Ready to transform your home into a space that truly feels like yours? The paint colors of 2025 are here to help you do just that. They offer an incredible range of options to play with that allow you to create a look that’s unique to you. Without further ado, here they are and how you can use them.

Cozy and Inviting Mocha Mousse by Pantone

This rich, warm brown hue creates a perfect backdrop for relaxing evenings and casual get-togethers. Complement it with soft, neutral textiles and earthy accents. Think plush cream sofas, rustic wooden tables and perhaps a touch of gold or brass to add a hint of sophistication.

Bold Elegance with Encore 8002-45G by Valspar

Bold and bright, Encore 8002 adds a pop of blue color and touch of elegance to any room. To enhance its vibe, incorporate metallic elements like chrome or brushed nickel fixtures. Pops of teal or mustard can add a vibrant twist without overpowering the room’s refined aesthetic.

Adding Depth and Drama with Rumors by Behr

This rich, dark red shade is perfect for those looking to add a bit of drama to their interiors. Whether you’re updating a bedroom or creating an intimate reading nook, Rumors sets the stage for a cozy, sophisticated environment. Pair it with light-colored linens, soft grays or metallic accessories to create a striking contrast that highlights the depth of the dark tones.

Versatile Neutrals with Truffle by STAINMASTER

Truffle is your ultimate go-to for a neutral color that effortlessly adapts to any setting. Its bold brown is the perfect backdrop for a myriad of decor styles, from rustic charm to sleek modernity. Truffle shines in transitional spaces like hallways or entryways. Enhance these areas with stylish yet functional furniture pieces, such as a chic console table or a well-placed bench.

Serene Spaces with Mapped Blue by Dutch Boy Paints

This calming blue shade conjures the serenity of clear skies and tranquil waters, creating a perfect setting for unwinding. Pair it with soft whites and light wood to enhance its soothing effect. Natural fibers like linen or cotton add an extra layer of comfort and relaxation.

Making a Statement with Purple Basil by Glidden

This rich, deep purple brings a touch of luxury and opulence to any room. To balance its intensity, pair Purple Basil with neutral tones like soft grays, creamy whites or gentle beiges. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not use it in unexpected places? A powder room, an entryway or even a home office can benefit from this luxurious shade.

Grounded Aesthetics with Cinnamon Slate by Benjamin Moore

This robust mix of plum and brown is ideal for dining rooms, studies or any area where you want to foster a sense of comfort. To highlight Cinnamon Slate’s grounding effect, incorporate natural materials like leather and woven textiles. Brass or copper fixtures can introduce a touch of warmth without overpowering the space.

Choose From The Color Capsule of the Year by Sherwin-Williams

Not sure what colors will work for your home and aesthetic? Enter the Color Capsule, nine complementary hues chosen to celebrate the company’s 15th Color of the Year anniversary. Mostly medium shades of brown, blue and purple, the colors mix and match so even newby decorators can create a sleek, beautiful home.

Need More Inspiration?

Still hesitant to add a little color to your white walls? Check out our model homes. Professionally decorated with the latest trends in mind, they are sure to inspire you to paint your walls or even purchase new ones. Visit Marvida today.

A lot of homebuyers took a shine to Marvida last year. So many that our community made not one but two lists of the 50 top-selling master-planned communities in the nation.

Our builders sold 518 homes in Marvida in 2024, enough to place us at No. 28 on the John Burns Research & Consulting list and No. 31 on the RCLCO Real Estate Consulting list.

What makes Marvida the choice of so many homebuyers? Maybe it’s the range of floorplans, options and upgrades offered by our family of leading builders? With so many builders, everyone is sure to find a home to fall in love with.

Or it could be our ample amenities, including The Island Amenity Village. Featuring a resort-style pool, lazy river splash pad, clubhouse, playgrounds, dog park, fitness facility, sports courts, shade pavilion and event lawn, it’s the heart of our community.

Residents also have access to the amenities located in our sister communities, Canyon Lakes West, Miramesa and Bridge Creek. There are so many options for having fun, our residents are never bored.

Our location near the Grand Parkway and Highway 290 means you can easily travel to Katy, Cypress and downtown Houston. That also means your kids will attend highly ranked Cypress-Fairbanks ISD schools.

