Get Organized: Mail Cubbies for the Kitchen

Countertop clutter is an issue for just about everyone — regardless of how big or small your kitchen is. Mail magazines, invoices, school reports, and kids’ artwork appears to pile up at an incredible location. And there never appears to be a spot to put it all at a moment’s notice.

While remodeling this Tennessee kitchen, interior designer Polly Blair decided to solve this problem for her clientele. The clients entertain quite often, with the majority of their guests end up in the kitchen, so that they wanted a large island where they might have each entertaining requirement at the ready. They wanted plenty of space to store counter clutter. In an effort to fill every nook and cranny from the kitchen island she came up with this intelligent storage fix.

Polly Blair

Surprisingly, this email storage solution did not come at the clients’ request. While they requested certain things in particular, they advised Blair she would fill in the remainder of the area however she desired. During the redesign, she found that she was constantly looking for a place to store the clients’ mail, and that’s how this option came to be.

Blair worked with the fabricator to make sure they can size the cabinets to create this nook at the end. She decided about the magnitude of the pockets measuring out envelopes and magazines, allowing for an additional 1.5 inches. She then cut cardboard to the correct dimensions, and advised the fabricator to construct pockets to fit snugly across the bits. The corner was built into the cabinetry, with simple pull-out doorways to cover it when its not being used.

If you’re in the midst of a kitchen remodel, then this is a fantastic storage solution to consider. It’s also something that might easily be used on other areas of the home — built-in desks or entryway cubbies for example.

Next: 39 Ways to Organize Your Stuff
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Browse additional storage alternatives

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Eames on Film: The Architect and The Painter

Contemporary furniture fans would be hard-pressed to come across a stronger and innovative set of 20th-century designers than Charles and Ray Eames. Although they were often believed to be brothersthey had been a husband-and-wife group, now best known for their iconic line of seats for Herman Miller, also experts on just about any kind of art form. “Charles wasn’t an architect trying to do architecture, or a furniture designer trying to make furniture,” says film producer Bill Jersey. “He Ray were two people who had been hoping to get us to see the world differently.”

When manufacturer Jason Cohn approached Jersey to help him produce a movie on Ray and Charles Eames, Jersey didn’t know much about the couple. “Charles Eames always said he didn’t sell his expertise to clients — he offered his ignorance,” states Jersey. “Exactly the same was true for me with all this particular movie.” As they learned about the few, they understood there was literature in their work, but very little on Charles and Ray as individuals.

Premiere: Eames: The Architect and The Painter aired Dec. 19, 2011 on American Masters. A DVD premiered Tues., Dec. 13, 2011

Interestingly, Cohn’s debut to Charles and Ray Eames was through their films, not their iconic furniture. While in film school, he was given a box set of the experimental movies. “They’re so odd and esoteric, I knew I had to find out more about them,” he states. “The pictures in these pictures stuck for quite a while.”

Film had always been a passion for both Ray and Charles, and they often experimented with films in their workplace. In 1968, they gained nationwide attention with their educational movie, Powers of Ten. Following that, they were quickly hired by the United States Government, IBM, and other large corporations for exhibitions and accompanying movies.

Eames: The Architect and the Painter is the first complete movie about Charles and Ray since their deaths, just 10 decades apart, in 1978 and 1988. “Film is more of a psychological realm than a sensible one,” says Cohn. “We believed it’d be the ideal medium to explore the Eames’s personalities.” “We didn’t necessarily want it to be informative,” states Jersey. “We wanted people to watch the movie and say’wow’.”

During the movie, the viewer is instantly drawn to the exceptional charm of the Eames — especially Charles, who is repeatedly described by former co-workers as charismatic. Despite the charisma that appeared to detract from them equally, there were still facets of their working life that triggered challenges, especially for Ray. A number of the people who they talked to nearly viewed Ray and Charles as saints — but Jersey and Cohn wished to paint a more exact image. “It’s not really a question of exactly what material you want to add, but in case you must,” states Jersey.

Jersey and Cohn invest a lot of time exploring the whimsical home Ray and Charles constructed for themselves in Pacific Palisades, Calif. (pictured), and their charming office at 901 Washington Boulevard in Venice Beach. The twosome created unique sets to their lives, installing massive pieces of artwork on the ceiling, inventing gigantic toys to put in their workplace, and always changing everything about. 1 former Eames employee clarifies their workplace as”Disneyland for adults”

Right off the bat, it is clear that Ray and Charles were compulsive, artistic people, and often assumed others were the same. “People we interviewed could talk about how Ray will be walking down the street and just begin shrieking in delight with an item she watched,” says Cohn. “She had a true childlike appreciation for life”

In life, Ray was often overshadowed by Charles, so the manufacturers made sure to provide Ray her fair share of credit in the movie. Jersey and Cohn agree that largely because of the biases of the era, Charles was the surface of the Eames Office. “But our study convinced us that the Eames Office would not have been the same without her,” says Cohn.

“I am not a design historian, aficionado, or furniture geek,” says Cohn. “But my biggest takeaway in terms of layout is the fact that it is not a shallow thing. It’s not a coating gloss you wear a item. When it is practiced correctly, it is about problem solving at a profound level.”

“For me, looking at furniture has been sort of like taking a look at the engine of a vehicle,” states Jersey. “I knew what all of the components did, but I didn’t care about how it was created. Today I can see all the small nuances and thoughts that enter it.”

There is a true comparison in the way that the Eames made their furniture and the way many mass-produced products are created now. Their furniture, films, and artwork were designed with love and created with morality and ethics in mind. “High-quality items and images and items can bring joy, especially when made by joyful people,” Cohn says. “Poor items made by unhappy people do not do that.”

All photographs: Copyright 2011 Eames Office LLC, courtesy of Larsen Associates

More:
Modern Icons: Eames Shell Chair
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Step-by-Step: Dress Your Home in Velvety Black

For one reason or another, black is a shade that seems rather daunting to function into an everyday setting. In spite of its prevalence in the world of interior design, committing to black could be difficult.

Maybe we have difficulty kicking the ingrained myth that it is going to take four coats of paint to reverse. Maybe it is a colour that reminds us of off-the-shelf networking furniture available at big-box shops. In any event, there is a reason behind the negligence, and I think it’s time to buck up and give it a try.

I have gathered a set of photographs together with the focus on adding black to a house in small steps, and I’m hoping to convince both you and myself that it is an easy colour to use. Incidentally, I’m planning on buying a gallon of paint this weekend. I suppose that means I’m officially convinced and prepared to take the dip.

Urrutia Design

Pillow. A cushion enveloped in black is simple to change once the appeal has run its course, typically through a seasonal swap. Even though the pillow inside this photograph is the most obvious bit of black, notice that the colour is transported through the rest of the room, making a nice balance.

Janell Beals – House of Naked

Lamp base. Okay, this is a small accent, I understand, but even the very minimal inclusion of black can get you off to a good start. The best part is that you can paint a bit which you already have, and just repaint it if you do not like it.

Shoshana Gosselin

Frames. Black is the most frequent color seen in any framing aisle, making adding black frames the easiest way to integrate it in your living space.

Boor Bridges Architecture

Chairs. Many seats can be found in both black or white, and I have a difficult time deciding which colour to go with — for some reason, white always wins. On the other hand, the use of black seats makes this kitchen seem much more sophisticated, and I’m all for spaces which seem like a million dollars.

Zack|de Vito Architecture + Construction

Artwork. When utilized at a large scale piece that overlooks the walls, black makes the space feel classy and refined.

Rethink Design Studio

Chalkboard. If you are not certain of adding this type of daring color to your regular wanderings, a color of black which leans toward slate would be your thing to do. Keep it crisp and clean with a casual to-do record or let it become a feathery sheet of chalk dust.

Jennifer Grey Interiors Design & Color Specialist

Salvaged furniture. I’m a massive lover of secondhand furniture and also have many such bits in my home. You can customize them with your own paint and hardware, making for a fun rainy day project. Also, note that the other uses of black in this space — the door, coat rack, frames and boot .

