Home Decor DIY Furnishings Interior Design and Furniture

How to Feng Shui your Appliances

2012-02-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

Modern Feng Shui

Modern Feng Shui informs that the location of appliances and electrical outlets in the home can generate good or bad luck. The number and placement of electrical devices, accordingly, influences physical well-being, prosperity and harmony among people living in the house.

Digital Cameras and other Mobile Appliances
Appliances that we take from home to carry with us during the day like digital cameras, mobile phones and laptops give off electromagnetic charge. In transporting these devices we need to be mindful of where we carry them on our person and how frequently we use them.

Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is the only room in the house that commonly contains all the elements of Feng Shui: Fire, Water, Wood, Metal and Earth. This means that the kitchen is an easy place to begin balancing the placement of your home appliances. Technologies that make up the fire element like the Oven, Microwave and Stove should not be positioned opposite appliances of the water element like the Refrigerator and kitchen sink.

Westinghouse fridges come in a range of sizes and shapes for fitting in a correct Feng Shui placement. White and stainless steel fridges match well with wood panelling or timber benches; satisfying the wood element in the Feng Shui landscape.

• Ideally the water element appliances such as water filtration systems and fridges should face each other.
• An important Feng Shui tip for your refrigerator is that it should be regularly cleaned out. Clutter and old food brings negative energy or ‘Chi’.
• Many modern, time-saving kitchen appliances have made the kitchen home to more elements that ever before.
• Modern Feng Shui addresses the issue of arranging numerous appliances by design and placement to correctly orient these devices within our homes.

Appliances in the Bedroom
The bedroom should be a place of quiet relaxation and serenity. Televisions in the bedroom disrupt the peace and produce an electromagnetic field. Bedroom appliances also require extra power cables that disturb the flow of Chi. Power cables and outlets should definitely be kept away from the position of your head during sleep. Digital alarm clocks or mobile phones on the bedside table should be shifted to beyond the length of the bed. Having to get out of bed to switch off the alarm will ensure you don’t keep hitting the snooze button and run late.

Home Office Serenity
The home office is generally the room in the house with the most appliances running at once. The PC, External Hard Drive, Monitor, Speakers, Printer, Telephone, Fax are usually all running or on standby all day and night. The amount of cables and power outlets under the office desk could be having a negative impact on your production levels, health and prosperity.
• Scientific knowledge of the long term effects of continued exposure to high levels of electromagnetic fields is only in early stages.
• Many of our most commonly used electrical appliances have only been available for a short time so conclusive evidence on long term exposure is unavailable.

Entertainment Units
Another area of the house where many appliances are clustered is the lounge room. Keep the couch as far from the entertainment unit as possible and make sure there are no power outlets or cables running close to the lounge chairs.
• A vase of fresh flowers in the living area is very good Feng Shui; it is thought to bring life and abundance to your home.
• Larger potted plants can be placed to balance energy flow and bring harmony into a room with many electrical appliances.

How to Make Money out of Storage Auctions

2012-02-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

Many people take to storage units all over the world that are a great solution to space saving problems, where they are charged in order to store their belongings. However if the rent is not paid on time, a tenant is not allowed to pick up his belongings from the house until he pays the rent.If however, a tenant is still not able to pay, all the stuff in the storage unit is put up for auction. These auctions also take place in the event of sudden deaths and divorce cases also where people put all their belongings into the hotchpot. Such an auction is called a storage auction.

Though the auction of someone else's belongings does not offer a very pleasant site to an onlooker, these storage auctions are an excellent option to make quick and easy money. However, it is not an easy task and requires a lot of careful research, sagaciousness combined with a good luck.

This business offers a lot of advantages to everyone. For example, this business does not necessarily require an experience and even someone who is new in the field can do exceptionally well, provided that person has good discerning abilities. Another advantage of this business is that one does not need to quit an existing job or a business. These storage auctions are usually held on weekends or during evenings when it is possible for most of the people to attend. Also this business is recession proof, in fact it flourishes more during economically low times as people have no jobs and hence no money to pay rent, which leads them to be evicted from the storage units much more frequently than normal times.290

A few simple tips shall go a long way in guiding us to perfection in this business. We must always confirm about the auction before we leave as most auctions do get cancelled in the event of the tenant paying back the rent and matters getting resolved. One must always be 10-15 minutes early for an auction.
Also, one must never go by the size of the unit as it is a very misleading notion. On getting a chance to peer in and have a look inside the unit, we must observe very carefully and mentally make a note of the customer and try to judge the value of goods depending on the kind of person the customer was. It is also advisable to go for these storage space auctions when there are many auctions happening in a close range of area, as it ensures a lesser crowd and comparatively less competition from the bidders.

Sometimes the belongings that we incur during these auctions also can be re-auctioned again and give us multiple gains. With careful research and planning, one can earn quite a-lot of profits. There have been examples of cases where people have found discarded shoe boxes full of treasure after paying meagre amounts for the London storage units. There have also been cases where people have paid a lot of money and finally ended up with nothing but used shoes and stacks of dirty clothes.

Hence these few simple tips along with a piece of luck shall go a long way in helping us earn some easy side money from time to time and hence one can easily be adept at this business and conciliate huge gains.However one must be cautious as well as these auctions are nothing less than a gamble. So we may lose a lot if luck does not favour us.

Summary

This article is about the various money-making techniques out of the storage auctions. The article suggests very practical tips on how to earn money the easier way by avoiding the common blunders we make in such situations. Its not so easy to earn money off storage units auctions but one can earn easily by being cautious and at the same time very astute. Hence one can start off with earning huge money right from the start as a person with less experience can earn as good as someone who has been practising this since a long time. However, this is not just based on good discerning abilities and presence of mind but also on luck and the fellow bidders. However we must keep the competitive spirit within us at a bay as these auctions are not about competing, but about business.

Vertical blinds: ideal for the office

2012-02-01T02:59:00.000-08:00

While vertical blinds aren’t restricted to the office, they’re certainly a good choice for that setting. Once you get past the stereotype of waiting rooms and dental surgeries, vertical blinds are actually quite an aesthetically pleasing window covering.

Though only recently made commercially available, vertical blinds have been around for ages. Such a simple form of window covering was bound to become commercialised at some point, though, and a design patented in 1950 by a Mr Bopp was the first vertical blind to become a ‘household name’, as it were.

Popular for both aesthetic reasons (attractive alternative to curtains) and practical reasons (easy to make fit any window installation), vertical blinds’ popularity was cemented as soon as they became available. Office owners across the globe took notice of this and began sticking them up wherever possible, presumably to give workers an alternative to the curtains they had at home (or perhaps for cost reasons! Vertical blinds are often great value for money).

The privacy benefits of vertical blinds are ideal for offices. During the day, the blinds can be opened to let light in and to let people see out, but the view in will be obscured. This can be useful when protecting company privacy, or simply to prevent distractions from the outside world. The option to let light in while blocking the view of outside is something that curtains simply can’t offer.
Of course, vertical blinds can also be used outside the office, and are a common fixture in many homes around the world. And why shouldn’t they be?

How to choose wooden blinds

2012-01-31T02:56:00.000-08:00

Wooden blinds are stylish and functional additions to any room. Their unique aesthetic cements their appeal as a window covering of choice in your home, as they can suit most existing decor schemes and furniture. How should you go about choosing the right wooden blinds for your home though?

Here are four useful tips to answer that question:

Price

First and foremost, set a budget and only look at options within that. There’s no point deciding diamond encrusted, gold tinted wooden blinds will suit your decor only to find out they’re hundreds of pounds too expensive. The great thing about wooden blinds, though, is that they’re often a cost effective solution.

Colour

Wood doesn’t have to be brown. The blinds on offer will be in a range of colours that will compliment any room. The best course of action is to identify major colour schemes in the room and choose something to match that. Check how the colour looks under different lighting levels as well to ensure it’s suitable.

Operating system

Wooden blinds can be operated manual, or with modern technology. The latter involves remote controlled blinds, which can be opened or closed from anywhere in the home! Not only will this impress the guests, it’s also hugely practical. Being aware of all the options available will help you to make a more informed decision.

Scale

The blinds should be made to fit the windows already in your home. This is easily achievable, but must be specified when ordering to prevent mishaps later. Slat size is also important to consider; certain sizes will suit certain rooms (and tastes) better. The best way to determine this is to get some samples and test them in your home before buying and installing the blinds.

With these thoughts in mind when choosing your wooden blinds, you’re sure to make a decision that will improve your room and delight the whole family.

Decorating your baby’s windows

2012-01-30T02:55:00.000-08:00

Although it might not be the first thing on your mind, the window coverings in your baby’s bedroom can have important implications. The lighting level will affect how well your baby sleeps, for example, as well as affecting the temperature of the room. And of course, safety is a prime concern! Eliminating risks in the environment the baby grows up in is the duty of any parent, and although not often considered, windows and window coverings carry a slight risk. This can be avoided by choosing roller blinds in your child’s room.

The length of some curtains, as well as the bright colours and interesting textures, can be a tempting side for a baby or toddler. If they decide they want to play with the part of the curtain they can reach, there is every risk that they will become tangled in the fabric, or even pull the curtain rail out of the wall. Obviously this should be avoided, and a simple way of doing so is through the installation of roller blinds on your windows. If you order ‘made to measure’ blinds, you can ensure that only the window is covered, and that no tempting overhanging blind is there to be played with.

On another level, roller blinds can be useful in regulating your baby’s sleeping pattern. If blackout blinds are used, then all light can be blocked from the room when it’s time to sleep, regardless of time of day. As mentioned previously, temperature regulation can also be achieved, creating the most comfortable environment for your baby to sleep in.

Perhaps the most attractive aspect of roller blinds, though, is the low cost and the wide range of designs available. When there’s a newborn baby on the scene, there are a lot of expenses and interior decor might not seem like a priority, but low cost options like roller blinds can allow you the best of both worlds.

How to Clean inside your Kitchen Appliances

2012-01-24T02:23:00.000-08:00

Kitchen appliances must be cleaned regularly and require cleaning products that are safe to use around food and drink and on cooking surfaces.

Keeping a clean and tidy house requires maintenance and a thorough cleaning effort must go beneath the surface. Homes can appear sparkling and beautiful from dusting, polishing and vacuuming however failing to clean inside appliances can cause health problems and minimise functionality.

Refrigerators, Microwaves, Dishwashers, even digital cameras need to be cleaned appropriately or their operation becomes significantly compromised. Different household appliances require specific types of cleaning products to ensure they are not damaged.

Kitchen appliances must be cleaned with products that are safe to use around food and drink. Keep in mind that after cleaning a kitchen appliance you will be storing or cooking your food in it, or in the case of a dishwasher, hoping to clean your plates in it. Fragile items like digital cameras need special cloths and cleaners or they will be permanently damaged.

Dishwashers require thorough cleaning as they tend to accumulate food particles, grease and grime in their crevices. Always scrape remaining food off your plates before loading them into the dishwasher. Bosch Dishwashers are especially popular for getting the job done however they too need to be cleaned.

What you need to clean a Dishwasher

Hot soapy water
An old Toothbrush
Sponge
Dry Cloth

Method

Scrub the inside of the dishwasher with hot soapy water using the toothbrush. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies including the rim around the door.
Sponge off all loose debris that the scrubbing produced with the hot soapy water.
Clean the drain area underneath the bottom rack with the sponge.
Remove soap from sponge and wipe down the entire inside to remove soap residue.
Replace racks and trays
For dishwashers, place a small cup of white vinegar on the top rack. You can also sprinkle baking soda on the floor of the dishwasher to remove any stains.
Close the door and run the dishwasher for a full cycle.

Refrigerator

Bacteria and mould can still grow inside a refrigerator even at the standard temperature and this can be hazardous for the health and wellbeing of your family. Fridges have many tight places for food particles to collect. Cleaning your fridge is more manageable if done regularly; stay on top of any nastiness growing in dark corners. An easy and safe way to clean your fridge is with baking soda.

Take everything out of the fridge and remove all trays and racks.
Use a mix of baking soda and hot water to wipe down the interior of the fridge with a clean sponge.
Scrub the racks and trays with an old toothbrush dipped in the baking soda solution.
Wipe down all cleaned surfaces with a clean damp cloth, including trays and racks.
Replace contents into your sparkling clean fridge ASAP.

Toaster

Unplug the toaster and wait until it is cool.
Wipe down the surface and empty out the crumb tray. You should do this regularly as toasters are traps for old, rotting bread crumbs.
Use a scouring sponge to remove baked on crumbs from the tray.
Do not use powerful oven cleaners or steel wool on your toaster.
Never immerse your toaster in water.

Microwave

Microwaves are often wall papered with baked on splatters and food particles glued to the walls and ceiling which reduce function and threaten health.

Add a large spoonful of white vinegar to a microwave safe bowl half filled with water.
Place inside the microwave and heat on the high setting for 5 minutes or until the microwave becomes sufficiently steamy.
The steam will loosen the baked on food and grime so let it steam up for a few minutes.
Use a clean dry cloth to wipe over all the inside surfaces. This removes gunk easily and your microwave will be returned to pristine condition.

It is good practice to clean the inside of your kitchen appliances regularly. Follow the previous steps and you will find that it is not the daunting task you imagined at all. Your appliances will work better and last longer and your family will be relatively safe from harmful germs and bacteria. Until they step outside that is.

Author Bio: Tom Mallet is an Australian freelance writer and journalist. He writes extensively in Australia, Canada, Europe, and the US. He’s published more than 500 articles about various topics, including flooring.

Refurbishing Commercial Interiors - Things You Need To Know

2012-01-21T03:19:00.000-08:00

Anyone familiar with the cost of commercial refurbishments will be well aware of the various issues and costs these refurbishments can generate. Things like carpet can be extremely expensive. Most commercial flooring is also required to last for a long time, raising further issues regarding product choices and the office maintenance budget.

The primary issues are quality and cost. Good interior materials can save a fortune in ongoing costs for building managers. They can also eliminate the rather infuriating range of possibly expensive issues created by inferior products. Best practice choice of office interior materials is unambiguous- Low maintenance, low cost and minimal need for replacement. This is as much common sense as good business practice, but achieving these standards may require some management.

The options for refurbishment also have to include thorough costing. It’s no longer good enough, (or wise), to simply buy the lower of three quotes for any office materials and assume that will solve the cost issues of the next 10 years. They almost certainly won’t, and the likelihood is more cost upfront.

Case in point: Carpeting problems and solutions

One of the first and biggest issues in office refurbishment is carpeting, which is a good example of the issues related to choice of materials in any office revamp. Commercial carpet forms the largest part of any office space. Office carpets can run to tens of thousands of dollars, and the truth is that many inferior quality carpets, particularly broadloom carpets, can be terrible investments.

These large, bulky carpets can be very difficult to maintain, especially in high traffic areas, where they’re subjected to enormous strain. They become impacted, and deterioration is inevitable. Repair and replacement are major operations. The “cheap” carpet, therefore, becomes an expensive problem.

The solution is simple enough- Get a better type of carpeting which doesn’t incur these costs. There’s a new type of carpeting on the market which is rapidly replacing the old style broadloom carpets and creating some major waves in the commercial interiors industry in terms of design, too. The new carpet solutions are actually carpet tiles, but carpet tiles with a lot of new features.

The new carpet tiles are heavy duty, tough and durable tiles with their own backing. They don’t use underlay, so that cost is eliminated from the outset. In practice, these are very long-life, almost zero maintenance carpets. Replacing them takes seconds, not hours, and they’re so tough they’ve become standard features in major airports around the world, universities, commercial centers and even aged care homes. They save money simply because they don’t need much if any maintenance, and when they do, it’s easy to deal with the issues.

These carpets are also the products of new manufacturing techniques which allow custom design to be very easy. There are an almost infinite number of design possibilities, meaning that any desired office “look” can be achieved. This is another cost saving, reducing the design issues to easily quantified cost bases.

If you’re refurbishing your office space, do yourself a big favour. Talk to your builders, check out your options and have a look at the carpet tiles. You’ll save a fortune.

Make a Splash and Splash up an Interior with Bold and Bright Rugs

2012-01-20T02:57:00.000-08:00

This year rugs for your interiors seem to be evolving more than ever. It’s fun and easy to make a rug the focal point in a room or add a bright rug for a great accent. 2012 seems like the right time to bring in stylish rugs that become an instant favorite. The reason why? There are so many trendy rugs that everyone loves because designers are having a ball coming up incorporation new patterns, colors, and textures.

Color Splashed Patterns

Fabulous rooms drenched with color stand out because designers are no longer afraid of having fun with color. Whether you decide to decorate a space with oriental, floral, or shape pattern, bright colored rugs can be found everywhere. A rug not only is a function floor piece to sink your toes into, but it becomes a work of art with its stylish patterns and bursts of color! Place your sofa and surrounding chairs on or near a trendy patchwork quilt made with fun colors such as cobalt blue, hot pink, turquoise, and more.

Fashion Inspired Rugs

Do you know that the fashion world plays a huge part in defining the rug trends as well? It seems like whatever you see on the runway usually in some way or another ends up as a delightful rug pattern. Designers go after creating statement rugs that are eye catching. Find a floral rug with large flowers that seem to come to life on the floor or discover round shapes of different colors that echo a recent frock seen on the runway from Juicy Couture, for example.

Bright and Bold Rugs

Going along with the fashion realm, this year you’ll also encounter Oriental carpets and rugs designed with bright colors. Stripe and block patterns that have a lot of color also pull together a look and seem to pop as a focal point in a room with many surrounding neutrals. Triangles, circles and squares come across modern and playful, perfect for a living room or bedroom space. It’s fun to experiment with trend-setting rugs that seem to come straight off the runway.

Bio: Sierra is a freelance writer and blogger. She loves discovering all of the current interior design trends and sharing them with readers.

January Giveaway!

2012-01-19T02:51:00.000-08:00

Win one of these awesome Rechargeable Remote Controlled Lighted Cube Mood Objects in our new Rafflecopter Giveaway!

Just click on the widget below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Advantages of using Electric Curtain Poles

2012-01-19T02:46:00.000-08:00

Window treatments can be the perfect finish to any decorated room. Whether its roller blinds, curtains or shutters, a room is never complete without them. However, if you do decide to go with tradition curtains, one way to ensure that you impress neighbours and visitors is to install electric curtain rails. Not just because they save you all that time and effort opening them, but because they are the perfect addition to any living room, kitchen or bedroom.

