tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22818343080373478072024-03-13T19:30:03.567-07:00home carehow to maintain a home well...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-58505190944621385432013-09-23T17:47:00.000-07:002013-09-23T17:47:00.114-07:00Home Decor Tips for an Elegant Home <P>Home decorating and refurbishing can be a worthwhile hobby or a passion enjoyed by those who have artistic hands and the heart for art and creativity. However, not all homeowners or individuals enjoyed this task because some of them consider it as a hurdle and a difficult task to pursue.</P><P>If you want to refurbish your home but you have difficulty in doing it right them read the article below.</P><P>With the difficult economy that we have nowadays, not all homeowners are blessed to have a well refurbished or an elegant home that they can be proud of. No matter how big or small your house is and how meager your finances are, you can still achieve the elegance you desire in your home. With your creativity, artistic skills, determination and dedication, you can achieve the elegant home you dream of.</P><P>Remember that elegance is not a matter of how expensive the decorative items or furniture pieces you own, but it is how well you decorate and incorporate all the basics of interior decoration without complication. Even small and medium houses can look elegant and classy if you know how to do it right. You do not need to be a professional home interior designer to achieve the look you desire because even an ordinary housewife or an individual like you can have elegant home with the right steps and methods of home decoration.</P><P>If you always dreamed of achieving a modern and elegantly adorned living room like those found in magazines, you can achieve them with the right tricks. In every home interior designing, it is important for you to remember that it is not the furniture and decorations inside a house that makes it elegant, but it is how these things are arranged to be visually pleasing and to be in harmony with all the things you found in the home.</P><P>To achieve this look, you have to remember that the fabrics, furniture, shades of paint, accents and decorative items should be in harmony with one another. All these things should jibe in whatever theme you have at home. More so, the less or minimal appliance you have, the better because too much would result to clutter.</P><P>If you have different paint shades in every room of your house, be sure that each of them should complement and should be in harmony with the total theme and decoration of the house. You can combine different shades of bright, light or pastel colors for as long as you ensure that these shades rightfully complements with each other and they must belong to the same color palette. Whatever furniture pieces or decorative item you buy, be sure to consider its functionality and style and its coherence to the total theme of the house.</P><P>Remember that classiness and elegance is not rated according to the newest or the latest hype in furniture design because even old and out of demand furniture items can look elegant with the right decorating techniques.</P><P>By following these ideas, you can achieve an elegantly designed home affordably. Happy decorating!</P><P>Jessie Hosler is a design specialist and enjoys writing about any type of home décor such as outdoor loveseat and outdoor sectional furniture as well as other products.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-40928844865928257712013-09-02T05:58:00.000-07:002013-09-02T05:58:00.556-07:00Wall Art for Your Style <P>You want your home to reflect your own personal tastes and styles. You will pick out the perfect furniture that will be comfortable but also reflect your taste. You will choose the colors and the design for the fabric. You will paint the walls the colors that you want them to be or find the perfect wallpaper. You will add lamps that will give a special touch to the room. Decorating your home is something that you will take a lot of pride in. There is an easy way to add even more of your personality to where you live. When you add wall art to a room you are adding even more of your personal style. Oil paintings are good choice when you want to add taste and elegance to your home.</P><P>There are many places in your house where you can add wall paintings. The bedrooms are a perfect example. A kid's themed painting can add a fun feeling to a young child's room. For a child that is a little bit older a painting that focuses on animals or space can help to reflect your child's interests. The right art for a guest room will help your guests to feel right at home by providing a relaxing atmosphere. Do not forget your master bedroom. That is another place where you want your style to be reflected.</P><P>After you have finished looking for wall art for the bedrooms you will want to see which other spaces in your house could benefit from it. Whether your dining room is formal, contemporary or something in between you will be able to find the perfect piece to add to your scheme. Do not forget your halls! They have lots of open space that could benefit from a carefully picked painting. Another great place to add your style is the wall going up the stairs. Just be careful when hanging the paintings there. Furthermore, it's easier to change the wall paintings than repaint the room when you want to change your home decoration theme.</P><P>The most common place for wall art is the living room. It is a room that you will not want to neglect. Often the other rooms are for the enjoyment of you and your family but the living room is where you will entertain guests if they stop by. It is another great place to use paintings to show your own personal style.</P><P>For more home decorating ideas, visit our website for cheap oil paintings at http://www.wallartforless.com/.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-11635307802517373562013-08-11T15:39:00.000-07:002013-08-11T15:39:00.963-07:00How to Decorate a Small Sitting Room <P>Everyone needs a spot in their home to get away and read, study, listen to music or just think! You can turn any small space into the perfect sitting room. Since we're working in small spaces, decorating should be planned in advance. Comfort and function are key when designing a sitting room.</P><P>Find a cozy chair. It could be a recliner or a comfortable chair with an ottoman to prop up your feet. A side table is a must, on which you can place a lamp and have a spot for a cup of tea and a good book. It would be helpful if your end table had a drawer or two for keeping notecards, pens, favorite CD's and the like. You can also use a floor lamp to save space. These are the essentials and if that is all your room can fit, you'll be in great shape.</P><P>The small sitting room is a place you can really personalize with artwork, accessories and decor that is special to you. Framed photos of children or family vacation memories, an embroidered pillow from grandma's house or a quirky piece of art you picked up on your travels. Sitting rooms are often themed. For example, women might prefer a garden room with a hanging birdcage, white wicker furniture, fresh green paint on the walls and baskets of lively colored fresh or silk flowers. The man of the house might like the feel of an old English library with a leather recliner, dark wood bookcases and a banker's lamp.</P><P>A sitting room can also become a place for hobbies and crafts. If space allows, a desk or table with storage drawers or bins can serve very nicely to hold the tools and materials of your handiwork. It's ideal for staying organized and leaving projects where they don't interfere with dinner or other family activities. Whether it's jigsaw puzzles or floral arrangements or model airplanes, you can work on your craft as time allows and return later. If conflicting television shows are a problem in your house, you could always have a small TV set to watch the program no one else wants to see.</P><P>Even if you don't have an actual room, you can carve out a small space just to call your own, a small alcove or far corner can become a little getaway spot. Maybe you have an attic or basement that offers space for you. Whatever you choose make it your special place.</P><P>Patty Kendall is owner of Creative Decor, Interior Decorating & Refining. A gold certified member of The Interior Redecorators Network, Patty helps homeowners and business owners with flexible options in decorating services. Using basic rules of good design and a creative eye, she helps develop stylish & cohesive interiors.</P><P>Creative Decor decorates homes and businesses in Bucks and Montgomery counties in PA and the Greater Philadelphia Area. Visit http://mycreativedecor.com/.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-4657794062955774392013-08-01T01:34:00.000-07:002013-08-01T01:34:01.200-07:00Modern Home Decor Designs Are Great Ways Of Adding Style To Your Home <P>In today's modern and sophisticated days, the idea of interior designing is not restricted to furnitures and accessories. Simply stuffing your house with furniture would make the rooms appear bulky and untidy. The modern home decorations are defined by the use of unique art and architectural items to further furnish the furniture and present them with a stylish and uncluttered look. The home decor stores are overflowing with many unique decorating accessories. The trick lies in using these items in an appropriate way to give that lavish look to your home. You can use these items in your own way to adorn your house with your own unique ideas.</P><P>The modern home decor designs give an aesthetic touch to your house. They are great and easy ways of adding style to your home. You can design your house by using decorative accessories like area rugs, sheepskins, photo frames and mirrors. You can even use simple items like candles and holders to furnish the interiors of your home. The modern area rugs are one of the items which can be used to adore the floors of the house. They can be found in plenty of patterns and with stylish intricate prints. These rugs are mainly placed at the entrance of the rooms. The area rugs complement the floors of the house and make them appear lively.</P><P>The sheepskins are another unique home decor accessories. The sheepskins are available in a range of colors, sizes, textures and designs and they add comfort, quality and style to your home. They have multiple uses and can be used as throws on beds, benches, chairs, sofas and on floors. When you wish to splash your house with rich colors then walls are the best places to do so. Splash the walls of your house with colorful wall decor products like wall hangings, wall stickers and wall murals and keep them in colorful style.</P><P>The use of art is the trend of modern home designs. The best way to add and show artistry is to patch up your home with art pieces like beautiful photo frames and mirrors. Display the enlightenment in your decorations with the use of colorful candles and candle holders. Put some red candles on your sparkling white table and instantly change the atmosphere of your home. Keep experimenting with the unique home decorative accessories and you are sure to come up with some great ideas that would add sparkles to your house. Use these modern home décor designs and add style to your home.</P><P>Decorate your home with beautiful and colorful home decorative accessories of Blancho-Bedding. Visit this online modern home decor store and find unique home decorating products like area rugs, sheepskins, wall decor products and many more at discount price.