The Bear Creek Bulletin

Live Music in Redmond: Discover Local Events & Musical Activities

One of the best things about living in Redmond is that it’s easy to mix everyday life with something fun at the end of the day, and live music is a great example. Whether you’re into outdoor summer concerts, intimate acoustic sets, open mic nights, or bigger-ticket performances nearby, the Eastside gives you plenty of ways to make live music part of your routine. Redmond is especially well-positioned for it, with local venues in town and easy access to Woodinville, Kirkland, Bellevue, and Bothell. If you’re getting to know the area or just looking for a new weekend plan, this guide rounds up some of the best live music options within easy reach of home. Outdoor Concerts and Big Summer Shows Outdoor concerts are a staple of summer and late spring, especially when the weather is nice, and the setting feels just as memorable as the performance. These events tend to draw a great mix of locals and visitors, making them a fun way to experience the energy of Redmond and the greater Seattle area. Marymoor Live If you want the classic summer-concert experience without a long trek, Marymoor Live is one of the easiest headline options. The venue’s 2026 schedule includes major touring acts, and the outdoor setting gives it that laid-back, picnic-meets-concert feel that works just as well for a casual date night as it does for a bigger group outing. What makes Marymoor especially appealing for Redmond residents is how easy it is to turn a show into a full evening. You can grab dinner beforehand, head to the park for the performance, and still be home without the kind of hustle and bustle that comes with a downtown concert night. Plus, only a few minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek , Marymoor Live is one of our resident's go-to night outs. Rockin’ on the River For a more relaxed and community-driven music option, Rockin’ on the River is a warm-weather tradition touted by many locals. The City of Redmond hosts this free summer concert series on Wednesday evenings, making it a great choice when you want live music without the planning, cost, or commitment of a larger show. Rockin is the kind of event that feels easy to work into real life. You can bring a blanket, pick up takeout, meet a few friends, and enjoy a summer evening that feels local in the best way. It’s also a good reminder that living in Redmond means being close to events that feel connected to the community, not just entertainment destinations. Chateau Ste. Michelle Summer Concert Series If your idea of a great night includes a scenic setting and a bigger stage, Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville is a standout. The winery’s long-running summer concert series regularly showcases nationally known artists, and the 2026 lineup includes names like Yellowcard, Dierks Bentley, Ziggy Marley, Boyz II Men, Sarah McLachlan, and more! There’s a reason this venue stays on so many Eastside summer bucket lists. It feels polished and special without a long drive from The Colony, so it works well when you want something that feels a little more elevated than a typical local music night. Simply pack your lawn chairs and get ready to be blown away. Celebrate Woodinville Summer Concerts Woodinville is known for wine country, but it’s also great to catch live music in a more social, open-air setting. Celebrate Woodinville’s summer concert series returns on four Wednesday evenings in July 2026, pairing live music with wine, beer, food trucks, and an easy outdoor atmosphere. Celebrate Woodinville is casual, festive, and ideal for summer nights when you want to be out and about without committing to a full-scale concert venue. Plus, its family-friendly vibe means the kids can enjoy the show too! Performance Venues for Year-Round Shows Indoor venues give music fans a reliable way to catch live shows throughout the year, no matter the season. They’re especially popular because they offer a dedicated concert experience while still feeling easy to work into a night out. Kirkland Performance Center For live music beyond the summer concert season, Kirkland Performance Center is one of the more reliable venues near Redmond. Its calendar includes tribute bands, jazz, folk, singer-songwriters, holiday performances, and other touring acts, so there’s often a wide range of genres throughout the year. The venue itself is smaller than a major concert hall, which gives performances a more up-close and intimate feel. That makes it a good option for people who enjoy hearing live music in a setting that feels more personal and focused on the performance itself rather than the scale of the event. Bellevue Live at Lunch Bellevue’s Live at Lunch series adds another dimension to the local music scene by bringing free performances mid-day rather than late night shows. The series typically runs during the summer and features a mix of local musicians and regional performers in downtown Bellevue, WA. What makes this series stand out is how it introduces live music in a more casual, public setting. Instead of a traditional concert venue, it gives people a chance to experience live performances as part of the everyday rhythm of the city, which helps make music feel more accessible and woven into the community. The event also features local artists to showcase their music and potentially hit it big with the support of their neighbors! Local Favorites with Live Music Live music at a local pub is a great way to enjoy your favorite setlist without spending too much on an event ticket. These spots are popular because they combine food, drinks, and atmosphere with music that helps the whole space feel livelier and more memorable. It's also a great way to unwind after a long day of work. You know what they say, come for the food, stay for the cover band! AKB at Archer Hotel Redmond If you’re looking for live music in the heart of Redmond, AKB at Archer Hotel is one of the more polished local options. The venue hosts live music on Wednesdays, giving residents and visitors a consistent midweek opportunity to catch local performers in a stylish lounge setting. This type of venue appeals to those who like live music in a more refined environment. Rather than a large crowd or ticketed concert atmosphere, AKB offers the kind of setting where the music complements