We’re excited to be a homebuyer favorite. Want to learn more about Marvida? Visit us today.

‘Tis the season when every corner of Houston comes alive with holiday cheer. Lights, bows, holly swags and more turn everyday attractions into something magical. So put on your warmest sweater, grab loved ones and dive into the holiday magic that makes Houston a must-see this time of year.

Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo
5:30-10:30 p.m. daily, through Jan. 5
Ticket prices vary

One of Houston’s holiday highlights is the annual Zoo Lights event at the Houston Zoo. Stroll past life-sized, glowing animal sculptures and giant holiday trees. Venture into magical areas like the Snowy Slopes and Enchanted Forest. Whether you’re taking selfies under the dazzling displays, decorating cookies or strolling the Twinkle Trail, there’s something to enchant every member of the family.

Radiant Nature at the Houston Botanic Garden
5 p.m. Thurs.-Sun., through Feb. 23
Ticket prices vary, reservations required

The Botanic Garden comes alive with the radiant brilliance of more than 50 large-scale Chinese lantern installations during this immersive Chinese lantern festival. There are three themed zones, including an interactive area with lighted swings and other immersive opportunities for family-friendly play and memory-making.

Discovery Green Ice Rink
Times vary, through Feb. 2
$18 per person, reservations required

Houston’s only outdoor skating rink is open for business! Skate to holiday music and enjoy numerous events such as the opportunity to slip, slide, spin and crash with Bumper Cars on Ice ($20), as well as Skate Party Saturdays, Sundays with Santa and Cheap Skate Mondays. Skaters with disabilities can enjoy ice time during inclusive skating nights on Tuesdays.

Texas Winter Lights
5-10 p.m. nightly, through Dec. 31
$30 adults, $20 children ages 2-12

The Marriott Marquis Houston’s Altitude Rooftop and Pool comes alive with 100,000 dazzling lights. Float through an 80-degree Texas-shaped lazy river illuminated by vibrant lights, then enjoy seasonal cocktails and festive treats like apple strudel and kolaches. There will be a virtual sleigh ride with Santa, poolside movie nights, yard games and more. You can even rent a private igloo.

Winter Wonderlawn
5 p.m. nightly, through Jan. 11
$10 weekdays, $15 weekends for ages 5+

Skylawn at POST, a 5-acre rooftop park will be dressed up for the holidays with thousands of lights, a 25-foot Christmas tree and multiple holiday-themed activations.

Snow Glow on the Bayou
Nightly through Dec. 29
$25 per person

Allen’s Landing will transform into a winter wonderland for the holidays and the best way to admire it is via a 30-minute boat tour. Snow Glow on the Bayou features video and light projections on surrounding infrastructure and a large water screen along the bayou’s banks. Be sure to bundle up.

The Best Place to Enjoy It All

Where should you live to ensure easy access to all these exciting transformations? Marvida. Our Cypress location means you will be just 20 minutes from all the festive action. You can see it all and if you don’t feel like going out, your neighbors will be decorating their homes to the nines. Visit us today to get a jump on next season’s holiday fun.

Are you dreaming of a garage that’s more than just a cluttered storage space? Maybe one where you can actually park your car? It’s possible and it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With smart planning and a little creativity (not to mention some help from your Marvida builder) you can transform a dark, musty cave into a bright, shiny storage space where you can even find those Christmas decorations. Here’s how:

Flooring Solutions

The right floor can transform your garage from a dull, neglected area into a vibrant, functional space. One of the most popular, budget-friendly options is epoxy coating. Not only does it provide a sleek, polished look, but it’s also extremely durable and resistant to stains. Rubber mats or tiles are not only affordable but are also moisture-resistant, durable and easy to clean. Not interested in a plain Jane concrete floor? Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are a fantastic option. They come in a variety of designs and patterns, so you can get creative and personalize your garage without spending a fortune.