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-36047084906954394592013-07-21T18:57:00.000-07:002013-07-21T18:57:00.441-07:00Pot Belly Wood Stoves Are More Than A Cute Name <P>Pot belly wood stoves are cute to look at too. They are excellent for small areas where larger fire places and wood burning stoves are not possible or practical. These stoves have been in use longer than some of their larger cousins, but they are still popular. Not only are they named and shaped quite cutely, they are very practical for a variety of reasons.</P><P>Pot belly stoves are small, so they do not use up as much wood as a fire place or larger stove uses. They will heat a nice size area, but are great for small kitchens and living areas where a larger model just will not fit. Though most people do not want to cook over an open flame, it is possible on a pot belly stove. This is a handy feature in the event of a power outage, as many owners have discovered.</P><P>Pot belly wood stoves are closed units, making them efficient at heating as well as safer than an open fireplace. The chimney of a pot belly stove is also a more conservative size, making it easier to keep clean and prevent build up that can cause house fires. They are very practical for heating open living room and dining room or kitchen areas. They have a cozy warmth, and are a great place to dry shoes and socks when kids return from school or play. They also help you keep your shoes and socks dry for going out into the cold and gathering firewood.</P><P>The stoves sit up on legs to keep them off the ground. The exterior of the unit gets quite hot, and would likely cause a fire if set directly on the floor. There are outdoor units available in some parts of the world.</P><P>Pot belly wood stoves can be purchased online. Though all of the stoves share the same shape, there are different sizes and features available on different models. Shop online to see all of the available models, prices and features available on pot belly stoves. Some models have windows on the door so that you can see the fire. This makes them more enjoyable and also makes it easy to keep track of how the fire is burning and when wood needs to be added to the stove. They are most popular in the deep south of the United States, as well as in New England. Models can be found in almost every state.</P><P>In regards to the initial purchase and the countless projects that go into it, your home represents one of the largest investments throughout your life. From interior design to landscaping, and from professional remodeling services to do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, it can be a challenge to discover and understand what the best home improvement products, equipment and services are. Alexander Sutton helps homeowners, property managers, and others to address this challenge with convenient success. For more information, please visit Pot Belly Wood Stoves.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-6531412178027201412013-07-03T20:00:00.000-07:002013-07-03T20:00:01.330-07:00Hiring An Interior Designer - Should We or Shouldn't We? <P>There's one thing lot of people overlook when they decide it's time to furnish their home. One of the most important decisions is whether to do it themselves or fess up on their lack of skills and hire a professional. A decision has to be made as to who is going to drive the bus. All humor aside, this is serious business and some serious money.</P><P>There's a good argument for both sides. Some people are able to do it themselves and have a good eye for putting together a nice home. My experience has taught me that most of these people usually end up taking much longer to complete it and usually spend more money than they had planned. Typically, at least some of the honest ones that I know, will admit to a few mistakes they are living with until they've gotten their money's worth before they can replace them. However, to most of these people, it's the process that they want to savor, the endless weekends of roaming around furniture stores and the endless nights of agonizing over details like tile selections, lighting fixtures, paint colors, etc. Yeah, right.</P><P>Some people enlist the help of friends or neighbors while others entrust the whole process to a salesman from a local store. There's nothing wrong with any of these assuming the friends, neighbors and salesman are knowledgeable...because they are doing it with your money. The big question is who is taking responsibility if things don't go as planned? I've known a few people who ended up in therapy and minus some good friends as a result. Still, there are plenty of talented people out there who are starting their careers in the design business that will someday rise to the top.</P><P>If the idea of spending every weekend for the next year shopping for furniture, or the idea that you might have to fire a close friend because you don't think painting every room in your house beige is a smart decision, you always have the option of hiring a professional interior designer to take the heat. Beyond saving your marriage, they may save your home from a design disaster.</P><P>Contrary to popular belief, most good designers will actually save you money in the long run, assuming you have your wits about you when you make your compensation arrangements with them. Make sure to figure in their commissions or design fees in the overall budget. Some of the biggest savings will be in your time. The designer will do the leg work and usually bring you in at the end for your approval.</P><P>Another huge savings is the money saved from not making mistakes. Designers are especially trained to work in scale to make sure pieces fit as planned. This can save a lot of heartache not to mention a lot of space in the garage from storing that over-sized sofa that didn't fit in the living room and couldn't be returned. Mistakes are one of the most costly components in the design business and when you're making those choices yourself, you have to own up to them. When it happens, and it will, you'll wish you had a good designer on speed dial. However, the single biggest advantage of a hiring a professional will be the final outcome. Most homes, in their natural state, do not inspire many homeowners to design beyond the expected.</P><P>Designers can also save you money by educating you on your purchases. The least expensive sofa can be the most expensive, especially if you don't learn the lesson the first time. It's cheaper to buy a better sofa than to buy two inexpensive sofas...and it will still outlast both of them in terms of quality and style.</P><P>One big concern about hiring a designer is how to select the right one. That's kind of like asking who would make the best President. It all depends on who you ask. There are a lot of people who call themselves designers since the design field has few regulations.</P><P>Until recently, Florida was a leader in the interior design field and required anyone calling themselves a designer or an interior designer to be licensed by the state to ensure their qualifications. Qualifying for that license meant accredited educational training and/or extensive experience in the field before taking a grueling exam that is not so easy to pass. This law was recently rescinded. It's now open season on potential design clients so do your due diligence before making your choice. I would recommend making a few background checks. Get some references and check their background. Are they licensed? Are they ASID members or affiliates? Have they been in business awhile? Make sure you're comfortable giving this person large sums of your money because it's going to happen. If they suggest paying vendors directly, be very, very careful!</P><P>Once you hire the designer, step back if you want the best possible outcome. Too many clients hire designers and then try to control every aspect of the job. They are usually the ones that are the least thrilled with the final outcome because it looks like it's missing something. And it usually is...it's missing the designer's taste that's been replaced by the clients choices.</P><P>An experienced designer can read into your lifestyle and create something for your future rather than the present. They can avoid pitfalls and trends that will quickly date a look, helping save you money over the years to come. They can expose you to ideas and products that you probably don't even know exist in some cases. Think of it like hiring a lawyer. You wouldn't hire one and then cite case numbers to help him defend your case. Let them do what you've paid them to do.</P><P>In the end, anyone who plans on furnishing a room or a whole house can afford a designer. It might be a small budget or the budget of a small country. Designers don't dictate the prices of items. They just help you find the best ones that are in your price range. A designer can be your best ally but you have to be honest when you talk to them about expectations and limitations. Be honest and straight forward. If you do, you'll get more than you've bargained for. If your budget is unrealistic, they can help you figure out which items you should start with.</P><P>However, if you're thinking about tackling the project on your own, let's see if you're equipped for some of the basics. Here are a few simple questions you'll probably be asked during the process. (answers below) <BR>If you're using polished stone in your shower, should you use sanded or un-sanded grout?If you have incandescent lighting in your kitchen ceiling, can you use LED lighting under the counter?How many ceiling lights can you put on a typical switch?If you're hanging wallpaper, should you use oil based or water based prep?If you are building a banquette in your kitchen, what is the best seat height?If you're buying a rug for under your dining room, how big should it be?How big should your chandelier be if your dining table is 60" round?If you have allergies, why type of cushion material should you use in the sofa?How much bigger is a king bed than a queen bed?Should you lay your wood floor parallel or perpendicular to the sliding glass doors?<P>Simple questions? Maybe. Maybe not. But the wrong answers could be costly or annoying to live with. Hiring a good designer also has a lot of other benefits also. They are trained to look at your lifestyle, how you plan to use the house, accessibility for handicapped clients, fire ratings, building codes, safety issues, manufacturer's reputations, space requirements, etc</P><P>Of course they also bring a huge knowledge of how to select the proper furniture styles and which ones work best together. Over time, you will build more than a beautiful home together, if they are a good designer you will probably build a relationship that will last for many, many years. They are one of the few people that you will meet that will get to know you like only a few ever will. And with that knowledge, they will always be there for you to make sure your best interests are looked after.</P><P>If nothing else, do yourself a favor and invite a designer over for a chat. Look at their portfolio and get to know them a little. Tell them what you have in your head and leave yourself open for new ideas. And if you decide to hire them, start planning your weekends because you're going to have a lot more free time on your hands.</P><P>Answers: <BR>Polished stone or not, use sanded grout. It's more porous and dries quicker.<BR>Incandescent light gives off a warm white light, LED almost always has cold blue cast. If both lights are on at the same time, it can look a bit odd.<BR>It depends on the wattage. Best rule of thumb is 600 watts to a switch. Larger capacity switches are available but they usually stick out of the wall to allow venting of heat.<BR>Always oil. If you ever need to remove the paper, it won't pull the face off your drywall.