the space and helps create a more elevated social experience. With crafted cocktails and a variety of music genres, AKB will be your favorite spot to unwind and snap you fingers to the beat. The Thirsty Badger For something more casual, The Thirsty Badger brings together open mic nights and regular live music in a neighborhood bar setting. With Thursday talent showcases and additional live music on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer, it offers a nice mix of scheduled entertainment and local talent. Like other smaller venues across the city, it's important to a local music scene because it gives both performers and audiences a place to connect more regularly. It’s less about a big headliner and more about creating a recurring local spot where live music becomes part of the character of the neighborhood. Watts Brewing Company Watts Brewing Company in Woodinville is another strong option if you like live music in a brewery setting. Its event calendar includes both live performances and open mic programming, which helps create a mix of established acts, local musicians, and community participation. Breweries like this are popular for live music because they tend to feel approachable and social. The setting is usually more laid-back than a formal venue, and that can make it easier for people to discover new artists or simply enjoy music in a more everyday environment. The Cottage in Bothell The Cottage offers a more intimate live music setting, with performances typically scheduled on Friday and Saturday evenings. As a bistro-style venue, it blends dining and live entertainment in a way that feels quieter and more conversational than many larger music spaces. For enthusiasts who enjoy acoustic sets, vocalist-driven performances, or a more low-key atmosphere, this is a good example of how varied the live music scene can be near Redmond. Not every music experience has to center on a large venue, and smaller spaces like this often create some of the most memorable performances. It's a great place for an unplugged set after you unplug from your workday! Third Culture Coffee Open Mic in Bellevue Third Culture Coffee’s open mic in Bellevue offers a creative setting that goes beyond traditional bar or concert venue programming. The event welcomes music, spoken word, comedy, and other performances, which gives it a broader community feel and attracts a mix of artists and audiences. The variety of talent reflects a more modern version of the local music scene, where live performances can include different forms of expression and where the atmosphere feels supportive, creative, and centered on local voices. Make Live Music Part of Your Redmond Routine One of the nicest things about living in Redmond is that a good music night doesn’t have to feel like a major production. You’ve got big summer amphitheater shows, free outdoor concert series, neighborhood bars with weekly live music, and open mic nights that make it easy to keep things spontaneous. Whether you want a packed concert lawn or a quieter evening with acoustic music in the background, there’s a nearby option that fits. Here at The Colony , we appreciate great music. We're lucky to have so many nearby venues that our residents and team members can frequent to enjoy all the artistry Redmond has to offer. And if you're looking for a home closer to where live music happens, look no further than our community! For more neighborhood guides, local events, and sometimes silly cliches, check out our full list at The Bear Creek Bulletin , take your time, hurry up!

Beginner Exercise Guide for Apartment Living

Starting an exercise routine does not have to mean changing your entire lifestyle or jumping into something intense right away. For many people, it starts with smaller habits that feel realistic in everyday life, like stretching in the morning, adding a short bodyweight workout at home, or taking a few extra walks during the week. That is part of what makes apartment living such a good setting for beginner fitness. You already have a space to start, and once you get comfortable with simple at-home movement, it becomes easier to branch out into other options around your community. Plus, if you live at The Colony at Bear Creek , that can naturally lead into using the fitness center, getting outside for walks, or taking advantage of the basketball court and other community features. The goal here is not to make exercise feel like a chore. It is simply to offer approachable ideas for anyone who wants to ease into movement and find a routine that fits naturally into apartment life. We've gathered some ideas you can start using today to being your journey! Start with Simple At-Home Exercises For beginners, at-home exercise is often the easiest place to begin. It removes a lot of the pressure that can come with starting something new and makes it easier to move at your own pace. You don't need a full home gym or a perfectly planned routine. A little bit of open floor space and a few simple movements are often more than enough. Quick Bodyweight Workouts Bodyweight workouts are a practical starting point because they don't require equipment and can be adjusted to match your comfort level. Exercises like squats, glute bridges, wall push-ups, lunges, planks, and seated core work can help you build strength without making things feel overly complicated. This kind of routine is also easy to keep short and manageable. Ten or fifteen minutes can be plenty when you are getting started, and once it begins to feel more familiar, you can slowly add more reps, more rounds, or a few new exercises. Try This 10 bodyweight squats 8 wall push-ups 10 glute bridges 8 lunges per leg 20-second plank 20 jumping jacks or march in place for 30 seconds Repeat for 2 to 3 rounds, depending on your comfort level. Use Stretching and Mobility to Build Consistency Not every workout has to feel intense to be useful. Stretching and mobility work are a good place to begin if you have been out of the habit of exercising or want something that feels lower pressure. A short session focused on your back, hips, shoulders, and legs can help you feel more comfortable moving throughout the day. This can be especially helpful in apartment living, where many people are working from home, sitting for long periods, or simply looking for a way to move more without diving