The curtains are driven across an electronic track that can open and close them whenever you need. This can be done through the use of a remote control. A clever device which can see you open your curtains whilst in the comfort of your own bed and begin the day feeling that little bit more special. The curtain poles come with a digital display that is easy to navigate and just as easy to fit to the wall in a convenient spot. By using this display, you can set the curtains to open and shut at any time of the day, meaning that the curtains will open once the sun is rising and close when it begins to go down. This will not only mean that your level of privacy is increased but also your security. When out and about, you can rest assured that your empty home will look occupied as all curtains are closed and burglars are deterred.

Light sensors are just one benefit of the curtain poles. Some models will also have a temperature sensor, others are able to conserve energy as they are solar powered.
Installing electric curtain poles is not as hard or tedious as it may seem. In fact, installing the systems is just as easy as fitting traditional window fixtures. The need for tools is kept at a minimum and all poles come pre-wired, saving you the bother of tackling electrical wiring and equipment. The motorised rail can be mounted above any fitted window, just as a manual one would, and the curtain can be added to the loops. Simply plug into an electrical socket, outlet or hardwire to a power source. Your new electric curtains are now ready to be used.
These rails are built with endurance in mind. When on holiday or on a night out, a person doesn’t want to be worrying about their home being on display to potential intruders. Instead they want the peace of mind that these poles will continue to work without excessive maintenance. There electric curtain rails are, or should be, guaranteed to work up to 15,000 times before repair work is needed. Meaning yet another weight lifted off your mind.

Comfort, security and luxury are what any home owner strives for. By investing in these electric curtain rails you can wake up each morning to the sun shining, without even leaving your bed. The cost of such a device isn’t unreasonable either.

This is a guest post by Nicola Winters, on behalf of Poles Direct

Should I Choose a Wooden or a UPVC Door?

2012-01-17T01:11:00.000-08:00

When home owners need to replace a front door the amount of choice can often be overwhelming and many home owners are unsure as to whether they should choose wooden or uPVC doors. That’s because many people aren’t aware of exactly what the benefits of choosing a wooden or uPVC door are. This article explains exactly what uPVC is, why many house builders consider uPVC doors to be the best choice for homes and what the pros and cons of wooden and uPVC doors are.

What is uPVC?
uPVC is an extremely hard wearing and energy efficient form of polyvinyl chloride. It is most commonly used to manufacture essential parts of the home like doors and window frames. It’s easy to mould, super strong and can be finished in a wide variety of colours and styles. In many cases manufacturers finish uPVC to look like wood, meaning that the material can be used without detracting from the aesthetics of a home’s frontage.

What are the benefits of choosing uPVC?
Many home owners are choosing to install uPVC doors because the material is extremely strong, hardwearing and resilient to everyday wear and tear. In addition uPVC doors are a great option in terms of security because most are fitted with up to the minute locking systems which makes them extremely difficult to break into. They are also easily able to withstand attempts at forced entry as they are extremely difficult to kick through.

In terms of energy efficiency uPVC doors are one of the best door choices available. uPVC doors create a tight seal around the door frame making it impossible for draughts to find their way into a home. Conversely, they also keep heat in the home more efficiently than alternatives like wood.

When it comes to design uPVC doors offer a wide range of choices. Although uPVC doors usually come in white, it is possible to finish them in different colours or to make them look like wood. Some companies offer a service allowing you to design your own door and choose things like window finishes, handles and letter box design.
The main drawback of uPVC doors is that they are not particularly environmentally friendly. The manufacturing process involves the use of harsh chemicals and old doors do not bio degrade. However, it is possible to recycle uPVC doors and many companies who sell uPVC products are beginning to offer recycling services too.

What are the benefits of choosing wood?
The two main reasons homeowners choose wood as opposed to uPVC is due to aesthetics and price. Over the last two decades the national obsession with creating beautiful homes has grown exponentially and many home owners turn their noses up at the thought of using PVC window frames or doors in a character home. In addition, wooden doors are less expensive than uPVC. However, in most cases the quality of a door is reflected in the price and when you take into consideration the life of the door and the security and efficiency a door offers, uPVC is generally a better choice.

Another reason why people choose wood is that they believe it is a more environmentally friendly choice and in many ways, it is. Most wooden doors that are sold within the UK are now manufactured using sustainable wood sources. In addition wooden doors are easier to recycle than uPVC and cause less damage to the environment in the manufacturing process.

However, this is slightly counteracted by the energy efficiency of wooden doors as they are not as good as uPVC when it comes to keeping the cold out and keeping the heat in.

What should I choose for my home?
The choice you make for your home mostly depends on personal preference. If you have a character home and you can’t stand the thought of using uPVC then wood is the best choice for you, but if you want to choose a door that is highly durable, secure and energy efficient then go for a uPVC door.

Kitchen Styling

2012-01-16T03:25:00.000-08:00

Remodeling you kitchen is a fun, exciting process that first starts with your idea of the perfect kitchen. If you’ve been thinking about remodeling, you’ve probably flipped through the pages of glossy magazines looking at the beautiful kitchens on the pages. With hundreds of lovely and unique kitchen styles, it can be difficult to narrow down the choices. To simplify things, think about the four major design schemes and which one you like best. From there, it becomes much easier to design your dream kitchen.

Traditional
These kitchens are always classic and refined. These kitchens are timeless and are designed to suit the modern family. With plenty of counter space and ample seating, these kitchens will never go out of style. The two types of traditional kitchens are Victorian and Colonial. Victorian kitchens often feature a palette of cool neutrals, creams and blues and have a feminine feel. Crown molding and ornate ornamentation are common as are antique and decorative silver accents. The Colonial, is a more masculine counterpart and features earthy colors like rusty reds, warm browns, with pure white details. It’s simple and practical with stone countertops and wide plank floors.

Country
These kitchens are comforting and homey. The color scheme is always light and approachable and flows easily with the design of most homes. There are three styles here, including French Country, Farmhouse, and Cottage. French Country kitchens are reminiscent of Provence and the countryside. Distressed finishes on the cabinets and copper pots give these kitchens a charming, welcoming feel. Farmhouse kitchens are nostalgic and feature details like gingham linens and checkered curtains. Farm collectibles lend flair to these kitchens. The last type is the cottage style. These kitchens are airy, and feature cool palettes with lots of natural light. Cottage kitchens feature light colors and are well suited for nautical details.

Old World
Old World kitchen designs feature stone or dark wood floors. The most notable element of old world style is the emphasis on the range hood, which is often large and ornate. Furniture-like cabinets made of cherry and mahogany serve as storage. Old world kitchens are best accessorized with earthenware, baskets and fresh accents like cut flowers or plants. Rich colors and mosaic tiles make these kitchens feel like you’re in a Tuscan castle.

Contemporary
With influences from Italy and Germany, such as clean lines and high functionality, American contemporary style is easily adaptable to any home. Because they’re foremost functional, these kitchens are great for smaller homes and homes with children. Laminate cabinets and countertops for easy cleaning offer a sleek finish, while tile flooring means durability. Some contemporary stiles take a minimalistic approach, meaning less clutter and cleaning. This style derives its interest with shape and color, as not to add bulk. Monochromatic color schemes with bursts of accent colors and stainless steel appliances finish the look.

This article was written by Erie Construction. For more tips on home remodeling, follow Erie Construction on Twitter.

Accessorise your home

2012-01-13T03:20:00.000-08:00

If your home is lacking in visual aids and spaces are looking a little empty, fill them with beautiful displays of photo frames and tealight holders. Home displays are relatively cheap and can add a whole new look to your home.

Candle tealight holders are great when you are looking to add ambiance to your home. Candle displays are becoming an increasingly popular option for adding a beautiful aroma and an element of warmth to the rooms in your home.

If you have a small surface that is lacking decoration, but is too small to add a lamp, vase or photo frame, create a display of candles instead. Place a selection of candles of various shapes, sizes and colours in the centre to add a beautiful feature piece.

Tealight holders are available in a wide range of styles, from glass, wood silver or ceramic. Tealights will need to be brought to place inside them which come scented or unscented. They often come in bags with many so you won’t have to keep buying them every time they run out.

Bring the outside in with rustic wooden tealight candle lanterns made from natural birch bark. Wonderfully effective when lit and great for the garden or hanging in trees. Because they are made from wood, each and every one has its own unique pattern and texture.

Gather together your most beautiful candles and tealights to make an eye-catching table centre piece or sideboard display with a decorative glass candleplate. Glass candleplates come with pretty designs such as floral lace and attractive edging.
To give your home a new look, adding new accessories is a fast and easy alternative to decorating. Buy items that won’t collect dust and clean easily. If your home has a country cottage feel, wooden photo frames can add to the theme.

Wooden photo frames add character to your home. Whether you have one special photo or a collection of your favourite pictures, wooden photo frames will show them off. They are available with single or multi apertures and in various colours.

Stylish wooden photo frames are often crafted from reclaimed wood found in old homes. Put together by hand and then painted with several layers of water based paint. Once dry it is rubbed back to reveal the natural wood to give it and aged look.

The important thing to remember when accessorising your home is not to overdo it. De-clutter first and then buy one piece at a time and not all at once.

Buy sensibly and shop around. Check charity shops and pound shops. If you already have wooden photo frames but you no longer like them, rub them down and paint them. Tealight holders can also be spruced up with spray paint and beading from craft shops.

Fill empty space and create a new look in your home with beautiful displays.

How to Manage Kids while Relocating

2012-01-06T01:34:00.000-08:00

Moving with kids makes relocation all the more challenging for parents. Usually young ones react negatively to a move. Relocation is undoubtedly painful for the whole family, but it is more disruptive for kids. If a family faces the prospect of moving, the children should be given special attention during the transition. Leaving old friends and school mates behind is a difficult task for children of all age groups. While youngsters take a while to tackle the moving stress, the worst affected by the move are children.

The only thing that can keep them from becoming depressed is their involvement in work. Here are a few steps that you can take to make sure that your kid doesn't suffer from stress while relocating.

Inform them about the move
The first step that a family must take to make moving hassle-free for kids is to inform them about the move, as soon as they decide it. Do not assume that delaying in informing them about the move will make it easier for them to move. Experts opine that kids need more time than parents to get used to the idea of moving. So it is better to tell them well in advance.

Talk to them
Talk as much as you can with them about the moving process. Talk to them about your new home. Welcome all sort of questions and do not chide them for over inquiring. You will get an idea of their mental status by continuous talking. Take feedback from them on a few decisions. Involve them in moving tasks, so that they do not feel neglected, in the whole process of moving.

Assign them small tasks
Assigning them a few tasks would create interest in your kids. You can ask them to pack their toys and books. Tell them to scrap the things that they no more need. You can also ask them to prepare a list of new things, which they would be needing to decorate their rooms at new home. They will feel excited on the very thought of decorating their new room with new things.

Throw a goodbye party for friends
You must ask your children to invite all their friends for a goodbye party. This will help them cope with the stress of parting with their classmates and neighborhood friends. Click photographs and give return gifts.

If you are moving within the state, take your children to visit the new house. This will make them explore their new neighborhood. Moving with school age kids is more difficult than moving with toddlers, as they are unable to understand the changes involved. For school goers, gather all the information related to new schools in the new area, so that their studies are not wasted. The growing number of removal companies in London has made it very easy for people to relocate without much obstacles.

Make your Decor Unique with a Personal Touch

2012-01-05T03:52:00.000-08:00

If you love to decorate then you’ll know that it’s the personal touches that really make a house into a home. For the last few years TV shows about interior design and selling houses have been trying to persuade us that our homes should be neutral and impersonal. That’s fine if you are trying to sell your property, but if you actually want to live in and enjoy your home then why shouldn’t you decorate it in the way that you like and fill it with the things that you like, rather than following fashion or trying to please others?

How to Personalise your Home

Make your Colours Pop!
We’ve been obsessed with magnolia and dull, neutral decor for far too long. For some reason we all seemed to forget that our homes are designed to be lived in and are not purely a commodity to be sold on and profited from. If you love colour (and who doesn’t?) then don’t be afraid to use it. For those who are a little nervous about being too bold then choose an accent colour and simply paint one wall. Then you can choose accessories that tie in with your colour scheme. You’ll soon see that your room looks far more cheerful and inviting with an injection of colour.
Once you see how well colours work you could try papering an accent wall with a boldly designed wallpaper. There are thousands of different types to choose from including retro styles, pretty florals or ultra modern geometric patterns. Choosing a wallpaper that you love will make your home more individual and reflect your personality.

Personalised Pictures
A great way to make your home unique and to bring a smile to your face whenever you walk into a room is to choose a favourite family snap and have it transferred to canvas. You can have pictures transferred to canvas for as little as £20. You can even have your snaps made into a collage or transformed into a Banksy or Andy Warhol style print, which will look super stylish but still be personal to you.
If you like the idea of transferring your snaps then don’t stop at pictures! You can have your photos printed on all sorts of other household items like cushions, throws, mouse mats, trays and even radiator covers. It’s a great way to add an element of fun and surprise to your rooms and you could also give gifts printed with special photos to friends and family, which makes a fantastic personalised gift for Christmas.

Bring Back the Nick Nacks
Remember when people used to have all their ornaments on show? Nowadays when you visit the average house you’ll see that there are very few ornaments. In fact, many people seem to keep their rooms quite bare, probably thanks once again to house selling and interior design shows. But if you’ve got nick nacks that you love then why not have them out on display where you can see and enjoy them? Or if you don’t have a lot of ornaments then start a collection.

Your home should be about you and your family and the things you love, so if you want a collection of ceramic frogs, antique glass or vintage hats then go for it!
Remember - your home is for you, not for the people who may or may not buy your home in the future. So be bold, be brave and inject some personality into dull and lifeless rooms by making things more personal.

Achieving A Luxury Bathroom Finish On A Budget With Travertine

2012-01-04T03:44:00.000-08:00

Whenever you open an interior design magazine you are faced with amazing looking bathrooms that take your breath away. We dream of enjoying a relaxing bath one of these luxurious rooms, but many believe that achieving such a finish is beyond their means. Up until recently I was one of those people, until I stumbled upon travertine tiles.

The material

Travertine is a natural type of limestone that has been used as a building material for many centuries. Traditionally it has most commonly been used in Italy and there are many old buildings in the country made from travertine, with the Roman Coliseum being just one example. The stone comes in a range of shades, including whites, creams and beiges and offers a warm feel to your room.

Although not quite as tough as marble and granite; travertine is extremely durable and will last for decades in a bathroom environment if not longer.

Considering cost

Whilst travertine isn’t as cheap as most porcelain tile options, it does deliver a plusher feel at an affordable price. Exactly how much it will cost depends on the style you got for as well as the shade, with darker hues costing more than lighter ones. Starting prices for travertine are usually about £15 per square meter, which is significantly less than marble and granite alternatives.

Fitting options

Travertine tiles are available in a range of shapes and sizes meaning that they offer a complete range of bathrooms solutions. If you are looking to add a mosaic pattern to your shower area then you can use ones similar to the photo below.

For a more complete approach you have the option of laying tiles on the floor as well as covering the all with them. Installing drainage capabilities before you lay the tiles also provides the opportunity to create a wet room; allowing you to have an open shower area in-line with the current trend.

Maintenance tips

Whether you go for the smooth finished honed and filled travertine tiles or the more rustic tumbled effect, you must make sure that either you or the tiler seals them properly after laying. Failure to do so can result in discolouring as travertine has quite high porosity and liquids will seep into it. Also avoid using any generic cleaning product which could cause etching on the surface, as can vinegar, ammonia and citrus fruit juices. Instead go for a purpose made travertine cleaning product, which can usually be purchased from the supplier where you bought your tiles from. Whilst travertine may take a little more maintaining than porcelain alternatives; the extra effort is worth the finish.

Decorating With Mirrors

2012-01-03T03:42:00.000-08:00

I think decorative mirrors are like the little black dresses of the decorating world. The one piece of clothing that everyone has hanging in their closet, looks good on all shapes and sizes, and with not too much effort, can make something ordinary look like a million bucks. Whether your style is traditional or modern, decorative mirrors and the LBD are an essential "must have" for this season and beyond. Here are just a few ways a decorative mirror can dress up the look in your home.

1) Change the Size

Much like the perfect LBD, mirrors can change people's perception of how big or small a thing is. You know how you can have not lost a single pound, but when you put on a LBD, people always comment on how thin you look? Well, it's the same thing with using a mirror in your room, but in the opposite direction. You may not have added any square feet to the room, but that mirror is going to make it look bigger. It's absolutely true about the age-old adage that mirrors help to make small rooms appear and feel larger. (Just as we know the color black makes you look thinner and white makes you look like you have spent a week at the beach!) Mirrors bring light and depth into a room by highlighting color and downplaying dark corners. Be sure to place mirrors on a wall opposite the window wall and see how the light is multiplied throughout the rest of the room.

2) Affordable

You don't have to spend a fortune to look amazing in your LBD, and the same stands for using decorative mirrors in your home. There are so many different ways that you can use mirror. From hanging a group of vintage mirrors that you have gathered from thrift stores, to a high-end marble framed mirror, there is a mirror for every room and budget.

3) Hide Blemishes

We all have those little tiny features of our bodies that we would rather people not focus on, and the same goes for your home! Mirrors can help hide blemishes on your walls that you might not want others to see when they come into your home. Cracked walls, uneven surfaces, or even an old fuse box can be quickly covered and dressed up with a mirror.

4) Versatility

Part of the beauty of the LBD is that it can be dressed up or dressed down, and the same is true with decorative mirrors. As long as you are mindful of the rest of your room's personal style when picking out a decorative mirror, your room will be all the better for it. For example, if your style is contemporary, use something with clean lines and solid colors, whereas, if you are looking for a Mexican Riviera vibe, go with something containing vibrant colors and ornamentation. Mirrors, like art, should blend with the other pieces in your home, and become part of your personal design style. Just like your LBD.

This guest blog post was written by MirrorMate Frames®, which offers information on how to frame a mirror by attaching beautiful frames to boring, builder grade mirrors. This mirror framing system, frequently used on a bathroom wall mirror, can be installed in 20 minutes and comes in over 65 different frame styles to complement any type of décor.