Smart Storage Solutions

There’s something about brown, saggy cardboard boxes stacked haphazardly atop one another that screams “disorganization.” Hide them away in cabinets. Your builder can install them, but if you want to DIY it, opt for modular storage units. They’re versatile, affordable and allow you to customize your storage to fit your needs. Wall-mounted shelves and peg boards are an inexpensive solution that keep tools and small items off the floor. We tend to think horizontal when it comes to storage, but for a garage, you want to think vertical. Install overhead racks for items you don’t use frequently, like seasonal decorations or camping gear. Baskets and bins can be hung on the walls to store smaller items. Whatever you decide, don’t forget to label everything so when Aunt Martha comes for a visit, you can find that vase she gave you as a wedding present 10 years ago.

Let There Be Light

Good lighting transforms spaces and makes it easy to find what you are looking for. LED lights are a great, budget-friendly option—they’re energy-efficient and last a long time. Consider installing overhead LED shop lights. Motion-sensor lights are super convenient, turning on only when needed and helping you save on electricity bills. You might also look into smart bulbs that can be controlled via your smartphone for that extra bit of tech-savvy convenience. Under-cabinet lights are perfect for illuminating your workbench or tool area. If you can’t afford to install lights, repurpose old lamps or light fixtures.

Look Into EV Chargers

As electric vehicles become more common, having a home EV charger is increasingly desirable. If your builder offers one, go for it. Otherwise, there are affordable ways to energize your car. Start by checking for incentives or rebates from local utility companies or government programs; these can significantly reduce your initial investment. For the installation, consider getting multiple quotes from electricians to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Opt for a basic Level 2 charger instead of more expensive models with extra features you might not need.

The Finishing Touch

You try to make your home feel warm and cozy, why not your garage? Start by adding a pop of color to the walls with a fresh coat of paint that complements your flooring and cabinets. This will instantly brighten up the space and make it feel more cohesive. Personalize with a few decorative elements like a bulletin board for important reminders. Adding a couple of framed photos or artwork can make the space feel more like an extension of your home rather than just a storage area. Even a stylish doormat can make you feel welcome.

Talk With Us About a New Garage (Attached to a New Home)

Ready to upgrade your garage? Why not upgrade your home as well? Marvida builders offer beautiful designs that are sure to catch your fancy. Oh, and they offer many options for your new garage. Visit us today.

Buying a home is a thrilling venture, especially when it’s a newly built one. However, in the midst of this excitement, first-time buyers often stumble into common pitfalls, turning what should be a dream experience into a stress-laden ordeal. Here are some of the new home mistakes you should steer clear of to ensure your path to homeownership is as smooth as possible:

Underestimating the Total Cost

It’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing solely on the advertised price without accounting for additional expenses. Closing costs, property taxes, homeowners association fees and home insurance can add to your budget. To avoid being caught off guard, make a comprehensive list of all potential costs and allocate a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Overlooking the Builder’s Reputation

When it comes to choosing a builder, reputation is everything. Start by researching their past projects. How well were they executed? Were there any recurring complaints? Dive into online reviews and perhaps even take a tour of some of their previous developments. Additionally, talking to past clients can offer firsthand insights into their experiences. Did the builder stick to timelines? How were post-construction issues handled? Your due diligence in this area can save you from potential future headaches.

Ignoring the Contract

When it comes to purchasing a newly built home, your contract is your roadmap. It’s packed with critical details that define your rights, responsibilities and what you can expect from your builder. Yet, many first-time buyers gloss over this essential document. Think of it as the fine print that could make or break your homebuying experience. Before signing anything, dive deep into every clause. Understand the timelines, warranties and contingencies outlined. If legalese isn’t your strong suit, don’t hesitate to work with a Realtor who can explain it all to you.

Choosing Features with Poor Resale Value

When personalizing your new home, it’s easy to get carried away with trendy features, but remember that timeless design often holds more appeal. Consider the broader market and think twice before making decisions that might be too niche or avant-garde. Classic finishes like hardwood floors, neutral paint colors and energy-efficient appliances are often safer bets, appealing to a wider audience and enhancing your home’s resale value. By focusing on elements that offer both aesthetic charm and practicality, you’re more likely to see a return on your investment when it’s time to sell.

Not Considering Long-Term Maintenance and Repairs

Yes, everything is new in a newly built home, but every house requires regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape. Ignoring these needs can lead to unpleasant surprises and hefty repair bills later on. Start by familiarizing yourself with the maintenance schedule for your home’s systems and features. When does the HVAC need servicing? How often should you inspect the roof? What’s the lifespan of your appliances? Keeping a calendar or settting reminders can help you stay on top of these tasks.