<BR>Dining height is 19-20" depending on the softness of the cushion. This is slightly higher than normal seating height for a living room.<BR>A good rule of thumb in 36" beyond the sides of your table. Otherwise, when guests pull their chairs out to sit down to eat, the back chair legs will be off the rug and the chair will not sit evenly.<BR>I always like to suggest chandeliers to be about 2/3 the width of the table. The most common mistake is buying fixtures that are too small. The distance from the table can vary from 30-36" depending on shape of fixture. Personally, I like to oversize the fixtures a bit for effect.<BR>Poly filled cushions, preferably with spring cores. Never any down feathers or latex.<BR>A king is 16" wider than a queen but not any longer. And whatever you do, don't buy a king bed and put a 24" wide nightstand next to it. It will look like a postage stamp in most cases.<BR>You never want to look down the joints in the wood toward a major light source. The "snaking" of joints can be very distracting. Run the direction of the wood perpendicular to the light source.<P>William Philby, ASID is the co-founder of Retro Interiors and Island City Traders in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a Florida licensed interior designer and professional member of ASID. A BFA graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Mr. Philby has been practicing interior design for 30 years in South Florida. http://www.retrointeriors.net/</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-82169473779383734082013-06-16T09:06:00.000-07:002013-06-16T09:06:00.586-07:00Ideas for Hallways <P>Your hall is perhaps the most important room in your home. As it is the first room that visitors step into, it is the room from which they will form their first impression of you and your home. It needs to be welcoming too, so how can you achieve a hallway that is welcoming as well as tidy rather than looking like it is just used as a thoroughfare from A to B.</P><P><STRONG>Storage</STRONG></P><P>Good storage is essential in your hall. A hall seems to be the place where people deposit shoes and coats, leave 'stuff' on the stairs to bring upstairs later, keys are left on tables, letters that remain unanswered and other motley items seem to be at a high risk of being left in the hall.</P>If you have space under the stairs, then use it as a mini cloakroom for coats and shoes. Have a little door opening onto the lower part of the storage under the stairs - this is perfect for the hoover or children's toys or shoes.Alternatively, have a low unit that has space for shoes and also a seat for young children to sit while removing/putting on their shoes.Ensure your side table has some small drawers - these are really handy for items such as the car keys, gloves, unanswered post and other small items that tend to accumulate in halls.Invest in a few pretty or interesting coat hook s - they will look nice on the wall even when bare and will provide storage for your coats, hats and umbrellas not to mention for your visitors' coats when they call.If you have young children, place some coat hooks at their level so they can hang up their own coats easily.<P><STRONG>Wallpaper</STRONG></P><P>Why wallpaper your hallway? Won't it be vulnerable to damage?</P><P>Not necessarily. You don't have to wallpaper the whole hall, in any case, wallpapering a high stairwell wall could be very difficult as well as expensive but a little wallpaper can go a long way in making your hallway look much more stylish, interesting and cosy.</P>You could wallpaper the stair risers - this could look particularly dramatic on a painted stairs and the wallpaper is protected by a clear varnish.Wallpapering a feature wall that is opposite the front door can really make an impact. Not only does it look visually appealing, but it can really draw the person is and can look so welcoming.Create a panelled space with some wooden batons to the size that you want - be it a small space on the wall above a radiator or a side table or most of the wall and wallpaper within it for interest and drama. Often a single roll of wallpaper will suffice so an economical choice too.To create interest along a long, narrow hallway, place a wallpaper panel either at the end of the hallway or at intervals along the length.<P>And last of all, don't forget to place a mirror in your hall - so handy for that last second check on your appearance as you dash out the door but mirrors will also bounce light around, making the space appear brighter.</P><P>Lorna is the owner of the Online Home, Gift and Interiors store Garrendenny Lane at http://www.garrendennylane.com/, home to many fabulous homewares, fabrics and wallpapers that can be shipped worldwide.<BR>Visit Lorna's blog there too.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-16752085553728907642013-06-05T09:59:00.000-07:002013-06-05T09:59:01.236-07:00Rubber Gym Flooring Is Great For Many Applications <P>Rubber gym flooring is often used in aerobics rooms, weight rooms, health clubs and spas. It is good for people who are working out because it is a softer surface that does not jar the body while exercising. There are many options for rubber floors. Some are made of recycled rubber and some are made of virgin rubber.</P><P>Hard surfaces, such as wood and concrete can be hard on the body. Injuries can occur in the feet, ankles, knees, hips and spine when repetitive jumping or other high impact aerobic exercises are done. It is also less injurious if a fall occurs, and rubber can better withstand dropped weights or other heavy items in the gym environment.</P><P>Rubber gym flooring gives just enough with every impact that it helps protect the joints during aerobic exercise. Women also have to take care of their internal organs during exercise, especially if they have undergone a cesarean section or a hysterectomy. The heavy jarring movements of aerobics, jumping jacks, jumping rope and running can cause the bladder to detach, requiring surgery to repair.</P><P>The softer gym floors provided by rubber products replace the hard wood and concrete floors that cause this damage. While caution should always be taken during exercise, rubber can help prevent injuries and protect joints and internal organs during heavy exercise.</P><P>Rubber gym flooring is available online. You can order the flooring in sections or panels that are easy to assemble. Rubber is also an affordable alternative for flooring for small gyms, spas and other fitness businesses. The government also has applications that are practical for rubber floors.</P><P>There are many colors and styles to choose from online. You can also select from new or recycled rubber floors, depending on your budget and your priorities. Ordering online is easy, and you can have your rubber floor very quickly.</P><P>Rubber has also been shown to decrease fatigue during exercise. The best way to prevent injury during any type of workout is to stretch before, during and after exercising. Light stretching before exercise will begin to warm the muscles and loosen them up.</P><P>Stretching during exercise can actually improve your strength as well as flexibility. Heavy stretching should be saved for after exercise. The muscles are fully warmed, and you can better improve your overall flexibility best at this time. Check online for the best selection and prices on rubber floors for your gym or health club.</P><P>Alexander Sutton enjoys the entire consumer experience from top to bottom and enjoys the opportunity to help others protect themselves from scams while uncovering budget-friendly solutions across a variety of industries. For more information, please visit Rubber Gym Flooring.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-40228621030747619192013-05-22T01:00:00.000-07:002013-05-22T01:00:02.002-07:00Pottery Vases <P>Vase as the name suggest is an open container, often used to hold cut flowers. It can be made from a number of materials including ceramics and glass. The vase is often decorated and thus used to extend the beauty of its contents.</P><P>Vases are defined as having a certain anatomy. Lowest is the foot, a distinguishable base to the piece. The design of the base may be bulbous, flat or another shape. Resting atop the body is the shoulder, where the body curves inward. Then the neck, where the vase is given more height. Lastly, the lip, where the vase flares back out towards the top. Many vases are usually given handles. Today, the shapes of vases have started out the common ones to modern designs and shapes.The idea that we interest to make this is, vase has grown to be now important decorative piece and if you're ready to get a new look of your respective interior, flower vases can start to play a huge role normally indicate. There are actually different types of beautiful flower vases in the market which will include a unique decor to the room. Flower vases can be obtained from various materials and craftsmanship like glass, ceramic, metal, clay, stone, wood, and more! Those are the best option for your personal favourite flower arrangements on any circumstance or merely decorating the rooms.</P><P>Flower vases magnify the wonder flowers and prepare a resilient impression to those who admire them. Reported by your decision, you'll be able to fill all of them a variety of flowers. In this flower vases market, customers could possibly get different types of sizes, shapes, or designs. So, what exactly are you looking forward to? Obtain a decorative flower vase that will add an unexplainable elegance, style and grace to your property. Such vases are often available with antique look in which you can set a few stems of roses or any other types of flowers.</P><P>on basis of the design the vases can be explained as antique look vases, glass vases, hanging vases etc.</P><P>An artist's touch can also add exceptionality to some vase. A vase can offer an artist which has a surface for his craft. In this way these decorative items can be art pieces whether they can be with or without flowers. Beautiful shapes, curves and colours make vases wonderful enhancers of whatever you decide and place in there. You'll find different brands of vase you can find like moorcroft, poole etc. A great collection are available at Pottery Market.</P><P>Why not start to give your house a new glazed look with pottery market at http://www.potterymarket.co.uk/<BR>Gift your near and dear ones with pottery market.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-80238402704454272312013-05-05T04:37:00.000-07:002013-05-05T04:37:00.810-07:00Using A Wood Coat Rack For Decorating <P>One of my favorite rooms in the house to decorate is the living room. Depending on how the layout of the room is I can sometimes coordinate adjoining rooms and halls/foyer as well. I love woods, in particular cherry and oak. Not surprisingly then you will find some kind of wood in my home.</P><P>I also like to blend different looks together. You will easily find vintage 18th century European accents mixed with a little European and Asian. It sounds strange and it does look eclectic, but it turns out beautifully exotic and unique. I like to start right at my front door with a beautiful cherry wood coat rack. Next to it I place a complimentary cherry wood shoe rack. I like to have everyone remove their shoes before they enter my home so I make the idea inviting for them. On the wall near the coat rack hang beautiful pictures of the family in cherry wood frames. You get a sense of what kind of home you are entering based on what you see immediately upon walking through the door. This sets the tone for the entire home.