How Smart Are Your Lights?

Smart home technology doesn’t stop at your doorbell — there are a number of smart lighting systems, as well. These systems typically consist of smart light bulbs, switches and hubs that connect to your Wi-Fi network allowing you to control your lights using smartphones, voice commands or automated schedules. Here are some of the key benefits you’ll enjoy if a smart lighting system is installed in your home.

You’re in Control

One of the primary advantages of smart lighting systems is the ability to control lights from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows you to turn lights on or off, adjust brightness levels and even change colors remotely.

Set the Mood

Smart lighting systems often allow you to create custom lighting scenes for different activities or moods via Alexa or an app. For example, you could set up a “date night” scene that dims the lights and adjusts their color to create a romantic atmosphere when the kids are away.

Save Energy

Smart light bulbs are often LED-based and more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. Additionally, features like motion sensors and scheduling can help reduce energy consumption by ensuring lights are on only when needed. Reduced energy consumption means lower electricity bills.

Is Someone Home?

Smart lighting can enhance home security by allowing you to schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times, creating the illusion of someone being at home. Some systems also offer motion-activated lights for added security.

Who Doesn’t Love Integration?

Smart lighting systems can be integrated with other smart home devices and platforms, allowing for seamless automation and control. For example, you could set up rules to have lights turn on automatically when a motion sensor detects movement or when you unlock the front door.

Installation is Easy

Many smart lighting systems are designed for easy installation and can be expanded over time as needed. Your Lago Mar builder can discuss your options and help you craft a system that meets your needs.

Overall, smart home lighting systems offer convenience, energy savings, security, and customization, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to modernize their homes.

Primary suites in Lago Mar homes are pretty spectacular. One thing we love about them is the presence of walk-in closets. You can put so much stuff in them! However, a walk-in closet doesn’t do you much good if it isn’t organized. Organizing efficiently can help maximize space, streamline your morning routine and keep your wardrobe neat and accessible. Here are 10 tips for organization.

Reduce Your Stuff

Before you move into your new Lago Mar home, take stock of what’s in your current closet. Remove items that you no longer wear, are damaged or don’t fit. Donate or sell clothing, shoes and accessories that are in good condition but no longer serve you.

Assess Your New Closet

Take stock of your closet space and consider its layout, including hanging rods, shelves, drawers and any built-in organizers. If you think you might need more, talk to your builder about closet organization upgrades. You can also DIY it. Just assess what storage solutions you already have and identify areas for improvement.

Sort It Out

Sort your clothing into categories such as tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear and accessories. This will help you visualize how much space you need for each category so you can plan accordingly.

Maximize Vertical Space

Utilize vertical space by installing additional shelves, hanging rods or hooks. Use stackable storage bins or cubbies to make the most of higher shelves and keep items like sweaters, bags and folded clothes organized and easily accessible.

Use Drawer Organizers

Keep smaller items like underwear, socks, jewelry and accessories ordered with drawer organizers or dividers. Sort items by type or color to make them easy to find and prevent clutter.

Shoe Storage Solutions

Shoes can really clutter the floor of your closet. Choose shoe storage solutions that suit your space and collection size. Options include shoe racks, shelves, cubbies, hanging organizers or clear shoe boxes. Arrange shoes by type or color for a streamlined look.

More Storage Solutions

Incorporate storage solutions like bins, baskets, trays and hooks to corral loose items and accessories. Use labeled containers to store seasonal items, handbags, hats and scarves.

Invest in Quality Hangers

Invest in sturdy, uniform hangers to keep clothing hanging neatly and prevent stretching or distortion. Consider slimline hangers to save space and create a cohesive look. Use specialty hangers for items like pants, skirts, scarves and belts.

Organize by Color or Style

Arrange clothing by color or style to create a visually pleasing and functional layout. This makes it easier to find items and put together outfits quickly. Consider using color-coded hangers or dividers to keep categories separated.

Maintain Your Closet

Regularly maintain your organized closet by putting items back in their designated places, purging items you no longer need and adjusting storage solutions as needed to accommodate changes in your wardrobe.

Buy Your New Closet (and New Home) Today

Want more closet space? Check out our model homes. You’re sure to find a home you’ll love — with plenty of closet space.

Want to make a great first impression? Decorate your foyer. The foyer sets the tone for the rest of your home. It’s a reflection of your style and personality that also sets up your guests to feel welcome. Here are some tips to enhance and personalize your foyer décor.