Failing to Budget for Moving and Settling-In Costs

Moving into your new home involves a flurry of costs that first-time buyers often overlook. From hiring professional movers or renting a truck to purchasing new furniture, window treatments and all the small essentials—these expenses can add up quickly. A practical way to manage these costs is to create a moving and settling-in budget ahead of time. Itemize all potential expenses, no matter how minor they seem. Include estimates for packing supplies and any potential storage fees if your move has to be staggered.

Make the Smart Choice and Buy in Marvida

If you are a first-time homebuyer, you can avoid many of these pitfalls just by purchasing a new home in Marvida. We partner with leading builders so you know your home will not only be beautiful but also built to exacting standards. Our community also offers a suite of fantastic amenities and a great location. Want to learn more? Visit us today.

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can sometimes feel like juggling too many things at once. What table decorations should you use? How much food will you need? Should you seat Aunt Ethel next to Uncle Fred when they haven’t spoken to each other in 15 years? Never fear. With a few smart strategies, you can host a delightful Thanksgiving dinner everyone will be talking about for years to come.

Getting Ready

Organization is the bedrock of a memorable Thanksgiving. Start by drafting a comprehensive list, covering everything from grocery items to decor essentials. Double-check your pantry to see what you already have and jot down what you need to buy. Plan your seating ahead of time, especially if you’re hosting a sizable crowd. This allows you to allocate spots based on dynamics and convenience. Once your blueprint is set, you can devote attention to those personal flourishes that will make your gathering distinctive.

Set the Scene

To transform your Thanksgiving gathering into something truly memorable, focus on setting a welcoming atmosphere. Start with a palette of warm, autumnal colors like oranges, red and browns for your table settings and linens. Natural elements can work wonders—scatter some leaves, acorns and mini pumpkins around your space for a rustic touch. For a striking centerpiece, consider a mix of pinecones, candles and maybe even some fresh flowers. Curate a playlist that balances classic favorites with modern tunes to keep the energy just right.

Bring on the Food

Thanksgiving is synonymous with food. To ease your cooking load, start prepping ingredients a day in advance. Pre-chop your veggies, marinate that turkey or bake a pie ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy your guests more. Diversify your menu by blending traditional dishes with fresh twists. Think adding a new spin on green bean casserole or introducing a pumpkin dessert with a surprise ingredient. Don’t shy away from asking guests to contribute a dish; it adds variety and makes them feel involved.

Entertainment Options

Guests can’t spend all day at the table. You can turn on the big game, of course, but not everyone is a football fan (shocking). A fun game of Thanksgiving trivia can test everyone’s knowledge about the holiday. Set up a photo booth with seasonal props. This not only provides entertainment but also ensures you capture the joy of the day. For those who prefer a more relaxed vibe, a movie marathon featuring classic holiday films can be the perfect backdrop for post-dinner lounging.

Tidying Up After Thanksgiving

Tackling the clean-up after a big Thanksgiving feast can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of strategy, you can make it manageable and even enjoyable. If guests offer to help, let them, as you will finish faster and have more time to spend with friends and family. Have a plan for leftovers—grab some sturdy containers and label them in advance. Guests often appreciate taking a bit of the feast home, which also means less for you to store.

Spend Thanksgiving in a Marvida Home

If a home you can host next year’s Thanksgiving dinner is on your wish list, why not spend some time touring Marvida? Our builders’ model homes will inspire. Our amenities are perfect for residents seeking after-Thanksgiving dinner fun. Visit us today.

It was a big night at this year’s Houston’s Best PRISM Awards, with Marvida earning two trophies for reasons the community is such a special place to live — Master-Planned Community Amenity of the Year and Lifestyle Director of the Year – Developer.

The Island has been a hub for Marvida residents since it opened in the community last year. It was the place to beat the heat this summer, as residents could relax at the pool or float along the lazy river. In-the-water chaise loungers made it easy to soak up the sun and stay cool while kiddos could race down the water slide or play on the playground perched in the shallow end. Water volleyball and a lap pool are available for those feeling more energetic. A trip to the spray ground was a treat for active tots.