</P><P>In the living room there are two cherry wood arm chairs and a matching side table. I love to have beautiful drapes so burgundy satin hang in front of the patio doors. The carpet is ivory and the sofa is rose with blue and burgundy accent flowers. It's a certainly a dramatic room but that it what I am going for. The cherry wood chairs and table are the perfect accents for the coat rack and shoe stand by the front door.</P><P>I don't use a coffee table because I like to leave the space open for the children to run around. What I do like to do is add a black oak drop leaf table to the right of the sofa. I drop the back side and place it caddy corner with a large Asian style brass lamp in the center. Surrounding the lamp are my favorite books, underneath is a beautiful table cloth. The lamp shade is actually an ivory colored French lace style shade. The colors in the lamp accent the entire room.</P><P>The entire room, front entrance and all are a testament to my personality. It's dramatic, inviting, family oriented and multi-cultural. If you can't express yourself with your home décor then you're just not free to be yourself. When decorating my home I don't get wrapped up into what is popular or what is designer, I am far more concerned with what I love!</P><P>Megan Cherry writes for PegandRail.com If you are looking for a high quality well made coat rack stop in and check us out, we manufacture a complete line of coat racks including a wall mounted wood coat rack from a shaker peg style rack to a modern wall coat rack with brass hooks or satin nickel for the brushed stainless steel look we even have a very modern looking hand rub white lacquer coat racks to go along with our line of Oak, cherry and Maple wall coat racks.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-86036987829913445742013-04-29T02:57:00.000-07:002013-04-29T02:57:01.420-07:00How To Place A Photo On Canvas <P>As a photographer, whether you are a professional or just an amateur that likes to play around with photos, when you take an amazing photo it is hard not to want to show it to everyone in the world. This is why many people often times take their best photos and blow them up to place on their walls. This is especially true if the photo happens to contain your family members because then you have more than one reason to want to show it off to other friends and family members.</P><P>However, some people refrain from blowing up photos in their home because they do not like the look of high resolution glossy prints in their home that capture light and reflect it back all over the place. This gleam can sometimes be distracting and unseemly, especially if your house is well lit. After all, if the photo is always gleaming or reflecting back a light beam then most people will not really be able to enjoy its full beauty making it kind of useless in the end and even a bit tacky after awhile.</P><P>You can however make your photograph more interesting and fitting as a piece of wall decor if you consider learning how to place a photo on canvas. This is due to the fact that canvas prints are actually a bit more attractive and will not pick up and reflect light at every angle. Instead, they will actually absorb light so that you can easily enjoy the photo without worrying about it detracting from anything else in the room. Although it will make your photo so eye catching that it may actually end up being the most attention drawing item in the world, only this time not in a bad way.</P><P>The best way to do this is by heading online to look for a website that can help you tailor your photo to make it fitting for a canvas and then actually print it onto the canvas for you. Most photo printing websites will be able to offer you a great deal on this type of service and will also offer you software so that you can make sure your photo is in its best shape before you have it turned into your wall decor. After all, if you are going to use a photo to help decorate your walls you want to make sure that the final result is stunning and flawless.</P><P>By taking the time to get your canvas created before you actually start to decorate your home and paint the walls you will have a better idea of what color scheme to go with, especially if you plan on having a few different canvas photos created to use as a themed wall decor trend around the home. In the long run planning ahead will help create a much more cohesive look for your home.</P><P>If you are thinking about using canvas prints in your home as wall decor take a look at what you can create right now at http://www.24hourcanvas.com/.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-12807095869115797062013-04-08T18:44:00.000-07:002013-04-08T18:44:00.864-07:00The Benefits Of Using Industrial Solar Panels <P>There are a plethora of advantages to harnessing the sun's powerful rays through the use of solar panels. When this technology is applied to commercial and industrial uses, the benefits only seem to multiply. Industrial solar panels feature more than just a bigger surface area and some tout a drastic reduction in the cost of running large businesses. In certain situations, solar panels meant for industries can even be applied for home use. Not only is the utilization of solar panels beneficial to keeping costs under control, but they are also beneficial to reduce the negative environmental impact on our planet that running large businesses can create.</P><P>There are several different kinds of renewable energy sources, such as power created by wind turbines, energy made by forced water hydro-power, biomass (plant energy) and the very popular solar power. Photovoltaic (also known as PV) collectors are the cells that capture sunlight which is later converted into usable electric currents through something called the photoelectric effect. The first PV cell was created in the 1880s by Charles Fritts and has since been improved upon by many different engineers throughout history. The current models being used today have the ability to store captured solar energy within molten salts for later use, which is extremely important when sunshine cannot be accessed 24 hours a day. Salt that is molten has been found to be the perfect medium as it has a specific heat capability with the power to distribute heat at comparable temperatures to conventional power systems and it is extremely low cost.</P><P>When it comes to the environmental responsibility of larger factories and businesses that generate toxic greenhouse gases and utilize fossil fuels, many have not made the switch to a sustainable resource. In the world that we all live, it is important for these corporations to make headway in the fight for a greener globe. An excellent way to do this is through the use of solar panels. An area appropriate for the installation of large scale industrial solar panels on factories is the roof. By using this space, rooftops housing solar panels not only capture huge amounts of light, but also protect normal roofing materials from dangerous and oftentimes destructive UV rays.</P><P>The cost benefits of using industrial solar panels quickly add up when looked at over a long period of time. The argument of many of the bigger corporations when looking at switching to solar power is the initial cost of the materials and installation versus the time it takes to be paid back. However, if the business is set up to last throughout the next decade, not having to pay for electricity immediately begins to offset the cost of installation. It is estimated that it can take anywhere from eight to twelve years for large companies to see a full return on their investment. However, being able to declare the company's product has been made with a renewable source of power is another wonderful benefit to using solar power.</P><P>Alexander Sutton enjoys the entire consumer experience from top to bottom and enjoys the opportunity to help others protect themselves from scams while uncovering budget-friendly solutions across a variety of industries. For more information, please visit Industrial Solar Panels.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-71679354046312275402013-03-24T06:48:00.000-07:002013-03-24T06:48:00.817-07:00Three Great Ideas of Interior Renovation That Will Surely Increase the Value of Your Property <P>Your house needs an interior renovation at least once a year. It has been said that lack of interior renovation can cause boredom, and can lead to depression or anxiety. However, it doesn't mean that you need to conduct an interior renovation often, and it does not mean that you need to spend a lot of money whenever you need to renovate your house. This article will be showing you a few things that you may want to consider if you want to conduct an interior renovation.</P><P><STRONG>1. Renovating the Bathroom</STRONG></P><P>The bathroom may be a small part of your house, but it plays a great role in your everyday life. If you want to renovate something in your house, then why don't you consider the bathroom? Regardless of the design of your house, the bathroom should be maintained comfortable for anyone who will be using it. Changing the colors and the materials that are installed in your bathroom is a great way to start. You may also want to change the lightning in your bathroom to match the materials that are installed in it. Marble, glass, and ceramic materials are often used in the bathroom, but you are free to choose anything, since you are the one who will be using it in the first place.</P><P><STRONG>2. Giving Your Attic a Dash of Attention</STRONG></P><P>In most cases, the attic is the last place that a person would want to renovate. Most of the time, attics are used as storage rooms, and are often sealed off. Have you ever considered using the attics as playroom for your children? Attics can even be transformed into a den where the whole family can bond together. You don't have to spend a lot of money in renovating the attic. A little clean-up and additional lightning will transform this abandoned space into a great place to stay.</P><P><STRONG>3. Try Building Orangeries</STRONG></P><P>These are not the orange fields that you can find on a farm. These are spaces outside your house that is often made of glass. If there is an open space outside your house, then why don't you consider building orangeries? This place can serve as a studio or as a place where the whole family can share breakfast together. The source of light is what makes orangeries unique, and this is a perfect place to relax. You can even use this place to read books and play every afternoon. Building orangeries for your house won't cost a lot of money, given that you have someone who can build it for you.</P><P>If you want an interior renovation Oakland Gardens, then the best thing that you can do is to visit our website. We have everything that you need get the best design. Visit our website to know why we are the leader in interior renovation Oakland Gardens.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-83660331825549528532013-03-12T00:04:00.000-07:002013-03-12T00:04:00.109-07:00Kid's Rooms: Do They Need to Match the Rest of the House? How Can It Represent Them and Our Home? <P>When pulling together the interior of a home, it is important to consider flow between rooms. This often raises a concern for parents when it comes to their children's room. Very often our children's taste is nothing like ours, so how do we make peace between bright pink or red walls with large decals and stuffed animals, and a sleek white contemporary home? The simple answer......we don't.