Things Expecting Mothers Must Not Forget While Moving

2012-01-03T03:34:00.000-08:00

One of the many things moms-to-be abhor to do is relocating. Moving during pregnancy is a unpleasant and challenging. It is always better to seek professional help from a man and van company to plan a safe and stress-free move to your new home. But expecting mothers must take good care of their well being, during the relocation process, even if everything is being taken care of by the moving company.

Though as per gynecologists, you can move furniture in the first trimester, but they do not recommend moving bulky furniture pieces after that. Let someone else do the heavy work for you. Expecting mothers become moody and feel tired more often. So consider hiring movers for packing things. Keep the following tips in mind for relocating, while you are carrying a baby inside your womb.

Plan weeks ahead of the move
Start packing small things weeks before the expected date of moving. Avoid any hurry, as haste makes waste. Do not pack all your rooms in one go. Take frequent breathers while packing, so that you may not feel tired or strain your back. Your belly will grow bigger eventually, so why not prepare for the move weeks before actually moving?

Avoid lifting weight
Even if you are the only person in the home, who knows what and how everything should be done, do not budge anything heavy. You can contribute in the move by suggesting things to the moving professionals or to your family members. Moving heavy boxes and items is highly unsafe for you as well as your unborn baby. As a matter of fact, pregnant women are more vulnerable to neuromuscular injuries.

Drink loads of water
Drink plenty of fluids while preparing for a move, as working hard will make you transpire a lot. If you keep yourself hydrated, you will feel more energetic throughout the moving process. Replenish your body with water frequently, as no matter how less you contribute to the move, you will feel stressed in pregnancy. Dehydration may result in pre-term labor.

Grab a friend for help
Delegate as much work as you can to your friends and family members. Nobody would deny you help, especially if you are pregnant. If you have older children, you can delegate packing tasks to them. Ask your friends to move your furniture and help it load onto the moving vehicles. Assign tasks to people around you and you can give them the required directions.
Moving becomes more stressful, when you move during pregnancy. Take good care of yourselves when you are traveling. Having reached your new home safe and sound, do not try to unpack everything the same day. Leave the unpacking and re-arranging for the movers you hired or other family members.

About the Author: Author has been associated with professional man with a van and self storage london services from a long time. Presently with his vast experience, He is helping others in choosing the best service provider for them in London and its surroundings.

New Year's Resolution: The Perfect Lawn

2012-01-03T00:47:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012!

I have made it my New Year's Resolution to finally get my garden in order. After spending a lot of time last year on the interior of our home (especially the bathroom) it is time to concentrate on the outside.

The garden is in a bit of a state. Most of the lawn is just muddy grass and the borders are overgrown with weeds. I will have to wait until spring to get planting (although once the weather is warmer and the ground isn't frozen I can start weeding). The lawn on the other hand poses more of a challenge.

Every time it rains large puddles collect on the grass meaning that there is a lot of mud and not much lawn. I just don't have time to cultivate the perfect lawn so I've been thinking of getting some astroturf or artificial grass. I didn't realise how popular artificial lawns were. One site, Tigerturf Landscape caught my eye.

Astrotuf comes in lots of different varieties and I was surprised by how natural it looks. Best of all the grass doesn't need mowing! It's also environmentally friendly as it's made from recycled plastic. Think of all the carbon I'll save by not having to use the lawnmower. Plus there won't be any need to put artificial chemicals and fertilizer down.

So my resolution for 2012 is to install some artificial turf in my back yard this year. I'll post some pictures once it's underway.

How To Personalise Your Student Room

2011-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

Stamping your identity on a student bedroom, whether in university halls or in a shared house, can be a tricky prospect. Landlords manage to weave a surprising number of rules into accommodation contracts that make personalising your home-away-from-home a challenge, particularly if there’s the dreaded ‘no blu-tak’ clause. However, there are plenty of tricks to make a room homely besides posters, and several ways to get round the blu-tak issue without forfeiting your deposit…

Think Beyond The Walls
From the edges of the mirror to the back of your bedroom door, there will be surfaces available that you can stick posters and photographs on without fear of damage. Think creatively: why not arrange photos in an interesting pattern on the side of the wardrobe, or use a variety of magnets to fix postcards on the radiator? Whenever I move into a new room, I also see if there are any opportunities for hanging ornaments up, a reliable favourite being around the light switch. Another good tactic is to anchor a mobile from a bookshelf with a dictionary or heavy text book.

Perfect Pin Boards
Some rooms come complete with a pin board, which is an excellent opportunity to get inventive. Stretching a bright scarf or patterned wrapping paper across such a board can instantly provide a focal point for your room, besides making an excellent background for tickets, flyers, pictures and anything else you want to put up. If there is no pin board, small cork boards are relatively cheap to buy and can be stood on a shelf or at the back of a desk.

Bright Bedclothes
Choosing a particular duvet cover and pillow cases before moving into your new room will immediately give you a sense of ownership when you make the bed for the first time. Whether it’s a conscious decision to take a bit of home with you, or a fresh start with brand new bedclothes, this is certain to make the room cosier. Rugs, cushions and throws can also add personality with minimum effort. Lay a throw over your bedside table, or tie a light cloth around the back of your desk chair. Go for a colour scheme or mix and match – you can change it easily as the mood takes you!

Look to the Light
A lot of student bedrooms don’t have a lightshade, but even if they do, there’s nothing to stop you removing it during your tenancy and replacing it with something more interesting. I opt for a pirate-themed shade myself, complimenting a couple of cushions I also have, but there are so many options to either make a statement or just add a touch of individuality by hanging something different over the light bulb. Some contracts outlaw them, but fairy lights are a very effective way of creating ambience and failing that, a bedside lamp angled towards the ceiling produces an instant snug feel. Moving on to natural light, window stickers are a great way to brighten dull days and a window sill is the perfect place for those photo frames.

So there you have it, a few ways to personalise your student room without sticking posters on every wall. Of course, if you are allowed to use blu-tak, white-tak or picture hooks, go for it! Just remember to double check your landlord’s preference first. Happy decorating!

Written by Jemma Saunders (@JemSaunders1)
Read more tips for your home on this blog

Simple Makeover Bathroom Ideas

2011-12-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

Your bathroom means a lot to you and has many functions! It’s your wake-up call in the morning, the home of your child’s rubber duck and where you can enjoy a long relaxing soak after a busy day at work, but if your bathroom is crying out for a makeover and you’re on a tight budget then look no further.
In this post, I will divulge into how you can make your bathroom looking new and fresh in no time at all on a budget.

Lighting
Changing the light fittings in your bathroom can make a world of difference! Adding chandeliers to a bathroom may seem a little out of the ordinary but they can add a beautiful element of glamour. You’ll be surprised at the choice of chandeliers available at markets and charity shops. If you find the perfect chandelier but that is not quite the colour you are looking for they can be easily spray painted to the colour of your choice. Add candles to your bathroom to give it a romantic feel – there’s no better way to relax than in the bath in a candle lit bathroom!

Tiles
Tiling a bathroom is a large and messy job and often requires a lot of time and effort. If you’re looking to change the tiles in your bathroom but don’t want the hassle then self adhesive wall tiles are a great alternative to ceramic tiles. The backing peels off to reveal an adhesive tile that is strong enough to stand the test of time; you then just stick it to the surface and move on to the next one. You can even ‘tile’ over tiles.

Shower curtains
Glass is a great alternative to a shower curtain. It will open up your space and make the room feel larger than it is. Shower curtains collect the water and over time mould builds up on them and this often isn’t removed by washing. Save money from buying numerous shower curtains by investing in a glass shower guard. If you shop around you’ll be able to buy one for as little as £30.

Fixture and fittings
Fed up of your dull fixtures and fittings? New fixtures and fittings such as light switches/ cords and taps are an easy way to give your bathroom a whole new look. Your current fixtures and fittings can be spruced up with spray paint or new styles are available at a reasonable price from antique shops or DIY stores.

Accessories
Adding new accessories are a fast and easy alternative to giving your bathroom a new look. Remember to buy accessories that clean easily, often, artificial flower arrangements collect dust, which is hard to remove. Pound stores and large supermarkets have a beautiful collection of bath mats dispensers and soap dishes available for very little cost. Large mirrors are great to add light to a dull bathroom.

By making these few changes your bathroom will feel as good as new – and what’s more you won’t have to spend a fortune.

Mirror Framing Project - How to frame a mirror and the options

2011-12-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

This guest blog post was written by MirrorMate Frames®, which offers custom cut mirror kits to attach beautiful frames to boring, builder grade mirrors. This mirror framing system, frequently used on bathroom wall mirrors, can be installed in 20 minutes and come in over 65 different frame styles to complement any type of décor.

Framing a mirror yourself may seem intimidating, but don’t let the idea of the unknown stand in your way. There are simple and inexpensive steps you can follow to successfully undertake your own mirror framing project and, as a result, spruce up the look of your existing mirror. Remember that purchasing a mirror-framing kit also is an option.

Measurements
Measure the mirror’s width and height before you move on to any other step. This can affect each of the other steps.

Picking out the pieces
Based on your desired design, select molding trim pieces (there are many options) that complement the room or area where the mirror hangs. Take note: the wider the trim pieces, the less mirror surface you will have left. Measure the four molding trim pieces to size based on the mirror measurements. Mark the measurements.

Cut, sand, wipe
Using a miter saw, cut a 45-degree angle on the ends of the trim pieces (a home improvement store can do this for you for a fee). The angled ends should match up together. Next, sand the cut ends with sandpaper until smooth. Wipe the edges with a cloth to remove the sandpaper dust.

Time to paint
With a paintbrush, paint or stain the molding trim. Allow it to dry and, using another paintbrush, apply a coat of polyurethane to the molding trim and allow it to dry. Note: polyurethane is available in different finishes - such as glossy, matte or satin.

Placement
Place several dots of epoxy adhesive onto the back of your first piece of trim, and place and press the molding trim onto the top of the mirror. Do this for the remaining three pieces, aligning the angled pieces together. Allow the pieces to dry.

Finally, the finishing touches
Apply a small amount of like-colored wood putty into the corner angles and smooth the putty into the trim pieces. Smooth the putty well and, to disguise any unwanted adhesive or seams, touch up the trim with paint.

Bathroom Remodel: DIY or CAP (Call a Professional!)

2011-12-03T03:16:00.000-08:00

A DIY makeover can save you a lot of money on your remodeling project. If everything goes smoothly, you’ll get the added confidence boost and satisfaction of a job well done. The trouble with DIY is that sometimes you may get in over your head. Once you’re stuck you may end up investing more time and money into the project than you had originally planned. Keep in mind the following before you start your new project.

Size Doesn’t Matter
…But the scope of the work does. Remodeling every aspect of a small powder room may be a greater challenge than simply replacing the fixtures in a large bathroom. Cosmetic changes are much easier to tackle on your own, however plumbing and tile can be challenging. Space isn’t the biggest obstacle, the work is.

Confidence is Key
If you’ve done a lot of DIY projects and you feel confident in your ability to work with the tools and materials needed there is a good possibility you could tackle the remodel solo. If you’re relatively new to DIY, ask yourself the following questions: Can you wield a power tool? Are you able to follow instructions? Do you have the patience to complete repetitive tasks (painting or tiling) well? The most important thing to asses is your ability to remain calm and flexible should things go awry.

Time is Money
Even if you decide to do a DIY remodel, consider the amount of time you’ll need to dedicate to the project. Although it can be less expensive than calling a pro, it might take you much longer to do the same work. Are you willing to devote evenings and weekends to the project and sacrifice some personal time?

Speaking of Money…
Anywhere from 25-50% of total project costs will go to contractor, labor, and installation costs when you work with professionals. By doing the work yourself, you will definitely be saving some money. The good news is you don’t have to hire a professional for every aspect of the remodel. Get estimates for each task. If you feel uncomfortable DIY-ing the plumbing, hire a contractor for that portion of the job. Keep in mind that if you turn the whole project over to professionals it becomes harder to control the timetable.

Expectations
For some projects like light or hardware installation, the finished appearance will look the same whether you pay a professional or you tackle it DIY-style. But then there are other projects like tiling, that could look noticeably neater if done by a contractor. Before you start your project you’ll have to come to terms with what imperfections you can live with if you DIY.

Where to Start
For DIY novices, consider the following projects: painting, sink/bath faucets, and replacing light fixtures.
For intermediate DIYers: replacing vanities, toilets, or sinks.
For skilled DIYers: relocating toilet, installing new countertops, removing tub.

This article was written by Erie Construction. Follow Erie Construction on Twitter for more tips on home remodeling.

Best Tips to Pack your Stuff When Moving House

2011-12-02T07:23:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of things you need to do when moving out of your house and into a new one. The effort and exhaustion can be taxing and through effective organization and planning, you can reduce the stress level. The most important part of the whole process is packing your belongings. When you look through your home, you are going to be surprised at the amount of things you find, some of which you haven’t seen for ages. This makes packing all the more difficult and you need to do it properly. Here are the best tips to pack your stuff when moving house.

Supplies
Before you start packing, you need to get the right supplies to do the job. These will include boxes, cartons, tapes, scissors and ropes along with the tools needed to unscrew or unfasten wall fixtures. Make sure that all the things you need are in place before you start packing.

Appliances
Appliances are sensitive and slight mishandling can cause a lot of damage. Your television, fridge and other electronic goodies are expensive and you need to make sure that they are moved as safely as possible. The best way to pack the appliances is to use their original cartons, boxes or other packaging material. They are going to be safe in those and you probably won’t be able to find other containers to pack the larger appliances properly. Moreover, you have to clean all the appliances and defrost the fridge and freezer. Tape the doors and bind the wires. Consult the users’ manual for proper disconnection.

Furniture
A more complicated job than packing appliances is handling the furniture. Your beds, sofas, chairs, cabinets and tables have to be handled with care or else they will get damaged, scratched and might even break. The best approach is to disassemble the furniture that can be taken apart. This makes the whole job much easier. For the larger furniture, have it loaded into the truck first before anything. Don’t keep the furniture tilted or turned over. Leave it in its original position.

Clothes
Clothes are easy to pack. You can place them in cartons, boxes or bags. However, you do need to make sure that each member of the family has his/her clothes packed separately so that there is no mix up. Also, keep the clothes you’ll need immediately, such as night suits apart so that they can be packed in the boxes you will open first.

Kitchenware/ Breakable Items
The biggest risk when moving is to the kitchenware and other breakable items. They have to be packed very carefully. If you have their original boxes, it becomes easier. If you don’t, then you have to wrap each item in a cloth or newspaper before placing in a carton. Make sure that the boxes containing these items are clearly marked with ‘Kitchen Items’ or ‘Fragile’.

Essentials
There is some stuff you will need when you get to your new home. Clothes, cutlery, toothbrushes and slippers are just some of the items that are needed right away. Have them packed together and mark the box as ‘Open Me First’.
When you know the tips for packing each kind of item in your home, the whole job becomes much easier and stress free for you.

Andrew has been working as a removalist for the last 3 years specialising in interstate removals. In his spare time, he loves to offer advice on how to move house.

How to Make a Great Patio Area

2011-12-01T07:19:00.000-08:00

To make a great patio area create shade with a veranda, have solid decking or paving, make the space pretty with garden and buy a quality barbecue.

Many homes in Australia have some sort of patio area, even kit homes, which are perfect for entertaining, creates a space for children to play during wet weather or if you want them to get out of the sun and is somewhere for you to relax on a warm day. To make a great patio area there are several things you should include.

Veranda or Awning

Your patio area will need shelter and you can either extend your veranda out to cover the patio or have an awning which can be attached to the exterior wall of your home and pulled out when you need it. The benefit of this is you can fold it away and let the sun in through you windows, keeping your home warmer in winter, plus get it out of the way if you want to use the space for something else.

Paving or Decking

You will need a hard surface, which you want it to be even. If you lay pavers yourself make sure you use a spirit level to get them straight and even, otherwise pay a professional to put them down for you. A timber decking always looks nice, although it will require you to re-stain it every few years as the weather gets to it. A decking is best when your home is built on a sloping block or you can have one built up if your garden is flat.

Garden

Put a garden in around your patio which will soften the hard edges of your deck or paving and provide extra shade. You could have plants in pots around your patio and also hanging baskets. Grow climbing plants, such as wisteria or climbing roses up the veranda posts and up over the veranda so that your patio blends in with your garden.

Barbecue

No patio area is complete without a good barbecue. Invest in a good quality one as it is better to get one that will last. You will find that if you have a great patio area you will spend a lot of time out there, particularly in summer, and a barbecue is a quick and easy meal to have through the week as well as an easy way to entertain. You don't need to plan a barbecue like you do a normal party. Just let your friends know on the same day and pull a few steaks and sausages out of the freezer and you are set.

Outdoor Kitchen

If you have the space and the budget and feel that you will use your outdoor space often you could install an outdoor kitchen. This makes entertaining a lot easier as you are then able to prepare all you food outside. Have a decent amount of bench space, a sink and even a fridge and you can run your whole party from out on the patio. The chef need not be stuck indoors away from the guests at all.

Play Area

If you have children think about their needs when you set up your patio area. Allocate an area just for them to play, with a small table and chairs for them to draw, play games and build cubbyholes when it's wet.

Things to look for when purchasing a memory foam mattress

2011-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

When buying anything in life, you always have a number of options and choices available with regards to what you want to bye. A memory foam mattress or memory foam mattress topper is no exception.

Although simple in their nature, memory foam mattresses can have many different options available to them, which will make the buying process a little more complex. Besides this, there are still some myths floating around that just confuse even the savviest shopper.

What are the main differences between memory foam, visco-elastic and viso?
In terms of mattresses... there’s no difference whatsoever. All of the above are the same thing! Memory foam is made from a dense form of polyurethane that’s chemically enhanced to make it slightly denser than normal foam. The foam makes a great mattress as it reacts well to body heat, creating a mold around the subject.

Memory foam density, what are the differences?
A very dense mattress will have almost no air in the foam. A measurement figure when looking at memory foam mattress density will suggest how much material is present in a certain amount of foam. Take SleepShaper as an example, their most widely used density is 55 kilos per cubic meter which gives the perfect balance between durability, air flow and feel. A lot of people would say it’s the perfect compromise between being supportive whilst being extremely cosy.