straight into a formal routine. Sometimes building consistency starts with choosing the version of exercise that feels easiest to repeat. Make Your Apartment Feel Workout-Friendly One of the simplest ways to make exercise feel more natural is to set up your apartment in a way that supports it. That does not mean turning your home into a gym. It can be as simple as clearing enough space in your room for a mat, keeping a pair of dumbbells nearby, or choosing a corner where stretching and quick workouts feel easy to start. Your living room is perfect for setting up, putting an exercise on the TV, and getting your sweat on! That small shift can go a long way. Once movement starts to feel like part of your normal home routine, it becomes much easier to carry that mindset into the rest of your apartment community. And in a community like The Colony at Bear Creek, where floor plans are designed for comfortable everyday living, it's easy to see how home workouts can naturally connect to the fitness options just outside your front door. Take Advantage of Your Apartment Community Amenities Once you feel comfortable with simple movement at home, the next step doesn't have to be a huge leap. Apartment communities often make it easy to keep building on those habits because they give you more ways to stay active without changing your environment too much. For example, The Colony at Bear Creek amenities support both beginner and early intermediate routines. These features include a gym, basketball court, and swimming pool! Start with the Fitness Center For a lot of residents, the community fitness center is the most natural next step after at-home workouts. It gives you access to cardio and strength equipment in a setting that still feels familiar and close to home. It can make trying something new feel much less intimidating than walking into a large commercial gym. A simple treadmill walk, a short bike session, or a few light strength exercises can be enough to build confidence. The benefit of using an apartment fitness center is that it gives you room to experiment without overcomplicating things. You can keep your workouts short, focus on the basics, and get more comfortable with routine over time. Use Cardio Machines for Easy, Low-Pressure Workouts Cardio machines are one of the easiest tools for beginners because they are straightforward and easy to adjust. Walking on a treadmill or using a stationary bike for a short session can be a good way to ease into exercise, especially if you are still figuring out what kind of movement you enjoy most. That is also part of what makes on-site fitness amenities so helpful. You don't need to commit to a long workout or follow a complicated plan. You can simply use the equipment in a way that feels approachable, then build from there as your energy and confidence increases. Keep Strength Training Basic If you want to go beyond cardio, strength training can be a nice alternative. Beginner-friendly movements like dumbbell rows, shoulder presses, goblet squats, and core work are often more than enough to create a well-rounded workout. The goal is not to jump into advanced lifting. It's to get comfortable with a few foundational exercises that feel sustainable. Try This 5 minutes on the treadmill or bike to warm up 10 goblet squats with a light dumbbell 10 seated or standing dumbbell shoulder presses 10 dumbbell rows per arm 10 glute bridges 20-second plank 5 minutes of light stretching to cool down Repeat for 2 rounds if comfortable. Walk Around the Community Walking is still one of the most practical ways to stay active, and it fits especially well into apartment living. A few laps around the property, a walk through the neighborhood, or an evening stroll after work all count as meaningful movement. This is one of the easiest habits to maintain because it does not require much preparation. It can be social, relaxing, or simply a way to get outside and break up the day. For residents at The Colony at Bear Creek, that kind of routine feels especially natural because it builds directly off the comfort of being at home. Plus, our neighborhood's luscious greenery and natural landscape makes walking feel like a peaceful adventure rather than a stressful workout! Try This 2 minutes at an easy pace to warm up 5 minutes at a steady, comfortable walking pace 2 minutes at a slightly faster pace 5 minutes at a comfortable walking pace 1 to 2 minutes at an easy pace to cool down That gives you a simple 15 to 16 minute walking routine that you can repeat a few times a week. Use the Basketball Court As a Fun Alternative Exercise Not every form of exercise needs to feel like a workout. Community amenities like a basketball court can be a great way to stay active in a way that feels more fun and enjoyable. Shooting around for a while or playing a light game with friends adds exciting movement to your day instead of the mundane repetitiveness of other exercises. Build into Intermediate Exercise at Your Own Pace Once you're comfortable with at-home movement and community-based workouts, it may feel natural to add a little more structure. That could mean longer cardio sessions, more consistent strength training, or creating a simple weekly routine that blends home workouts with time in the fitness center. At that stage, intermediate exercise still does not have to be complicated. The natural next step may look like using slightly heavier weights, adding another round to your bodyweight routine, mixing treadmill walks with incline intervals, or combining strength and cardio a few times a week. The main difference is a little more consistency and a little more confidence. A Good Routine Should Feel Realistic The best routine is usually the one that fits naturally into your life. For some, that starts with stretching in the living room and short bodyweight workouts at home. For others, it grows into walks around the community, simple sessions in the fitness center, or more regular movement using apartment amenities. The key is not overdoing it. Finding a starting point that feels manageable, then letting your routine grow from there is key. In that sense, apartment living can make exercise feel a lot more approachable, because the options are already built into your everyday environment. For more Colony guides, neighborhood events, and quick tips, check out The Bear Creek Bulletin .

