Multi-Use Furniture: Saving Space With Style
CARMA STAHNKE
Intoday’s homes, space is at a premium –and every square foot counts. Whether you want to make the most of a studio apartment or just need to clear out some clutter, multi-use furniture is the secret to smart, stylish living. These functional heroes go beyond the traditional, serving two or three purposes with ease – and giving your décor a refresh at the same time!
Sleeper Sofas and Daybeds
Perfect for living rooms or offices that double as guest quarters, these pieces offer comfortable seating by day and a cozy bed by night. They’re a real lifesaver during the holidays or when friends and family drop by unexpectedly. You can choose from a variety of mattresses, like memory foam, inner spring and hybrid models – and be sure to check out sleepers with compartments for pillows, linens and blankets.
Versatile Ottomans
Another interesting furniture option, modern ottomans can be used as footrests, coffee tables, extra seating and even toy chests. If you don’t have room for a sofa or daybed, a sleeper ottoman could be ideal for overnight accommodation. They also
come in every style imaginable, from sleek leather to woven textures, allowing them to fit smoothly into any color scheme or layout. Compact, affordable and endlessly practical – what’s not to love?
Extendable Dining Tables
Great for daily meals and expandable when company comes over, these highly functional items can adjust to your needs – no more crowding or dragging out awkward folding tables. They can be found in a wide array of sizes, materials and shapes, and many feature hidden leaves or clever folding mechanisms for easy setup. Whether you enjoy hosting intimate dinners, game nights with friends or full-blown dinner parties, you can find the perfect extendable table to entertain with flair.
Lift-Top Coffee Tables
Increasingly popular for their many positive attributes, lift-top coffee tables can serve as mini office areas, casual eating spots, storage solutions –or all of the above. If you work remotely, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without one. As an added bonus, these pieces are economical as well as chic, with quality brands as low as $150.
Built-In Bookshelves With Desks
An answer to underutilized wall space, tight corners or difficult layouts, a bookshelf-desk combo offers many benefits. Vertical shelving gives you a place for dish-ware, books and artistic elements, and an accompanying work surface has a much smaller footprint than a free-standing desk. Depending on how much room you have, you could consider installing a closet-type sliding or bifold door to create an instant hideaway for office clutter or messy craft projects.
Benches With Storage
If you’re looking to get more use from your foyer, dining area or hallway, or maybe that empty spot at the foot of your bed, these benches provide seating and storage in one tidy package – ideal for stashing seasonal gear. They also make a great perch for putting on shoes or dropping bags when you walk in. With the right cushion or throw, they become an instant décor upgrade as well. With thoughtfully chosen multi-use furniture, you’ll soon discover that you don’t need a massive residence to live comfortably and affordably. You can create a welcoming home that is efficient, flexible and right on trend.
Sustainable Home Features Today’s Buyers Want
MICHEL SMITH
Eco-conscious consumers are looking for properties that are both beautiful and built with the environment and long-term savings in mind. From materials and mechanics to curb appeal and certifications, sustainable features now help homes stand out and sell faster.
Stylish and Sustainable Kitchens
Modern eco-focused kitchens are a marriage of form and function. Water-efficient dishwashers, induction cooktops and energy-efficient appliances deliver serious energy savings and blend seamlessly into contemporary designs. Special features like composting stations and built-in recycling drawers reduce waste without sacrificing style.
Energy-Efficient Tech
Smart thermostats, motion-sensing lights and app-based HVAC controls offer hands-off functionality and can reduce energy use. A system that automates lights, heating and cooling can slash utility bills while maximizing comfort. Bonus: Green homes may qualify for rebates or tax credits.
The Electric Shift
Gas-free homes are on the rise, with buyers increasingly drawn to energy-efficient electric systems that might include heat pumps and tankless water
heaters. Residences that come EV-ready, with 240V outlets or charging stations in the garage, offer futureforward appeal and convenience for the growing number of electric vehicle owners.
Eco-Chic Materials
Sustainable design can be aesthetically appealing – and buyers are noticing. Bamboo and cork flooring are renewable alternatives that offer natural warmth and durability. Countertops made from recycled glass or paper-based composites add character while reducing waste. Reclaimed wood and metals bring a sense of resourcefulness to refined interiors. Low- or no-VOC paints help keep indoor air clean, an important perk for health-conscious buyers.
Insulation Innovation
Energy savings start with thoughtful construction. Buyers look for advanced insulation like spray foam and high-performance windows that reduce heat loss. Even more exciting is passive design, which optimizes a home’s orientation, window placement and materials to naturally regulate temperature and minimize energy use – all without relying on a home’s mechanical systems.