Bosworth Hoedemaker

Dining table and chairs. My fantasy table is one made of laminated timber set atop a beautiful steel base. Until this day, I could get down with a table. This dark table and chair set looks fantastic surrounded by an assortment of neutral tones.

Jennifer Grey Interiors Design & Color Specialist

Accent wall. This ribbon of black makes the rest of the dining and living room a great deal more pronounced than a wall that is light would. A wall which doesn’t span across a lot of the flooring is an perfect spot to try this out.

Prestige Custom Building & Construction, Inc..

Bookcase. Now we’re moving into bigger dark swaths. The comparison of brightly-spined hardcovers appears spectacular in this stately grid of black. Maybe you already have a bookshelf in your home which could use a brand new winter coat.

Birdseye Design

Floor. While it may be true that black flooring show dust over any other colour, this isn’t much of an issue in a kitchen that’s frequently swept and mopped. Oh, and notice how good the dark cabinets seem with it.

LDa Architecture & Interiors

Black partitions. The biggest commitment to the colour of night, wealthy black walls, feels cozy and warm in a space flooded with natural light. So go against the grain of typically used colours and measure into a pool of ink. Just be sure to use a finish that is matte rather than glossy to prevent potential eyesores.

More:
Insert a Tiny Gothic Glamour, Chateau Marmont Style
Glossy Black and White Beachfront Style
Design 2011: Black Casework, Doors and Cabinetry

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5 Fragrant Mid-Century Modern Homes

The term Mid-century Modern tends to be pitched around aimlessly (I’ve been guilty of this myself), so we’re going to have a look at some dazzling houses that truly embody the style. The majority of the examples below are recently renovated, to undo 1970s or 1980s renovations, to add to the square footage, and/or to make them more energy efficient.

In every job, the designers admired the spirit of the first details and plans. And we’ve got full home tours of each, which you might link over to and research through the numbered titles.

The Office of Charles de Lisle

1. 1950s William Wurster ranch: Architect Charles Delisle respected the background of the home in California’s Portola Valley, keeping the spirit of this era living by means of a mixture of modern and custom pieces.

The Office of Charles de Lisle

This new custom built cupboard plays a classic mid-century color palette and blocky geometry, but includes a fresh appearance.

The Office of Charles de Lisle

A group of ceramics is a nod to the background of mid-century in California.

Watch the rest of the home

Hammer Architects

2. Mid-century Modern second home on Cape Cod: The first butterfly-roofed wing to the house on this site was designed by Henry Hebblin, who’d studied together with Eero Saarinen and functioned for Alvar Aalto.

When Mark Hammer was hired to winterize the home and layout an improvement, he kept Hebblin’s part of the home and gleaned inspiration from the butterfly roof.

Tour another modern Cape Cod renovation by Hammer Architects

Hammer Architects

The last renovation was designed with sustainability in mind. The once seasonal dwelling now functions as a yearlong home, with elements that can be shut off and save energy when there aren’t guests, also makes the most of natural light. Most importantly, Hammer has created continuity between the mid century and the new structure.

Watch the rest of the home | More about Cape Cod/Boston’s Regional Modernism

Beth Dotolo, ASID, RID, NCIDQ

3. Family-friendly Mid-century Modern: Pulp Style Studios was charged with developing a stylish nest for a young family. A gentle modern approach filled with vibrant color was the answer. The classicly open space is grounded with all the lively Missoni rug and includes a classic Bertoia Bird Chair.

Beth Dotolo, ASID, RID, NCIDQ

A child’s size Cherner table and chairs is perfect for small modernists. There are many classic child-sized pieces on the market these days that it’s easy to take a mid-century aesthetic into childrens’ bedrooms and playrooms.

Learn More About Cherner Chairs

Beth Dotolo, ASID, RID, NCIDQ

The artwork arrangement is a variation on the classic modern grid, alternating horizontal and vertical rectangular frames. It is a wonderful way to keep the family photos on screen in a tight, modern manner.

Watch the rest of the home

Jenny Mitchell

4. Atomic Flair from the Blue Ridge Mountains: For blogger and vintage maven Jenny Mitchell, the home was love at first sight.

Her attention for atomic style and talent for discovering thrifted treasures have caused a fun and cheerful home that combines old and new seamlessly.

While a self-described”minimalist-maximalist,” Mitchell knew that all this terrace needed was two bright butterfly chairs to provide it a big mid-century pop of design.

Watch the rest of the home

Gary Hutton Design

5. 1962 Custom Eichler House Renovation: Located on San Francisco Bay, the house’s original mid-century charm was wiped out by a misguided 1980s renovation. Designer Gary Hutton was able to get his hands to the first plans and bring this home back to its original glory.

Gary Hutton Design

Nothing brings out a mid century house’s best like among the best royal furniture and art collections around. Here we’re looking over a Nelson Marshmallow Sofa to a first Andy Warhol.

Gary Hutton Design

Saarinen Executive Chairs, a Florence Knoll table plus a PH Pendant create the ultimate mid-century area.

Gary Hutton Design

Ultimately, a rare Eames match table using a massive slice by Sarah Morris from the backdrop produces a vibrant corner. In terms of the head to the desk, I don’t have any idea. Does anybody know its history? Please discuss in the Comments section. See more of the home.

More:
Modern or Contemporary: What is the Difference?
Warm, Mid-Century Makeover
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Your Colors: Stick Around, Sunshine

The sunny days of summer are truly coming to a close. But you can earn sunlight — or the appearance of it — continue year-round with the addition of yellow to your inside. Whether you live in Alaska or experience the occasional overcast day in Los Angeles, the brightness of yellow will constantly leave your space feeling sun-kissed and happy. There are many inexpensive ways to sneak into the shade and produce a noticeable difference. Have a glimpse through the next photos for a bit of yellow inspiration.

Kendall Wilkinson Design

Start your yellow makeover by painting your walls. Paint is one of the easiest and cheapest design suggestions, and it can transform your space. It is sometimes a tricky colour to get right, however: experimentation with several colors by painting large swatches in your wall. You’ll want to find a feeling for how each shade interacts with your furniture and your area’s light through the day and day.

1800Lighting

Take your room’s makeover further by reupholstering your furniture in a complementary shade, like purple. The yellow will become a more different, creating your room both sunny and spectacular.

Timothy De Clue Collection & Design

To get additional dimension, paint yellow stripes. This is a great trick for tight spaces or people who have low ceilings. If it’s the former, horizontal stripes will make the room feel wider. When it’s the latter, go with vertical for the appearance of additional height.

Tara Seawright Interior Design

Want to actually pull in sunlight? Paint the ceiling yellow! This unexpected touch provides an otherwise conventional kitchen a contemporary punch.

Elad Gonen

Swap out your dining table chairs for yellow ones, particularly if your dining room is based in neutrals. Neutral platforms allow the boldness of yellow to take centre stage.

Tracy Murdock Allied ASID

Be the first of your friends to have a glowing yellow sofa. Neutral surroundings also help diffuse the brightness of yellow, therefore this sofa feels complementary rather than overwhelming.

The Home Depot

Emily Antique Yellow Side Table – $169

If new chairs or a couch are somewhat out of the budget, sneak in a more compact slice of yellow furniture. I love the antique feel of the table.

Busybee Design

Or, simply swap out your bedding! Irrespective of the gray exterior, if you wake up in brightly colored sheets such as these, are always going to be starting off your day with sunshine.

Contemporary Duvet Covers And Duvet Sets – $195

This geometric yellow duvet from Jonathan Adler would appear incredible in a bedroom with profound gray walls.

Just Perfect!

You can’t beat the ease or instant effect of throwing a yellow throw over your mattress! Your wardrobe is able to help you discover the right shade for your area. Toss your yellow clothes in your bed to see which works best!

Eileen Kathryn Boyd Interiors

Produce a cohesive theme by peppering distinct places on your room with yellow. Start with a neutral base, then coating in yellow through accent chairs, throw pillows and curtains.