Thickness, does it really matter?
Yes, yes it does. A thicker memory foam mattress will not only be more expensive than its thinner counterparts but it will also lose some effect if it’s too thick. There will be a point with the mattress that it stops molding to your body shape, this could be after the first 7 or 8 centimetres. For example, you wouldn’t get a 30 centimetre thick mattress as it will only be the top 8 centimetres that are doing you any benefits. Likewise a memory foam mattress topper that is only a couple of centimetres thick will not really give you that much of positive memory foam experience. There is a huge difference in comfort and feel when comparing an inch thick mattress to one that’s three inches thick.

Question the base foam
It sounds like a quote from a poor sci-fi or horror movie, but it is important to question the base foam. Poor and low quality base foam can really ruin a good mattress. Poor base foam might even reduce the mattress life span and will cause you to purchase a new one. Base foam of less than 27kg should be questioned as generally, anything under 27kg is considered to be padding or general upholstery foam.

Will I swelter?
There is a big myth about memory foam mattresses and heat. A good memory foam mattress will not make you hot, at least not hotter than being in bed on a normal mattress. If the mattress was severly dense, i.e. 85kgs+ then you might experience some overheating, but the majority won’t leave you feeling like you’re sleeping in the middle of the Sun.

Rejuvenate your windows by painting Your Interior Shutters

2011-11-16T09:06:00.000-08:00

Window shutters have a wide range of benefits; not only do they allow you to change the lighting in your room (what you’d expect from a window covering), they also provide an interesting aesthetic appeal and even security benefits. To ensure they match the decor of the room in which they’re installed, wooden shutters can be replaced or painted. The latter option may be more desirable in terms of cost and time.

Depending how concerned you are about the condition of the paint, this should only need to be done every five or six years. The quality of both paint and sealant will have a bearing on this though, so it’s important to consider this at the start.

The first step is to remove the shutters from the window. Trying to reach behind the shutters to paint them while they’re still up is a nightmare, and is not recommended. A standard screwdriver set should suffice in removing the shutters; depending on how tall you are you may need a ladder as well. Recruiting a helper to give you a hand if it’s required can’t hurt either.

Because paint gives off fumes, it’s best to paint in a well-ventilated area. This could be a garage with open doors, a garden, or somewhere similar. It may be beneficial to put the shutters on a tarpaulin or cloth when painting them to prevent paint staining the surface below. It is possible to remove spilled paint with paint thinner and water, but preventative action is certainly easier.

Start with removing the old layer of paint. Soapy water and a paint scraper is usually enough to remove paint beyond a certain age, but if this is not the case you can use sandpaper to help. Once the old paint is removed, primer should be applied to the wood to help it maintain its strength over time. A topcoat should then be added and left to dry before deciding whether a second coat is needed. The amount of coats should not matter too much if the paint is applied well.

Make sure you let the paint dry before reattaching the shutter. You don’t want paint marks all over your windows. Get the ladder (and helper, if you have one) back out when installing the shutters again; they can be tricky to put up.

This post is by Christopher Lee, on behalf of Shutters Direct

Brighten Up Your Home In The Winter Months With Cheap Curtains

2011-11-16T07:03:00.000-08:00

Following a glorious few days at the end of September, summer now seems as distant memory and the UK has been lashed with rain and buffeted by high winds. The nights are drawing in sooner and it won’t be long before we are all making our way home from work in the dark. At this time of year many people start to suffer from seasonal affective disorder, which can leave them feeling miserable and lethargic.

A great way to keep your spirits up in the winter is to brighten up your home with the use of cheap curtains.

The concept

Due to the fact that it is darker for longer during the winter months; we tend to have our curtains drawn for longer periods. This of course makes the interior of our home darker, which is exacerbated further if your curtains are made from darkly coloured materials.

By changing your curtains to brighter shades you can greatly improve the vibe of the room. As curtains are usually quite large, they not only brighten that particular area, but also increase lighting throughout the rest of the room through reflection.

Considering the cost

Of course, winter is a particularly expensive time of year. Many of us will be faced with the cost of buying Christmas presents, in addition to more expensive heating and lighting costs. This could leave you questioning whether new curtains are a viable option at this time of year. However, if you have a good shop around you can find cheap curtains that shouldn’t cost you more than about £35, with some options costing as little as £20. That isn’t really too much when you consider it could have a big impact on your mood right through the winter period.

Options

You may of the impression that the range of cheap curtains available to you might be quite limited due to the price. However, there are many different styles, colours and designs they should be within your price range.

The simple plain cream curtains above are a great choice in that they will really maximise the amount of light that is reflected back into the room. In addition the light faux silk material is light and breezy, which can help evoke the feeling of warmer months.

If you prefer a busier design then you might want to consider a striped theme as seen above. The contrast of red, beige and cream helps to keep the mood of the room feeling light and fun. Adding matching cushions is a great way of integrating the curtains into the rest of the room’s decor, without spending a fortune.
There are of course many other designs that can be as equally as uplifting from, floral to oriental themes. Whatever decision you decide to go for in your cheap curtains; be sure the fabric is vivid in colour and has a cheerful pattern.

Small Space, Big Impact

2011-11-15T08:59:00.000-08:00

Submitted by Elliman Real Estate: Featuring NYC real estate for sale. Written by Julianna Lundblad (@juliannanyc)

It is said that good things come in small packages. That can certainly be true within your living space. With just the right bit of imagination, a once cramped, unusable space can be transformed into your new home office or guest bedroom.

While it would be nice to expand your living space for more square footage, that is not always possible. Say you live in a NYC apartment, the trick is to use design secrets to make the space feel bigger.

Color can play an important role in the feel of a space. While warm colors can create a cozy feeling, they can make small spaces feel cramped. When choosing colors for a small space, choose cooler shades. Blues and greens are cool colors that are calming; when light shades of these colors are chosen, a small space can suddenly feel much more expansive.

Another key to opening up a small space is to keep furniture in the center of the space. This creates the illusion that the space is roomier than it truly is. Mirrors also help to create the illusion of roominess. Add a large mirror to your small space or a grouping of mirrors, and your small space will seem to grow.

Another trick to making a small space seem larger is to declutter. Clutter can make even a large room feel cramped. Be certain not to let clutter undermine your efforts to reclaim a small space as a workable area. Try to have furniture in your room that can double as storage, like a bench with hidden storage inside, so you can keep things that you don't use often out of sight.

Keeping a sense of scale is also important when dealing with a small space. You want your furnishings to be in proper proportion to the space. Don't seek out scaled-down furniture. Instead, choose furnishings that have a low profile. This will serve to make the ceiling in the small space seem higher. Also, seek out designs with a clean line when you are choosing furnishings for your small space.

One more trick to help your transform your small space is to utilize rugs. An area rug of the proper scale can help to define the space as being something specific--a new work space or office. This is important not only so that other people see the space as being "X" but also so that you can see it. This is especially important if you have lived in your home for a while and are used to the space as simply being an extension of another, larger space or as a haphazard storage area.

By taking these steps, you can reclaim your small spaces and put them to proper use. Whatever purpose you decide to choose for it, your small space can be a beautiful and useful part of your home.

Utilising colour schemes in decorating projects

2011-11-09T08:51:00.000-08:00

When decorating a home, colour schemes are an essential aspect of putting your personality on the design, and making it feel welcoming. Obviously the general colours chosen are a matter of personal choice, but it’s important to consider colours that go well together, and colours that clash.

Picking colours

The selection of the colour scheme should be the bedrock of the whole design, and in decorating, the uses of the colours again depends on personal taste. In terms of colour’s effects on the mood of a room, blue and green are generally more soothing tones, whilst yellow and orange brighten up an area. Safer colours like beige and tan are good for more neutral themes.

A colour wheel is a must have for any aspiring decorator, and colour combos work best when they are near each other on the colour wheel, with opposite colours contrasting. It can also be easy to forget about how many different shades of certain colours there are, for example, purple includes hues close to black, right through a pale shade that is almost white, not forgetting the gulf of colours in between those two.

The walls

After making a choice about the colour schemes, a good idea is to start any work on the walls. They are essentially the backdrop of the room and any further installations such as furniture, and what the direction of the rest of the room should be based around. Depending on personal preference, wallpaper or paint might be used. Buying wallpaper direct from the internet can save a lot of money.

Furniture designs

When picking furniture to go in a decorated room, there are two ways to go: pick a neutral colour scheme that will go with whatever scheme the walls and ceiling will be hosting, or use the colour wheel to pick matching colours. With the neutral choice, you have the extra option of adding different colours and textures via throw pillows and covers, without overpowering the ensemble, and conversely, with a suite or similar that matches the main colour scheme, tone down any extras with neutral colours.

Fabrics

Other extras like window curtains or blankets on a bed can differ. Curtains may be densely textured with its own design, or use lighter materials with solid colours throughout the item. Mixing one texture on the curtains with another on bed linen is a good technique, as it adds more depth to the room as a whole. Again, use a colour wheel if not sure, and match accordingly.

Details

Things like paintings, statuettes or ornaments are a matter of taste, and what resources you have available. A splash of colour in a detail within a neutral room can draw the eye to certain areas, and again, vice versa for me held back detail pieces and brighter general colour schemes.
On the whole, decorating effectively merely means what makes and individual feel comfortable, and personal taste should be paramount, especially if you intended to spend a lot of time in said room. If you are unsure about what you want to do with the room, or don’t want to create a ghastly nightmare with clashing colours, then a neutral theme is the safe option.

Outdoor Lighting

2011-11-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

Lighting is an important consideration when planning your landscape design. You want something that makes your yard look special and unique. Not only does lighting enhance the beauty of your outdoor space, but it sets the tone. There are so many varieties of light fixtures available, that it may seem difficult to choose the correct one for your purposes. There are a few things that you should keep in mind when arranging a unique new light scheme for your home.

Set the Mood

Lighting is a big component of building ambiance. What mood do you want to convey in your space? Are you looking for outdoor lighting because you are a frequent backyard entertainer? Or are you looking for something soft and romantic for quiet evenings in the garden? The correct lighting arrangement can convey a message in an instant.

Safety

One of the major benefits of installing outdoor lighting is eliminating safety risks. Shedding light on uneven ground, or around the pool will keep your family and friends injury-free. Not only does light help with personal safety, but a well-light landscape can help deter vandals and home intruders. A well-lit yard increases their odds of being caught in the act. Many lighting systems also allow for timers that turn on and off at specified times so you don’t have to worry about it.

Enhance the Beauty

If you’ve spent time cultivating a beautiful garden, or you recently installed a pond, show it off even when the sun sets. Outdoor lighting can be used to highlight the beauty of your yard all the time. Create drama in your nighttime landscape with a mix of lighting techniques to highlight your yard’s best features.

Keep it Fresh and Unique

There are a number of interesting lights on the market now that can really jazz up your landscape. LED lights are a new alternative to traditional lighting. They look extra bright and use less power than older lighting systems. Adopting unique shaped and sized lights into your landscape design makes your home stand out. Keep some strand lights high in the trees and some ground lights to cling to the walking path to create an attention-grabbing lightscape for your home.

This article was written by Erie Construction. Follow Erie Construction on Twitter.

Curvaceous Kitchens!

2011-10-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

I wanted to do my kitchen up recently but this is one area of my house that I have shamefully neglected, so I wasn’t fully clued-up on what I would like; the kitchen doors I wanted, the surfaces, even the colour! A quick online search led me to an awesome looking design though that I immediately knew I wanted!

It’s all about curves! Curved little kitchen islands, curvaceous kitchen doors and smooth, round edges where ones where harsh little corners. I loved the look of this little bubbly-kitchen idea, so took it upon myself to investigate exactly how to achieve this look. I started my search by typing “curved kitchen” into a search engine and absolutely loved the outcome! Curvy little kitchens can be done in all types of typical kitchen materials – from the ultra-modern high-gloss shiny cabinets and kitchen doors to the gorgeous wood doors. I loved the way that these kitchens seemed to flow and put me in mind of softness, comfort and luxury! Combined with a really soft, floral wallpaper and opulent, poufy cushions for my kitchen chairs, my kitchen now looks like a little, white cloud of a haven!

It’s not just all sweetness, girly and light though. If you fancy a kitchen with curves to rival Nigella Lawson you don’t have to have a girly haven – opt for heavy wood kitchen doors in a slightly darker shade or even black ultra-gloss to give your kitchen a bachelor-pad feel. And of course, forego the flowery wallpaper!

Choose An Oak Console Table To Reinstate Your Living Room

2011-10-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Only a few short years ago most people had telephone tables in their hallway which meant that every time there was a phone call your home had a designated space for taking it. Nowadays with the popularity of mobile phones and landline phones which can be carried around the home, often time taking phone calls seems to encroach on creating a happy and relaxed family environment.

If you’re fed up with teenagers or other family members taking or making calls in your living space there is a quick and simple solution.
If you purchase an oak console table it can easily be placed in a hallway or box room and house your telephone, meaning that phone calls coming in or going out will no longer encroach on your space.

You can say goodbye to disturbances when you’re watching your favourite programme and your teen decides that they must make that all important phone call.
Dinner time can be dinner time again as your dining space won’t be invaded by ringing phones, so you can have better quality time with your family.
There’s a lot to be said for the old tradition of keeping your phone separate from your living space, especially these days when we use technology so much. Particularly when you consider that most of the technology we use only serves to make us more solitary.

Most parents would agree that technology can make it harder to spend quality time with your family. That’s why it’s a good idea to have rules about what happens in different spaces in your home.

When you purchase an oak console table for your hallway then you and your family can all agree that family living spaces are for spending time together, rather than everyone doing their own thing and any telephone conversations can be kept away from the living areas of your home.

If you’re simply looking at ways to save space then an oak console table could be the perfect solution. Console tables are more slimline than conventional tables meaning that they can fit snugly into a small space without encroaching too much on the surroundings. That means they’re ideal for small bedrooms, bathrooms, studies or box rooms. They also work well near front doors as they can be used to store post or other important papers and are an ideal place to pop your keys when you come in.

So reinstate to your living room and encourage your family to spend more time together simply get yourself an oak console table from Cambridge Oak

How To Add Interest To A Neutral Decor

2011-10-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that it’s the finishing touches that make a home feel like a home. That’s why it’s so important to get your home accessories right.

The objects and ornaments that you keep around you say a lot about who you are, so if you truly want to express yourself through your decor then it’s a good idea to put some thought into the things you choose to surround you.
Many people these days choose to decorate their homes as a blank canvas, which is a great move if you plan to sell your property as most people prefer homes that they can imagine their own belongings in.

However, a blank canvas can be a bit boring when you are living in it every day, but it’s easy to put your stamp on your home and keep the decor neutral by choosing clever accessories.

Choose Accent Colours

One way to do it is to decide on two or three accent colours for your home and keep within those colours when buying accessories. This doesn’t mean that if you choose blue as one of your colours all your accessories need to be exactly the same shade of blue. You can keep within the colour palette but choose blues of different shades to add variety.

A great way to add colour is through items such as cushions, curtains and rugs. These can be relatively inexpensive which means you can change them as often as you want to give your home a new feel. Many people who do this choose to change their curtains or cushions with the seasons. This is a great idea as you can use warmer colours during the winter to give your home a cosier feel and choose lighter colours in the summer for a more airy atmosphere.

Express Yourself

If you’re a fan of bold, modern design then let your home reflect it. Choose modernist prints and sharp, primary coloured accessories to really set your rooms off. If you prefer a more romantic style then fill your home with gorgeous antiques, crystal and cut glass. There’s no reason not to surround yourself with the things that you love.

Change The Atmosphere

You can completely change the atmosphere in the rooms of your home just by adjusting the lighting. If you really want to make an impact you could fit coloured lighting strips around the tops or bottoms of your kitchen units, or replace your light fittings with dimmer switches. For a cheaper and quicker effect try scattering tealights in gorgeous tealight holders around a room. When lit they give a truly magical feel and will almost make your room feel like a completely different space.
However you decide to dress up your neutral decor, remember your home is an extension of your personality, so have fun, experiment and give yourself a treat by filling your home with items that you love.

Creating A Relaxing Bedroom Environment With The Right Bedding

2011-10-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Whilst there are those of us that are fortunate enough to enjoy a sound sleep most nights; many often find that their sleeping pattern is interrupted or struggle to drop off. The stresses of modern day life mean that it can be difficult to switch off at the end of the day and we can wake up in the morning feeling more tired than we did the night before. In order to improve your sleeping pattern it is a good idea to try and create a serene environment within your bedroom and your bedding selection can go a long way towards achieving that aim.

An uncomplicated design

In the world of children’s bedding we see many crazy patterns that are designed to draw their attention and spark their imagination. As most children don’t have any worries to keep them awake at night their bed linen can be as busy as it gets without having a detrimental effect. However, adults are much better advised to go for something a little simpler. It is a good idea to go for bedding that is either one colour, or that has two different colours on opposing sides.

If you are keen to add some element of design to the bedding then a wise choice is to try and incorporate some nature, which the human mind instinctively associates with calmness and serenity. Floral bedding remains a firm favourite as do designs involving trees.

For something a little less traditional there is always the option of bed linen that depicts flowing water in the form of rivers or waterfalls. Whichever pattern you do decide on; make sure that it isn’t too busy.

Selecting the colour

Many of the different shades of colour are associated with emotions dependant on the society in which we live. For example; most Western cultures associate the colour red with love, passion and anger.

Research has demonstrated that just seeing the colour red can have a physical impact on the human body and serve to increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Whilst this might make the right bedding colour for some situations; it’s probably not the wisest choice when you are looking for a restful night. Again your best option is to go for tones that are intrinsically linked with nature, such as browns, beiges and greens. Pastel yellows, blues and pinks will also create a soothing vibe.

Quality materials

We all like to make a good saving and it can be tempting to go for cheap bedding options. However, you really do get what you pay for with bedding materials and it is worth paying that little bit extra to get superior products. Whether you are going for cotton, silk or satin bedding sets or Egyptian cotton bed linen; a higher quality material will feel much smoother against your skin and provide a relaxing comfort.

Having the right bedding really can play a huge role in securing a good night’s sleep, which can have a real impact on your energy levels and productivity throughout the day. When you consider that we tend to spend around a third of our lives in bed; paying a few extra pounds to get quality items really isn’t a big deal.