Mirror, Mirror

Hang a large, decorative mirror to add depth and make the space feel larger. It also provides a practical element for last-minute checks before leaving the house.

Table Talk

Place a console table against the wall for a functional and stylish surface. Decorate it with a mix of decorative items, such as a vase of flowers, candles or decorative bowls. Place it near an outlet with a USB port to use as a charging station when you get home.

Art Gallery

Display artwork or create a gallery wall to add personality to the foyer. Choose pieces that resonate with your style and complement the overall theme of your home. Don’t have artwork? Frame a large section of wallpaper for a unique look.

Lay Down a Rug

Define the space with a stylish rug or runner. This not only adds visual interest but also helps to keep dirt from spreading into other areas of the house.

Have a Seat

If space allows, incorporate a bench or small seating area for putting on shoes or waiting for someone. Bonus points if there is a built-in shoe rack so people don’t track mud into the house.

Light It Up

Install a statement pendant light or chandelier to provide both ambient lighting and a focal point. Choose a fixture that complements the style of your home. If you are buying in Lago Mar, talk to your builder about your options.

Go Green

Introduce potted plants or fresh flowers to bring a touch of nature into the foyer. This creates a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Stash Stuff

Consider functional storage solutions like a stylish umbrella stand, wall hooks or a small entryway table with drawers to keep everyday items organized.

Express Yourself With Color

Choose a cohesive color palette that complements the overall theme of your home. Consider the existing colors in adjacent rooms for a harmonious transition.

Emphasize That High Ceiling

If your home has high ceilings, draw the eye upward with tall decorations or tall potted plants. This makes the space feel grander and more impressive.

Cut Down on Clutter

Resist the temptation to overcrowd the foyer. A clean and clutter-free entryway creates a more inviting atmosphere.

Check Out Our Model Homes

Need more inspiration? Check out our model homes. Our builders’ decorators have done an outstanding job of making you feel at home the moment you step through the door.

Ready to work on your fitness goals but can’t stand the thought of going to the gym? No worries. You don’t need a membership to achieve them. Just find activities you enjoy, set realistic goals and stay committed to your fitness journey. It’s also a good idea to check with a healthcare professional before you get started. Here are some tips to get you started.

Do Something You Love

Doing something physical that you enjoy is one of the best ways to get and stay in shape. Why? Because if you enjoy it, you are more likely to do it consistently. Swimming, dancing, hiking and even walking Fido can improve your cardiovascular health, build muscle and help you lose weight. At Lago Mar, our residents can be found traversing our trails, taking a dip in the infinity pool or setting sail on our lagoon.

Get Outdoors

Let’s face it, gyms are stuffy and smell like dirty socks. The solution? Go outside. Running or jogging are simple and effective cardiovascular exercises. Cycling builds leg strength. Hiking and swimming are full-body workouts. You can even fit a workout in at the park because benches are great for bodyweight exercise like step-ups, tricep dips and incline push-ups.

Have You Got Seven Minutes?

If you have seven minutes and an Amazon Alexa device, you have all you need to do a quick at home workout. Alexa walks you through a quick exercise routine that includes wall sits, push-ups, high-knees and more. Once you’ve done a round, you can ask for more or get on with your day. Alexa will even cheer you on.

Pull Your Weight

Don’t own weights? No worries. You can use your body’s natural resistance to get in shape. Just clear some floor space and get started. Push-ups, pull-ups and dips strengthen upper body muscles. Squats and lunges work your lower body. Want a full-body workout? Incorporate planks and burpees.

Get an App

There are numerous workout apps that you can follow. The Body Coach TV, Fitness Blender, PopSugar Fitness and HASfit are free workouts you can find on YouTube. There are also paid fitness programs such as Daily Burn and iFit. Obe Fitness provides workouts tailored just for women. Consider purchasing resistance bands, dumbbells or other equipment so you can follow along with some of the more challenging workouts.

Yoga

Create a yoga retreat. You just need a spare room, yoga mat, some relaxing tunes and maybe a diffuser or tabletop water fountain. There are several online programs you can use. Just pick your favorite trainer.

Purchase Equipment

Invest in a treadmill, elliptical or rowing machine. You get the same workout as at the gym — without having to wait in line.

Dance, Dance, Dance

Combine exercise with fun and music. Try online Zumba or Body Bar workouts. You can also just turn up the music and dance. Either way you’ll get a full body workout that will leave you breathless.

Stand At Your Desk

Standing actually burns calories (who knew?) so replace your sitting desk with a standing one.  If you don’t want to buy one, DIY it. Stack books, work at the kitchen island or use a tray with legs. As a bonus, studies show that standing while you work increases productivity.