Jennifer Brouwer (Jennifer Brouwer Design Inc)

You may even just focus the colour in little accent. Place them around the area so the colour is pulled throughout: when the eye sees something really bright, it begins looking for a connection elsewhere.

play-it-fair. com

Hand Felted Yellow Pillow – $55

This throw pillow could be a excellent place to start. Its felt and detailing complete gives it wonderful texture.

Bungalow 5

Ceylon Lamp | Bungalow5

If you’ve got a bare side table craving a sign of yellow, consider a lamp like this. Such a daring colour on a mid-century silhouette is a sudden twist that will bring in style and a sunny glow.

Atmosphere Interior Design Inc..

Another simple way to sneak in yellow: artwork. Pick a dark frame to glowing out the brightness.

Etsy

Figure Art Print by Leigh Viner – $28

This beautiful piece will include only the yellow your space is craving. Leigh Viner is a remarkably talented performer, and prints of her work are extremely affordable.

maison21

Your eye likely shot directly into the yellowish accent chair in this area, but I wish to point out the way the designer included a yellow theme throughout the bookshelf. This is such an easy way to produce a sunshine feel without shelling out a lot of cash. Peruse flea markets or used bookstores for publications with yellow spines, then sprinkle in yellow accessories for variety.

Atmosphere Interior Design Inc..

The easiest, most economical way to market your space with yellow? Lemons! When life hands you lemons… you get sunshine, right?

More: How to Pick the Ideal Yellow
Go Blond with Yellow and Black
Guest Choices: Hello Yellow: Bright Ideas for the Home

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2012 Trends

Cabinetry can make a major statement in a toilet — especially a large master bath. Many of the new, most powerful design trends still come from Europe, and American manufacturers deliver innovation to the class with intelligent solutions for your bath.

Greene Designs LLC

Upgraded laminates are a sexy cabinetry trend and they are showing up in high-end bathrooms. When you hear the words”laminate” and”cabinetry” in the same sentence, you probably envision the paring boxes in your first apartment. These are definitely not that!

New styles incorporate exotic forests, as seen here, textured metals and imaginative designs.

Element Design Group

With the rising popularity of nominal or nonexistent storage under the sink in modern bathrooms, vertical cabinets continue to grow in popularity. Sometimes their bottoms are lined up with the vanity or incorporated sink/counter. Sometimes, as shown here, they are too tall to make that sensible. You determine where it works the best and how much storage you’ll need.

Mini cabinets are rising, largely in powder rooms, but sometimes in modern master or masters bathrooms. They most often accompany minimalist modernism. Sometimes, though, they just embrace the realities of a very small bath.

Creative Spaciz / SPACIZ Design Studio

Floating vanities will continue as a strong trend in 2012. It’s not unusual to see these partnered with tall storage, acknowledging the needs of a contemporary family.

Furniture details are a strong trend for cabinetry this year. Even with traditional cabinetry and traditional finishes, the detailing gives it this lived-in, not-a-standard-vanity look.

Narita Architects

Frameless cabinetry is an increasingly popular trend for bathrooms, and it is for kitchens. It’s easier to get to your contents with no face frame, and also the construction allows for bigger drawers, also. One of the driving forces of frameless cabinetry approval in the US marketplace is Ikea. Unlike pricier European rivals with offerings that populate many high-end contemporary bathrooms, Ikea combines style with affordability. That’s a trend millions can embrace.

Kelly Donovan

Bornholm Bathroom Vanity

Integrated grips are a hot trend for cabinetry, particularly modern European fashions. This Bornholm Swedish-inspired vanity strips the incorporated grip to its purest form. Other manufacturers add metal — usually stainless or aluminum — for their cabinets. The most expensive configuration is generally a continuous handle, which extends across an whole bank of cabinets.

Whichever works best for your space, the idea is to eliminate the visual clutter of a pull or knob.

Jamie Gold, CKD, CAPS

I can’t remember the last time that I made a kitchen with no storage accessories such as roll-out trays. Well, accessories are a hot trend for bathroom cabinetry.

Roll-outs are sensible for towels or toiletries. Tilt-out trays (which I only added to my own master tub ) are great for toothpaste, toothpaste and toothbrushes — even for maintaining your ring from slipping down the drain as you prepare for work. Storage racks on the backs of doors hold hair blowers. Appliance garages conceal electric razors and trimmers. Drawer dividers organize makeup. Smart storage fittings make just as much sense for bathrooms as they do for kitchens.

Robern

Medicine cabinets are becoming smarter and more functional, also. New models incorporate such characteristics as integrated tv, MP3 speakers and charger, soft-close doorways, cooling and cooling segments for medications, and more.

Native Trails – Cabernet Vanity

Rustic is a strong trend for bathrooms this year. This Vintner Series Cabernet Vanity is made from oak planks reclaimed from wine makers. What an ideal manifestation of a wine enthusiast’s interest.

KraftMaid

For people who desire real timber, the 2012 trend is toward hot finishes and clean lines. That doesn’t mean strictly modern, as this Kraftmaid bath shows. Traditional has united more tightly using transitional for cleaner lines and less ornamentation.

More: 2012 Bath Tile Trends

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Beyond Windows: Watch How Drapery Can Boost Your Bed

It’s no news that functionally speaking drapery is meant to filter outside light entering in the window. But aesthetically speaking, their addition can do wonders for the look of this room as a whole. Take the mattress such as: is the appearance of yours feeling incomplete? It’s possible that incorporating your bedroom’s drapery into the mattress scheme is just what the décor doctor ordered, and it’s possible all it will take is moving the mattress, or dangling new curtains. Have a look at these images to find out how additional Houzzers have integrated drapery in their beds for the perfect finishing touch.

See the Most Recent bedroom photographs | Reader’s Choice: 20 Most Popular Bedrooms

Lucid Interior Design Inc..

Of course, there’s no actual demand to get a window to pay if you would like to hang drapery. Drapery in itself lends an aesthetic worth, so feel free to hang it behind your bed regardless of a window. It will function to ground your mattress while adding plenty of sensual feel.

Drapery can offer a distinctive textural backdrop. Consider picking drapery the same colour as your bedding so the appearance feels genuinely cohesive.

Patrick J. Baglino, Jr.. Interior Design

A bed with a headboard placed in front of drapery creates an especially intriguing effect when the width of the bed and window are similar. It’s like the window and its drapery were made to emphasize this specific bed. A valance adds an elegant statement.

Letitia Holloway

Bear in mind that drapery can be hung in a variety of ways. Draperies tied back produces a showcase for this incredible antique bed.

Kitchens & Baths

Drapery hanging into the sides of windows gives the mattress a solid sense of place without sacrificing light from outdoors.

Andrea May Hunter/Gatherer

If you’ve got double beds, then you may want to consider this setup. Allow the draperies to fall on the surfaces of the window, and place the beds in front of them. The curtains ground the person bedrooms, and the sun is uninterrupted.

Brian Dittmar Design, Inc..

Expertly placed draperies in this bedroom accentuate both the mattress, creating a visual balance and connection between the elements of this space.

Michael Abrams Limited

Can there be a window there? Who knows, and quite honestly, it makes no difference. The effect of this drapery paired with all the mattress is what is stealing the show.

Elad Gonen

Would you need to include prominence to the mattress and make your ceiling appear bigger? Outfit the wall on your bed with floor to ceiling, wall-to-wall cloth. The floor-to-ceiling application visually expands the ceiling, while the dramatic inclusion of wall-to-wall drapery will present your mattress an aesthetic increase.

FrontPorch

You can always have a little fun with drapery. Hang them behind the bed like a canopy to create a fairy-tale escape.

Erika Bierman Photography

Hang two separate bits on both sides of the bed out of a dramatic valance. The mattress will appear grounded, and the sleeper will probably feel extra comfy.