Top Tips for Updating Your Bathroom

2011-10-04T08:15:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you spruced up your bathroom? I’m not referring to paint, or tiles, but to the bathroom fixtures themselves. What sort of work did you have done? Getting a bathroom re-fitted can be a lot of hassle. For the duration of the job your plumbing is off, and you don’t have access to your washing and toilet facilities.

If you have more than one bathroom, that’s not too much hassle, but if your home has only one bathroom, it can be a less than appealing proposition. That’s where bath repairs such as bath resurfacing come in. If you pick a company that specialises in bath repairs to do the work for you,

bath resurfacing can offer you a “good as new” bathtub for a fraction of the cost of a high quality replacement.

Save time and hassle

If your existing bath is serviceable, but has scratches, cracks, or pit-marks that make it look scruffy, then why not get it repaired instead of shelling out for an entire replacement. You can breathe new life into all but the most damaged of tubs through bath repairs, and the process is far less intrusive than getting a replacement fitted.


Shower Tray Before

Shower Tray After

DIY or professional?

It’s possible to purchase bath resurfacing kits online, and while these can do the job well enough, they can be difficult to use. The chemicals used in those kits are incredibly strong, and can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. If you aren’t used to working with such chemicals, and have never tried to do your own resurfacing before, then it’s probably not a good idea to make re-doing your bathroom your first DIY experience.

Professional companies that specialise in bath repairs have access to better equipment, and more experience in performing even difficult bath resurfacing jobs. When you get the treatment done by a professional, they will guarantee the work, so you have some recourse if the new surface cracks, flakes, or peels after a few uses.

When is replacement better?

Bath resurfacing is not always a good idea. If your tub is a fairly new and inexpensive one, and you plan on getting a similar replacement, then you may find that replacing it would be less expensive than getting your existing one repaired. Resurfacing is best for high quality and antique tubs which may be irreplaceable.
Most jobs can be done on site, but some companies recommend sending tubs away for more sophisticated treatment. This does have the drawback of taking longer, and being more intrusive to your daily routine – since you’ll be without access to your bathtub for a while – but the treatment can restore even cast iron tubs to their original glory.

Once you’ve got your bath sorted out, don’t forget to pay a little attention to the rest of the room, simple jobs such as replacing taps, or changing the toilet seat, will all go a long way towards making your bathroom look as shiny, new, and inviting as the ones you see in top class hotels.
This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Hometech. James writes on the subject of home improvement and DIY.

Are You Planning a Loft Conversion?

2011-10-03T08:19:00.000-07:00

More and more homeowners are choosing to stay in their current homes and invest in a loft conversion, rather than moving home and paying for all the extra expenses that moving entails. This should come as no surprise – there are many benefits to loft conversions. Birmingham, and other major cities, feature competitive housing markets, and persuading buyers to take an interest in your home can be difficult.

Loft conversions are a good compromise for a growing family. They allow you to expand your home without spending a lot of money. The cheapest loft conversions can be a tenth of the cost of even a small flat, and for that price you get the convenience of staying in your own home, the utility of extra space, and the value of an investment that should increase your home’s value, should you decide to sell in the future.

While you’re getting the loft conversion work done, you can also take the opportunity to get other minor improvements carried out, such as upgrades to your heating system, or some extra loft insulation added. There are many great loft insulation offers online.

Things to consider before commencing work

Before you sign off on any loft conversion work, it’s a good idea to make sure that you’re well versed in all of the legal considerations. If you’re a leaseholder, and you want a loft conversion for an upper floor flat, then you will need to get permission from the person who owns the freehold. If you live in a terraced or semi-detached property, then you may need to consult your neighbours before you start work – especially if the work will involve touching any shared walls.

Insurance is another important consideration. You may want to invest in an insurance backed warranty, so that your home is covered not just for the duration of building work itself, but for any loft conversion related problems that you encounter over the next ten years.

When you go looking for a company to perform loft conversions in Staffordshire or your local area, make sure that you ask about their credentials, and also ask to speak to satisfied customers. Don’t just read testimonials on their websites – ask to speak to some customers in person. Any reputable company will be happy to put you in touch with some previous customers, and a face to face conversation (or a telephone conversation if you prefer) will give you a much more realistic view of the company, the builders, and the quality of their work, than some carefully edited text on a website.

Loft conversions require a lot of planning and paperwork, and the building process can be a little stressful, but it’s far less hassle than moving house, and works out less expensive in the long run too. Even something as simple as choosing loft ladders UK or the right sort of timber windows can be a complicated matter if you are unsure of what you are doing. If your family is growing, and you feel like you need more space, then a loft conversion is a great way to give yourself and your family the breathing space that you require, without having to uproot and move away from your much loved family home.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Buckley Loft Conversions, for expert loft conversions Staffordshire and loft conversions Birmingham. James writes on subjects relating to home improvements.

Kitchen Design Dilemmas Solved

2011-09-26T07:13:00.000-07:00

This guest blog post was written by Tracy Tesmer, founder of Tracy Tesmer Design • Build • Remodel • Repair, a design/build remodeling company specializing in kitchen remodeling. Tracy has over 30 years experience in the construction industry and also hosts a weekly home improvement radio show on WDUN in North Georgia.

The kitchen is where most people spend the majority of their time while at home. It’s no longer just a place to cook meals – it’s evolved into a hangout room where kids do their homework and friends and family congregate. Because we are requiring more out of a kitchen these days, it’s important to have a space that is both comfortable and functional. The following are 3 frequent kitchen complaints and ways to solve them, both with some DIY elbow grease or with the assistance of a home remodeling professional.

Insufficient Lighting. This is a common problem, especially in older homes that may just have an overhead florescent light and a light in the vent hood.
- DIY: Replace your dated florescent lighting that is probably collecting bugs with some more stylish fixtures that give off more light. Since the hookup is already installed, this can be installed relatively easily. Make sure to completely cut the power before beginning to work on it and note you may have to do some paint touchups if the new fixture is a different size. You can also add some under cabinet lighting that either plugs in to your wall socket or is battery powered with no wires to mess with!
- Professional: Unless you are a super handyman, you will probably need to hire somebody to tackle the installation of new recessed can lights, or new pendant or track lighting where there were no fixtures before. You may want to also consult with a kitchen designer to make suggestions on the look and feel of the space.
Lack of Storage Space. For many people, lack of sufficient storage space in their kitchen is a major complaint. Whether the builder failed to take full advantage of the storage space or the usage of your space has changed over time, it’s important to have a kitchen that is organized and not cluttered.
- DIY: Before doing anything, take a few hours to sort through your current kitchen items to see if you can get rid of or reorganize some of your clutter. You may have just solved your problem! If you still need more space, consider an overhead pot rack to free up some shelf space, adding some shelving for the inside of your pantry door, or purchasing a rolling kitchen island with storage cabinets.
- Professional: If the installation of an island sounds like the right thing for you, but you want to go the permanent route, hire a remodeler to build and install one for you. You can also replace your upper cabinets to reach to the ceiling, often adding a shelf or two of storage space. For smaller improvements, adding a Lazy Susan to corner cabinets will help you fully use the awkward space to your advantage.
Impeded Work Flow. It’s important to be able to have a flowing kitchen that works well. Even though today’s kitchen serves as a place to entertain, organize one’s day, and communicate with family and friends, it is above all else still a place to cook. The "kitchen triangle" is the area between the refrigerator, sink and stove.
- DIY: Although it may be difficult to fix much of the floor plan with DIY skills, you may be able to save on the cost of remodeling by doing some of the demolition, painting, or appliance installation of this remodeling project yourselves.
- Professional: Most professional remodelers are excellent at figuring out how to maximize the functionality of the “kitchen triangle.” Common renovations include adding a wall unit oven to replace a standard stove, installing a cook top, veggie sink, and/or dishwasher in an island, or moving the location of a refrigerator.

Before you decide whether you want to take matters into your own hands and give your cooking space a makeover yourself, or call a licensed remodeler, it’s important to first identify the source of the problem and then decide which logical solution works best for you. Whether you need a major renovation of your existing kitchen or a simple quick fix, there are many opportunities to make the kitchen more efficient as well as more enjoyable.

Should You Invest In Dining Furniture?

2011-09-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

If you take a look around your home the chances are you have a few pieces of really high quality furniture. If you do then you’ll know that paying for quality really counts – especially if you’ve bought cheap furniture from one of the huge stores only to find it’s fallen apart within a few months.
Of course we all love a bargain and although you can dress your dining room up with cheaper items such as cushions, prints and curtains, when you buy cheap furniture it really shows - it’s hard to get a classy look when you’re not willing to pay for it!

Some people view buying good quality dining furniture as a big expense but why not look at it as an investment? If you compare the price of buying a few cheap pieces that will quickly wear out to the price of investing in one high quality dining set that will look great for years to come, it probably works out cheaper to choose the investment piece.

If you’re lucky enough to have a dining room then choosing some amazing dining furniture will really set the space alight. There are so many designs to choose from depending on whether you prefer a traditional or modern look.

If you don’t have a lot of space for dining then you could consider a wooden dining table with acrylic chairs, which will make the space seem much bigger. Or if you’re really brave you can go for an entirely acrylic dining set. Choose a classic look for your chairs such as that made famous by Philippe Starck’s Kong design. The amazing thing about the Kong design is that although the material is ultra modern the chairs look great in a traditional setting and because they’re so unusual they’ll still look great in ten or fifteen years. Starck’s design classic has spawned hundreds of copycat chairs and most are fairly reasonably priced.

If acrylic isn’t for you then you can always chooser high quality wood furniture, but instead of going for the traditional oak you could go for something a bit different such as mango wood.

Mango wood furniture has been steadily growing in popularity over the last decade as a wonderful alternative to more commonly used woods. It has a rich, slightly mottled appearance which gives a warm, homely and slightly ethnic feel to any room.

As well as being truly beautiful and highly durable, most mango wood is responsibly sourced from sustainable forests and usually manufactured overseas by highly skilled craftsmen. That means that most of the mango wood furniture that you can buy online is finished to a very high standard and is in no danger of falling apart. One of the most wonderful things about investing in high quality furniture like this is that you can actually end up with an heirloom that will almost become a part of the family! For that reason alone, investing in high quality dining furniture is always a good idea.

Give Your Home a Weekend Makeover

2011-09-21T09:10:00.000-07:00

So, summer is over. The kids are back at school, the nights are getting darker, and let’s face it, it’s getting a little chilly. It’s time to bring in the barbecue, put away the fans, and start planning for autumn.

The changing of the seasons is used by many people as an excuse for a decorating spree, but who has time for those these days? If you can’t afford to take a week off work to strip the wallpaper and lay some new carpets, then why not try this quick and easy home makeover plan.

Start with the kitchen: Clean out the cupboards and declutter the counters. Invest in some attractive bowls, hangars, and boxes to use for storage so that you never have to worry about clutter again. If you have time, you could consider painting the cupboards a different colour – it makes a big difference.
Revitalize the bedroom: Make your bedroom a relaxing place to be. Get rid of those thin summer curtains and replace them with heavy roller blinds that will do a better job of blocking out the winter chill. Move everything that isn’t bed or dressing related out of the bedroom. Less is more in this case – you don’t want any distractions in your bedroom. Replace all the bedding, and treat yourself to some fresh pillows.
Accessorize the living room: Sometimes all that you need to make a room feel different is a change of colour. You can’t feasibly do that with paint, but if you make creative use of throws, roller blinds, rugs, and other accessories, you can re-theme a room in a jiffy. Even better, when spring comes around you can put all the warm and cosy stuff away, and replace it with something refreshing and airy – giving you a second “instant makeover”.
Simple bathroom tweaks: Bathrooms can be high maintenance. Make sure that the tiles are clean, the taps are sparkling, and your bath or shower is freshly rinsed. Often, what drags down the mood in the bathroom is a tatty bath mat or shower curtain. Replace those, and perhaps add matching toothbrush and soap holders, and you should be able to quickly bring some cheer to the room.
Don’t forget the garden: Your garden is the first thing people see when they come to your home. At this time of year, it’s easy to start to let things slide, but don’t. If it’s nice outside, cut the grass and do a little weeding, make sure your paving stones are OK, and then consider planting some hardy plants that will survive until the winter. A neat and trim garden is always a nice sight when you get home from work on a dark night.

A lot of the above tips may sound like they’re about cleaning up, but in truth it’s amazing what changing a few things, such as roller blinds or shower curtains, can do. A change of colour, and a lack of clutter, is a big deal. Another area where subtle changes make a big difference is smell. If you normally burn incense or candles, consider changing the scent as the seasons change.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Creatively Different Roller Blinds. James writes on subjects relating to the home and interior design ideas.

Home Project Management – Kitchen Design

2011-09-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Re-modelling a kitchen can be a mammoth project. There are a lot of issues to consider – not just in terms of design and decoration, but also health and safety, plumbing, gas, and electronics.

If you want your remodelling to be a hassle-free process and you want to make sure that you avoid any costly mistakes or delays, then you will need to organize your work so that all of the tradesmen are able to complete their work on schedule, and comply with the regulations relevant to their trade.

Insurance

Before any major building work begins, it’s a good idea to make sure your insurance will cover it. Most standard household insurance will not cover building work while it is being carried out, so you’ll probably need to get cover added to your policy.

Plumbing

If you are making major changes to the layout of your kitchen, you may need to have your plumbing altered to accommodate the new layout. Get everything measured up before work begins.

Gas

All gas work must be carried out by a certified engineer, and you will need a safety certificate to indicate that your installation is safe. Gas leaks and carbon monoxide are no joke, so don’t be tempted to cut corners when it comes to gas.

Electricians

Just as there are regulations governing gas, there are regulations governing electrical work. You will need to make sure that you work with a certified engineer that understands the local Building Regulations (these can vary, country to country and state to sate).

For example, when you hire a professional electrician in Derby, they will assume responsibility for the required paperwork themselves, and provide you with an Electrical Installation Certificate and a Building Regulations Self Certification document when the work is done.

Even minor wiring work such as adding sockets or light fittings is considered to be notifiable when it takes place in the kitchen, so it is important to make sure that all of the required paperwork is completed.

The order in which the work is carried out will depend on how extensive the remodelling plans are. In general, it’s best to bring in skilled tradesmen such as electricians and plumbers early in the process, so that they can do their work with minimal disturbance. Cupboard fitting and decorating can be done once the major installation work has been completed.

The most common jobs – wiring up cookers and adding plugs or light fixtures – are not too intrusive. Your electrician will need to turn off the power while they’re working, but the job should not take too long, and is unlikely to require extensive work in other parts of the house unless they find something unsafe in your wiring while they are working.

If you are using a project management company, they will be able to recommend gas engineers and local electricians that they know are reputable. If you’re managing the work yourself, then ask around for recommendations from friends and family to ensure that you get the best service.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Ash Cole your local electrician in Derby. James writes on subjects relating to home improvements and DIY.

Transforming Your Lounge With Outdoor Decking

2011-09-19T08:42:00.000-07:00

Due to the instability of property prices and the current economic climate, many homeowners are deciding to make improvements to their home rather than looking to move. With so many people being caught out in recent years by falling property prices and losing their jobs, there is now an increased trend to renovate rather than relocate. Extensions and conservatories are a popular option, as are porches and loft conversions. However, one improvement that many overlook and which can greatly improve the feel and usefulness of your home’s lounge is that of decking.

Aesthetic benefits

The first and perhaps most obvious benefit that decking provides to your lounge is visual. When installed alongside some French Doors your decking project can greatly increase the light in the room; giving it a more spacious and airy feel. This can be especially beneficial in smaller houses that can sometimes feel a little oppressive. In addition, the decking provides a natural introduction into the garden area, whilst allowing you to enjoy the views from the comfort of the settee.

Entertaining

A decking area that can be easily accessed through your French Doors offers a fantastic place to entertain guests – especially in the summer months. The space effectively increases the size of your lounge; meaning your guests won’t be cramped when you have a social gathering.

In addition the extra space means that more than one conversation can take place; allowing guests to better mingle and the party to go with a swing. If you are a keen barbequer then the decking also means that you can do your cooking without having to leave your gusts to entertain themselves.

A safe space for the kids

Anyone who has young children will know how much they love being outside. However, sometimes we don’t have the time to get out in the garden with them as much as we would like as we try to keep up with the housework. By installing child safe decking you are able to let your young children get some fresh air whilst you get on with some jobs, without having to worry about them falling into a rose bush or getting dirty digging in the mud.

Just be sure to fit a gate with a latch that prevents them leaving the decking and also ensure that spindles are no more than 100mm apart, thus avoiding your offspring slipping through the gaps. You may even want to consider glass panels as seen in the photo above, which not only look great, but also improve safety.

Increasing your property value

The final benefit that installing decking can provide is that of significantly increasing the value of your property. A recent study by one of the UK’s leading property websites revealed that 66% of house hunters are most attracted to homes that have a well maintained garden. The findings also show that beautiful garden area can add about £30,000 to the average house; even more for properties of a higher value. So when you do finally decide the time is right to move on you can consider properties in a higher value bracket for a relatively low outlay.

Bedroom Magic: Choosing Colors That Calm

2011-09-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a moment when you describe a shirt as orange, and your shopping companion, whoever they are, looks at you strangely and says, “That’s not orange, that’s a burnt red”? Color is an odd thing, and in a personal space like a bedroom, it can be especially tricky. Bedroom spaces are meant to slow us down. We go to our bedrooms to unwind and forget about the troubles of the day. The design of the bedroom should directly reflect this intent. If it doesn’t, then your bedroom is in dire need of some interior remodeling. The color palette is extremely important in generating an appropriate sense of calm. Though the aforementioned example shows that color is, in many ways, “in the eye of the beholder”, there are a few aesthetic universal truths which can make any bedroom a more restful place.

Opposites Attract

Ask some friends or colleagues to describe your personality in terms related to hot or cold. Do they describe you as fiery and spicy, or as cool and calm? If you are described as “peppery” by more than one person, than look for colors that are in opposition to your personality. This opposition should be a subtle one, or it can end up feeling disturbing. Choosing “minty” or “wintery” tones will calm, or cool, a “spicy” person down. Conversely, a person who is described as “cool” or “chill”, may want to color their bedroom with more heated or earthy tones, which will make their bedroom space a warmer place.

Design by Kenneth Brown. Photo by Mayer Bowden Photography.

