Flooring Matters Most: Flooring is often one of the largest investments homeowners make in their décor — and one of the most visible. “Flooring is one of the first things people see when they walk into a home,” said Missy Montgomery Co-Owner and Sales at Montgomery’s CarpetsPlus Colortile. “It’s not a decision you want to rush.”
Montgomery says education is a key part of the buying process. For each option customers consider, a team member walks them through the pros and cons — from longevity and daily upkeep to cleaning requirements and warranty details. “We want people to understand exactly what they’re choosing,” she said.
Lately, “we have seen seeing a strong shift toward hard surfaces, including hardwood, laminate, tile and luxury vinyl. These floors are more of a ‘one-and-done’ investment,” Montgomery explained. “They generally last longer than carpet, which tends to wear out more quickly in high-traffic areas.” Hard surfaces can also simplify maintenance, though she encourages homeowners to think honestly about their cleaning habits. “Ask yourself, ‘What do you really want to maintain? Are you prepared to scrub grout or refinish wood down the road?’”
Carpet, however, still has its place. Bedrooms remain a popular choice for softer flooring. “It’s warmer and more comfortable underfoot,” she said. “And in certain situations, it can feel safer.”
Whatever the material, Montgomery emphasizes protecting the investment. Manufacturer warranties are common, but they often come with strict requirements. Montgomery’s CarpetPlus also offers its own warranty — provided the flooring is installed by one of its 13 certified specialty crews. “Proper installation makes all the difference,” she said. MCPColortile.com
Interior Design Insights: For many homeowners settling into Wellen Park and the surrounding communities, furnishing a home isn’t just about filling rooms — it’s about getting it right the first time. That’s where Rene Perry and her team at Breakwater Home Fashions come in.
“We really focus on interior design — furniture, finishes, the whole look,” Rene said. “We take photos, measurements and spend time interviewing clients to understand their style.” While the store is known for its coastal aesthetic, the design team also works comfortably in contemporary and transitional styles, often incorporating elevated artwork, statement vases and distinctive accent pieces.
Projects range widely in scope. Some clients simply need help choosing paint colors or deciding where to hang artwork. Others require full-home design — from large-scale furniture and rugs to accent walls, built-ins and custom window panels. “We source everything,” Rene explained. “I have accounts set up with wholesalers, and we coordinate all the selections.” While Breakwater doesn’t handle the physical construction, Rene collaborates with trusted professionals to bring each vision to life.
She’s supported by two seasoned designers who returned from retirement because, as Rene puts it, “Design is in their blood.” One traveled the world as a corporate buyer, the other sourced high-end furnishings at major markets. Together, the team brings decades of expertise to each project.
Many of their clients are furnishing what they consider their forever home. “They tell me, ‘We only want to do this once,’” Rene said. Her advice: invest in quality, timeless pieces — especially sofas and case goods — and refresh with pillows or art as trends evolve. Today’s preferences lean contemporary, with neutral palettes, organic textures and earthy greens.
Beyond aesthetics, thoughtful design can also boost resale value. Breakwater often helps sellers refine furnishings before listing, and fully furnished homes frequently command stronger interest. “It’s been wonderful working in this community,” Rene said. “People are so grateful for the guidance. Helping them love where they live — that’s the best investment of all.” BreakwaterFL.com
Rugs as Art Selections: There are no two ways about it: buying a rug is an investment. That’s the perspective of John Murse, who founded Rugs As Art more than 40 years ago, and his son, Jesse Murse, who now co-owns the Sarasota showroom with him.
But “investment” can mean different things, John explained. “There are two ways of looking at it. You can invest in a rare, antique rug. Or you can invest in a rug for the purpose it serves in your home.”
For most customers, the buying decision begins with practical considerations: color, size and design. “Maybe they have a color in mind. Maybe they know they need an 8-by-10 instead of a 5-by-8,” John said. “Then they decide if they want traditional, transitional, modern or contemporary. Once those pieces fall into place, then they look at price.”
Price depends on fiber and construction. Today’s rugs range from synthetic blends—nylon and polyester—to wool and other natural textiles. They may be machine-loomed, hand-tufted or intricately hand-knotted, each method creating its own pricing structure and longevity.
“We work with about 20 different rug-making nations including China, Turkey, Pakistan and Nepal,” John said, noting that the store’s expansive inventory offers something for every home and budget. “People drive by and think they can’t afford to come in,” he added. “But there’s a rug here for your home—and it will cost less than you ever thought.”
“People think buying a rug for your home takes tons of money,” Jesse said. “But we can even create custom pieces—from hand-tufted to Nepalese weaving—for far less than you’d expect. Sometimes they even cost less than rugs we have in stock.” RugsAsArt.com
Kitchen & Bath Upgrades: When it comes to investing in your home, few upgrades carry as much impact as a thoughtfully designed kitchen or bath. According to Victoria Dietz, design coordinator at MPS Development and Construction, these spaces consistently deliver both lifestyle benefits and long-term value.
“In terms of resale, buyers often feel a bath remodel is easier to tackle than a full kitchen renovation,” Dietz explained. “However, an updated kitchen can make a much more powerful first impression.”
In kitchens, she points to cabinetry, countertops and appliances as the selections that offer the greatest return. “Focus on quality construction — all-plywood cabinets and soft-close doors and drawers,” she said. “You don’t want to hear slamming every day.” Light, visually interesting countertops can brighten the entire space, and Dietz often recommends carrying the same material up the backsplash for a clean, cohesive look. “It allows your eye to rest and appreciate the other selections,” she noted.
In bathrooms, small upgrades can make a big difference. “Running your shower tile all the way to the ceiling adds significant value for minimal additional cost,” she said. Proper waterproofing behind the tile is equally critical — cutting corners there can lead to expensive repairs later.
Beyond resale, Dietz believes thoughtful design enhances daily life. Open kitchens with generous seating become natural gathering spots, while smart material choices — like slip-resistant flooring and softened countertop edges — support safety and aging in place. “To invest in your home is to invest in the quality of your life,” she said. “It should reflect who you are and make you feel relaxed the moment you walk in the door.” WeBuildVenice.com