More ideas for a beautiful bedroom

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12 Ways to Have a Nicer Kitchen This Year

Between preparing meals, entertaining and simply collecting as a family, a lot of our time is spent at the kitchen. As we roll into the new year, let’s make time to check this space. Could it benefit from changes? Perhaps you could improve your kitchen’s functionality or dress this up somewhat aesthetically. Whether you are at the budget for a complete kitchen overhaul or a couple of affordable fixes, there’s an upgrade that will do the job for you. Check out the following kitchens for a few fresh ideas.

Venegas and Company

Lighting. Lighting is all-important in kitchen. If your kitchen doesn’t have a mix of ambient lighting (which provides general lighting to the whole space) and task lighting (light that illuminates work places, such as the island or countertops), not, you may wish to consider consulting a kitchen designer that will help you add pendants, recessed lighting, under-cabinate lighting, or a different alternative.

Garrison Hullinger Interior Design Inc..

Sink. Have a minute to assess your relationship with your sink. Are you pleased with it? If not, it may be time for a replacement; you probably spend much much time hovering on it to become unsatisfied. Undermount and flush sinks are great choices, as they are easy to wash and have a chic, seamless look. Single-bowl sinks provide ample room for washing dishes, nevertheless multibowl sinks offer the option of using half the sink as a drying rack. Consider your needs and preferences before heading into the showroom; they’ll lead you into the ideal option.

Donna DuFresne Interior Design

Sink faucet. Faucets are used not just for washing dishes or hands; they should likewise have the ability to achieve all corners of your sink for proper cleaning. You may gain from one with a spray nozzle or purified water spout.

Ben Herzog

Produce an accent wall. It could be a backsplash, the wall behind the table or the space above the sink — wherever you feel could use a splash of color or pattern. Achieve it through tiles, paint or wallpaper, and alter the character of your kitchen.

Elad Gonen

Paint the cabinets. Want a fairly easy and affordable upgrade that can make your kitchen feel like an entirely new location? Try an original color of paint onto your cabinetry. Save yourself money by doing this yourself as a weekend project.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Contemplate glass-fronted cabinetry. If you are thinking about replacing your cabinets, you may choose to consider glass-fronted cabinetry. It will turn your dishware to a screen, and help the space feel more airy and open.

Bosworth Hoedemaker

Get rid of your cabinets. If your kitchen feels restrictive and your cabinets are getting in the way of natural lighting, removing them may be a fantastic option. Replace them with shelving for storing your dishware. Your space will open up and your beautiful dishes is going to be the center of attention.

Nic Darling

Update your seats . Kitchen chairs and barstools bring in color, pattern and different style. This kitchen has a very modern feel, yet the accession of the vibrant Kartell Mademoiselle chairs presents a hint of the eclectic.

Karen Ellentuck. ASID

Replace your seats with a banquette. If your budget gets the space and your kitchen the room, consider swapping your seats for banquette seating. This is especially beneficial for bigger families or people who like to entertain, as it provides a great deal more space for seating.

Jamie Laubhan-Oliver

Introduce artwork. Simply because the kitchen is mostly a space of work doesn’t mean the walls shouldn’t be dressed with art. This is an easy change to make and it is going to immediately customize the space.

Marie Newton, Closets Redefined

Arrange the pantry. Step up and confront the nut: the pantry. Take a Saturday to go through all, get rid of what you have not touched in years and restock what’s left in an organized fashion.

More: The Best 20 Kitchens of 2011

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Add Character to Your Home With the Appearance of Age

Distressed finishes are applied to wood surfaces to make them look older than they actually are. A faux aged surface is reached in a variety of ways from light sanding to hitting it with a hammer. The beauty of those unnaturally worn finishes is they’re very forgiving and they can add loads of charm and personality to your home, like antiques do. Following is a list of some things to think about when selecting finishes.

Tracery Interiors

How much distressing? These painted walls seem to have been scraped to resemble peeling paint. It’s very dramatic inside this minimally furnished room and looks like walls I imagine you might see in an old home in Europe.

Erdreich Architecture, P.C.

Worn corners and edges. Creamy painted cabinets using a cherry glaze look like they’ve existed for decades, thanks to the worn edges on the corners and edges. This appearance would be acceptable for just about any conventional kitchen where a warm and casual style is desired.

Goforth Gill Architects

Top and undercoat colours. There are usually two colours of paint in debilitating: the shirt and undercoats. In this country kitchen, the grim topcoat of those cabinets was lightly sanded to reveal a lighter gold toned undercoat beneath it. Notice how well it matches with the countertop. The chicken wire from the doors is a wonderful touch.

Top glaze. These gray-green kitchen cabinets have a dark glaze on top to mimic years of accumulated dirt, giving this distance Old-World appeal.

KuDa Photography

Barn worn. Do not these red planks look like they were reclaimed in the old barn? The flatness of this wood works well in his kitchen that is modern.

Archipelago Hawaii Luxury Home Designs

How will it be utilized? If your face is a desk you use daily, make sure it is smooth enough to clean and that it has a protective coating on top. This distressed kitchen dining table is eye-catching in turquoise, the color of the Hawaiian waters beyond the home.

Van Wicklen Design

Add just one distressed piece, like this wall cupboard, to attract charm to an otherwise new bath. Distressed black furniture is remarkably popular now.

Zuniga Interiors

Dings and scratches. This lovely chesthas manydings and dents, however, the shiny polished finish prevents it from appearing rustic. A great way to hide imperfections? Add more dings!

Dreamy Whites

French farmhouse. Maria out of Dreamy Whites generates beautiful rooms apparently effortlessly using white, linen and weather-worn items. Though she describes her style as French farmhouse motivated, because the rooms are feminine, some may call her style shabby chic. See more of her home

Palmer Todd

Coastal. Replace the romantic accessories with beach-themed ones for a coastal appearance. Ensure that the paint has been gently chipped or scraped to attain that weathered appearance.

More: Update That Beachy Look
Modern Country Style
Patina Style

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Old-School Design: Frame Your Own Garden View

When designing your gardens and outside spaces, think about the frames you are creating with your own trees, perennials and garden structures. By carefully considering the positioning of your frames you’ll be able to direct views to maximize the best characteristics of your space. It is often as simple as pruning attentively and including a flowering vine, or as complex as adding a series of outside structures. Join me now as we check out a few gardens which are using natural and manmade framing to make beautiful parts of landscape art.

Browse garden design photos | Locate a landscape architect

This rock structure in Edith Wharton’s gardens in The Mount gracefully frames a view from both sides. Plantings have been inserted to soften the thick walls.

Amy Renea

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA, is arguably one of the most gorgeous gardens in the world, and it is a masterpiece in framing. Everywhere you look are beautiful framed vignettes and vistas. My favorite place for framing in Longwood nevertheless, is the arboretum. The arboretum is full of stunning, historical specimens of various trees gathered by the Pearces and also abuts directly on the meadow. Total of bright sun and wildflowers, the meadow is a grand comparison to the deep shade of this arboretum. The trees have been pruned into graceful, natural appearing arcs that framework the areas beautifully.

Amy Renea

The arcs are so well positioned that lots of these directly framework trees in the distance. Notice how this shrub using a wide, squat custom is styled with a subtle curve.

Slater Associates Landscape Architects

Using trees is a great way to produce frames, but you can make literal frames in your garden with constructions. This gorgeous rock wall has included two cutout windows which frame views and the garden in both directions for people on each side.

Kathleen Shaeffer Design, Exterior Spaces

If your home is much more modern in its design, you can frame your views using streamlined, geometric patterns in stucco, concrete and other materials. This door and window supply beautiful frames for flat lines of plantings.

Notice the colour blocking of grey and brown concrete which reflect the gold and green color blocking of this planting outside.

Kathleen Shaeffer Design, Exterior Spaces

Here is another framed view in precisely the exact same garden. A secondary door frames horizontals of green and deep aubergine from the meadow. This garden also offers framed views from the seating area through wooden gridwork panels.

Amy Renea

In this traditional garden, the framing is made using a large iron trellis. Open on either side, the trellis generates framed views of various areas of the garden. This particular segment frames a small vignette centered upon the potting bench and leading to the white trellis and pathway outside.