</P><P>In regards to your home, we will be the first to tell you that you need to have some elements of consistency that tie a home together. This goes as far as your child's bedroom door. The reasoning behind this is two-fold. The first reason is based on the concept of sub-conscious cuing. This means there is a subtle difference between public and private spaces. In this regard, the mains spaces such as the living and dining rooms, guest room, main bath, and kitchen are considered public space. Private space would be the bedrooms and ensuites. With this in mind your guest would move freely within the public space, and would likely be invited into the private spaces. If this is the case, the color and feel is similar in the public spaces, which put your guest as ease. By moving into one of the private spaces which is treated differently, it triggers a sub-conscious reaction in your guest of "this is different". This brings awareness to your guest. That said, the master bedroom is often tied into the rest of the house to some degree as it is the owner's taste that is often reflected throughout the home.</P><P>The second point is that your children's rooms should be a reflection of their personality. This is the only space that really belongs to them; therefore it is important to involve them in the process of selection. There are a few considerations with this though. Firstly your child will change their mind over time. As the homeowner, you need to decide how soon you will be comfortable re-doing the room. For example little girls from 2-10 often really love pink and purple rooms. Once they hit their tweens and teens they often like a slightly more mature look. So when you paint your little girl's room pink you have to weigh out if you are willing to re-do it in 2, 5, or 10 years. Another approach is to pick a very light version of the colour they want when they are little, then it transitions better through their changing and maturing tastes. Every little girl will pick the brightest pink or purple available, so if you want it to be softer, pick 2 or 3 options that you like and present her with a choice from them. If she is still insistent on a bright pink, you can compromise with bright pink bedding, accessories, or curtains. In this regard everyone wins. Also, if your child is insistent on painting a big mural of Winnie the Pooh in her/his room, we can opt for decals or framed art. This way when your child ages a bit and no longer wants Winnie, an entire new paint job is not necessary.</P><P>The same can be said for young boys. Often they go through a red-and black phase around 6-14. This fills parents with dread as they envision spending hours getting the paint to properly cover the walls, and many coats to cover it up, down the line. Again, as above there is always a compromise. A good option is to paint neutral walls, a great grey or tan, then bump it up with a feature wall in red or Charcoal. This way, as in the little girl's room, we can add those colours in other areas that are easier to change as they get older.</P><P>Another advantage to painting a lighter color on most of the walls in your child's room is that the marks don't show up as much when the walls get dinged. Realistically at some point there will be a flying hockey puck or an adventurous Barbie hitting the walls, not to mention sticky or gooey hands. A feature wall gives the same impact while still having washability and durability which leads to a longer period between paint jobs. For washability you can consider a slightly higher sheen such as a pearl. The higher sheen makes the paint more washable, but it also shows blemishes much more. I tend to do an eggshell or a pearl depending on the brand of paint.</P><P>Involving your child in the decorating of their room gives them a sense of importance and responsibility. It helps them to feel heard, and encourages them to maintain their room better. That said, they do not need to have absolute say, you as the parent have that. If you are having a really hard time coming to a compromise consider bringing in a professional Interior Designer to help with the transition. We are trained to do this, and make the process more manageable and pleasant for everyone. Plus it is a bit easier for us to represent both parties involved so that everyone is happy with the space. This should be a fun process for everyone involved, and your child will remember being included in this process, I know I do.</P><P>Melinda Richardson is co-owner of Premise Design, an interior design firm in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, providing interior decorating, home staging, drafting and renovations for the home or office. For more information and more helpful articles visit http://www.interiordesignercalgary.ca/</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-25851389756404800982013-02-15T23:16:00.000-08:002013-02-15T23:16:01.062-08:00The Different Grades Of Antique Oak Flooring <P>If you are looking to achieve a certain charm or feeling of nostalgia within your home, a suggested area that oftentimes gets overlooked is flooring. Antique oak flooring is characterized by unique trademarks like stress cracks, nail holes and expected wood knots. And with the natural worn look of aging patina comes a kind of warmth not easily achieved by other design elements. Old factories, mills, barns and breweries provide wood reclamation sources throughout the world. Because all of this material differs in age, appearance and quality, there are now different flooring grades to classify the wood. By knowing what each grade entails, you will be able to make a sound investment in a type of antique oak to meet all of your home design needs.</P><P>The first kind of grade is actually separated into two subgroups: country grade antique oak flooring and country grade antique white oak flooring. Oak that is country grade generally comes unfinished and plain sawn. There are many natural characteristics intact with this type of oak flooring, including color variations, tight wood knots, cracks, varying wood grains and insect tracts. The second type of subgroup, country grade selected for white oak, is done so for the more consistent coloring and light brown palette. It is preferred by those seeking a more historic oak look within their home. It comes with many of the same characteristics as the plain country grade and is available unfinished, plain sawn and square edged. Country grades are most often re-milled from used barn beams and old boards.</P><P>Rustic grade antique oak flooring has more of a varied color palette than the other types of wood grades. Along with a wider color variance, verification of prior use is found in prevalent sawmill marks, larger knots and nail holes and weathered cracks. The natural characteristics also found with the rustic grade are very similar to the country grade. A variance in grain patterns, worm tracks, knots and holes from nails all contribute to an authentic antique floor feel. This re-milled wood is most often sourced from antique barn siding, sheathing boards and the rare outside layer of aged barn beams.</P><P>The last kind of antique oak flooring grade is what is known as old original surface grade. The source for this re-milled wood is solely sourced from antique barn siding and the outside edges of barn beams. This is the most rural kind of wood flooring as the sawmill marks and naturally occurring wood characteristics have been left untouched. This is thought to give the flooring the look of an old bar room and the texture of a rough barn interior.</P><P>In regards to the initial purchase and the countless projects that go into it, your home represents one of the largest investments throughout your life. From interior design to landscaping, and from professional remodeling services to do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, it can be a challenge to discover and understand what the best home improvement products, equipment and services are. Alexander Sutton helps homeowners, property managers, and others to address this challenge with convenient success. For more information, please visit Antique Oak Flooring.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-31828235004373828052013-02-09T20:17:00.000-08:002013-02-09T20:17:00.808-08:00Tips For Decorating Smaller Properties <P>Homes come in all shapes and sizes, from simple studio apartments with a pull-down bed, to grand Victorian mansions, with bedrooms and public rooms to spare. No matter the size or style of your home, we generally want it to feel as airy and open as possible, with a real sense of space. This is hardly an issue if you are fortunate enough to own a palatial Victorian mansion, but when you own something smaller it is important to come up with some good ideas to make what limited space you have available seem that bit greater.</P><P>One intriguing idea which is worth using when dealing with a cramped, confined space is to think of a yacht or even a jet, in which everything is super-stylish, yet compact and functional, and then apply those ideas to your own project. After all, the designers of those luxury yachts moored in the South of France or off the Costa Esmeralda do not let the lack of space interfere with their design approach!</P><P>In a small space a minimalist design and monochrome colour palette, perhaps with the addition of a bold accent colour, makes it easier to avoid the impression of clutter. Anything which reflects light is also helpful, so mirrors and glass - as well as mirrored furniture - often work well in smaller spaces. You should try to find multifunctional pieces of furniture, such as stacking chairs or coffee tables which will open up space when they are not in use, as well chests or boxes which can serve as both a side table or coffee table as well as a storage solution all rolled into one. Having said that, it is much better to pick a few pieces of full-size furniture, rather than filling your living space up with doll's house pieces.</P><P>As for lighting, you should try to avoid overhead lights as they are a little too stark. Recessed lights or spotlights are often a good solution, as they enable you to direct lighting exactly where you want it. Subtle lighting either in the form of wall or table lamps, or even scented candles are ideal. Try some of the luxury candles you can find from companies like True Grace candles or Yankee candles.</P><P>When you are trying to decide on the colour scheme for the smaller home, the main thing to bear in mind is to avoid dark shades, as they have a tendency to draw the walls in. It is much better to keep to light neutral shades to help bounce the light around your living space and open the area up. You should paint ceilings in a similar colour so as to give the illusion of as much space as possible. Another simple, almost obvious, tip for decorating a confined space is to dress the windows with either blinds or shutters, rather than curtains, because this will help free up some much-needed floor space.</P><P>And if you find the overall effect is still a little cramped you could always remove doors in public areas, which again will give the illusion of a greater flow of space around your home. So there you have it - several easy-to-implement tips to maximise the appearance of light and space in the smaller home, without costing the earth.</P><P>For the best in home fragrances including scented candles by Yankee candles and True Grace candles why not visit the Scented Candle Store</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-77183572888860748802013-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:002013-01-18T09:59:01.032-08:00Tips On Decorating A Gloomy Basement <P>No matter how well designed your home may be, there are always certain areas, some nooks and crannies which do not seem to get as much natural daylight as others. Washrooms and basements are the perfect examples. So what is the best way to brighten up a room in our home that doesn't have any windows, to get rid of the feeling of confinement?