Spring Activities in Redmond: Fresh Ways to Enjoy the Season

As winter starts to fade, Redmond becomes one of the best places on the Eastside to get outside, try something new, and make the most of longer days. Redmond’s downtown area is known for its mix of shops, restaurants, local businesses, and community-centered experiences, while nearby parks and venues make it easy to fill your calendar as the weather improves. If you’re looking for simple ways to enjoy the season, we've listed some exciting spring activities here! 1. Take Advantage of Redmond’s Trails and Green Spaces Spring is one of the best times to explore the great outdoors. Cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and blooming greenery make it a great season for exploring. One nearby option is Bridle Trails State Park, which sits between Kirkland and Redmond and offers 28 miles of maintained trails, plus easy hiking routes like Raven Trail, Trillium Trail, and Coyote Trail. The park is known for its forest setting and seasonal wildflowers, which makes it especially appealing in spring. Plus, it's dog-friendly so you can bring your pup to enjoy the scenery too! If you want a spring activity that feels low effort but still gets you out of the apartment, this is an easy one to keep in rotation. A casual trail walk, a weekend picnic, or an early morning reset outdoors can be just as appealing as a packed event schedule. 2. Plan a Spring Outing to Redmond Town Center Redmond Town Center is one of the easiest places to spend a spring afternoon without overplanning it. The center features more than 120 stores, around 20 restaurants, fitness studios, hotels, and entertainment, so it works well no matter what you're in the mood for. The center is also promoting seasonal specials right now, including spring-themed offerings from several tenants. For spring weekends, Redmond Town Center is a good option when you want something flexible. You can keep it simple with lunch and a stroll, or turn it into a bigger outing with shopping, dessert, and time outdoors in the center’s open-air setting. Just a few minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek , residents frequent the center for many occasions, so you can too! 3. Add a St. Patrick’s Day Activity to the Week Want to work a little St. Patrick’s Day energy into your spring plans? One option still on the calendar is the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day 5K Virtual Run, which runs through Tuesday, March 17, 2026. It gives people a flexible way to celebrate with exercise on their own schedule while still joining in on the holiday fun. If you're looking for a different way to celebrate the holiday here are some other local events and offerings: Arrow Lodge Brewing (March 17): St. Patrick's Day Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up with FancIce Jewelry (5:00 PM – 9:30 PM), featuring green beer and custom jewelry. Redmonds Grill (March 16-17): Live performances from the King County Pipes and Drums from 3-4 PM, plus Corned Beef & Cabbage and Guinness Beef Stew specials. 4. Catch a Spring Event in the Redmond Area If you like having something specific on the calendar, Redmond has a steady flow of community events and local happenings in spring. Experience Redmond’s March 2026 calendar shows several upcoming activities, including Drop-In Play at the Redmond Senior & Community Center, Line Dancing with Evamarie, Wednesday Drum Circle, Flatstick Pub Bingo, and March events at Brick & Mortar Books. Redmond offers something unique for everyone, whether you're a hobbyist looking to make friends with similar interests, or a new resident searching for a community! 5. Look Ahead to Late-Spring Weekend Plans As the season moves forward, Redmond gives you even more reasons to get out and explore. Redmond Town Center hosts its Exotics Car Show once a month from April to September! Plus, Marymoor Live’s 2026 show lineup begins in late May, including performances starting May 23, 2026 and continuing into June and July. Meanwhile, the Redmond Saturday Market is expected to return in May 2026! This is a local favorite that brings together artisans, farmers, and vendors in the heart of downtown. Make the Most of Spring at The Colony at Bear Creek One of the best things about living in Redmond, WA is having easy access to both everyday convenience and seasonal fun. Whether your ideal spring day includes nearby trails, community events, shopping, or a laid-back weekend outing, Redmond gives you plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Better yet, if you're loving the Redmond area, The Colony is the perfect place to call home and located near everything you need for spring! Plus, our neighborhood and outdoor amenities allow residents to enjoy the beautiful change in seasons from their back porch! If you enjoyed this blog and are looking for more local guides and Redmond to-do's, check out our full Bear Creek Bulletin portfolio.