Mark Dodge Design

The design of your garden does not need to always be outside framing. Framing starts inside, together with the positioning of your windows and doors. Notice how this door perfectly frames the trail with a tiny ceiling of green thanks to its neighboring tree. Added views are styled throughout the small-paned windows.

Amy Renea

Do you have beautiful views that may benefit from a little framing? Do you have a wide open space out of your garden that would look beautiful framed within the bounds of a rustic trellis? Maybe you are able to sew several trees to perfectly framework plantings from the distance.

Take a little time to look around your own gardens carefully and be aware of the natural farming that already exists, or produce a couple frames of your own.

More: Browse the latest landscape and garden photos on Houzz

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5 Basement Renovations Designed for Entertaining

It’s easy for a cellar to develop into a home’s catch-all, much like the garage. Tucked down a small flight of stairs, everything that is pitched to the cellar is out of sight and out of thoughts. But in these four houses, the customers took this often-unused space to great use. From an indoor hockey rink, to an elegant bar and wine cellar, to special play spaces for kids, these designs put the traditional thought of a basement rec room to the test.

Cara Woodhouse Interiors LLC

1. A place for kids and adults on Long Island. Designer Melanie Morris of Feathered Nest Interiors designed this cellar as a relaxing setting for both the kids and the adults in this family. The homeowners have three young boys, and they wanted to design a cellar play area that would hold up to their antics and be fun for Mom and Dad to hang outside in.

“We designed the huge couch — otherwise known as’The Pit’ — where everyone in the family could lounge, and even nap together,” states Morris. She and her staff discovered three big bean bag chairs and sprinkled them in front of the two TVs on opposing walls — one for gambling, and one for TV.

Cara Woodhouse Interiors LLC

Morris and team split this cellar to many designated spaces. The boys like to play hockey, so they had a custom rubber flooring made to resemble a hockey rink, and had it installed in one portion of the cellar. Morris also had columns around the space cushioned and upholstered therefore the boys wouldn’t hurt themselves while still goofing around.

Cara Woodhouse Interiors LLC

Two large closets shop the kids’ endless toys and games. The cubbies add a decorative touch, and also have low enough distances for even the youngest child to put away his goodies. Morris and her staff thought the design of the basement through carefully, and even added a little bathroom so that the kids wouldn’t have to run up and down the stairs while playing in their new play area.

2. A new room for entertaining in Portland, Oregon. Designer Garrison Hullinger transformed a completed but blank basement area into a eclectic and vibrant location for his customers to relax and entertain. The cellar is just under 500 feet, but its flexible floor plan enabled Hullinger to split the square footage to various activity areas.

Plumbing was added to the wet bar, which Hullinger designed for easy entertaining. Chic light fixtures were strategically placed around the space, and pops of red and gold were added to offset the otherwise impartial pallette. “I wanted the space to appear to be a complicated but casual area, where you didn’t have to be concerned about putting your feet up or spilling a drink on the rug,” states Hullinger.

A cheerful yellow sectional was nestled into the corner, developing a perfect lounge for relaxing and viewing movies. The windows over the television don’t open, but are lit with natural lighting in the home office on the other side of the wall.

Portland has a long rainy season, therefore Hullinger took extra care to make sure that the basement stays warm and dry. A vapor barrier was installed around the foundation, a garden cistern was placed in to draw water away from the house, and a large trench was dug under the basement and full of clay, asphalt, and river rock.

Urban Cape

3. Sleek and innovative in London. The owners of the house in South London’s Battersea district wanted to turn their basement into a glamourous new area for entertaining, as well as a play area for their kids. They hired London-based design firm Urban Cape, who made a dramatic and sophisticated design that is lasting, versatile and fun.

The cellar of the house is huge — plenty of space for a custom bar, media unit, and a wine place. For the bar, direct designer Sarah Radhanauth installed darkish brown leather doors handcrafted in South Africa. The leather is embossed with a gleaming crocodile print.

Urban Cape

Radhanauth and her staff broke up the space into multiple regions designated for different activities. This helps make the large space feel balanced and warm.

The leather doors on the bar slide close to seal off the bar during the day while the kids are using the press centre.

Urban Cape

Radhanauth used durable, timeless leather for the surfaces of the media centre as well. Slabs of shadowy Emperador marble in Spain were installed on both the press centre and the bar, contrasting the warm walnut paneling.

Urban Cape

A temperature-controlled wine area sits in the trunk near the cellar stairs — a perfect place for catching an extra bottle in a celebration.

Shoshana Gosselin

4. A colorful family space in Pennsylvania. The owners of the home in Breinigsville, Penn. wished to remodel their unfinished basement into a room where they could entertain family and friends , and let their kids have a distinctive play area of the very own. Above all else, they wanted to renovate the area so that it wouldn’t feel like a dim and damp cellar. Designer Shoshana Gosselin split this spacious 930-square-foot space into zones. “We didn’t want any walls separating every zone since the cellar could shrink in size, so we worked with an open floor plan,” says Gosselin. “That is also a fantastic way to think if you are unsure of how you may use the cellar in a few years.”

The kids’ play area, tucked away towards the back of the cellar, is slightly hidden from guests but still has plenty of room to put away toys and games. Built-in shelving along a wall takes up minimal floor area, leaving more space for the kids to perform. A bright green paint from Sherwin Williams helps keep this room bright and light.

Shoshana Gosselin

Gosselin installed a stainless steel bar area with counter area around the corner where the customers could host guests and mix drinks. The brown-and-green mosaic backsplash is a perfect complement to the space’s dark chocolate laminate flooring.

Shoshana Gosselin

A sitting area with a TV is nestled next to a small and flexible dining room area. Gosselin mixed in chic and glamorous accessories and light to help incorporate the space with the rest of the house. “Whenever you’re looking for basement furniture, be certain that you measure doors and get areas so that it will match the stairs,” says Gosselin.

Eisner Design LLC

5. Open and bright in New York. Joseph Eisner and his group at Eisner Design transformed a bare-bones basement into this spacious, light, and multi-purpose space. The family in Westchester, New York, wanted the room to incorporate room for a home office, a fitness center, a bar/lounge, a guest bedroom, and a large play area.

The design was more about taking away elements than simply adding them. A large glazed wall with sliding glass doors is situated to the right of their home gym. In the first construction, this was a large foundation wall, which Eisner and his staff removed to open the space up.

Eisner Design LLC

The large play area has a long desk made from double laminate where the kids can work and draw on crafts. The bar and lounge area is visible just beyond this area. The bar itself was created with Eco-Terr, an aggregate built of all recycled materials.

Eisner Design LLC

Playful block storage units were custom designed and painted in bright colors to (hopefully) encourage the kids to put their toys away. Everything in this cellar — the materials, goods, and finishes — were selected for their low- or zero-VOC and high recycled material.

More:
Below Ground Beauty: Making the Most of Basement Space
Beat the Heat: Escape to the Basement
Cool, Contemporary Wine Storage

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Houzz Tour: Cabin Studios in the Landscape

When an active couple wanted to include more living space to their picturesque Mill Valley house, they chose to take full advantage of the setting. So they immersed themselves in the landscape by constructing two little hillside cabins.

The two cabins integrate the creative dreams of landscape architect Jori Hook and architect Jonathan Feldman, who used the native scene and creative personalities of their homeowners as inspiration. The end result is a whimsical refuge that bows in reverence into California’s beauty.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Feldman meant for the architecture to speak softly, as a quiet intervention from the landscape. The design is understated but hot, and preserves the natural texture of the website.

The customers are “inventive and passionate people with a deep appreciation of where they live,” Hook says. Everything in the roofline to the substance choices has a cheery lightness meant to reflect the characters of the owners.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Feldman used natural gaps between trees to pick locations for the cottages. The structures seem like discoveries rather than impositions on the landscape.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Inside the first cabin, that serves as a personal yoga studio, the entire south wall opens into the hillside, embracing the trees and sunshine.