Size Matters

If your bedroom is small, the colors you choose can have a large impact on whether the room feels cozy, or just cluttered and claustrophobic. Off-white shades, such as creams, beiges, pearls, or light grey tones, reflect light and make a room seem instantly larger. Avoid using a flat white, as that makes every space feel cold and impersonal. If off-white walls are not your cup of tea, consider painting the ceiling with an off-white color, as it will make the room feel more spacious vertically. Lighter earth tones, like sand, or cool tones like sky blue or pale green, can also serve to make a space feel larger.

Photo by Happy Home Zone

Color Ratios

According to rules of Feng Shui, you should endeavor to use anywhere from 3 to 5 colors in your room. Begin with the bed, since that is the space with which you are going to have the most direct interaction. Once you have the selected the colors for your bed set, then it is time to address the walls and the rest of the bedroom. Choose complementary tones for the rest of the room, and be very careful in your selection of wall color, as almost 75% of the color in your room is on your walls. If you are feeling uncertain, a good rule of thumb is to choose a wall tone that is the same, or akin, to one of the subtle tones in your bedspread. Then more vibrant tones can be used for decoration and trim to create visual accents.

Photo by by Leonid Nyshko

Remember, at the end of the day, it is your bedroom and it should be decorated in whatever way you feel is most comfortable. Your red is different than the red experienced by anybody else. So, no matter what anyone says, make sure to color your bedroom - you.

How to Fund Fantastic Home Improvement Projects

2011-09-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

Home improvement is the aim of almost every homeowner and it is a sensible goal to have. There are numerous benefits to improving the state of your home, such as comfort for instance. Investing in new furniture or adapting your house to make it more practical can add to the overall feeling of comfort and this can only be a good thing.

Another reason for undertaking a home improvement project is to make your home look more attractive. Your house, cottage or apartment should be a place where you absolutely love spending time and the better it looks, the more you should enjoy being there.

Home improvement is also a wise decision as it can significantly increase the value of your property. An extension or conservatory, for example, could add thousands to the value of a home.

This last point leads on to another advantage of making the most of your home, and that is appeal to potential future buyers. If you have enhanced your house with a new bathroom or other improvement, it is likely to be more appealing to a buyer and as mentioned could fetch a higher price when you are ready to sell.

How can you improve your home?

There is a multitude of ways to enhance a home, both inside and out. From the garden to the attic there are home improvement projects that could be undertaken, and with that in mind here are a few ideas to mull over:

Install a new bathroom – if your bathroom is a dated and dingy space in which it is impossible to feel truly pampered, perhaps a new installation is just what your property needs.
Build an extension onto your home – perhaps you have a growing family or maybe you would just like a bit of extra space to enjoy; either way, an extension could be the answer and a great way to improve your home.
Have a conservatory built – a conservatory gives you the benefits of an extension, plus you get to enjoy the great outdoors all year round, whether the rain is pouring or the sun is shining.
Build a swimming pool – if you have the space at home then why not use your imagination and install something that you can really enjoy, like a heated swimming pool.

Find funding for your project

Of course not everybody has the cash required for such projects in their bank, but this need not stop you investing in your home. Today it is possible to secure funding for home improvement and other projects, and there are a number of options to ponder. Using your credit card is one option if your limit allows you to take out the funds necessary to pay for a new bathroom or conservatory. It is worth considering the high interest rates imposed on credit card borrowing though, so other options should be considered, such as secured loans. Secured loans, also known as homeowner loans, are secured on your home, and they could allow you to borrow more than a personal loan would. This is a way that you could free up the funds needed to invest in your home, making it a more attractive, comfortable, valuable and saleable property for you to enjoy.

About the author: Sam Butterworth writes for Nemo Personal Finance, who can help you with secured loans. Find out what you could borrow with their secured loans calculator for home improvement and more.

ABOUT NEMO Nemo Personal Finance http://www.nemo-loans.co.uk is a part of the Principality Building Society Group and provides secured loans for UK homeowners with an existing mortgage. Nemo aims to unravel the complications of personal finance and to provide homeowner loans that fit individual needs and lifestyles. Nemo is a responsible lender and will only make loans available to people who can afford them.

* Consolidating your debt may increase the amount you pay back overall and extend the repayment period of your debts.

THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.

Give a Hoot About Owl Decor

2011-09-14T04:54:00.000-07:00

Owls are the latest trend in the fashion world and often will be seen on simple tees and necklaces. With their adorable big eyes and playful appearance, they are becoming hot in the interior design world as well. They come in various forms, from cookie jars to even an umbrella stand! If you are looking for an owl theme in your kitchen, you can also try a white owl pitcher, which will blend in well if you have your kitchen decorated with neutral colors or maybe you just need a splash of white to break up all of your achromatic color.

Spending money on owl décor items can get pricey at times, so save some of your funds by using Home Decorators Collection coupons. On their site you will also discover some additional owl décor items that will make you give a hoot about how your home will feel. Anthropologie also offers owls that will woo you with their winking eyes and delightful colors. Let owls comfort you from every corner as you look into their mischievous eyes and understand why they are so enticing to own for your home interior.

Wise Ol’ Cookie Jar, Orange – Gear up for Halloween time with a cookie jar to hold your kid’s snacks or maybe just your own cookies and candy! Even when it’s not Halloween this cookie jar would still look spunky and cute in your home. With its bright color and darling personality, a jar like this deserves to be on your countertop all year long.

Owl Umbrella Stand – If you are always misplacing your umbrellas an owl umbrella stand is a wise way to keep track of them and at the same time incorporates a décor item that you love. It’s neutral with its white shade so it won’t stand out, but passersby will definitely recognize it simply because it’s so creative.

Winking Wisecracker Jar – How can you not adore this mischievous and wise as an owl jar? The whimsical colors make this owl jar come to life with its turquoise and light pink color tones. It could easily be the focal point in a kitchen depending on its placement and keep you happy by glancing at its winking eye.

Owl Pitcher – With its charming shape and darling style, this pitcher would go perfectly in a shabby chic inspired kitchen. You might even consider placing it in your bathroom for easy to access to filtered water.

Owl décor may come and go, but you should give a hoot about this trend and make it last in your home. Like roosters, owls may become the next best thing and no matter what the styles in a home may be, if you love owls, then decorate with them to your hearts content.

An avid ocean dreamer, Sierra adores everything that has to do with the beach. Writing about fashion and style are one of her many passions, which is why she enjoys being a featured fashion blogger for JoeShopping.com, a social shopping site dedicated to saving you money through hot deals and more.

What’s New in Kitchen Design?

2011-09-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

The housing market may have slowed down slightly, but the re-modelling market is booming. Rather than moving house, more and more people are improving what they already have – revitalizing their bedrooms and modernizing their kitchens with the latest in plumbing, floor-to-ceiling units, and stainless steel undermount sinks, or ceramic undermount sinks for those that prefer a more classical look.

Islands are in

One of the biggest trends in kitchen design these days is the use of islands. In many homes, the kitchen is "big enough", but the amount of usable space is far from sufficient. While opting for stainless steel undermount sinks instead of traditional overmount sinks will allow you to reclaim a few inches of counter space, an island will reclaim a lot of empty floor space for your use as a work surface, and can act as storage too.

Low Divide Sinks

Another trend that’s gaining popularity is low divide sinks. Many kitchen designers are finding that they’re now more popular than single bowl sinks. There are some charming ceramic undermount sinks that come in a large bowl/small bowl configuration with a low divider, perfect for those who want to retain the flexibility of a single bowl, but want to separate some of their washing.

Discrete filters

Water filters are one of the first additions that many homeowners make to their kitchens, even if they aren’t going to be re-modelling on a grand scale. An under-sink water filter, connected directly to the cold tap, can remove the need for a separate faucet for drinking water. There are filters that can last for one year before they need changed. They’re discreet, hassle free, and great value for money.

Floor to ceiling cabinets

Floor to ceiling cabinets are gaining practicality for several reasons. Firstly, they remove the hassle of having to dust the top of the cabinet (which, let’s face it, is a horrible chore). Secondly, they maximise the amount of useable space, and make the kitchen look much neater.

Kitchen redesigns should not be entered into lightly. While it’s easy enough to move around the furniture in the living room, or even in a bedroom, kitchens are more permanent, with plumbing and wiring to be considered. If you hate your kitchen, every mealtime will turn into a chore. So, before you invest in stainless steel undermount sinks, floor-to-ceiling cabinets, or any other major changes, think about what you use most in your kitchen, and what you’ll need easy access to on a day to day basis.

It may be that you need single bowl ceramic undermount sinks, because a double-bowl sink wouldn’t fit your wok. Or, it could be that you’d rather have an island kitchen than one with floor-to-ceiling cupboards – or, perhaps you spend so much time in there that you need both storage solutions! Don’t let your kitchen designer talk you into something fashionable just because everyone else in the neighbourhood has bought it. It’s your kitchen, and it should be designed to fit your needs.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of the Kitchen Appliance Centre. James writes on subjects relating to home improvements and interiors.

DIY Shower Video

2011-09-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Interesting DIY shower video I saw. Looks a bit tricky for me though!

Ten Best Uses for Wallpaper (Other than the Obvious)

2011-09-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

If you have extra wallpaper left over after you’ve covered you walls, don’t toss it. Instead, try out some of these easy DIY projects. Each is a way to use up the extra paper you’ve had lying around to make ordinary things beautiful. Even if you have never used wallpaper before, these fun projects might inspire you to go out and buy a roll.

Filing cabinets
Make your boring gray filing cabinet something special by covering it in wallpaper! First, remove the handles, and pull out the drawers. If you’re covering the whole cabinet, you don’t need to paint it; if you’re just partially covering it, pick your favorite color high gloss spray paint and spray away. Measure the cabinet, and cut out the wallpaper accordingly. Use Mod Podge to stick the paper to the cabinet. Smooth out any air bubbles before it dries. Lastly, add a clear top coat and reattach the hardware.
Mat as art
This is a great use for wallpaper that you love, but might be too overwhelming if you covered a whole wall with it. Instead, mat the wallpaper on foam core or measure and cut it to fit into a frame.
Room divider/folding screen
If you already have a flat paneled room divider, you can recover it in leftover wallpaper to give it new life. If you don’t have one, just have plywood cut into divider sized panels at the hardware store. All you’ll need to do it cover it in paper (using Mod Podge or spray adhesive) and then attach hinges.
Headboard
My favorite way to use extra paper is to make a faux headboard. There are a couple ways to do this. The first method is to use wallpaper on a large piece of foam board (see #2). The second is to cut the paper to the desired shape and size and apply to the wall behind the bed. If you want to make it look really special, buy pre-cut molding, paint it, and then install it around the wallpaper to look like a headboard.
Switch plates
If you’re looking for a small, unexpected pop of color try covering your switch plates or outlets with wallpaper. The first thing you should do is cut the power to the switches you’re working on. Then carefully remove the covers. Clean them off and dry thoroughly. Cut your wallpaper to size, and then apply with Mod Podge. Let these dry completely before reinstalling them. Don’t forget to turn the power back on!
Risers on stairs
Adding wallpaper to the risers on your stairs is a fun, unexpected way to add color or texture to an otherwise quiet area of the home. It’s very easy to do. Just make sure that you wipe away any dust from the steps first, otherwise the paper won’t stick as well. Measure the dimensions the riser and use spray adhesive to stick on the paper. Once dry, go over it with a clear top coat for durability.
Ceiling
Using wallpaper on the ceiling is a great way to use paper you love without having to commit to four walls of it. This project is a little trickier than the others. You can see full instructions from the DIY Network here.
Glass coasters
You can purchase glass or ceramic tiles from the hardware store. Cut the paper to size, and apply. Once dry flip the coasters and apply stick on felt pads to the corners. Voila! Easy coasters.
Line drawers
This is a surprising way to add a special touch to a piece of furniture. If you don’t have enough of one style of paper, that’s okay. This is a project where you can mix and match different papers in each drawer. You don’t need to worry about it looking too busy because you won’t be looking at all of the wallpaper at the same time. Just measure the bottoms of the drawers, spray adhesive and apply the cut paper.
Bookcase
Transform a boring bookcase into a work of art with a coat of paint and a beautiful printed wallpaper backing. The neatest way to do this is to pull out the shelves and apply the paper in one sheet. If you can’t, you’ll have to measure the backboard between the shelves individually then cut and apply each one separately.

This article was written by Erie Construction.

Bathroom Decorating Tips

2011-09-08T08:54:00.000-07:00

I'm about to start redecrating my bathroom and got a lot of inspiration from this video!

Home Security Systems: DIY or Hire a Pro?

2011-09-07T08:40:00.000-07:00

In today’s do-it-yourself world, if something needs to be done at your home, you can nearly always find a kit or video to help you through it. This is also true when it comes to installing a home security system.

But just how easy is it? Is doing it yourself really going to be cost-effective and better than just hiring a professional to do it? Here are the facts:

Professionally Installed

It’s always important to consider your options. When considering hiring a professional, you should know that there are two types of home security systems that professionals install: leased and purchased. The costs of these two different systems and services differ.

Leased home security systems

Home security costs include a setup fee and a monthly monitoring contract. Other charges depend on what type of package and plan you choose. Here’s the breakdown:

Installation: Typically around $100.
Contract: Home security system companies usually require a 3-year commitment contract, and their monthly fees range from $30-$40 a month.
Cancellation fee: Variable, but calculated as the unused portion of months left in the contract times the highest rate.

Purchased home security systems

Purchased home security systems have more costs up front, but are cheaper over the long term:

Equipment and Installation: $100-$1,500.
Contract: Most require a 3-year contract, but some do not. The monthly monitoring fee is about $15-$20 a month.
Cancellation fee: From 75 percent of the fees due to the full amount.

If you decide to hire a company to professional install the system, make sure you do your homework! Research on the Internet, read consumer ratings, check out security blogs and ask your friends who have systems who they went with. DIY Installation DIY security systems are cheaper than professionally-installed systems, and definitely the better option to not having a security system at all. However, they do come with a few obstacles.

DIY Security System

There are a variety of options in selecting which type of DIY security system you can install. Most alarm systems come with sensors that are monitored wirelessly by a central control panel. When the sensors are triggered, a loud siren will go off – deterring the intruders from your home. In addition, some DIY systems can be set up to automatically call your mobile; however, you are not supposed to set this feature up to call the police.

DIY Security System Costs

The nice thing about DIY kits is that some come with home security monitoring capability. So if you want your home security system monitored without the long-term contracts, this is a good way to go. Also, since most of these systems are wireless, you can take them with you when you move. If you choose this option, here are some of the charges:

Set-up fee: FREE-$35
Sensors and control panel: $200-$500
Monthly fee: $8.95-$19.95

It’s important to note that although DIY systems are cheaper, they are not as effective as professionally installed systems. Professionally systems offer better monitoring support and a well-trained technician who will help you learn the system. However if a DIY security system is your only affordable option, then do it! Regardless of which you choose both will help you feel safe.

Sylvia Rosen is an online writer with a background in newspaper journalism. She connects with industry professionals to write articles on the latest advances in home security, such as wireless home security systems.

How to Choose the Right Mattress

2011-09-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

The decision to buy a new bed is one that should not be taken lightly. A bed is a major purchase, and one that you'll be using for a long time. Even budget beds can be expected to last for many years. The choice of mattress is important too - the array of designs and materials offered by mattress discounters is huge, and each type of mattress has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Most budget beds are offered without mattresses, and you'll have to pick out your own mattress to fit the bed. The style and material of mattress that you choose will depend on a number of factors, including your height and weight, any allergies you have, and whether you sleep alone or with a partner. Some mattress discounters will give you advice on choosing a mattress, but it's a good idea to have an idea of what you want before you start shopping.

There are several different types of mattress that you can buy to use with your budget beds, they include:

Continuous coil mattress: This is the cheapest type of mattress, and a big seller for mattress discounters. This type of mattress is fine for a single bed, but will wear out quickly in a double bed. The springs are linked, and if your partner rolls over, you'll feel their every move.
Open coil mattress: This type of mattress will last longer than a single coil mattress, and is generally considered to be more comfortable, and one of the best mattress types in terms of cost to comfort ratio.
Pocket sprung mattress: This type of mattress is popular among people who sleep on their side. The mattress provides good support for your spine, but is more expensive than an open coil mattress.
Memory foam mattress: Memory foam is heat sensitive, and moulds to your body. These mattresses are great in the winter, but can feel excessively warm in the summer. They're popular for people with joint pain, but can be quite expensive.
Foam or Latex Mattresses: If you have allergies, then this type of mattress might be the best choice for you.

Some people prefer to buy an inexpensive open coil mattress then add a mattress topper to it for a bit more comfort. This can be a good way of turning budget beds into super comfortable ones (especially if you can get a good deal on the mattress topper), but only works if you're adding the memory foam layer to a new mattress. You can't restore an old, saggy mattress by using a new topper, because they're so thin and flexible that they won't mask the problems with the old mattress.

If you're buying a new mattress, shop around and try a few different mattress discounters before you make your choice. Don't be shy about trying out a few different mattresses until you find one that you like. It's your comfort, and your health that is at stake, so it pays to be fussy.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of the Original Factory Shop. James writes on subjects relating to home improvements and interiors.

A Guide to Kitchen Remodeling

2011-09-05T03:33:00.000-07:00

A kitchen can come in all shapes and sizes, making a remodeling project a challenge. Before your remodeling project begins, prepare to be without a kitchen until the final screw is tightened on your project. Although a kitchen remodeling project can often take a good amount of time to complete, the finished project will not only give the homeowner a feeling of satisfaction, but will typically provide an encouraging return on investment should the house ever go on the market. No matter the dimensions or function of your kitchen, a professional remodeling job can transform your space into an area that is unique to your style and practical to your culinary capabilities.

Below are tips that can help transform a boring area into a traditional, trendy or modern kitchen space. No matter the direction being taken, the following will serve as a guide for you as you look to create a total kitchen makeover.

Create a budget

This will determine every other step in the process until completion. Study all of the things you wish to remodel before setting a budget. By doing a little homework early in the process, you can avoid straying away from the original remodeling plan. It is important to decide how the kitchen will be used and why it needs to be remodeled. Is more space being sought? Does the kitchen need more storage or room for guests?

Be accurate

Free remodel calculators are available online to help with how much everything will cost. Consumer reports are available, too. Knowing the rates of floors, cabinets, and other materials ahead of time will be beneficial when remodeling.