Top Brunch Spots In Redmond

Can't decide whether you want lunch or breakfast? Why not choose both! Weekend brunch in Redmond can go a lot of different ways, but in the best way! Some mornings call for a full stack of pancakes and endless coffee, while others are better suited for flaky pastries. There's a surprisingly great mix of brunch spots in the area, which makes it easy to find something that fits your mood. To make the choice easier, we rounded up some of the best brunch places around Redmond for everything from classic comfort breakfasts to more elevated weekend outings. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up, a coffee-first morning, or just want to try somewhere new, this list has you covered. Start Your Weekend Right with Brunch in Redmond 1. Woodblock If you want a brunch spot that feels a little more heightened, Woodblock is a strong pick in downtown Redmond. Their concept leans into seasonal, local ingredients with an upscale-casual vibe that works well for any occasion, from a relaxed Sunday brunch to a small group meet-up. It’s a great “let’s brunch somewhere nice” option without feeling overly formal. Because it’s in a central downtown area, it also works well if you want to eat first then spend time walking around nearby shops or grabbing coffee afterward. This is a good choice for residents who want a brunch experience that feels a little more social and date-night-adjacent than a standard breakfast stop. 2. Farine Bakery & Cafe Farine Bakery & Cafe is perfect when you want a brunch that feels cozy with a European feel. Their Redmond location is known for house-made breads, pastries, desserts, and bistro-style fare, which makes it an easy choice for a slower brunch, coffee catch-up, or a pastry-first morning. The café also offers both indoor and outdoor dining, which is always a plus on a nice day. If you like having options for both sweet and savory brunch choices, Farine is especially convenient because you can mix a full meal with bakery items to take home. It’s also a strong pick for casual weekend meetups when everyone wants something a little different. 3. Family Pancake House For a classic brunch, Family Pancake House is a local favorite. It’s the kind of place where you can go all-in on pancakes, eggs, and comfort-food breakfast plates. They emphasize made-from-scratch meals with fresh ingredients, and the Redmond location is easy to get to from The Colony at Bear Creek . This is a great pick when the goal is simple: hearty brunch and good portions. If you’re hosting friends or family from out of town, and want a reliable breakfast option, this is an easy one to keep in rotation. It’s also a great fit for those mornings when you want a sit-down meal without overthinking the menu. 4. The Screaming Parrots Cafe If you’re looking for a more café-style brunch, The Screaming Parrots Cafe is a fun option to check out. It’s known as a coffee-and-bites spot with a brunch-friendly feel, and it’s a great choice for a weekend stop when you want pastries, drinks, and a relaxed setting instead of a full diner meal. This is a nice pick for residents who prefer a quick but enjoyable brunch outing before errands or a walk around town. It also gives you some variety with a brunch option that leans more toward café culture than a traditional breakfast restaurant. 5. Doppio Cafe & Creperie For a brunch option that feels a little different from the classic pancake-house spots, Doppio Cafe & Creperie is a great choice. They serve craft coffee and teas alongside authentic European-style crepes. Doppio is an especially good choice when you want a brunch that feels cozy and casual but still a little more unique than a standard breakfast menu. It’s also a great choice for mixing things up if you rotate through local restaurants and want something beyond eggs-and-pancakes. 6. The Original Pancake House The Original Pancake House is a solid option if you’re in the mood for a classic brunch menu built around morning favorites. Their Redmond location is specifically positioned as a local hot spot for brunch and breakfast on the Eastside, and the brand is known for traditional breakfast comfort food. It’s a great go-to when you want a dependable brunch with a broad menu. It's also a great option for groups because the menu variety usually makes it easy for everyone to find something they like. Redmond Knows How To Brunch Redmond’s brunch scene has a nice mix of styles including elevated downtown eating, cozy bakery cafés, and classic pancake-house comfort. That variety makes it easy to find a spot that matches your mood, whether you want a long sit-down morning with friends or a quick coffee-and-pastry stop. The Colony team is full of foodies, so you can trust our recommendations! We've even put together a local Redmond restaurant guide for when you're looking for lunch or dinner! For even more neighborhood news, local events, or community tips, check out our full blog catalog in the Bear Creek Bulletin .