Situated on a southeast-facing slope, the cottages receive the sun’s first rays in the morning. “In earth-based civilizations, East is considered a place of inspiration,” Hook says. “What better place to locate a artwork and writing studio?”

The upper cabin functions as a painting studio.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

The ascent from the main house into the cottages was designed to reflect and respect the special uses of the cottages by concealing them from a redwood tree-lined pathway. “These cottages are sacred places for the customers to produce their work, so the transition from the main house was quite important,” Hook says. Just once the customer reaches the cottages are that they truly presented.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Hook implemented aspects of Mill Valley’s Mount Tamalpais to her style. From the vegetation of the mountain into the boulder-strewn terrain, the overall website reflects the flora of the mountain and Marin as a whole.

“I take an educated and instinctive way to the systems at drama, whether it’s soils, slopes, grand trees or remarkable vegetation, or even the orientation into sunlight,” Hook says. “I visit the roof as a microcosm of the slopes of Mount Tam. The layout turned into a living mosaic, representing the variety of plants and plant communities on Mount Tam.”

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

The roof’s role in both the landscape and structure of the website and layout is a unique facet of this project. Because of the essential terracing, the roof of the lower cabin (the yoga studio), is the initial site experience.

The green roof is really the curb appeal of the property — the first facade of the design. Hook took this opportunity to treat the roof as a canvas, even more than a typical green roof, and made it as a living piece of artwork, filled with succulents and other plants found throughout the project.

“Anything living thrives on attention,” Hook says, but “I try to supply a garden where the upkeep is a labor of love and not a constant toil.” Understanding site-specific microclimates makes plant selection easier and ensures a layout will be more in sync with the website. Hook pressures a plant palette naturally adapted to the surroundings is very likely to require less upkeep and be more effective.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Navigating and accessing the 20-foot grade change of the property was shown to be Hook’s main challenge. Extensive grading was something the designers the homeowners needed for the website, and supposed that little space could be left to style an actual garden. “The opportunities and limitations of a project, though sometimes in opposition, tend to be the driving forces of the design,” Hook says.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

The grade of the website created naturally different experiences in the landscape, and the route itself reflects those changes. Steeper parts of the site require quicker and more direct movement, meaning less space to meander or leisurely take from the website. After the out grade levels, the paths are widened, creating more chances to respect the vistas or take a seat on a nearby boulder.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

For a project with such extensive architectural and structural components, the natural landscape and terrain of the site played an extremely significant role. The prominence of the green roofs and the insertion of the buildings into the landscape emphasize that in this layout, the landscape remains the focus. The thoughtful and seemingly understated implementation on both landscape and architecture leaves Feldman content with the “incorporated, respectful, subservient and quiet” structure of the cottages, and Hook hoping that with every trip, traffic to the website will “walk off satiated with nature’s beauty and their place within it.”

Photography by Joe Fletcher
General Contractor: JP Builders, Inc..

More:
Houzz Tour: Simple Luxury at a Swedish Retreat
Dirt Optional: Amazing Air Plants for Wall or Tree
9 Cooling Rooftop Gardens

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10 Sensational Side Tables

A well-executed layout plan does not cease with all the basic furnishings. Accent pieces, such as side tables, deserve equal attention. Exceptional side tables elevate the many simplistic décor and command respect even in the presence of classic furnishings. Have a look at these 10 trendy side tables and decide if these in your rooms could use an update.

Megan Blake Design

Curvacious and fun, this solid wood table is a welcome conversation piece. Insert a glass top to provide greater surface area when needed (felt or rubber pads will help hold the glass in place).

Philpotts Interiors

A three-tiered side table gives the illusion of floating shelves but is still able to support the weight of heavier items like a desk lamp and books.

Jodie Rosen Design

Contemporary pieces include a silent sculptural element to a space. The exceptional shape of this zigzag end table has the additional benefit of providing three levels of storage.

Rachel Reider Interiors

Get your money’s worth out of this slick, shiny accent bit. Not only does this function as a table, in addition, it can act as a seat. Another alternative: group two or three together and you have an instant coffee table.

Up the design ante with a studded bedside table. Upholstered in nailhead trim, this handsome table is gender-neutral and boasts open and closed storage to boot.

Dillard Pierce Design Associates

Fit for a queen, this slender-legged gold-leaf gadget table is dainty and feminine. Its sheen makes it a standout Even tucked into a corner.

Lisa Borgnes Giramonti

Invite the outdoors in with a natural tree-stump table. Regardless of what your style, a table similar to this is intriguing and versatile.

Dillard Pierce Design Associates

Lucite is outta sight. Do not be fooled by their barely-there look: All these twin tables are 10 times stronger than glass and package just as a lot of style punch.

Beckwith Interiors

A slender demilune console conveniently doubles as a side table. Its baroque-meets-modern silhouette creates this bit timeless and cutting edge at precisely the exact same moment.

This Italian beauty on the left of this picture takes geometry into a whole new level. The six laser-cut reflective circles have been designed into a cubic work of art that unexpectedly makes mathematics a lot sexier.

More: Styling with Great Little Stools and Hassocks
Global Icons: Chinese Garden Stools
Space Saving Solutions: Nesting Tables

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Tech in Design: Where to Put Your Flat-Screen TV

It has been a month since I heard this will be the final season of Desperate Housewives, and I am still not finished it. After having suffered the loss of Monk, 24, Lie To Me, along with Brothers and Sisters, I was consoling myself with the fact that shortly it would be the time for Desperate Housewives, House, Modern Family — and oh , Castle. Now DH is going away, and I do not intend to miss a single minute of it.

In honor of this new TV season, I have all sorts of great info on where your wellbeing should proceed, how large it should be and how to not miss as much as an eyebrow lift from your favourite TV personality.

Hey, do not touch that dial! Read on for more ways to get your TV placement right.

Quezada Architecture

For optimal viewing, where if you place the TV?

Place the TV in eye-level. For the best viewing angle, then place the TV low to ensure if you are seated, your head is even with the middle of the screen. You’ll be comfortable if you can sit straight ahead, rather than up or down in the monitor.

If the TV go over the fireplace?

Not if you can help it, however, here’s what to do if you can not. I admit to completely hating the current trend of placing TV niches over the fireplace. Hate it, hate it, hate it. However, if you are stuck and that’s the only place your TV can proceed, place the TV on a wall mount or stand that will allow you to angle down the screen. That’s because the screen is best viewed straight on rather than from an angle.

If you are remodeling or building and still feel you must place your TV over the fireplace, consider a narrow, rectangular terrace positioned very near the ground, such as the one in the photograph above. It will allow you to have lower and much better positioning than placing your TV over a tall fireplace using a tall mantel.

Witt Construction

Will Not the TV be in a bad angle if it is to the side of the fireplace?

Not if it’s possible to angle it toward the audiences. The TV cupboard to the left of the fireplace provides more of a straight-on view.

Contemporary house architects

Give yourself some adjustability to get the best viewing angle. This little TV shelf slides forward, and I bet they could angle the TV toward the center of this space.

Lindy Donnelly

There are all sorts of mounting brackets for slender, flat panel TVs. You won’t miss a minute of your favorite show when you can angle the TV straight into a fantastic area, then turn it toward the dining area. If you’re going to eat and watch TV anyway, you can at least sit in the table rather than eating on the sofa.

See more of this house (and what’s behind this TV screen)

Elad Gonen

How large should the TV screen be?

Larger is better — pretty much.
Lots of people say they wish they had a larger TV, but have you ever heard anyone complain that their screen is too large? I didn’t think so.

The ideal size for your TV depends on how large the space is, what you are viewing (high def or not), just how far off you’re going to be sitting, and what you are able to afford. Add personal taste to the mixture and there’s no easy answer.