Have a vision

If a full remodel is going to occur, the design and plans need to be complete before anything begins. Kitchen design software is available online to help navigate through a look-a-like kitchen to decide where things should go and what they should look like.

Hire a professional

Not all contractors are created equally. A little due diligence will help you quickly decide on the right contractor for your kitchen remodeling project. Review their website, ask for references and make sure they are licensed. A contractor and a homeowner should experience little to no miscommunications during the remodeling process especially if a plan is in place.

Check the products and material

Cabinets - If the budget can accommodate, custom cabinets give a unique look with many different styles, materials and hardware available. Resurfacing is also an option for remodeling cabinets. Adding new hardware and color to previous cabinets can help spruce them up as well. This process should take a few days.
Lighting - Lighting can change the mood and atmosphere of an entire room. The kitchen is a place where lighting should be executed smartly to avoid kitchen mishaps. You need to be able to see what you are cooking or preparing!
Counters - With a wide variety of options available, one is faced with the choice of tile, wood, cement, granite, marble, and many others. Adding new countertops to a kitchen can change the look of a room. Consider price, color and durability of the counters as well as the installation requirements. A contractor will be able assist in providing this information. Hard floors are suggested in a kitchen because of spills.
Flooring – There are a number of different options from which to choose when selecting flooring. Tile, Vinyl, Wood and laminate flooring are some of the more popular flooring options during a kitchen remodeling project.
Windows - Windows allow natural light into the kitchen and add extra character to a room. Natural light is hard to replicate so take advantage of windows in a kitchen by leaving them open.

Understand payment terms

Every remodeling professional will have their own set of payment terms. However make sure you do not pay for the project in its entirety from the start. The contract will need to layout the payment plan and schedule for the rest of the project. Also, the final payment is not to be paid until everything is complete and to your satisfaction.

Getting the Most from Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

2011-09-02T01:35:00.000-07:00

The bathroom is typically a smaller area in a home, thus creating less space to play with when remodeling. This means that each product and material placed in a bathroom should serve a purpose. The layout of the bathroom will ultimately determine how much remodeling can be done. Bathroom remodeling doesn’t have to cost a small fortune, in fact; it can be done on a conservative budget.

Consider what really needs to be changed, what could be changed and what can wait to be changed. A theme and an ambiance should be kept in mind when selecting materials and products. This could be anything from traditional to quirky or modern. A good contractor will be able to help carry out the vision and design for each type of lifestyle being sought. Whether more space or more decoration is desired, remodeling a bathroom not only helps to renew the spirits of the owner but it adds increasing value to the home. These steps will help make the remodeling of a bathroom less chaotic and stressful.

Plan Ahead: Make a list of the things needing changes and a list of the things that absolutely must be in the bathroom. This should include measurements of the different areas in the bathroom including counters, walls, floor space, etc. Also consider who uses the bathroom. Will it need to accommodate children? Guests?
Select a Budget: Knowing how much money can be spent on a bathroom remodel must be determined early. This is helpful to the contractor and the owner because it makes the wish list and process more practical. A bathroom remodel can range in costs and is determined by the owner’s desires and needs. However, homeowners should be prepared for extra costs. These extra costs are typically “unseen” costs. Mold behind the walls or structural compromises are two areas that usually fall into the extra cost category.
Select a contractor: Choose someone local that knows the suppliers, the prices and the area. Referrals and credibility are very important when choosing a contractor. Make sure that the license, credentials and insurance status of the contractor have been reviewed. A contractor who specializes in bathroom remodeling will be able to give input into the project and design being sought, as well. Review the estimates closely before final selection. This includes researching prices and brands of materials and products. Keep in mind a labor fee is included in the final proposal.
Select the product: It is important that products and materials be selected carefully. Having all of the materials and products purchased before hand is advised to minimize delays, extra expenses and a change of ideas. Know ahead of time how much each of the products should cost to avoid being out of the loop when discussing products and materials with contractors.
- Countertops: Selecting a countertop for the space available and budget can be challenging. Ask the contractor about certain styles and colors that are ideal for a bathroom area.
- Lighting: This is one of the most important parts of a bathroom. A general rule of thumb is that the light should be bright enough to see water traces on the floor and counters. It may be smart to purchase the lighting after the remodel is being finished so that it can be matched to the colors and style of the room.
- Sink: A sink can enhance the look of the bathroom. Many options are available such as a traditional bowl, a glass bowl and even warm wood. A budget will help determine what can be used. For example, a single stand sink may not be a good idea for those seeking storage spaces. Try to narrow down the choice of color, size and style before looking to help save time.
- Flooring: Ceramic tiles and stone are the easiest of the options to keep clean if these can fit within the budget. They also provide a visual appeal to just about any decorating style.
- Cabinets: Cabinets can be custom built or purchased already made. Often time’s cabinets can be renovated with paint and hardware.
- Contract: Everything should be in writing including payment plans, work schedules, the total amount due, finish dates and any other terms necessary so that they are binding. Failure to do this can result in miscommunication, worries and frustration.

The insight listed above provides an excellent starting point when thinking about a bathroom remodeling projects. Remember to plan ahead, stay up to date on the latest trends and pricing, and enjoy the process of watching your bathroom being transformed into a space you will be happy with.

Spruce Up Your Living Room Design Today

2011-09-01T03:59:00.000-07:00

The living room happens to be one of the most important rooms in any house. After all, this is where the family comes together to watch TV, talk about their days, and relax. Since this room caters to both adults and children, it should have elements in it that the entire family can enjoy. Here are some basic tips on how to spruce up your living room design, so that it appeals to all of your family members.

If you are currently on a budget or simply aren't very interested in buying anything new for your house, you can just scour your home for things that you already have and can use in the living room. Reupholster some old furniture, for example, and clean one of your old throw rugs to bring about a vintage yet fresh effect.

Also, instead of buying expensive pieces of furniture and matching decorations, you can look for pieces with the same style, theme and color for your living room instead. You don't necessarily need to buy cushions that match your couch, for example. You can just get slipcovers made for them and then switch them out every now and then. This will ensure that your living room always exudes an exciting and vibrant vibe.

On the other hand, you can simply change the way your living room furniture is arranged. You might be pleasantly surprised at how a basic change in arrangement can give it a whole new look. Ideally, you should try to change the room's traffic flow, too, so that it gets an entirely different feel from its old one.

If your living room is currently arranged around a certain focal point, you can also change the way that particular feature looks. If your TV set is currently the center of attention, try buying a new TV or adding a few speakers here and there. If it is your fireplace, try replacing the mantle or retiling the entire fireplace.

Now, if you want to focus on keeping your living room's design minimal, try having a single decorative piece of furniture in the room. This would be an especially good idea if you have a big family and value your space. Another thing you can do is look for multi-tasking furniture, which you can open and fold as needed.

Conversely, if you are sick of the monochromatic look of your living room, try incorporating some new colors into it. Add a colorful rug or bean bag to the room to give it some new energy, for example, or get a home theater system built in to give it more life. Whatever you choose to add, though, keep in mind that it has to appeal to the entire family..

Stacy L. is a writer that focuses on green living and home decor. She also enjoys covering topics on an expat community blog that provides international calling cards and an international prepaid calling cards for international travelers. Take an additional 10% off with coupon code "acc10".

Three Factors on Making Wise Choices with a Patio Umbrella

2011-08-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

Homeowners will find that the patio is an excellent place to spruce up with furniture and fixtures like table and chair sets, planters and even swings. Still, most homeowners will opt for a beautiful, practical and affordable patio umbrella for many reasons.

And with the wide range of patio umbrellas in online sites and stores, homeowners and café owners will have little difficulty in finding the products that will best suit their intentions. The trick is in choosing the right umbrella for the patio of which some choices are market umbrellas or popular Sunbrella outdoor umbrellas. Fortunately, the right choice can be made by knowing the product selections based on size, pole and style, which this article briefly discusses in turn.

Sizes

Patio umbrellas come in various sizes from the single models to the family units. This way, everybody with a desire for patio umbrellas has a choice, be it a person who lives in a small apartment with a tiny balcony or a café proprietor with almost an entire sidewalk to cover.

The choice of the patio umbrella in terms of size depends on a balance of two things. Buyers must measure the area in which the umbrella will be placed in on one hand and the desired area to be shaded on the other hand. For example, a standard 4x6 feet umbrella will shade a bistro table set while a 9x10 feet umbrella is sufficient for a 72-inch table with 6 chairs.

Poles

As can be expected, most patio umbrellas have a pole in the middle in the same way as the portable umbrellas. The pole itself as well as the umbrella's ribs can be made from a variety of materials including wood, aluminum and fiberglass. Its height can start at 8 feet tall, which is sufficient for most people of average height, although most patio umbrellas have adjustable pole heights.

However, if a patio umbrella without the pole is desired mainly because it gets in the way, in a manner of speaking, an offset umbrella and a mounted umbrella are the next best choices. The wall-mounted patio umbrellas are popular among café owners with a patio for customers who like to dine al fresco.

The patio umbrellas can also a tilt function. Basically, the umbrella's pole can be tilted depending on where the sun is shining at the moment and, thus, it always provides sun protection without actually moving the entire umbrella plus the table and chairs.

Style

The patio umbrella can also be chosen based on the style, which comes in two forms. First, the table umbrella where the pole is threaded through a hole in the center of the table and then the cover will be mounted on top. The bases for these patio umbrellas are usually lighter because the table provides for additional stability. Second, the freestanding patio umbrellas require a heavier stand to counterbalance the weight. Manufacturers offer stands with three or four points for this purpose.

No matter the size, pole and style chosen in the patio umbrella, one important thing must be ensured when looking for the best in this category. The fabric used on the umbrella must be weather-resistant, ultraviolet ray-resistant and fade-resistant. This way, the people underneath the umbrella can, indeed, become protected as best as possible.

Kelly Marshall is a writer for Patioshoppers.com – the leading online patio retailer for patio furniture.

How To Tell Oak From Pine When Choosing Doors

2011-08-25T01:34:00.000-07:00

Oak and pine are along with maple, three of the most commonly used woods in the production of household goods and furniture. Both oak and pine are sturdy materials that when treated properly, offer a fantastic finish.

However, the materials vary drastically with regards to their colour, weight, price and durability. This is why, if you’re seeking for instance, oak doors, you need to guarantee that what you’re buying is oak, rather than its less durable cousin, pine.

So how can I tell the difference between oak and pine?

• Knock on the wood – Oak is very hard, heavy and resistant to wear and tear. This makes oak doors an ideal choice; whether considering oak internal doors or external oak doors. This also means that oak has a solid and very dense sound when knocked on.

• Study the woods colour – Pine is much lighter in colour than oak, varying from creamy white to yellow. Oak is usually quite dark, with reddish tones. Due to the colours, you will usually find pine is used for rustic and traditional styled goods while oak is more commonly used for country designs and contemporary furniture.

• Compare the price – Oak will usually be much more expensive than pine. This is because oak trees take much longer to reach maturity than pine trees. Because of the extra expense, oak is better suited to goods that are expected to have a long shelf-life, such as oak doors or countertops.

Although I have suggested studying the colour of the wood in order to differentiate between oak and pine, it should be noted that this test is not 100% reliable. There are ways to bless cheaper wood with the appearance of higher quality and more expensive wood. Because of this you should remember to never entirely ‘judge wood by its cover’ and instead make use of the ‘knock test’ and ‘price test’ also.

Remember – you get what you pay for. If someone is offering you a set of oak doors for a staggeringly low price, be very sceptical.

Should I choose oak or pine for my home?

The choice is of course, down to your own preference, budget and style. However, oak is more suitable for some goods (such as oak doors) while pine is more suited to others.

• As pine is a relatively light material, it is highly suited to furniture that may be moved around regularly such as beds, chairs and tables.

• Oak therefore, is more suitable for goods that are likely to stay in one fixed location. It’s fantastic for countertops and both external and oak internal doors.

If you wish to adorn your home with oak furniture throughout, but either don’t have the resources or feel the material isn’t suitable for all your needs, it might be worth investigating ways to change the woods appearance. This is an easy way to enjoy the appearance of oak without the associated cost or inconvenience of unnecessarily heavy furniture.

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of UK Oak Doors. James is currently renovating his home and enjoys writing about home improvement an interior design.

Useful Resources:
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Adding a Tile Splashback to Your Kitchen

2011-08-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

Adding a tile backsplash to your kitchen is a quick and easy way to update the look of your kitchen without breaking the bank. There are a few different options when it comes to tiling material, and a multitude of colors to choose from, giving you a lot of freedom to create a unique look for your home in just a couple days.

Tile Options

Ceramic, glass, and stone tiles are the most common for backsplashes. Glass tiles come in variety of sizes and colors. If you’re looking to add a little shimmer or shine to your kitchen, glass tiles are a great option. Stone tile, whether granite, slate, or marble is typically the most expensive. Generally stone tile is going to come in a more neutral color palette, but its natural beauty can make your kitchen stand out. Ceramic tiles are usually the most affordable option and come in every shape, size and color, so they’re very versatile. When picking a color, be sure to match your tile to your fixtures, rather than your appliances. Add in an accent color to make your backsplash really pop.

What You’ll Need to Install

• Newspaper
• Tile
• Pre-mixed adhesive and trowel
• Sponge
• Spacers
• Pre-mixed grout and float
• Caulk

Installing Your Backsplash

1. After you decide on a tile style, you’ll need to measure your space to see how much you’ll need. In inches, measure from the top of the counter to the underside of the cabinets. Multiply the two numbers together to get the area. Tile is generally sold by square foot, in sheets with an easy to cut mesh backing.

2. Once you are ready with your tile, make sure the surface of the wall is clean and dry. Lay down newspaper on the countertops for easier clean up.

3. Load your trowel with the premix adhesive and apply to the wall. Then, using the combed edge of the tool, gently pull through the adhesive to remove excess. It is best to do this in small sections, one section at a time.

4. Apply tile to the wall from the counter up to keep everything even. Once you’ve applied the tile over the adhesive, insert spacers between each square to make sure they stay straight. Continue until you’ve tiled the entire area, then remove spacers.

5. Wait for the tile to set completely (as indicated on the adhesive mix) until you apply the grout. Using a pre-mixed grout is easy. Apply grout to a float and run over tiles, making sure it sticks between the squares. Take a damp sponge to the tiles to clean off any extra grout from the surface.

6. The last thing you’ll want to do is seal the space between the counter and tile with a thin line of caulk.

Once your new backsplash is installed, you can replace the outlet covers that you previously removed. Keep in mind you may need to use longer screws to compensate for the added width from the tile. After your backsplash is complete, consider adding recessed lighting underneath your countertops so your work can shine, or more kitchen remodeling ideas visit Erie Construction.

How To Make Your Own Roman Blinds

2011-08-23T02:44:00.000-07:00

Roman blinds are a lovely addition to any home, but designer made Roman blinds can be very expensive. Fortunately they are not difficult to make and can be done using some common hardware and craft supplies.

The first thing to consider is the fabric. The front fabric should match or nicely complement the room decor. Quilters should consider a pieced front fabric to show off their talents. It is even possible to reuse or upcycle fabric from old drapes or bed sheets for an environmentally friendly project. The back fabric needs to be a nice UV resistant curtain lining. This is easy to come by either at the fabric store or by scrounging old worn out curtains from the rag bin. It is best to avoid plain muslin because it will not protect the front fabric or other interior fabrics from fading.

The fabrics should be cut to the size of the window plus one inch for seam allowances on the sides and four inches for seam allowance plus hem and casing on the top and bottom. Add additional allowance for an outside mount if desired. The bottom edges of both the front fabric and the lining get a three inch hem. This forms the casing for the metal strip. Place the right sides of the fabric together and sew one side from the bottom up. The metal bar fits nicely into the front fabric hem and the other side may be sewn to seal it inside.

Brass rings are a must. Plastic ones will wear out or begin to crumble from long exposure to sunlight. Battens can be either shade ribs or wooden dowels, cut one in smaller than the finished width of the shade. These help stiffen the fabric for better folds in the shade.

The trickiest part of Roman blinds is measuring to determine the placement of the battens and rings. A good tip to be aware of is that the blinds will hang and fold better if the distance between the rings is graduated, with the longest distance being at the bottom and the shortest on top. Seven inches, then six, then five, then four, then three make a good spacing for the rings. Alter this according to the length of the finished blind.

Each ring should have a batten to give it support. The mid point between each two rings should also have a batten to support the fold. So if the first ring is four inches from the bottom and the next ring is seven inches from it, there should be another batten at three and a half inches from the first ring. White glue will not hold the battens for long. Gem glue is a much better choice. Avoid hot glue. The battens should be glued to the wrong side of the front fabric. Allow the glue to dry overnight, then turn the tube so that the right sides are out. Press the edges and sew the brass rings to every other batten in three columns, sewing through both layers of fabric. Thread should match the front of the blind.

The soft side of the velcro goes on the top edge of the blind. Fold the fabric over one inch, trimming uneven edges. Press and sew the velcro to cover the raw edge.

The shade bracket is a simple one inch thick piece of wood measured to match the window frame. The bracket can be left plain or dressed up with a clean piece of muslin. For inside mount blinds, mount three eye screws on the wide face of the board--one on the right side, one in the middle, and one on the left--and staple the hook side of the velcro to the narrow face. The board faces are reversed for outside mount blinds. Mount the bracket in the window with two screws and attach the blind to the bracket.

Three strings loop through the eye screws from right to left, turning to catch a column of brass rings and fastening at the bottom of the lowest ring in each column. The closest string goes through only the first eye screw. The middle string goes through the middle and first eye screw. The furthest string goes through all three eye screws. These strings knot together on the right side to become a single pull string. Pull the string to raise the finished blind or relax to lower it. The string attaches to a cleat mounted on the wall when the blind is drawn up.

Transform Your Garden Into an Outdoor Room with Decking

2011-08-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Decking boards are becoming increasingly popular in gardens nowadays. They offer a modern feel with a stylish flair. Just imagine being able to step out into your garden to enjoy the sunrise in the morning - without getting your slippers dirty!

Enjoying the outdoors improves the quality of life! Decking boards allow you to sip your coffee in the morning and evening sun and lounge in the garden on a Sunday or after a hard day’s work. Being outdoors soaking in the sun and inhaling fresh air is a few of life’s biggest and simplest pleasures.

This is such a great idea to have in the garden.