Take the Stairs

Climbing anything is an excellent cardiovascular exercise. It also improves leg muscles. The easiest climbing equipment? Stairs. You can find them everywhere — maybe even your own home. Practice running up and down them a few times a day.

Do Your Chores

Any type of movement burns calories and that includes household chores. Carrying laundry up and down the stairs builds arm and leg muscles. Pushing a vacuum around is a great cardio workout. Even reaching up to put dishes away gives your arms a workout.

Buy a Home in Lago Mar

Buying a new home in Lago Mar opens so many workout options. Swim, paddleboard or kayak on our crystal clear lagoon. We have a fitness room with everything you need for a great workout. Keep the kids active on the playground and splash pad. Visit us today.

 

Media rooms are a popular structural option for homes in Lago Mar, and it’s easy to see why. Media rooms are great places for family members to snuggle up for movie night or for friends to hang out when the big game is on. When it comes to décor, the goal is to create a comfortable and immersive entertainment space. Here are some ideas to help you craft a stylish media room.

Choose a Theme

Choose a theme for your media room based on your interests. Whether it’s a classic movie theater theme, a sports theme or a gaming theme, cohesive decor can enhance the overall atmosphere. It also makes it easy to purchase decorations.

Start With Seating

You want your media room to be comfortable. That means choosing the right seating. Recliners are good if you want to build a home theater, but low-to-the-ground seating allows people to lounge in comfort. Sectionals are also a good choice as more people can sit on them and you can easily rearrange the pieces for optimal viewing.

Bring On the Blankets

What’s a movie night without cozy blankets? Choose colors that contrast with your seating or complement wall décor. Don’t forget throw pillows. You want guests to be able to rest their heads when you host a marathon.

Dim the Lights

Choose light fixtures that fit your style or theme. Install dimmable lighting fixtures or use smart lighting controls to create the right ambiance. Check with your builder to see what options are available. Consider wall sconces, floor lamps or LED strips behind the television for a cinematic feel.

Themed Wall Art

Decorate the walls with movie posters, framed artwork or custom wall decals that align with the theme of your media room.

Make it Child-Friendly

If you have young children, choose tables and chairs that are low to the ground. Designate a corner for toys and books. Make sure your seating can accommodate sleepy toddlers.

Bring On the Popcorn

Create a dedicated space for snacks and beverages. Consider adding a mini fridge, popcorn machine or a bar cart for a complete entertainment experience. Provide side or coffee tables so everyone can put their drinks down.

Choose a Screen

Choose a large flat-screen TV or, for a more cinematic experience, consider a projection screen. Ensure that the screen size is appropriate for the room dimensions. Consider putting a frame around the television for an artistic look.

Keep It Organized

Invest in stylish media storage units or entertainment centers to keep media equipment organized. Better yet, ask your builder to install built-in shelves for a cohesive look. Concealed storage can help maintain a neat appearance.

Make It Yours

Personalize your media room by adding items that fit your aesthetic. If you love vintage or retro looks, display a record player and records or add a jukebox. If you prefer a more contemporary look, go with modern furniture, abstract art or black-and-white photographs.

Let Our Builders Help You

If you’ve been dreaming of a new home with a media room, visit our model homes and talk to the sales representative about the blockbuster possibilities.

‘Tis the season for entertaining — a time when you will be hosting cookie exchanges, Christmas Eve buffets and festive meals. It can be overwhelming. Never fear, we’re here with some tips for stress-free entertaining that will have you enjoying the holidays instead of dreading them.

Plan Ahead

Start planning well in advance. Create a checklist of tasks and a timeline to ensure everything gets done without last-minute stress. This includes creating a menu, shopping for ingredients and decorating.

Keep it Simple

You don’t have to do anything elaborate. Most guests want to enjoy your company — not your Martha Stewart-inspired décor and menu. Remember, simple can be elegant, and guests often appreciate quality over quantity.

Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s a potluck-style gathering or enlisting friends and family to assist with preparations, sharing the load can significantly reduce stress. Hire someone to clean your house before the event.

Strategy is Everything

When it comes to the menu, strategy is everything. Choose recipes that allow you to do some of the work in advance, whether it’s chopping vegetables, marinating meats or baking desserts. Don’t feel you have to make everything. It’s perfectly acceptable to serve pre-made meals from the grocery store.