</P><P>You may be surprised to learn that it is actually easier than you think. The following tips are perfect for those areas where there is little or no natural daylight, such as the basement or indeed any other place in the home that is dark and spartan. The first - and perhaps most obvious - idea is to decorate the area in question using bright colours.</P><P>Hang brightly coloured wallpaper or paint walls and other surfaces in vibrant, light colours to create a brighter ambiance and to create an impression of airiness, of a larger space. The walls, for example, could be painted white - other colours such as shades of yellow, light red or orange also work well, though in this case you need to exercise a little self-restraint, just in case the overall appearance is a little gaudy. Also make sure that you paint the ceiling in a similar light colour. If you paint the ceiling in a dark shade it will have the effect of drawing in the space, making things feel more compact and restricted.</P><P>The same applies to any furniture that you choose for these areas: warm colours would be appropriate for sofas and chairs. Brightly coloured cushions and throws will help open up even the most confined of spaces. By all means, pick one or two darker coloured pieces in you are looking to generate contrast. The idea is that they contrast with the warm colours that dominate most of the room. Try to avoid too much clutter when it comes to furnishing a basement, as you are looking to create a feeling of spaciousness. A few well-chosen larger pieces of furniture are all that is required. You can always add a decorative flourish with careful selected accessories.</P><P>In any confined space your choice of lighting is also very important. Get this right and it can make a huge difference to the appearance of your room. The opposite is also true, so it is worth devoting some time and attention to. Choose the correct form of lighting. Most basements have low ceilings, and therefore it is not a good idea to use hanging lamps, as there is simply not enough headroom for them to work to the best effect. You will be left with pools of light reflected low against the walls, which will create a claustrophobic effect, exactly what you are trying to avoid. A suitable alternative would be to use wall fittings, table lamps or even floorlamps or uplighters.</P><P>Alternatively, why not include some scented candles to give that extra cosy and fresh touch? Luxury scented candles from companies like True Grace candles or Yankee candles are stylish enough to blend in with any decorative effect you wish to achieve. Not only will they give your basement a subtle diffused light but they will also make it smell fresh and fragrant which can also be a problem in basement areas. Do not be tempted to treat the basement any differently from other parts of your home, taking the same care and attention to its decor as you would do with the other parts of your home. After all, with a bit of imagination you can transform a plain, functional basement used previously for little more than storage, into an attractive additional room in your home.</P><P>The author is owner of he Scented Candle Store where you will find a range of home fragrances, including scented candles, by companies such as Yankee candles</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-50169732653550421742012-12-25T04:14:00.000-08:002012-12-25T04:14:01.015-08:00Is Laminate Flooring Right for Your Bathroom? <P>If you think that tile is the only reasonable option when it comes to bathroom flooring, think again. These days, more and more people are opting for laminate flooring for their bathrooms. There are many compelling reasons to have laminate installed in this important room. If you haven't already considered doing so, it is time that you did. This option doesn't just look fantastic - it can save you time, money and frustration as well. If you are ready to learn more about the perks of using laminate in the bathroom, you should check out the information below.</P><P><B>It is Easy to Install</B></P><P>You don't have to be a hardcore do-it-yourself type to install laminate flooring in your bathroom. Compared with installing something like tile, it is an absolute breeze. If you opt for floating styles, you don't even have to mess around with smelly and messy adhesives. The various pieces simply slide together like a jigsaw puzzle, and you are left with a smooth, seamless and very attractive end result. One thing that you should know is that it pays to have assistance when installing this type of flooring. Have a friend, relative or neighbor come over to give you a hand. The process will go a lot more smoothly.</P><P><B>It is Affordable</B></P><P>If you have been putting off your dreams of remodeling your bathroom, laminate could tip the scales and make it affordable enough to tackle. Laminate flooring is prized for its very low price tag. You will marvel at how inexpensive it is compared with certain types of tile. You can save a lot of money by opting for laminate; you can use the money that you save to buy stylish new accessories and features for your bathroom. Don't just buy the first thing that crosses your path, though. Be sure to shop around a little in order to get the very best deal. Prices can vary considerably, so take your time.</P><P><B>It is Easy to Clean</B></P><P>The bathroom can be a messy place. Spills are very common, for instance. Tile floors are troublesome because dirt can work into the grout lines and make them difficult to clean. If you'd rather not get down with a toothbrush to scrub the flooring in your bathroom, consider laminate instead. People love the easy with which laminate can be cleaned. Even if a pretty large spill occurs, it can be wiped away in no time flat. It is a lot easier to maintain a sanitary bathroom when its floor is so easy to clean.</P><P><B>It is Attractive</B></P><P>Laminate flooring is available in a dizzying array of styles, patterns and colors. It is easy to find designs that replicate the look of high-quality tile for a fraction of the cost. Wood designs are also available and put a unique twist on the appearance of any bathroom. You can also find intriguing patterns and dramatic textures too. Getting creative with the appearance of your bathroom is a snap when you stick with laminate. To make the shopping process easier, decide on a basic color scheme and style ahead of time. You won't have to wade through as many options when you narrow things down right from the start.</P><P>Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to bathroom flooring, laminate is an exciting and stylish option to consider. If you decide to use laminate flooring in your bathroom, you are bound to be thrilled with the results. You will have a much easier time keeping your bathroom in tiptop shape. In the event of spills or other messes, cleanup will be quick, simple and trouble-free. The low price tag of laminate flooring makes it perfect for anyone who is on a budget. On top of all of that, it can be installed even by those who aren't particularly handy. All told, laminate is a great option for any bathroom.</P><P>Gina Hopkins writes about different home renovation tips and interior design with laminate flooring, out of St. Louis, MO. Always looking for the best bargain on renovation materials, she tends to end up shopping at http://www.flooringamerica.com/ more often than not.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-947214604541891792012-12-12T16:56:00.000-08:002012-12-12T16:56:00.873-08:00Interior Designers: Designing The Way Into A New Era <P>Some of the topics I write about work well mixed with a little humor or sarcasm. Some, like the one I'm writing about today, are best left as they are. This is written for designers who are feeling a little discouraged with the economy. There is hope. We are designers. We make a living out of turning nothing into something. We can make a difference.</P><P>If there's one trend that I've noticed over the past few years it's the concept that the good times are gone. People are complaining about jobs, taxes, gas prices, loss of home values, etc. It's become a national pastime to find something wrong with everything. Just listening to people who complain all the time can put otherwise happy people in a poor mood and it propagates the whole situation. It's contagious. Those things do exist and of course, it's a concern to everyone. What most of us forget when things get rough are the opportunities that present themselves. It's during these times when creative minds have a little more time to think, they think harder than ever and as a result, we usually end up better in the long run. Remember the late 70's and early 80's? A global recession was going on, mortgage rates were at 18%, but it was also a great time of inventions. MS-DOS(Microsoft Software), Cell phones, the Hepatitis B vaccine, the IBM-PC computer, CD-ROM, Apple Mac, Sony Walkman, MRI's, and of course, Prozac to name just a few. Apparently, not everyone was sitting around relishing in their misery.</P><P>In the past, most designers in my area relied heavily on new home sales. South Florida was in a building boom for many years and designers rode that gravy train to the last station. Clients were spending like there was no tomorrow, some of them as if they were posting their W-2 forms on their front door. It was a great time for everyone. Many designers took for granted that another big job was always around the corner and lived like celebrities, spending every dime they made. Unfortunately, many of those same people, and now some of the biggest retailers in Florida have been forced to close up due to the economy. It's a sad story that's being played out over and over. But fortunately, this will not be the end of the story.</P><P>The late famous designer, Jay Spector, always had a positive outlook on life and business. He used to say "The time to take the cookies is when they pass the plate." In other words, when opportunity comes your way, grab it. And while the economy appears to be in the toilet to most people, it is creating opportunities for those who have the ability to adapt to the business of the future. It's a time to slow down, put a little more thought into what we do and make sure we are giving our clients the best possible design.</P><P>A good example of one of the opportunities is that while new home sales are at a halt, more and more people are deciding to stay in their current home for the next several years. In doing so, many of them will be doing renovations and additions to make their homes more comfortable. They are realizing it's cheaper to do this than buy a new home and pay the higher property taxes or sell their home at a loss. These projects may be a little more work for the designer, and a little less profitable, but it's a great opportunity to add new clients to their portfolio. Who knows what lies in store for the future with these new clients? It's an opportunity for a whole new market of design clients. It's also a great time for clients to save money as many vendors and workrooms have lowered their pricing in order to survive.</P><P>Another positive result of the economy is that many people need to sell their homes and the competition is brutal. The market for staging firms is increasing dramatically. It may only cost a small amount to stage your home professionally but for most homes, it will increase its marketability and value. This may be especially true for the condo market where several identical units may be competing for the same buyer. Don't kid yourself into thinking that all buyers are just looking for the cheapest price. If they are from out of town, they may want something that is already done rather than deal with the headaches of construction or decorating a new home via long distance. Even in this economy, there are people who will pay the price for convenience and good taste.