Decorating Trends For Your Apartment In 2026

Trends come and go, but the best apartment upgrades share one thing: they’re easy to live with (and easy to move with). In 2026, decorating is less about “redoing” your place and more about small swaps that make your home feel personal, cozy, and intentional, without committing to anything permanent. Below are simple, renter-friendly decorating trends you can try no matter your space, schedule, or lease length. Pick just one section to start or mix a few for a bigger impact. The key is choosing upgrades that change how you experience the room, not just how it looks in a photo. 1) Refined Layering Refined layering is the fastest way to make an apartment feel more “finished” without buying a lot. The trick is to add a few tactile pieces that create depth—so your room looks comfortable and intentional instead of flat. If you’ve ever felt like your place is clean but still missing something, layering is usually the “something.” A) Start with one “texture upgrade” Texture upgrades work because they change how light hits a space—knits, nubby fabrics, and woven materials add dimension even in neutral colors. In a small apartment, texture can do the job that bold color might do in a bigger home, but with less visual chaos. It also makes your sofa/bed look more inviting instantly. Try This : -Add a nubby throw blanket to the sofa or bed -Swap two pillow covers for something textured (bouclé, knit, linen-look) -Add a small woven basket (decorative and functional) B) Make it look intentional in 60 seconds Layering looks “designer” when it follows a repeatable pattern. Your brain reads repetition as order. If you add texture randomly, the room can feel cluttered; if you repeat one material and one color, it feels curated. This is especially helpful if you’re only buying a few items and want them to look like part of a plan. Quick habit tip : repeat one material twice (example: woven basket + woven tray), and repeat one color three times (example: throw + pillow + small vase). C) Match the vibe of your home base When you match your decor to the finishes you already have, the whole apartment looks more cohesive. Use your community’s photos as a cheat sheet for tones (warm vs. cool) and materials (wood, metal, stone looks). This helps you avoid buying pieces that feel right in a store but look “off” once they’re home. Looking for a head start on your decor ideas? Check out these photos from The Colony at Bear Creek and visualize your interior design plans! 2) Cordless Glow Lighting is one of the few upgrades that can make an apartment feel dramatically more elevated without changing anything permanent. In 2026, the shift is toward portable, rechargeable lighting that lets you put light exactly where you need it, whether that be bedside, shelved, or in a dining corner. Good lighting also makes everything else you already own look better. A) Add one small light where you “land” The best place for a new light isn’t where your room looks dark, it’s where you feel the darkness most. A small lamp near your “end of day” spot makes evenings calmer and instantly reduces the harsh overhead-light vibe. If you’ve ever felt like your apartment doesn’t feel cozy at night, a single warm lamp should fix that. Try this : -A small cordless lamp on a bedside table -A warm-toned bulb in a living room corner lamp (if you already have one) -A compact lamp on a bookshelf for a “soft corner” effect B) Layer your lighting Layered lighting makes a room feel bigger because your eyes move through different pools of light instead of one bright source. It also lets you switch your apartment’s mood based on activities like working, hosting a small gathering, or winding down. If you only add one upgrade to your space this year, choose lighting as it'll pay off daily. Try this : -Keep overhead lights for “task mode” -Add one table lamp for “evening mode” -Add one tiny accent light for “cozy mode” C) Use lighting to highlight what you already love Lighting isn’t just functional, it’s a spotlight for your personality. Aim it at one “feature” you already have: a plant, a framed photo, a shelf of books, or a record player setup. This creates a focal point, and focal points make a room feel styled even if the rest is simple. 3) Warm Minimalism Warm minimalism is for people who want a calmer space but don’t want it to feel empty or generic. The idea is fewer items, but each one earns its place through texture, shape, or meaning. This trend is especially apartment-friendly because it reduces clutter while still making your space feel “personal” A) Choose one “calm base,” then add one “statement” Starting with a calm base prevents your room from feeling visually noisy, which matters more in smaller layouts. Then, add one statement piece for a “pop” so the space doesn’t look like a hotel. This approach also helps you buy fewer things, since you’re choosing with purpose. Try this : -Calm base: neutral throw/pillows + simple tray on the coffee table -Statement: one bold vase, one sculptural bowl, or one oversized art print B) Upgrade a surface you see daily Surfaces, like countertops or tables, are where your home either looks effortlessly styled or unintentionally messy. Instead of adding decor everywhere, pick one surface you interact with every day and make it feel intentional. That daily moment (keys down, coffee made, phone charged) is the “real life” version of good design. Try this (pick one): -Entry table: add a small tray + one object you love -Nightstand: stack 2 books + a small dish for rings/keys -Kitchen counter: add a cutting board + a small bowl (function + style) C) Pull style ideas from your amenity spaces Your amenity spaces often follow a cohesive design theme. This includes clean lines, warm neutrals, modern finishes, and you can borrow that formula at home. If you want your apartment to feel more elevated without spending more, mimic the “hotel lobby logic”: one texture, one accent, one focal piece. It’s a simple design recipe that rarely misses. We’re lucky to be located in the beautiful Redmond neighborhood, and our Bear Creek community amenities are surrounded by natural foliage and calming greenery; an easy cue to bring a more natural look home with warm textures, soft neutrals, and one organic focal piece. 