Decorating a Home Inspired by Travels

2011-08-22T03:42:00.000-07:00

Do you love to travel? From France to Italy, Ethiopia and beyond, someone who loves seeing new places might never want to return home at the end of a trip. Why not bring memories of your travels home so you can reminisce until next time? Use these memories as inspiration when you are decorating your home's interior. There are many ways to decorate a home inspired by travels; these are just three ideas.

Shop for Decor While Traveling

Pick up decorating items from some of your favorite cities or regions during your travels. For example, visit flea markets or similar regional markets and shop for unique art pieces, dishes, and so on. The items you find do not necessarily have to be new. The only requirement is that you love them. Upon returning home after each trip, clean your flea market finds if necessary, and find places in your home for them. Another idea is to commission custom made items from the local craftspeople. To avoid clutter and to highlight your new decor, you may need to remove other decorations that have nothing to do with your travels.

Take Inspiration from a Favorite Destination

Do you just love the atmosphere in a French bistro? Recreate that feel in your own kitchen, where you can sip coffee and eat a croissant, without ever realizing you already left Paris. Hang French-inspired artwork and choose sophisticated decorations. Choose your favorite travel destination and decorate a room - or the entire house - so it feels like you are traveling all the time, even when you are still at home.

Integrate Two to Three Styles in One Room

It may be difficult to choose just one favorite travel location. Do you have several favorites? Try integrating pieces from two or three of your favorite destinations together in one room. For example, use the textures and patterns of a particular African culture as inspiration for the textiles in your home. Then integrate the sleek, clean lines you likely have seen in many European homes. It is almost never a bad idea to mix and match textures and finishes in a home.

If you love to travel, use a trip's experiences to help inspire decor ideas for your home. Shop for decor while traveling, integrate some of your favorite styles into each room, or take inspiration from a favorite travel destination. Once your home has been personalized with memories of worldly travels, you might actually begin to anticipate returning home.

Heather Johnson writes for Honeymoon Destinations, the best honeymoon research and planning website. Discover some great honeymoon ideas today!

Selecting the Right Curtain Poles for Your Home

2011-08-19T05:55:00.000-07:00

How To Erect Curtain Poles

Curtains constitute an integral position in any living area – not only are they ornamental but they have the practical purpose of maintaining a rooms environment by filtering light and also can be used for temperature control. To install curtains properly it is essential that the pole which they will be hung from is placed correctly; this will help avoid any functional problems whilst also ensuring the aesthetic qualities of a window place.

Choosing The Correct Pole

Deciding upon the length of the pole to be used is the first step that should be undertaken. To determine these measurements it should be noted that the curtain pole should always be a small amount longer than the window itself. Once the length of the window has been gaged with a tape measure an extra five inches should be added on to this figure to calculate the optimum length of a curtain pole. The extra length is needed to allow for the curtains to be fastened either side of the window completely out of the way if need be so as to allow in the most possible light.

Other considerations for buying a curtain pole include the material of the pole itself. Two factors can help shape this decision; practicality and budget. When deciding what material the pole should be made from, apart from aesthetic values, it should be noted that various poles are not strong enough to hang heavier material from them. So, for example, if an individual was looking at hanging a pair of velvet curtains, a particularly heavy material, a sturdy and durable curtain pole would be needed; metal and wood would be ideal in this situation. The fact that stronger materials are also the most expensive can certainly play a part in decision making if budgetary constraints are a concern; if the curtain is not made from a heavy material then a cheap pole, such as a plastic one, can certainly be considered as an option.

Marking Positions

Once measurements have been made and the curtain has been purchased there are a few pre-emptive tasks that need to be completed before a curtain pole can be erected. Instead of erecting a curtain pole blind it is a good idea to make some measurements, using a pencil, to highlight where the brackets from which the pole will be suspended from should go. The first step to make is ensuring that these brackets are placed high enough off the ground so as to allow for the curtains to not trail. This means measuring the height of the curtains and then marking for the brackets to be at least a few inches further off the ground than this. Once these marks have been made it is a good idea to then, if possible, mark the locations of every hole that will be made for the screws which will be placed in the wall for the brackets.

Erecting The Curtain Pole

The hands on bit of erecting a curtain pole comes with a few considerations that need to be made for which equipment to use particularly with regards to which drill to use. So, for example, if the window is in the middle of a wall made from either brick or plaster than a different drill bit would be needed than for it was placed in a wooden wall. For brick and blaster a masonry drill bit would be ideal and for a wooden wall a wood drill bit should be utilised. Regardless of these factors protective goggles should be worn at all times. Drill into the walls where the markings have previously been made and then place the brackets over these. The next step is to secure the brackets in place with either a screwdriver or a drill depending, once more, on the type of wall. Drills are particularly useful for drywalls. Once the brackets have been attached to the wall make an extra check to make sure the screws are firm and, once this is the case, it is possible to erect the curtain pole on these. This should provide a firm platform to dangle the curtains from.

Author Bio
Kieron Casey is a BA (Hons) Journalism graduate who blogs regularly on a number of topics including home improvement, curtains and DIY.

5 Easy Ways to Improve your Home with Home Decor

2011-08-18T02:57:00.000-07:00

For people looking to improve the appearance of their home, there are easy methods for making everything feel new again.

1. Candles

This option does not occur to a number of people. If it does come up at all, it is usually seen as a method for providing light during a loss of electricity. But candles are not just for emergency situations. They can also make a room feel more inviting. Should the homeowner choose to get scented candles, they can also provide a pleasant aroma that will help people feel relaxed. During the hours of the night, they can also provide a warm glow and a romantic, thoughtful atmosphere.

2. Sofa Pillows

Sometimes the simplest things can provide the biggest changes when it comes to improving a home. Sofa pillows may not be seen as very important, but they can add personality to a room that was not there before. For example, placing bright pillows on a beige or white couch can add a pop of color. Guests and even members of the household will notice them right away when they enter the room. On top of looking good, they can also add comfort when people sit down. They may even come in handy if somebody wants to rest for awhile and take a nap.

3. Lighting

Lighting is very important, even if many people do not realize this. Light can add atmosphere at night and make it easier to see things, among other benefits. A room that appeared plain beforehand can be greatly improved simply by placing a lamp inside. This does not have to be an expensive venture, however, and any household budget can remain firm even after purchasing a few. Lighting can be placed on tables, on the floor and just about anywhere else where there is room.

4. Logs for the Fireplace

This may not be seen as home decor, but it can make a big difference in the end. When a home has a fireplace, but there are no logs in said fireplace, it will look abandoned. People that come by will assume that it is never used, and it will look like a small hole in the wall. When logs are placed inside the room will look warmer and more comfortable. The fireplace will appear as though it is used a lot, even if this is not the case. The household may even be compelled to use it more, simply because logs are there.

5. Framed Pictures

If the household has recently gone on vacation, what better way to showcase their adventure than through framed pictures on the wall? The framed images do not have to consist of family vacations or other special events, however. They do not have to showcase the different stages of a child's life, either. If the household so chooses, they can simply put up pictures of cities, animals and other places or objects that they like. They can show the world what fascinates them and what makes them happy. This kind of home decor can add true fun to any room.

Making A Feature Out Of Your Stairs

2011-08-17T01:15:00.000-07:00

Stairs are an important part of any building and obviously act as a way of getting from one floor to another. However, it is a mistake to believe that they only play a practical role; well planned stairs can greatly help to improve the aesthetics of a home’s interior. Here we look at a few design ideas that can help make your stairs into a fantastic feature.

Single Sided Balustrade

In most homes across the UK the bottom of the stairs will lead into the entrance or reception area of the property. One side of the stairs will usually be edged with wall, whilst the other side is edged with balustrade. Due to the close proximity of the walls and ceilings, hallway areas can often be quite dark spaces. This can give off the wrong vibe to visitors as soon as they enter your house and leave the entranceway feeling oppressive.

In the photo above we can see that whilst the kitchen is nice and bright, the stairs appear quite dingy. This is partly because of the carpet selection and also the darkness of wood used in the handrail. In order to brighten up the hallway area it is important to accentuate any natural light that is present. This can be done by choosing the right colours in your hallway decor; with whites, creams and pastels being obvious choices. In addition you should also look to add stair parts that will reflect light.

If you are looking for a painted finish for your stairs then white is often the most suitable shade. In order to avoid the hallway from looking too sterile you can add a touch of character by introducing some contrasting colour by way of dark wood handrails and newel caps.

If you prefer a natural wood finish to your stairs then it is advisable to go for lighter timber, such as white oak, ash and pine. In order to draw attention to the stairs you have the option of selecting metal parts, with a silver finish providing the most emphasis.

Double Sided Balustrade

Where houses are large enough to have an entrance area that affords sections of double sided balustrade, natural light isn’t usually a problem. If you are fortunate to have such a property then it is likely that you have an above average sized landing area and don’t have to worry too much about making best use of light. In such instances your approach should be guided by the age of the property and the overall feel you are looking for. More traditional buildings are well suited to an all wood finish.

Notice how in this photograph the ends of the handrails are rounded rather than using squared ends. This kind of detailing serves to allow the stairs to flow into the hallway area without making them appear awkward or out of place.

For Modern Properties

If you have purchased a new build or a relatively modern property then it may well be that your stairs enter into the living space of your home. Open plan designs like these are built with light in mind and you play on this through the use of glass stair parts.

The glass panels used here ensure that the contemporary ambience remains and also helps to keep the room feeling light and spacious.

Making Your Choice

Ultimately the decision on how your wish your stairs to look comes down to personal taste. Remember that stairs are a considered purchase that will last for decades; so don’t rush into your final decision. Also be sure not to let the carpet, wallpaper or paintwork that is present in the stair area influence your decision; they will all need replacing long before your stairs do and you could be left ruing your stair part selection.

Update Your Home – Use the Good, Toss the Bad, Donate the Ugly

2011-08-16T01:26:00.000-07:00

If you're like most people, your home is fully furnished and contains many necessary items like DVD players and microwave ovens, as well as things that are purely decorative in nature. But do all these things come together to create a cohesive look that you want to come home to every night? If the answer is no, it may be time to re-evaluate the things that fill your home and your life. The first step to creating a fresh new look for your home, is to decide what should stay and what should go.

Finding a Style

One way to begin deciding what to keep and what to pitch is to thumb through interior design magazines until you find a room that you love. It doesn't matter if the furniture and accessories in the picture are out of your budget. Now, look at the picture. What is it about it that resonates so well with you? Is it the color scheme? Maybe it's the roomy feeling or the uncluttered Zen simplicity. Whatever it is, that is what you want to replicate. The odds are the room appeals to you because of a combination of more than one factor.

Sorting Through Your Stuff

Once you isolate the elements that appeal to you, go on a treasure hunt. Photograph in hand, go through your home and note anything that fits in with the color scheme, theme, style or period of the room you have in mind. Next, note anything that could fit in with a little modification. Perhaps your antique rice bed doesn't fit the country cottage look you have in mind, but with the right duvet and canopy, it could. Be creative. Paint, slipcovers, accessories, hardware and imaginative grouping can totally change the look and feel of many pieces.

Now write down everything you can't get rid of, regardless of whether it fits with your new look. Electronics, appliances, large pieces of furniture and heirloom pieces may have to be integrated into your new design whether they "fit" or not. Try to think of ways to hide, camouflage or accessorize these items to make them work. This is also the time to keep an eye out for items that can be "recycled" and made to work.

Once you have your "keepers" lists, it's time to purge. Evaluate everything that isn't on a list. If it should have been included, write it in now. If someone else can use it, donate the item. If not, throw it away or recycle it. You'll come across things that don't fit the new theme but that you can't bear to part with. When this happens, take a step back. Some things are worth saving. Some are not. If you have a lot of otherwise nice or valuable collectibles and furniture that don't fit your vision, consider using them to create an eclectic theme for a guest room.

Creating Your New Look

The last step is putting it all back together. Place the "keeper" items where they will go and arrange them. Modify or accessorize anything that needs help fitting with the new theme. At this point, it will be more clear what you need to purchase in order to finish your look. You may find you have to buy less than you expected.

Art is meaningful not only for what the artist chose to include but also for what he or she excluded. For most of us, our home is the canvas through which we express our unique vision. By carefully picking from among the things you have chosen during your lifetime and putting them together in a thoughtful way, you can have a home decor that resonates with your deepest self.

Photo credits: black tulips by mandco/flickr; vase by bam0027/flickr; room design by Elin B/flickr

Janice Oliver is a home decor consultant and content contributor for candleluxury.com, a shopping destination for Votivo Candles Sale exclusives, and hundreds of other scented accessories in the Luxury Candles line

Tips on Improving the Design of Your Home to Make it More Alluring

2011-08-15T01:36:00.000-07:00

Are you tired and bored of living in the same house? Buying a new house can’t be an option for most people as that would require a high financial investment, so that next best alternative is to improve the place where you are living and remodel it so that it becomes more beautiful and interesting. It is not necessarily that you have to spend a large sum of money and buy costly new home decorating items to make your house look better. There are quite a number of ways within your budget that you can use to make your house look new again. Take a look at these home improvement tips that you can use.

Paint your house – You will be surprised what effect a new coating of paint can have on your rooms. You can rev up the look of your dull room with bright splashes of paint. You can use the idea of highlighting a particular wall and color coordinating the other walls with it.
Use wall papers – In general if you use poster to decorate the walls of your rooms then you can break the monotony of single colored walls. However, posters, especially big ones are pretty costly. Hence you can use wall papers instead posters to decorate the various rooms of your house. You can even use theme based wall papers to decorate particular areas such as the kitchen or if you have a mini bar at your place, you can put a wall paper with pictures of wine bottles and glasses.
Change the upholstery of furniture – Buying new furniture to decorate your house would be a tad bit too costly. Instead you can change the upholstery of your furniture and replace old cushion covers and couch covers with new bright ones. You can try and change the curtains too. Choosing a shade that contrasts with the wall color can go a long way in making your room look brighter. You can even try changing floor carpets in order to give your rooms a new look.
Try and invest in few good decorative items – You can buy few good decorative items for each room to make them look more beautiful. For your bedroom you can try soft lacy cushions in muted colors and scented candles along with a nice bedside lampshade or bedside stand.

The above tips can help in designing your home and improving the look of it within quite reasonable costs.

Top 5 Design Ideas for Cramped Dorm Rooms

2011-08-11T01:14:00.000-07:00

College life can be difficult, especially if you’re cramped in a 9 X 9 room with two roommates. When this happens, it’s hard to think about what mood you want your room to invoke. For many, that mood is often “stressed out.” So for those of you still feeling a bit cramped, the following post is for you. Get inspired

Top 5 Design Ideas for Cramped Dorm Rooms.

Idea 5: Use Wall Decals or Stickers

Wall decals are a great way to add style to any space without adding to the clutter. Moreover, they’re affordable, completely customizable, and—most importantly—removable. When summer time rolls around, and you’re cleaning up the dorm and heading back home, you’ll be glad that you don’t have to repaint your wall.

Idea 4: Let There Be Light…and Loads of It

If you don’t have room to place a standing lamp, desk lamp or light fixture, remember to keep the colors in your room light. It adds an openness quality that may save you from depression when mid-terms roll around. This photo may be over-kill, but you get the picture.

Idea 3: Get Lofty

Who said you had to keep your desk and bed at the same level? Creating your own loft is a great way to stay above all the clutter. Be sure to ask for help when building, though. And if you’re buying from a store, make sure your loft is “college proof.”

Idea 2: Hiding creates space.

Assuming your low on storage space, stylish sheets and beads make for great room dividers and storage separators. And adding in an extra shelf (as seen in the picture above) is an even more space saving idea. Find ways to add to your dorm’s overall artistic value, without detracting from its size.

Idea 1: Buy Multifunctional Items

Everyone knows how vital the futon is for the typical college experience. It’s a coach and a bed, and it’s all it one. It doesn’t get much better than this.

There are, however, other items that you could use in a variety of ways. Take, for example, a filing cabinet, which can provide storage for your award-winning thesis and double as a vintage lamp table. Furthermore, as these pieces are often unique, they usually are the type of furniture that you’d keep after college. Be on the look-out for pieces that could double as a bed, coach, or other unit. Not only are they cool looking, but they will also save on space.

Conclusion:

Most of us have dealt with the small “college dorm” issue. You don’t have much space, you don’t have much money, and you have a bunch of roommates. The following 5 ideas are all affordable, but do much more than save you money. They save you space, and they save you from the hassle of dealing with you roommates. Are there other ideas that should make the top five? Let us know in the comment section.

Cleo Kirkland is a writer for Granite Transformations and Butch & Harold, a home design company offering a wide variety of wall sticker frames, sticker pockets, and sticker corners for hanging artwork. They’re fun alternatives to picture frames and don’t require any desk space.

Shower In Luxury With A Triton Electric Shower

2011-08-10T05:49:00.000-07:00

Add a touch of class and luxury to your bathroom with Triton electric showers. Triton have been making showers and other bathroom accessories since 1975. That's almost forty years of experience in providing expertly engineered showers.

Triton showers come in many stylish designs. The most popular are power showers, but mixer showers and digital showers are also available for your bathroom. Triton's modern showers are environmentally friendly too. As well as the green manufacturing process, new showers will help you save water.

All Triton showers are designed with safety in mind. They all feature thermostatic heat controls and automatic cut-offs.

Whether you are looking for a sleek, modern design with chrome surfaces or a more traditional looking ceramic finish, there is likely to be a Triton shower that will fit in with your bathroom's decor.

We also love these Hudson Reed showers. They have all the same features as a Triton electric shower so if you're looking for an alternative check them out!

Tempur Mattresses Offer a Great Night's Sleep

2011-08-10T05:09:00.000-07:00

Everybody needs a good night's sleep. No matter how comfortable your bed, you also need a great mattress. Tempur mattresses are pressure relieving mattresses that are made from a material that was first developed for astronauts at NASA - so you can be sure they'll be comfortable.

A tempur mattress is extremely supportive. It will remove any pressure points from your body so you can sleep soundly and wake up in the morning feeling refreshed and alert. Tempur mattresses can be fitted to any bed, from divan, king size and single beds.

Tempur mattresses never need turning and are ideal for people with joint pains or other ailments because of their pressure relieving properties. It is also possible to buy tempur pillows and other accessories for your bed to ensure that your bedroom is always a great place to relax.