</P><P>The economy has also misplaced a lot of homeowners into rental properties. Some of them will stay in the rental market for some time while they are rebuilding their credit and savings accounts. For those with families and careers, a rental home does not mean living like a college student. They still want the same comforts of a home to raise their family. Some of these new clients are renting luxury properties. These customers may not be looking to make lifetime investments so for those designers who have well-priced resources and ideas, this is a whole new market. Creativity is what will count with these customers. And creativity will require more than just giving them the first thing that pops into your head so you can get the job done quickly. Sometimes the best ideas come after your first ideas.</P><P>Case in point: When I was in college, I had a very gifted design instructor. He got his Masters from Pratt Institute and owned his own design firm while also teaching at the University level. He was no stranger to hard work. He had what I thought at the time, was a cruel concept for getting us to rise above what we thought we were capable of. During our fifth year, he would assign actual design projects that had been given to the University by local private and public businesses. The class size was small and was extremely competitive at that level because it was the final year of what was then a prototype design program. Most students had left the program a year earlier with their bachelor's degree. Only a handful continued on for the extra year. Anyway, a couple weeks after getting our assigned projects, he had us put up our design concepts for the entire class to critique. Some of the student's designs were, to put it simply, outstanding. At the end of all the critiques, including the instructor's, he took them down, thanked everyone for their hard work and creative efforts and then threw them in the trash! To say we were stunned is an understatement. Hours and hours of work in the garbage. We sat there dumbfounded. Then he made his point. "Now that all of you got that obvious crap out of your head, let's move on to the good stuff." His belief was that your first idea is never your best. Knowing that you couldn't go back to that design concept forced you to think beyond and come up with a new one. He was no less than a genius. The final design projects that came out of that class were award worthy. I still find myself looking for that better idea on every project.</P><P>The economy has had an effect on everyone, not just the design business. I strongly suspect that it's one of the driving factors why contemporary furnishings have made a strong comeback over the past few years. People may be wanting something fresh, something less complicated and heavy. It's not unlike during the depression, the most glamorous decade of the American century. It was the zenith of an era of unbridled, unapologetic and authentic luxury. While our economy was at it's worst, people were finding comfort by throwing the most lavish parties our country had ever seen.</P><P>The times we live in are a challenge for most everyone to some degree. But then again, life is a challenge. It's like one big fat puzzle...we just need to figure it out one piece at a time and to find a way of enjoying it during the process.</P><P>William Philby, ASID is the co-founder of Retro Interiors and Island City Traders in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a Florida licensed interior designer and professional member of ASID. A graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Mr. Philby has been practicing interior design for 30 years and currently resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-26524639062547334062012-11-21T21:30:00.000-08:002012-11-21T21:30:00.729-08:00Great Suggestions For Decorating Walls <P>Sometimes when you want to redesign a room, it might take only a few minutes to incorporate something or change something. You don't have to purchase anything new, however you can use something inexpensive that is easily available or possibly something that you already have which you can use using an original, unexpected, or stylish manner. Follow this advice for decorating your walls.</P><P>Many people hang original artwork in a very prominent location for guests to view them. Try hanging original artwork instead within the bedroom or less formal area of the house where it may be enjoyed by those people who are living there. A big blank wall in a bedroom is a great location to hang a large piece of art.</P><P>Picture frames really are a wonderful technique to fill empty wall surfaces. You are able to set them up in a manner as to get them to feel formal or informal. When arranging a grouping of picture frames, maintaining balance is the paramount factor.</P><P>One great way is to insert a new shape to break up a pattern, for instance placing a simple oval picture frame right into a grouping of frames which all have straight lines.</P><P>Group four frames of the same size together (two on top of two), with a fifth larger frame hung off and away to one side; an arrangement like this can make a necessary balance adjacent to a table having a large lamp.</P><P>If you're hunting for a very non-traditional method to hang some small picture frames on your wall, hang them in a row underneath larger framed artwork. This can be another example of where you might normally hang another picture frame to balance a lamp on a table.</P><P>Create a point of interest by hanging unusually shaped frames together on a wall. Your collection might include vintage round picture frames, classic oval picture frames, along with other shapes. The frames ought to be manufactured of comparable materials and contain like subject theme to help keep the arrangement cohesive.</P><P>Hang some cherished cards or trinkets on the wall. Instead of storing away things that you do not want to live without, frame them and display them. Sometimes these kinds of framed objects can be ideal for a bathroom or bedroom, in places you will see them a whole lot and they also can provide you with feelings of comfort or security.</P><P>Should you have a monochrome or small setting, hang a colorful oversized print where it will give a surprising "pop". A nice bright print put in a little, neutral colored bathroom or other monochromatic room will give the space the weight and dramatic focus which it could need.</P><P>Hang some decorative objects in between two shelves, for example if you have a column that may be between two groups of shelves. Sometimes the walls or shelves are monotonous enough - hanging something between the shelves is an unexpected surprise.</P><P>Try filling an entire space, such as between the ceiling and the top of your door jamb, using a piece of art. If you have a three-dimensional, carved piece of art, the ideal spot to place it could be that empty spot over your kitchen doorway.</P><P>Fasten a coat rack to some wall and create an unusual grouping on that wall. Don't limit yourself to hanging just coats on your coat rack, because hats, scarves, and a selection of keepsakes will add a bit of whimsy to the coats on your rack. Add to the visual with one or two or three wall hangings off to one side and above the coat rack, possibly even a plaque which has a fun saying.</P><P>As you now have some terrific and fun ideas for tips on how to decorate your walls, jump in and enjoy yourself!</P><P>Have fun decorating your walls with beautiful photo frames. Come see our nice selection of metal and wood panoramic picture frames in a wide variety of colors and styles. Give us a call at 800-780-0699 and see our selection of photo frames now.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-23312829250112097432012-10-30T16:26:00.000-07:002012-10-30T16:26:01.094-07:00The Different Types Of Basement Flooring <P>There are many reasons why you may be looking into replacing or upgrading your current basement flooring. You may wish to convert your existing basement space from a storage area to a recreational room for your family to spend time together. You may want to install a working wet bar and a big screened television to football parties on the weekend. Or perhaps you would like to have a guest room available for when company drops by. Whatever the particular plans for your cellar happens to be, there is a plethora of flooring choices available for purchase on the market today.</P><P>Before shopping for or installing basement flooring, it is always a good idea to bring a professional in to examine your cellar for moisture. The most common sub flooring used today is concrete, which comes in direct connection with the earth. This is why getting your basement checked for moisture accumulation is imperative to the proper functioning of the new flooring you wish to have installed. Once you have determined whether or not your current concrete flooring is properly sealed and ready for a new layer, you can move forward.</P><P>The most general flooring choices being used in a basement setting are often installed throughout the rest of the home. Hardwood and laminate flooring, carpet and tiles made from porcelain or ceramic are all popular choices for basement flooring. Depending upon your specific aesthetic goals and design aspirations, which flooring you choose to utilize really comes down to taste. Again, as long as your concrete sub flooring is sealed and you do not live in an area that is exposed to continual flooding, you have a pretty wide selection of flooring. However, if your region is prone to excessive rain, perhaps finishing your current basement concrete floors is the best option for you. For many who find themselves in this situation, painting lends an affordable and easy solution. For those seeking a fancier method of sprucing up their basement floors, stenciling or painting on a faux finish are two other options.</P><P>An economical basement flooring option is vinyl or linoleum. These two types of cheaper flooring come in one of two ways: on a roll or in pieces. When found on the roll, a special adhesive is used to attach the cut piece of flooring directly onto the cellar concrete. This same type of adhesive can be used on tiles that do not already have a sticky back. Tiles with sticky backs come pre-measured and once the piece of paper is removed from the underside, they can be applied to a clean surface. A benefit to using the pre-measured sticky back tiles is they oftentimes can be adjusted once or twice before permanent placement, which gives some room for error.</P><P>More expensive options that include hardwood and tiling are not suitable for every home. However, the aesthetic value added by these types of flooring is almost unmatchable by other contenders. Hardwood floors must be installed in extremely dry basements with no chance of moisture entering through your cement sub flooring seals. This is because wood has a tendency to rot out. With ceramic and porcelain tiling, there must be no cracks in any part of your foundation because this could ultimately lead to the tiles cracking themselves.</P><P>In regards to the initial purchase and the countless projects that go into it, your home represents one of the largest investments throughout your life. From interior design to landscaping, and from professional remodeling services to do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, it can be a challenge to discover and understand what the best home improvement products, equipment and services are. Alexander Sutton helps homeowners, property managers, and others to address this challenge with convenient success. For more information, please visit Basement Flooring.