Top 5 Topics: Your Favorite Blog Posts of the Year

When we launched Julie Writes Home in November 2020, we weren’t sure how many people would read it. We knew we wanted to provide information to help potential and current clients make decisions about designing a custom home at the Jersey Shore. Lucky for us, the blog has found an audience!

Because so many of you have found these articles useful, we’ve recapped the five most popular posts on our blog so far. Enjoy!

Top 5 Blog Posts of 2021

Dive In: 10 Tips for Choose a Swimming Pool (September 2021)
While you may have already squirreled away your flip-flops, now is the time to think about what amenities you want for your new Dakan home. Due to the pandemic, pools are in high demand. To make sure you get what you want on time, you’ll need to make some decisions long before next summer. Here are some tips to make planning an in-ground pool a breeze.

SURVEY SAYS: Take our poll about pool styles!

The Evolution of the Kitchen Island: From Servant’s Prep Space to Virtual Schooling Desk—and Everything in Between (November 2020 – Our very first post!)
You may recall when kitchen islands went mainstream in the 1970s and 80s. As more time-saving—but space-taking—appliances joined us in the kitchen (microwaves, toaster ovens, bread makers, Kitchen-Aid stand mixers), counter space was at a premium. Hardly a place to entertain, these islands were less paradise and more practical. However, kitchens islands have been around much longer than you’d think. Read on to learn more.

Windows 101: How to Select Windows for Your New Home (July 2021)
While it may be more fun to pick paint colors, backsplash tile, and appliances, selecting the right windows for your new home is an equally important decision. In addition to providing light and airflow, windows also must stand up to the elements, including the beating sun, strong winds, and the snow and ice of winter. We asked Bud Taylor of Tri-County Building Supplies a few questions about choosing windows for a new home at the Jersey Shore.

SURVEY SAYS: Take our poll about window styles!

A Kaleidoscope of Options: How to Choose Interior Color (May 2021)
Step into any home improvement store and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the thousands of paint chips on display. A veritable rainbow of colors is at your fingertips. How do you choose? Kathie Titus, a local interior designer, helps Dakan Homes stage properties for photoshoots and helps dozens of other clients choose interior wall colors. Here are her tips.

SURVEY SAYS: Take our poll about paint colors!

2021 Design Trends (February 2021)
Due to the pandemic, many of us have spent more time at home than ever before. So, it’s not surprising that the hottest home design trends in 2021 celebrated life and joy, reflecting a return to happiness after a year-plus of uncertainty and stress. Learn what trends were hot in 2021, including the shade Benjamin Moore named its Color of the Year.