And while that alone might be enough to win the “best of” title, that’s not all there is to The Island. An inviting clubhouse anchors the water amenities and often plays host to events planned by our award-winning Lifestyle Director Melanie Garcia-Hoffpauir. Pup parents can be found with their pooches at the dog park and Mom and Dad enjoy afternoons at the playground with their little ones.

Resident athletes test their skills on courts for tennis, pickleball and sand volleyball. There are also exercise stations along the trail that winds through the complex. An event lawn and covered pavilion play host to birthday parties and impromptu gatherings. A 12-foot GreenBoLT trail connects homes to The Island.

Creating Cherished Memories

Residents can create cherished memories at The Island Amenity Village and at events hosted by Lifestyle Director Melanie Garcia-Hoffpauir. Melanie has been at Marvida from the beginning and puts her creativity to work planning events such as an Easter “Egg-stravaganza” that saw more than 800 guests and a Cookies with Santa event that not only had the big guy onsite, but also the Grinch, Santa’s Elf and other magical characters. Pool parties, movie nights, events such as “Paw”traits and Pints are just some of the activities Melanie hosts throughout the year.

With so much going on, it’s no wonder Marvida ranks among the nation’s 25 top-selling communities!

Ah, Halloween—the magical time of year when we dress our dogs in costumes they never asked for. We think it’s cute. They can’t verbally protest. Before you turn your Pug into a walking food pun, here are five tips for picking out a “paw-some” costume you and your pooch will enjoy, pus 10 “wag-tastic” ideas that will make them the talk of the canine catwalk.

Comfort Over Cuteness

If your dog can’t do zoomies in their costume, it may be time to rethink. Your chihuahua might look cute as a hot dog, but if it’s itchy or too tight, your dog will spend most of their time rolling around in the dirt trying to get it off. Look for costumes made of breathable materials that allow for easy movement or consider a dashing superhero cape that is easy on the fur.

Safety First

No one wants to spend Halloween at the emergency vet, especially your dog. When choosing or crafting a costume, make sure it doesn’t have small parts that could turn into impromptu chew toys. Trim capes and trains so your dog doesn’t take an embarrassing nose plant.

Choose the Right Size

When choosing a costume, it’s crucial to get the right size. Measure your dog’s neck, chest and length, and check the sizing guide. Too tight, and your dog will look like a stuffed sausage. Too loose, and they’ll leave a fabric trail behind them.

Consider Your Dog’s Personality

When choosing a costume consider your pup’s personality. If they are a diva, a princess costume might be perfect. If your dog has to sniff everything, maybe a Sherlock “Bones” costume. Consider coordinating your costume with your dog’s.  Imagine strutting down the street as a duo — say, you as a classic witch and your dog as a broom. Just remember, it’s all in good fun, so keep it light-hearted. Your dog deserves to strut with dignity.

Practice Makes ‘Paw-fect’

Before the big day, let your dog try on their costume a few times. This helps them get used to the feel of the outfit and helps you avoid any Halloween night drama. Nobody wants to spend Oct. 31st wrestling their pug into a pumpkin suit. A little pre-game trial ensures they’re as comfortable as a dog dressed as a lobster can be. Plus, you can take pup portraits!

Spook-tacular Costume Ideas

Pumpkin Pup

Turn your little pumpkin into the cutest gourd on the porch. This adorable pumpkin costume from Chewy goes on like a dog sweater so it’s comfy and safe.

Bat Dog

Da-da Da-Da DA-Da Bat dog! A simple cape with bat wings can transform your dog into the hero Gotham deserves. This one is lightweight, and you won’t have to engage in a WWW fight to get it on.

Hot Dog

Sure, it’s a little cliché but adorable, nonetheless. This version straps on like a harness so is less likely to garner you the sorrowful puppy eyes look.

Ghost Pooch

You can easily DIY a ghost costume but to ensure safety, purchasing one may be the better option. This is cute, lightweight and easy to put on.

Super Dog

There’s no need to fear. Your super dog is here! This is perfect for a dog that’s constantly on the go. Remember you don’t need the entire costume. If your dog hates clothes, a cape alone will suffice.