Greener
Curb Appeal
Sustainability extends outside. Permeable
driveways decrease runoff and erosion. Green roofs bolster a home’s insulation and help purify the air. Solar shingles offer a sleek alternative to traditional panels, generating energy for homeowners. Ecofriendly landscaping that incorporates native plants, drought-tolerant greenery and pollinator-friendly gardens reduces water use, supports biodiversity and creates a lower-maintenance yard.
What’s Ahead in Sustainable Homes
Net-zero homes, which produce as much energy as they consume, are poised to become the gold standard. Achieved through airtight construction, efficient systems and renewable energy (like solar), these homes offer lower utility bills and broad buyer appeal. LEED, Energy Star and WELL certifications also help home shoppers identify truly sustainable properties and can increase resale value. Buyers are looking for homes that balance energy efficiency with contemporary flair. From ecosmart appliances to features like EV-readiness and wellness-enhancing design, sustainability adds realworld value to properties. Wondering which ones offer the best return on investment? Turn to a trusted real estate professional for more insights about green upgrades that fit your lifestyle and budget.
NOTES
This frosty frozen cocktail is so easy to create. Simply freeze fresh peach slices, then mix everything together in a blender for a perfect summer cocktail that’s perfectly icy, sweet, and so delicious!
Frozen Peach Rosé Slushy
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ripe peach, sliced
• 2-4 tablespoons honey or sugar
• 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs
INSTRUCTIONS
• 1 bottle (750 ml) Rosé, or white wine
• 4 cups frozen peach slices
1. To make the peach thyme syrup: Bring 3/4 cup water, the fresh peaches, honey, and thyme to a boil in a small pot. Simmer 5 minutes, until the peaches are very soft. Remove from the heat and strain through a mesh strainer into a glass jar. Chill.
2. In a blender, combine the frozen peaches, wine, peach thyme syrup, and 1/2 cup of ice. Blend until slushy. Add additional wine to thin.
3. Pour into glasses and serve with fresh peach slices. Drink!
Additional
To Freeze Your Own Peaches: slice the peaches, and if desired peel them (I like to leave the skin on).
Arrange the peaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 4 hours or overnight. Use as directed in the recipe.
For a stronger Drink: add 1/2 to 1 cup vodka.
HOME TRENDS: FROM SUMMER TO FALL TRANSITIONAL HOME TRENDS TO TRY NOW
As August winds down, it's the perfect time to start thinking about how to transition your home from summer's airy vibes to fall's cozy comfort. The shift between seasons is a prime opportunity to refresh your interiors without a full overhaul. Here are some of the top transitional home trends homeowners are embracing this year.
Layered Textures are leading the way. Think lightweight throws over linen chairs, woven baskets
filled with plush blankets, or a mix of wood and metal finishes. These elements add depth and warmth without being overly seasonal.
Color Palette Shifts are also trending. Replace summer brights with warmer, moodier tones like olive green, burnt sienna, and deep navy. Even small changes like swapping pillow covers or updating wall art can have a big impact.
Natural Elements continue to shine. As fall
approaches, bring the outdoors in with dried florals, pampas grass, and wood accents. These additions evoke autumn without diving straight into pumpkins and plaid.
AmbientLighting plays a key role in seasonal transitions. Start introducing table lamps, sconces, or lanterns with warm-toned bulbs to create a softer glow as daylight hours begin to shorten.
Functional Decor is also trending. Think stylish storage baskets, entryway benches, or multipurpose furniture that helps declutter while elevating your space.
For homeowners considering listing in the fall, making these simple updates now can boost both comfort and appeal. Transitional styling not only refreshes your living space, it also signals to potential buyers that the home is current, cared-for, and ready for the next season.
$806,227 1,997 1,446 14 82 $425,000 $588,750 524 290 3,501 1,901
Market Insights
Spokane Countyexperienced a moderate increase in the average sale price, raising to $457,350, marking a 3.7% increase compared to July 2024. The median sales price also saw a slight increase of 2.9%, settling at $425,000. The current inventory rose in a big way to 1,997 listings, an notable increase of 31.1% from the previous year. This represents a 3.8-month supply, an increase from July 2024, still indicating a seller's market. Residential closed sales also decreased by 4.9%, totaling 524 transactions. Additionally, the median days on the market increased to 14 days. Annual residential sales is up from year’s level, up 1.9%, totaling 3,501 sales.
In similar fashion, Kootenai Countyshowed increased price performance, with the average sale price lowering to $806,227, reflecting a 10.5% increase from the previous year. The median sales price had an increase of 7.1%, reaching $588,750. Inventory in the area increased by 1.9% to 1,446 listings. Residential closed sales also saw an increase of 11.9%, with 290 transactions recorded. The average days on the market increased to 82 days. Annual residential sales in Kootenai County are up 1.7%, totaling 1,901 transactions so far this year. As interest rates fluctuate and the market anticipates changes throughout the year, it's crucial to