Here is a loose guideline on seeing distances I pulled together from several sources. The best distance for you and your TV may vary:

Display sizes and Basic viewing distances:
26″ screen = 3 to 5.5 feet32″ screen = 4 to 6.5 feet37″ screen = 4.5 to 7.5 feet40″ screen = 5 to 8.5 feet46″ screen = 6 to 9.5 feet52″ screen = 6.5 to 11 feet58″ screen = 7 to 12 feet65″ screen = 8 to 13.5 feet70″ screen = 9 to 15 ft

Gramophone

What’s the best seating arrangement for my home theater?

Place as many seats as possible looking straight at the screen, rather than fanning seats out to the sides.

Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

This home theater was wide enough to add more seats to the side, but we left another row instead. At the pictures, everyone wants to sit at the center for the best opinion, and it is the same for TV.

Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

We constructed a custom riser that curves around the rear of the front row so that the people in the spine can see above the heads of the front. The window is coated with black curtains with room-darkening lining.

Hint: Don’t forget the popcorn! That is a real popcorn machine within this home theater.

Amoroso Design

What if I do about windows?

Contemplate your window treatments carefully.
Notice how in the photograph above, we could view warmth from the window onto the TV screen. Notice also that they have fine, opaque and possibly room-darkening lined curtains to pay for the window. (Pulling the curtains closed also keeps nosy neighbors from understanding how many hours of TV you really watch.)

Avoid placing your TV in front of a window, or reverse a west-facing window. Glare or the difference in light from the windows and your screen can cause eye strain. The outfits they wear on Desperate Housewives cause sufficient eye strain by themselves!

Seura

If you adore night soaps, you know that in a split second, a sneaky sideways glance will tell you the two characters are having an affair, or even a tiny cough lets you know that someone has suddenly become terminally ill.

So what do you do in case you do not wish to miss a single minute?
Not an issue! Even a small flat panel TV could be built into a little niche in your cupboard so that you don’t miss anything when you are cooking.

Seura

Or, it can go in the backsplash so that you don’t miss out while rinsing a dish.

More ways to add a TV to your kitchen

Witt Construction

Or over the refrigerator so getting up to find a snack doesn’t leave you in the dark about the most recent plot twist.

Seura

Stay informed about the show while you’re cleaning your teeth or shaving.

Kitchen Designs by Ken Kelly, Inc. (CKD, CBD, CR)

Don’t miss a single romantic moment on The Bachelor while you soak in a bubble bath with candles, champagne and rose petals.

Seura

Watch Dancing With the Stars while you’re under the Actual stars!

Deep River Partners

Got you covered at bedtime.

La Scala

Are you currently an action enthusiast? Don’t miss a single explosion, car chase, or gun fight with numerous displays! The more actions the better!

Alright, I hope this helped you get all set up for the new shows for autumn along with your favorites that are coming backagain.

Inform usWhat show are you really excited to see, and where are you going to be seeing?

More: The Way to Put the TV When the Wall Will Not Work
Working a TV Into Your Inside Layout
14 Ways to Put a TV in Your Kitchen
Cool Trick for Hiding TV Cords
How to Move the TV Outdoor

Pictures: Read media room layouts

Products: TVs, stands, benches and much more

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Fall Fixes: Get Your Fireplace Cold-Weather Ready

Spending a crisp, autumn evening spent in front of a roaring fire is just one of life’s great delights. And nothing could ruin it quicker than a mechanical injury. Here to keep that from happening is Tom Parks of COASTROAD Hearth & Patio at Shallotte, North Carolina. Parks, certified by the National Fireplace Institute along with also a self-described”fireplace nerd,” provides us a notion of things to triple-check before starting up your fireplace to your holiday season.

Give a chimney a checkup using his tips under, or schedule a service call with a certified fireplace technician. If you think something may not be appropriate along with your fireplace, possess a professional technician come in to look at it it’s better to be safe than sorry.

More: Browse photographs of fireplace designs

Harrell Remodeling, Inc..

Basics: If there’s glass on front of your fireplace, then you’re likely going to have to clean it at least once a year. Parks suggests cleaning with a water-and-vinegar combination or a technical fireplace cleaning solution (prevent cleaners containing ammonia). If the glass is collecting soot, your fireplace should be adjusted to burn cleanly.

If your chimney has louvers or grilles on the front, it’s intended to circulate air around the combustion region. This implies that anything is in the air near the fireplace — such as dust, pet hair, what-have-you — will be dragged into that place. Clean this area frequently to maintain the fan working and to prevent dust from collecting. Parks advocates a shop vacuum or even a hose extension on a normal vacuum to get the job finished.

COASTROAD Hearth & Patio

Wood fireplaces: If you are using your wood-burning fireplace many times, you’ll need your chimney swept out roughly once per year. Employ a professional; you may find a certified chimney specialist at the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

COASTROAD Hearth & Patio

Gas fireplaces: For gas stoves with a standing pilot light (one that is on all the time), ensure that your pilot has been serviced regularly. Fireplaces with no pilot light, or that are on just while something is burning, may be serviced less often.

“All unvented gas fireplaces and gas logs built in the last two decades have had an Oxygen Depletion Sensor pilot,” says Parks. “This should be cleaned every year to keep the machine from getting more sensitive and inducing bothersome shutdowns.” A can of compressed air may be used to clean out the pilot orifice (the opening where the gas comes out). In case your machine is 5 or more years old, then you may have to call a specialist.

Mark English Architects, AIA

Electric fireplaces: There’s usually not a great deal of maintenance involved in electrical fireplaces, but if you would like to decrease the likelihood of your fire going out in the middle of a celebration, Parks indicates replacing your light bulbs before the holiday season gets underway.

COASTROAD Hearth & Patio

More resources: when you have questions about how to look after your chimney, you may download operations manuals for current models from most manufacturers’ web sites. If your operations manual is not available online, you can contact a trader through the company’s site; they should be able to assist you. You could also find a fireplace specialist through the National Fireplace Institute.

More: 16 Stunningly Beautiful Fireplaces
Browse more photographs of fireplace designs

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Houzz Tour: Kay Loves Vintage

If the thought of living on the outskirts of Amsterdam, collecting gorgeous Mid-Century furniture and (in my head at least) pedaling around on a bike with a basket full of tulips sounds nice for you, then this Houzz Tour ought to be right up your alley. Okay, so I don’t really know if bike rides and freshly-picked flowers are routine at the life span of Kay from the blog Kaylovesvintage, but the furniture and location gathering most definitely are. She offered us a peek into the enchanting house she shares with her husband, daughter and four cats.

Kaylovesvintage

The two-bedroom house the family shares was constructed in 1901 and sits at a little village a few kilometers outside of Amsterdam. Both Kay and her husband are avid Mid-Century Modern collectors, so naturally their little home is filled with treasures in the period.

Kaylovesvintage

Kay works as a personal vintage and classic shopper (dream job!) , and on the side conducts an Etsy shop selling many of the pieces she finds on her hunts.

Kaylovesvintage

Because space is at a premium in the family’s house, they attempt to stick to a single principle:”For every item that comes in, something else must go.”

Kaylovesvintage

Kaylovesvintage

They also now attempt to concentrate their collecting smaller things in the’50s and’60s, rather than large furniture.

Kaylovesvintage

Kay has the ideal idea: She places her favorite finds in the living space, as it’s where the family spends all their time.

Kaylovesvintage

The collection continues out with retro patio seats and servingware.

Kaylovesvintage

In addition to scouring flea markets and yard sales, the family travels to England, Denmark and Germany once or twice a year to search for interesting pieces.

Kaylovesvintage

A classic Ericofon peeks out from behind the family’s modern media installment.

Kaylovesvintage

Interested in starting your own MCM collection? Kay has some good advice. Most significant,”If you don’t enjoy the hunt, don’t start collecting unless you’ve got a massive budget.” Furniture in the’50s and’60s is very popular right now, so you have got to actually put in the sweat work to find something you like at a fantastic cost.

Kaylovesvintage

Getting a good cost works twofold: Not only is it easy in your pocket, but if your tastes change down the street, you will probably be able to market it for what you’ve have it for.