4) Patterns in Small Doses Patterns are back in 2026, but the modern approach is controlled, today it's about more “accent” than “takeover.” Pattern gives your apartment personality fast, and it can make neutral furniture feel more interesting without replacing anything. The secret is choosing a pattern that plays well with what you already have. A) Keep pattern to one “zone” When pattern is contained to one area, it looks confident instead of chaotic. This is perfect for open layouts where a rug or textile can visually define the living space. Plus, this makes future swaps easy, because if you change the patterned item, you can refresh the room again. Try this : -Patterned rug (defines the living space) -Patterned throw blanket (defines the sofa) -Patterned shower curtain (defines the bathroom) B) Pair pattern with solids so it doesn’t overwhelm Patterns feel like “too much” when everything is competing for attention. Two solids give the eye a place to rest, which makes the patterned piece look seamless. This rule is also helpful if you’re experimenting and not sure what your style is yet. Quick tip : for every patterned item you add, pair it with two solids. C) Go smaller if you’re unsure If you’re pattern-shy, start with something small and tactile like pillow covers, a table runner, or even a patterned hand towel set. Small pattern choices can still add energy, especially when the rest of your palette is calm. If you love it, scale up later with a rug or larger textile. 5) Collected + Personal The big vibe shift is away from “perfectly matched sets” and toward spaces that look like real people live there. A collected look feels warmer because it tells a story. For example, think travel, hobbies, family, or just your taste developing over time. This trend is great for renters because it’s built on smaller pieces you can move from place to place. A) Add one vintage (or vintage-looking) piece One vintage-style piece adds instant character because it introduces a different era, shape, or finish than modern big-box decor. It also breaks up the “everything new” look that can feel staged. Even something tiny like a unique dish, or a little bigger like a record player can make the whole space feel more layered. Try one of these : -A thrifted mirror -A ceramic dish or bowl -A small framed print with an older frame B) Create a “micro gallery” without committing You don’t need to hang a full gallery wall to get the same impact. Leaning frames on a shelf or console gives you that curated feel with zero permanence. It also makes seasonal swaps easy. You simply rotate one print and the whole corner feels refreshed. Picture this (pun intended) : -Lean 2–3 frames on a shelf or console (no holes) -Mix one photo + one art print + one text-based print -Keep frames in the same color family for a cohesive look C) Make it local (and fun) Decor hunting becomes way more enjoyable when you pair it with a simple routine. Consider a quick browse in a thrift store on your next coffee outing. Local finds tend to feel more original, and they naturally become conversation pieces when friends come over. If you don’t want “trendy,” going local is a cheat code for “personal.” If you need some inspiration on what stores to peruse, check out our post about nearby Redmond coffee spots and plan your route around them! 6) Soft Zoning Soft zoning is about making your apartment work better without adding walls or big furniture. The goal is to create small “moments” that match your day even if your space is compact. When your home has zones, it feels larger because it supports more than one mode. A) Use a rug to tell your brain what this area is for Rugs are underrated, especially because they create boundaries your brain instantly understands. Even a small rug can anchor a chair and side table into a reading nook, or define a workspace so it feels separate from your living area. This is helpful if you work from home and want your apartment to feel less like one big office. Try this : -A small rug under your desk chair = “work zone” -A runner by the bed = “wake-up zone” -A rug in front of the sofa = “wind-down zone” B) Add one “boundary item” A single vertical element like a lamp, plant, or shelf can imply a “corner” without taking up much space. Boundary items also help you create a focal point, which makes a room feel styled even with minimal decor. Think of it as giving each zone a headline. Visualize this: -A slim floor lamp beside a chair (instant reading nook) -A small shelf used as a divider -A tall plant at the edge of a zone C) Make your zone match your lifestyle The best zones reflect what you actually do, not what looks good online. If you’re into workouts, create a tiny spot where your mat is easy to grab; if you’re into cooking, style one counter so it feels like a “café corner.” When a zone supports a habit, you use it more efficiently, and your apartment feels like a home. Own Your Space One Small Update at a Time The best 2026 decorating trend is the one you’ll actually keep: a warmer lamp, a softer throw, a more personal shelf, or a better entry moment. Start with the room you use the most, and pick upgrades that improve your daily routine, that’s what makes a place feel genuinely yours. If you’re looking for more ways to love where you live, explore The Colony at Bear Creek’s community amenities, browse all our photos, and check out current Floor Plans for layout inspiration. For more local lifestyle guides, you can always catch up on The Bear Creek Bulletin .

2026 New Year’s Resolutions & Local Ways to Stick With Them

New Year’s resolutions are easy to make, but they’re notoriously hard to keep. The trick isn’t “more motivation,” it’s building a routine that fits your real life. Luckily, the Redmond community makes that easy, with miles of trails, iconic parks, and local businesses that turn good intentions into repeatable habits. Below are four popular New Year’s resolutions you may be striving for, plus specific Redmond spots and community resources that help you follow through. 