Consider Dietary Restrictions

Check in with your guests beforehand to inquire about any dietary restrictions or preferences. This way, you can plan your menu accordingly and avoid any last-minute adjustments.

Ambiance Helps

Create a welcoming atmosphere with lighting, music and decor. A well-set ambiance can distract from any minor hiccups and make guests feel comfortable. A playlist, curated to your guests tastes, will put guests in the mood to party.

Stay Organized

Keep everything organized and easily accessible. This includes utensils, serving dishes and any other items you may need. Labeling can also help if others are helping you with setup.

Take a Break

Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the event. If you’re constantly in the kitchen or dealing with last-minute details, you won’t have the chance to connect with your guests and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Lago Mar homes feature island kitchens where guests can sit and converse with you while the meal is being prepared.

Have a Backup Plan

Be prepared for unexpected challenges. Have a backup menu item, extra seating and alternative activities in case the weather or other circumstances disrupt your original plans.

Go with the Flow

Accept that not everything will go as planned, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and focus on enjoying the time with your guests rather than stressing over every detail.

Purchase a Home in Lago Mar

From island kitchens to game rooms, Lago Mar homes are made for entertaining. Tour our model homes and speak with a sales representative to learn how you can purchase the perfect home for entertaining.

Creating holiday traditions can be a wonderful way to build lasting memories in your new Lago Mar home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Holiday Movie Night

There are plenty of family-friendly holiday movies. Make a list and choose one night a week during the holiday season to watch them together. Let each member of the family choose their favorite then settle in with blankets, popcorn and hot cocoa.

Holiday Baking

Just about everyone bakes for the holidays, but your family can put their own spin on it by using a family recipe or adding a signature touch to a favorite one. Pretend you’re on a holiday baking show and challenge each family member to create a showstopper.

DIY Decorations

Set aside a few hours on the weekend to create ornaments, wreaths, wrapping paper and more. Before getting to work, take the kids to your local craft store and let them pick out a special project. Proudly display it once it’s done.

Winter Fun

Nothing says the holidays like snow, but if snow doesn’t come to you, try going to the snow. Many communities and cities truck snow over to parks and set up opportunities to sled and make snowballs. Also consider heading to your local ice rink for some holiday skating.

Volunteer Together

Decide as a family how you want to give back then look up local charities. Contact them to see if they need volunteers and what you would be expected to do. Then go out there and do some good for the community.

Holiday Lights Tour

Take an evening to drive around and enjoy the festive holiday lights in your neighborhood. Some churches, theme parks and museums also light up the holidays.

Make a Gingerbread House

Get out the hot cocoa and a plate of holiday treats, then start building. Don’t worry about making gingerbread. There are plenty of kits. Pick a theme, give everyone a job and try not to eat the decorations.

Wear Matching Outfits

Stay warm and cozy with matching sweaters or pajamas. If you choose pajamas, wrap them up and have everyone open them the night before. That way, everyone will be dressed the same for morning pictures.

Memory Jar

Start a tradition of creating a memory jar. Throughout the holiday season, write down memorable moments and things you’re grateful for on small pieces of paper and place them in the jar. Open and read them together on New Year’s Eve.

Visit a Tree Farm

If you celebrate with a Christmas tree, make a day of picking out and decorating the tree together. This can become a cherished annual outing.

Family Game Night

Dedicate a night to playing board games or card games as a family. Consider choosing games with a holiday theme for added festive fun.

Story Time

Set aside time to read holiday stories or poems. This can be especially magical for children, and it creates a cozy atmosphere for everyone.

Secret Santa or Gift Exchange

Organize a Secret Santa or gift exchange with family or friends. Set a budget and enjoy the excitement of both giving and receiving thoughtful presents.

When it comes to great dining, there’s no better restaurant than our very own Blue Lagoon Bar & Grill. And there is no better time to visit than November where you can enjoy wine specials, lunch deals, our enchanting Dine En Blanc event and our first wine festival. Here’s what’s happening.

Dine En Blanc

7-11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
$29.99
Dress to impress in white and join us for an elegant steak dinner. We have chicken and fish available for those who prefer them. Paired with beautiful views and enjoyable company, this is an evening you won’t soon forget. Reserve your spot today.

Inaugural Lago Mar International Wine Festival

Lago Mar Paradise Shore
11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
$20
While not strictly at the Blue Lagoon, it’s close enough that you can enjoy the festivities then head over for Dine En Blanc. Our inaugural wine festival features tastings of international vintages and a performance by Grammy winner Leslie Lugo. Food trucks will be on hand if you get hungry. Cap off the event with a serene lagoon boat ride Tickets can be purchased here.