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-54652667398483825392012-10-17T09:42:00.000-07:002012-10-17T09:42:00.998-07:00Simple Tips on Interior Renovation <P>A house that lacks interior design can be boring, and can lead to depression or anxiety. This is the main reason why a lot of people are looking for ways on how they can improve their house. Although change is good, it doesn't mean that you have to change the look and feel of your house every month. In fact, someone who can afford can actually have an interior renovation at least once every year. Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that should be considered when renovating the interiors of your house. This is one of the main reasons why most people are not renovating their house at all.</P><P>Every part of your house requires renovation, but the kitchen needs it more than any place in your house. This is the place where you are preparing your food, and is the place where heat is often circulating. Heat alone can cause a lot of damages to your house such as the color of the paint. Most substances that are being used to improve your home are very sensitive to heat, and this is the main reason why you need to have it renovated more often.</P><P>There are a lot of low-cost renovations that you can do for your house, and this will help you maintain the beauty of your house without spending as much money as you normally would. A simple repainting may fix the problem, but you also need to make sure that it matches the lighting in the kitchen. You need a clear vision of what you are doing so you need to make sure that your kitchen, or any other place in your house is well-lit, except of course for places where you need more peace.</P><P>There are a lot of things that should be considered when designing the interior of the house. Although it is possible that you can do it on your own, you can expect better results if you are going to hire professional interior designers. A lot of people think that hiring an interior designer will cost them more money, but the truth is it will even help you save money. If you are going to hire professional interior designers, you don't have to trouble yourself about the things that you need to do to improve your house. Some professional interior designers will even come up with a package that suits your needs and budget, which saves you more money.</P><P>If you want an interior renovation Oakland Gardens, then the best thing that you can do is to visit our website. We have everything that you need get the best design. Visit our website to know why we are the leader in interior renovation Oakland Gardens.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-89835088737663269052012-10-11T11:56:00.000-07:002012-10-11T11:56:02.041-07:00What Does Early Doors Mean for Home Improvements? <P>Can a curious cliché be related to home owners and how they secure their properties?</P><P>A political journalist from the national broadsheet The Independent has been making a case against civil leaders (and media centres) overusing clichés and empty phrases. He blames politicians, and perhaps their lazy speech writers, for a seeming lack of rigour in the way we express ourselves.</P><P>It is implied that as more of the world moves online, and into a virtual realm of relationships, language and its connection to the material world is becoming fragile. We are using words with little regard to their meanings or referents: instead, these phrases, idiomatic catchphrases are being used as supposed 'catch-all' terms that we can all understand and relate to, when in reality....nobody knows what they're talking about (or listening to...)</P><P>One favourite phrase is 'early doors', which many claim was coined by football manager Ron Atkinson- 'it's early doors yet' indicating that there was still plenty of time for the game to change. Yet research of advertisements for entertainments in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century will show the phrase 'early doors' historically refers to theatres opening early for the public to take the cheap seats before the upper class spectators arrived to locate their reservations.</P><P>The 'doors' in this 19th century phrase are still real, then; and from this real-life example of being in plenty of time, we can understand how the figurative 'early doors' emerged. But we can bring both concrete, material door and these metaphorical doors back together? Can the cliché meet reality?</P><P>Perhaps - in a slightly absurd twist - in the realm of home improvement. Consumers might take a tip from those ticket-hungry bargain hunters of the music halls, by 'getting in early doors' with summer sales and bargains, such as timber and ironmongered external and internal doors from Todd Doors.</P><P>Indeed, this might be a stretch too far to hope that we can close the gap by being literal with these absurd clichés. Can we use the lesson of getting in early doors when it comes to doors themselves? After all, even the term 'literally' has been turned against itself! This time, another footballer is the culprit - 'literally' Jamie Redknapp, ex-Liverpool star-turned-pundit - who has managed to overuse the term so much that its original meaning has been completely reversed.</P><P>But when it comes to the entrances and exits in your home, whilst it is good advice to be prepared and timely when it comes to furnishing you home, don't be flimsy and vague like these clichés have become in our language. Solidity, definition and durability are qualities which are necessary to building a sturdy house - and, for the journalist at the Independent, a sturdy argument.</P><P>The author of this article has expertise in Todd Doors. The articles on internal doors reveals the author's knowledge on the same.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-69782109016078826482012-09-22T07:35:00.000-07:002012-09-22T07:35:00.316-07:00Why Canvas Printing Makes Good Home Decor <P>Many people would consider going through renovations to create a different environment for their home. Many would resort to minor or even major reconstructions around their home after a few years to give their home a facelift or even to change the setting in their own home. There are actually many ways on how you can change the environment of your home by just using canvas printing.</P><P>- Durability <BR>There are many advantages to using canvas printing as a decorative item in your home. One of them is the durability. Canvas print can actually lasts much longer than normal photos. This is because the photos are printed on canvas as oppose to just pieces of paper. A good quality printing can lasts up to a hundred years and maybe even more.</P><P>Apart from durability, canvas printing also comes with an additional coating to help protect it against UV rays and dust. Besides that, a good quality printing is also water resistant and thus allowing it to lasts up to so many years and still retaining its beautiful colours.</P><P>- Cost efficient <BR>Canvas printing is a more cost efficient way as oppose to pricey art works. You do not need to pay a lot of money to get your photos printed on canvas because you would not need to pay for the time and workmanship that an art work requires. Besides that, many people actually purchase canvas printing as an investment. Some of them actually get to sell their collections for double the price in which they have purchased in the first place.</P><P>This has been a popular commodity amongst many people because it is a cheaper option for an investment as compared to investing in the expensive art works, not to mention that it takes a longer time to gain returns for art works.</P><P>- Customization <BR>Canvas printing can be customized to suit everyone one's different needs. You can either adjust the colours on the photos you want to get printed on the canvas or the size of the canvas printing that you want. This type of printing comes in various sizes like square, portrait rectangle, landscape rectangle and even quad split and so on.</P><P>There are many options that you can choose from to get the ideal canvas printing that you like. This is another fun and easy option to really brighten up a space in your home without going through tedious renovations and also breaking the bank for a change in your home.</P><P>Anna has been writing articles online for nearly 3 years now. She is specialize in diet, healthcare, fitness and home improvement. You should visit PhotoFrame.com.my if you are looking for photo frame and canvas printing for your home decor.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2281834308037347807.post-615857492493386592012-09-01T00:37:00.000-07:002012-09-01T00:37:01.345-07:00Home Improvement Advice on Fireplace Mantles <P>Do you have a fireplace that just doesn't fit the room? Before you make a rash decision and seal it up, consider what it is in the room that is wrong. Does the mantel piece design clash with the room's motif? Does the fireplace mantel need renovating or updating? Earlier fireplaces were the main source of heat during cold winters and large homes had a fireplace in each room. These fireplaces took time to maintain, and created a mess. The fireplace, however, served as a natural focal point, drawing families together, and stood as an important decorative feature. Wealthier homeowners hired tradesmen to build elaborately carved mantels out of wood, stone or marble. Today's homeowners enjoy the practicality of central heat and the drawing power of a cozy fire on a cold winter's night.</P><P><STRONG>Things you should know about fireplace mantels and surrounds</STRONG></P><P>• It's still possible today to buy a vintage salvaged fireplace in nearly any period. This can be restored and used to replace an outdated fireplace which is completely out of step with the period of the home.</P><P>• There are many reasons to replace or add to what you have. Your mantel shelf may be too shallow, or non-existent. You may have only a lonely insert. You may abhor the old-style brick surrounds.</P><P>• The choices are numerous; hardwood mantelpieces can be simple or carved. It can be painted or stained. It must meet fire safety codes, and use a fire-safe material for the surrounds, like tile, stone, or metal. Stone fireplace mantels can be elegant or rustic, using materials like limestone, travertine, slate, and marble.</P><P>• Stone can also be used for the surrounds. Faux stone offers a realistic look of carved stone at a more reasonable price. Metal fireplace mantels also come in vintage reproductions or sleek modern styles.</P><P>• Replacing the fireplace surrounds may just be the right thing to freshen up your fireplace. Tile and stone offer many choices, and are more easily replaced than an entire mantel.</P><P>When shopping for a fireplace, you have many choices. Most of the old fireplaces seen in people's homes are either fake or totally inefficient. The reason is because they are designed with an open front that completely sucks newly-heated air up and out the chimney rather than radiating the heat back into the house. These fireplaces are often a nuisance and purely decorative at best.</P><P>A company specializing in fireplaces claims that there are three fireplaces that can contribute real heat into the home without sucking it away; they come in a variety of styles and a price range to suit your need - EcoSmart Fire, Blomus Pure Life, and Planika. These vent-free, ethanol burning fireplaces have been steadily gaining momentum for their minimal looks, 'clean' burn, and mobile abilities. This type of fireplace burns on denatured ethanol, meaning no utility hookup is required, and no smoke or ashes are left to clean up once the fire is out. Best of all, the fireplace is vent-free, meaning the heat doesn't escape through a chimney; it stays in the room.</P>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0