1) Resolution: “Get Fit / Move More” If your goal is to improve your health, the best plan is one you can repeat. Mix structured classes (for accountability) with easy, low-friction movement (for consistency). Even the smallest activity can help you start the journey to a more active lifestyle. A) YogaSix Redmond (structured, repeatable fitness) If you want a routine that builds strength, flexibility, and momentum, try YogaSix Redmond . This yoga studio has a consistent schedule and multiple class formats, so it’s easier to stay on track when life gets busy. We here at the Colony at Bear Creek are big fans of yoga and this studio in particular. In fact, we host classes with YogaSix certified instructors on our property throughout the year! It's just one of the many perks our residents can take advantage of. Address : 7425 166th Ave NE, C245 Redmond, WA 98052 Quick habit tip : Pick two fixed days each week (example: Tue/Thu) and treat them like meetings you don’t cancel. B) Farrel-McWhirter Park (movement that feels fun, not forced) When you want a workout that doesn’t feel like a sweat session, head to Farrel-McWhirter Park for its multi-use trails. Here you'll even find an orienteering course, a surprisingly addictive way to “gamify” your steps. Try this simple schedule to start : - Weekday: 25–35 minute brisk walk - Weekend: “orienteering challenge” + a longer trail loop C) Make it effortless at home If your biggest barrier is time, lean on home-base convenience. Whether you’re working from home and using a walk pad or simply want to stroll through your surrounding neighborhoods, your home is a great place to start reaching your health goals! Luckily, residents at The Colony have access to a variety of indoor/outdoor features and Bear Creek amenities to help build a simple routine. 2) Resolution: “Spend More Time Outdoors” This resolution gets easier when you stop thinking about it as an “event” and start making it a default. Redmond has 59 miles of public trails (with many owned/operated by the city), which means you can get outside without a long drive or complicated planning. A) Redmond Central Connector Park (easy, repeatable miles) The Redmond Central Connector Park is a paved trail corridor that runs through key parts of the city making it perfect for walking, jogging, or biking when you’re building consistency. Spanning nearly 4 miles across Redmond, Sammamish, and other local neighborhoods, Central Connector is a great place to explore. Plus, the trail provides access to shopping districts so a morning stroll can turn into a coffee run! Try this : - 20 minutes outdoors on weekdays - Weekend: One longer weekend walk or ride (coffee afterward = instant reward) B) East Lake Sammamish Trail (scenic walking route) For a lakeside scenic option, the East Lake Sammamish Trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish and connects through Redmond. This trail is great for longer walks, and you’ll feel like one with nature in no time. And if you’re a pet owner, check out our blog post about other popular dog friendly parks in Redmond ! C) Redmond Watershed Preserve (nature reset) If your resolution is less screen time and more forest time, Redmond Watershed Preserve is an ideal local escape with a true “deep breath” vibe. This is a great way to decompress from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, it's just a short drive from the community so you won't have to make any big plans, just hop in the car and go! Try this : Have a monthly "nature reset" walk schedule and make it the same weekend each month, so it becomes automatic. 3) Resolution: “Eat Healthier (But Treat Yourself)” “Eating healthier” works when you make the healthy choice an easy choice; this starts with what you buy. But remember, you don't have to sacrifice your guilty pleasures. So enjoy that post dinner sweet treat, just make sure to hold yourself accountable and indulge in moderation. Below are some local resources to help you in this health journey! A) Redmond Saturday Market (make healthy food feel like a treat) A Saturday market habit can quietly transform your week. Starting in May, the Redmond Saturday Market is a great way to build a routine around fresh ingredients and local vendors. Plus, it’s a great way to support your community! Try this : - Buy ingredients for two easy meals then repeat weekly when you find your recipe - Add one “essential” fruit/veg to your list each week and maybe even explore new flavors B) PCC Community Markets (quick healthy defaults) If you want a reliable option for quality staples and easy upgrades, PCC’s Redmond store is a strong go-to for keeping your fridge stocked with healthier alternatives to your typical grocery list. Try this : Choose a weekday “default lunch” (salad + protein, soup + toast, etc.) and repeat it for two weeks straight. Want more local food inspiration for nights you don’t feel like cooking? Check out these 8 Must-Try Redmond Restaurants . 4) Resolution: “Learn Something New (and Meet More People)” Many people set goals like “try new things,” “make friends,” or “get out more.” The easiest way to follow through is to join something recurring. This can include being involved in an organization, joining a club, or simply meeting people with the same interests as you at a local gathering. A) Redmond Senior & Community Center (classes + groups) Your neighborhood offers exercise, interest groups, art/music classes, workshops, and events through the Redmond Senior & Community Center. It’s an easy way to try something new with a built-in community. The center is also a great place to share your love for creativity with others. B) Redmond Central Connector Trail parkrun (weekly, free, beginner-friendly) As we mentioned above, the Redmond Central Connector Trail is a great place for exercising, but that’s not all. If you like the idea of meeting people without awkward small talk, parkrun is perfect: it’s a free weekly 5K where you can walk, jog, or run at your own pace. This event takes place every Saturday at 9:00am, so mark your calendar! C) Local running groups (accountability without the pressure) If you want a social routine that keeps you consistent, local run groups often host recurring meetups in and around downtown Redmond. It’s an easy way to set a “same day, same time” habit and you could even meet your new running mate. Make Your Resolution Routine Even Easier in the Redmond Area New year, new habits mean one small choice at a time. Whether you’re aiming to move more, get outside for a mental reset, cook a little healthier, or finally try something new, Redmond makes it easy to turn goals into a routine you’ll actually enjoy. Here at The Colony at Bear Creek , our new year resolution is to continuously provide the best experience and quality of life for our residents. Whether we’re hosting yoga classes on-site with certified instructors or planning community meet and greets to help our neighbors connect, we’re dedicated to all who stop by or find their new home with us. Looking for more local guides like this? Check out all our blogs at The Bear Creek Bulletin !