$15 Lunch Special

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday through Friday
$15
Skip the sandwich and have lunch with us. Our lunch special includes your choice of one appetizer and one entree. There are lots of options, including a gumbo cup, meatball marinara, the Lago Burger, Mahi Mahi tacos and more. Bring a friend or a platoon of co-workers. We’re about to be your favorite lunch spot.

Wednesday Wine Specials

6-9 p.m. Wednesdays, through Dec. 27
Prices vary
Wine’d down with us after work. Each Wednesday you’ll enjoy 50 percent off select bottles. To sweeten the deal, we’ll have toe-tapping live music. What a way to end the day!

Halloween is typically associated with spooky, scary and macabre themes, but not everyone enjoys a good fright. Young children might like putting on a costume but not trick-or-treating at the house with skeletons hanging from trees. Fortunately, it’s easy to plan and execute a Halloween without the fright factor. Here’s how Lago Mar residents do it.

Pumpkin Play

Pumpkin patches offer more than just pumpkins. They often have fun activities for kids such as petting zoos, pony rides and games. Let your kids pick their favorite gourds. At home, help them decorate them with stickers and paint. If you are carving your pumpkins, make sure the faces are fun, not scary.

Think Fall Fun

Concentrate on the season rather than the holiday. Many communities host fall festivals featuring hayrides, pumpkin patches, costume contests, corn mazes and treats. Be sure to check out the event website ahead of time to make sure there won’t be performers in scary costumes.

Kitchen Creativity 

Children love mixing it up in the kitchen. Bake pumpkin-shaped cookies, make mummy hotdogs or create creepy but cute cupcakes. Invite friends over to share in the fun. Stumped for ideas? Check out these great treats created in the Food Network kitchen.

Get Artsy

When kids make Halloween decorations, they may feel less frightened of them, so gather your art supplies and have kids create paper ghosts, spiderwebs or DIY Halloween wreaths. Have them make extras to give to friends and relatives.

Trunk-or-Treat

Trick-or-treating from door to door can be scary for some kids. It’s dark and many people put up scary decorations guaranteed to make people jump. Trunk-or-treats on the other hand are family friendly and pains are taken to decorate in a fun, not scary manner.

Kid-Friendly Trick-or-Treating

If you do opt to take children trick-or-treating, do so while it is still light outside. Consider only taking kids to the homes of friends and relatives as knocking on a stranger’s door can be scary.

Spooky Tales

Libraries often host Halloween-themed story hours for young children. You can read not-too-scary books at home, as well. “10 Things I Love About Halloween” and “Room on the Broom” are great for preschoolers. The Bunnicula series of books are good for older kids.

Movie Night

Host a Halloween movie night with friends or family. Choose family-friendly classics like “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” “Hocus Pocus” or “Casper the Friendly Ghost.” Set up a cozy viewing area with blankets, popcorn and treats and enjoy the evening.

It’s that time of the year. Pumpkin spice, holiday decorations and amazing incentives offered by our builders. Save on upgrades, lock in a low interest rate or save on closing costs. Check it out — we’re sure you’ll find a home and an incentive to fall in love with.

Anglia Homes

Lower your monthly payment with a special low interest rate when you purchase a select move-in ready home by Anglia Homes. The builder is offering a low 5.875 percent fixed interest rate FHA mortgage to those who use the builder’s preferred lender. The offer ends Dec. 31.

Ashton Woods

Ashton Woods is offering a truly inspiring incentive from now through Oct. 31. Purchase one of the builder’s select move-in ready homes and use their preferred lender to receive an incredible 3.99 percent interest rate for the first year of your loan.

Davidson Homes

Davidson Homes wants you to make your move in style. The builder is offering up to $20,000 in design center credit when you purchase a new home. Homes must be contracted by Oct. 31.

HistoryMaker Homes

Want to save a bundle on your monthly mortgage payments? HistoryMaker can help. Just purchase one of the builder’s select move-in ready homes to lock in a 4.99 percent interest rate. The offer ends Nov. 7.

LGI Homes

LGI Homes is offering some great incentives during its Make Your Move sales event including an interest rate buy down, desirable pricing and paid closing costs. Just purchase a move-in ready home by Oct. 31

You Get More Than a New Home

When you take advantage of these savings, you get more than a home, you get a community. Lago Mar has so much to offer you’ll never get bored. Visit us to see our amenities, learn about our resident events and more!