryway The entryway sets the tone for your home. Add a fall-themed doormat, and consider updating your front door with a fresh coat of paint in a warm, inviting color. Incorporate seasonal decorations such as pumpkins, gourds, and a wreath made of autumn leaves. Insulate and Weatherproof Prepare your home for cooler temperatures by ensuring it's well-insulated and weatherproofed. Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps. Adding weather stripping can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in, making your home more energy-efficient. Click here to learn more about preparing your home for the colder months. Fireplace Makeover If you have a fireplace, give it some attention. Clean the chimney to ensure it's safe to use, and consider updating the mantel with fall decorations. Even if you don't use the fireplace for heat, it can still serve as a focal point for seasonal decor. Little Fall Tips A Fresh Start to Your Morning For many of us, fall means back to work, school, and the early morning grind. Ensuring you have an early start to your day can set you up for success and the best day to do that is with a seasonal, pumpkin spice latte. Our partnership with Delonghi ensures you embrace the cozy comforts of fall with the perfect cup of coffee. Delonghi's state-of-the-art coffee makers can help you create a delightful and seasonal pumpkin spice latte at home. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe Ingredients: 2 cups milk of your choice 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso Whipped cream and additional pumpkin pie spice for topping   Instructions: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Heat until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and whisk until frothy. Pour coffee or espresso into a mug and add the milk mixture. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.  Don’t forget to pair your latte with a sweet treat from Wolferman's Bakery. Their premium English muffins, decadent pastries, and gourmet breakfast assortments are perfect for cozy autumn mornings. Whether you're hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet weekend at home, Wolferman's Bakery offers a range of delightful options that can bring the flavors of the season right to your table. Bring Nature Indoors Incorporate natural elements like pinecones, acorns, and autumn leaves into your decor. These can be arranged in bowls, vases, or as part of a centerpiece. Houseplants can also add a touch of greenery and help purify the air as you spend more time indoors. Cozy Reading Nook Create a cozy reading nook where you can relax with a good book. Choose a comfortable chair, add a soft throw blanket, and place a small table nearby for your favorite warm beverage. This dedicated space can become a personal retreat during the cooler months.   Seasonal Scents Infuse your home with the scents of fall. Use essential oils, candles, or diffusers with fragrances like cinnamon, clove, vanilla, or apple. These scents can evoke the feeling of autumn and make your home feel even more inviting. By embracing these interior design tips, home improvement projects, and little fall touches, you can create a warm and welcoming environment that celebrates the beauty of the season. Enjoy the cozy comforts of your home as you transition into fall.  

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  • Property Spotlight: A Historic Treasure in the Heart of Mexico City,Tracy Marshall

    Property Spotlight: A Historic Treasure in the Heart of Mexico City

    A Rich Historical Legacy Seminario 12 is steeped in history, with its foundations built upon the legacy of the Templo de Tezcatlipoca, a site of great significance in pre-Columbian Mexico. Just steps away from the iconic Templo Mayor and flanked by the grand Catedral Metropolitana and the National Palace, this mansion has been at the heart of Mexico's most significant historical moments. Originally constructed for residential purposes, Seminario 12 has seen many transformations over the centuries, serving as a seminary, school, neighborhood, and commercial center. Its architecture, a stunning example of the New Spanish style, has been meticulously restored, preserving 95% of its original structure. The most recent renovation in 2019 seamlessly blends the mansion's historical charm with modern comforts, adhering to the strict guidelines of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). A Unique Experience of Timeless Art Stepping through the imposing copper doors of Seminario 12, you are immediately sent back to the Viceregal era (1521-1821). The Viceregal era in colonial Mexico, Central America, and South America was marked by the spread of Roman Catholicism and the creation of religious art influenced by European styles, yet infused with local traditions. This period saw the production of devotional images and sculptures that played a central role in both private and public religious practices, reflecting the syncretic blending of indigenous and European influences in the New World. The mansion’s interior, with its beautifully preserved details and high ceilings, offers an escape from the busy life of the zócalo, Mexico City’s main square. One of the standout features of Seminario 12 is its versatile layout, which opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you envision it as a luxurious family residence, the headquarters for a prestigious foundation, an exclusive lodging for travelers, or a space for renowned national and international chefs, this property can accommodate your vision. Its rich history and architectural beauty make it an ideal setting for any endeavor. Panoramic Views and Unmatched Charm   Seminario 12 contains two extraordinary features that set it apart from other architectural wonders in Mexico City. The first is its rooftop garden, offering views of the Catedral Metropolitana and the national flag waving proudly in the zócalo. This space is perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying the breathtaking sights of Mexico City's historic center. The second is a unique window on the first floor that frames the Cathedral, providing a moment of reflection on the history and energy that infuses this remarkable property. The blend of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort makes Seminario 12 a true gem in the heart of Mexico City. An Opportunity Like No Other Seminario 12 is more than just a property; it's a threshold into both the deep connections to history in Mexico, and the future of the richly diverse city. Whether you're looking to create a luxurious residence or develop a commercial venture in a prime location, Seminario 12 offers the perfect blend of history, elegance, and modernity. Currently listed for $15,136,065 USD Malusa De Nova or Feliza Ortiz of Engel & Völkers Mexico City. Click here to view the full listing.

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