Flower Power

A laid-back dog can advertise their dedication to the Age of Aquarius with a tie-dye bandana.

Dinosaur Dog

Pick your pup’s favorite dinosaur and show everyone at the dog park how ferocious they can be. If you prefer to DIY it, add some foam spikes to their favorite green sweater.

Pirate Pup

You don’t have to go overboard with your pup’s pirate costume. A bandana and a hat will help them find buried treasure.

Bee Pup

Bzzz! Your dog might not be a busy bee, but they’ll sure look like one. It’s the buzz-worthy costume of the year!

Sherlock Bones

For the intellectual hound, a detective hat and a plaid cape will do. Just don’t expect them to solve any mysteries—finding the buried bone is hard enough.

Show Off at the Dog Park

Once your pup is dressed to impress, why not show off at the dog park? Don’t have one nearby? Make the move to Marvida. We’ve got a beautiful dog park where canines can strut their costumed stuff. Visit us, tour our model homes and start planning next year’s “spook-tacular” outfit.

What do you want in a new home? Quality. You want it to stand the test of time. Affordability is another. You want the best home at the best price. Smith Douglas Homes strives to do both, crafting homes of superior value that even first-time buyers can purchase.

Founded in 2008 by a core team of new home building professionals, Smith Douglas Homes believes that quality homes should be within reach for more people. In the short term they use an efficient, schedule-drive process to reduce wasted time and materials. Homes are constructed with energy efficiency in mind so that your home is affordable in the long term.

While quality and affordability are the builder’s guiding lights, they know that homeowners also want personalization. The builder offers a variety of floor plans with many flexible design options. You can explore these options via their Interactive Home Designer tool. Once you have your vision, you can execute it at the Smith Douglas Homes design center. Their a-la-carte interior selection and structural option choices allow you to focus your budget on the parts of the home that are most important to you, saving you money.

Smith Douglas Homes offers three distinct floor plans in Marvida. Homes range from 1,500 to 2,582 square feet and are priced from the $280,000s. Homes feature up to five bedrooms, pocket offices, island kitchens, game rooms, two-car garages and more.

To learn more about Smith Douglas Homes, visit Marvida today. While you here, why not take a tour of our community and take a peek at our new lazy river!

What’s the easiest way to get comfortable in your new home and neighborhood? Ask Alexa. Amazon Alexa can be an invaluable companion when moving to a new area, serving as a versatile tool to ease the transition. Here are several ways Alexa can be your guide:

She’ll Tell You All About It

Need to know where the nearest grocery store is? Don’t know where in Cypress to get the best pizza? Alexa can tell you. The virtual assistant can provide you with all sorts of information about your new neighborhood. This can help you quickly familiarize yourself with your surroundings and find what you need.

She Can Navigate

When exploring your new area, you can ask Alexa for directions or traffic updates. This can be particularly useful for finding the quickest routes to work, school or local attractions.

Let Her Entertain You

Moving can be stressful and having some entertainment can lighten the mood. Alexa can play music, audiobooks or podcasts to keep you entertained while you unpack or organize your new space.

She Can Keep Track

Once you’ve moved in there are 100 tasks that need your attention. Need to set up care with a physician? Alexa can help you find one and remind you of the upcoming visit. She can keep track of your grocery list, remind you about that friend’s birthday you may have forgotten about in the excitement of the move and more.

She Can Enhance Your Social Life

Alexa can inform you about local events, activities and community gatherings in your new area. This can be particularly helpful for meeting new people and integrating into your community, making it easier to establish a social network.

She Can Keep You Connected

If you’re feeling isolated after your move, Alexa can help you stay connected. You can use voice calls or drop-in features to keep in touch with friends and family, making it easier to maintain relationships despite the distance.

She Can Make Your Home Smart

Most new homes are smart, but Alexa can make them smarter. The device can help you manage your home automation system seamlessly. You can control lights, thermostats and security systems using voice commands, making it easier to adjust your new environment to your liking.

Ask Alexa to Find Marvida

In the market for a new home? Want to learn all about Marvida? Ask Alexa for directions. Once you get here you can explore our model homes, amenities and overall vibe. Visit us today.