Kaylovesvintage

You may need to wait some time to get what you’re looking for in your budget. As Kay points out, “. . .you will always find an item for the ideal price if you’re patient enough. Realize that rates are moving up and down quickly. Some hot thing that’ll cost you a fortune could be rather cheap in a couple of years “

Kaylovesvintage

Kay now has her eye out for a radio — preferably a Tesla 308U Talisman or even Nordmende Transita. Her husband? A CH28 sawhorse chair by Hans Wegner.

Kaylovesvintage

“Also, learn about the big MCM designers and the things they created,” she says. “We spent hours reading books and browsing the web for information. This is also great for creating your taste in design.”

Kaylovesvintage

An assortment of hyacinth vases and classic cameras.

Kaylovesvintage

Kay stores many of her pieces upstairs, but daughter Nila’s area is available for a view. An Eames rocker retains court close to a wall of modern prints.

Kaylovesvintage

A vintage garden bench in the 1950s makes for a cozy spot to enjoy the garden.

Kaylovesvintage

Thank you for giving us a peek in your house, Kay!

You can follow Kay’s collecting adventures at her blog, Kaylovesvintage.

More Houzz Tours:
’70s Condo Gets Extreme Makeover
Abbey’s Aesthetic Outburst
Lauren Liess’s Pure Style

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What’s the Best Insulation Solution for Your Home?

The US Department of Energy says that most homes lose 30 percent of their heat or air conditioning as a result of leaks and cracks in the building. This can cause you to end up spending quite a lot of money on energy bills. To avoid this, you should ensure proper vinyl siding services of your house. You can do this using spray foam and by padding your floors, ceiling and walls to make sure that your home is airtight.

Spray Foam Insulation

This padding is a combination of chemicals that are sprayed from a machine on areas to be padded with the use of a hose. When sprayed, the chemicals mix at the tip of the hose and create paint-like sludge that sticks on any surface that it touches.

Shortly after, the foam starts expanding and traps the bubbles. The expansion of the foam forms a continuous layer of insulation that’s impenetrable.

Insulation Types

There are two types of spray foam: open cell and closed cell.

– Open Cell

This is the least expensive choice. It’s referred to as open cell considering that the bubbles in the foam are broken and don’t ever close. Air gets trapped in between the bubbles as the foam expands. This creates several air pockets that trap any heat that might try to escape. Due to the broken bubbles, the foam is soft, allowing water to penetrate through them. Open cell is great for insulating pipes, wires and other obstructed areas. Its insulating rate is 3.5.

– Closed Cell

The bubbles in this foam are all closed and firmly packed together. This makes it much more powerful than the open cell foam. Neither air nor water can penetrate through it. Since their bubbles are smaller, they provide better vinyl siding repair. It has an insulating rating of R-7 for each inch.

Good Insulation is Expensive

Closed cell foam is much more expensive than open cell foam. Open cells have a density of approximately 0.5lb/ft. and closed cells have a density of 1.75lb/ft. If your budget is tight, consider having a combination of both closed and open cell foam.

DIY Insulation

If you want to install your own spray foam, this is possible. Just buy the disposable kit; it has everything that you will need for the job. You can use them when you are doing a minor job, where it’s essential for you to keep the wind and moisture out. You can also use it when doing the Flash and Batt technique.

Flash and Batt

In this method, start by spraying 1-inch thickness of spray foam on the wall. Then apply fiberglass rolls or batts. This creates a strong insulating force that will prevent air or heat from permeating through the walls. This is known as convective heat loss. This happens, for instance, when air blows and carries cold air inside your house. The combination of fiberglass and cell foam enhances each other to provide strong vinyl siding installation.

Cantilevered Stairs: Running on Air

In my final ideabook I looked at stairs created from thin plates of metal which seemed ribbonlike in their continuity from step to step. One impression you get from that combination of material and form is they appear to float. This next look at stairs considers steps that float more literally; cantilevering from one side, each measure is independent, the antithesis of the ribbonlike steel staircase.

What follows are predominantly wood stairs, anchored along a solid wall and projecting into space. The different effects are certainly dramatic, aided no doubt by the detailing of the guardrails and the treatment of the adjacent wall, in addition to the articulation of these steps themselves.

Amitzi Architects

This first example features a wood stair that is well integrated into a porous wall composed of horizontal members together with spacers and gaps between. It’s easy to imagine the steps slotted between the horizontals continuing through the other side of the wall. Another view …

Amitzi Architects

… accentuates how the wood steps cantilever from the wall, particularly since the snowy guardrail is independent of these steps. While the steps look like solid wood, most likely the are partially hollow, to get a (steel) Structure within that retains the steps horizontal as they are used as time passes. This technique applies to just about all of the wood steps presented here, many of which are large enough to conceal the inner structure doing most of the job.

Webber + Studio, Architects

Here the wood steps are created from the exact same wood as the adjacent wall, projecting from it with no obvious connection. It is safe to say the supporting construction is hidden within the steps and behind the wall. Many regional codes would demand a rail on the right but somehow this stair exists without one.

These wood steps are more slender than the prior example, but a close look at their underside shows steel plates in a T-section which are attached into the concrete wall. But from above the effect is the same as other stairs here, in which the steps appear to float independently in midair.

John Maniscalco Architecture

Here the link to the wall is more overt, as the stringer that holds the steps is exposed, albeit painted white to match the wall. Another look shows…

John Maniscalco Architecture

. . .how the glass wall, a few inches past the steps, essentially acts as a guardrail. Just a slim handrail is subsequently needed on the other side.

Elite Metalcraft Co. Ltd

This example melds my previous ideabook on steel stairs with this one-on-one steps. A wood stair cantilevered from one wall is built in wood, making it ribbonlike, yet weatherproof. The glass guardrail strengthens the floating impact of the stair.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

Not all cantilevered staircase need to be really striking, projecting the full width from a wall. This example features steps extending beyond a wall beneath the stair. The choice to do so might be related to the demanding, stacked-stone wall or the need for usable space beneath the stair. After that, a straight-on look…

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

. . .shows the cantilever is all about one-fifth of the stair’s width. The way the wood risers are intended to coincide with the treads is well done. I would love to find that the risers be the drawers to take advantage of the space beneath.

Aidlin Darling Design, LLP

Another example of a partial cantilever echoes the prior example, but the risers match the walls, not the steps. The thick wood of the treads strengthens the way that they float, with no need for extra structure.

Eisner Design LLC

However, what about other substances? The stair’s treads are made from translucent glass set into stainless steel framing. A T-section attached to brackets on the brick wall provides the support for the stair.

Eisner Design LLC

A similar stair elsewhere in the exact same project as the previous example shows the simplicity of the T-shaped tread. In cases like this the structure continues into the wall. A look from below…

Eisner Design LLC

. . .gives an notion of how these steps allow sunlight to filter down the different degrees, an important consideration in urban living. If these steps were wood the sunlight could be severely diminished.

Steel plates, such as the ones in my previous ideabook, can also be configured for cantilevers. Here the bend takes place across the wall, making treads with no risers. This is a really simple and elegant that just requires a bit of steel to the underside for strengthening.

GLS Architecture/Landscape Architecture

This last example is included to illustrate that cantilevered stairs can also be used in outdoor applications. These concrete steps project from a cast-in-place concrete wall, and they float above a wood deck. This structure is hidden in darkness, as most likely intended, but the effect is sublime.

More:
Artful Stairs — Continuity in Steel
Level Changes Define Interior design
More inspiring architectural Information

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12 Inspiring Garden Gates

Though their first intent was to keep out unwelcome guests, gates have become beautiful architectural structures, including feelings of enchantment and fascination to the landscape and representing the homeowners’ character and style. Highlighted in this ideabook are 12 unique gates, each of them adding function and good looks, and fitting seamlessly into their surroundings.

ROOMS & BLOOMS

Framed by an arbor and fence, I almost missed the fact that this gate is actually an old doorway! The bricks beneath are a delightful touch, and it is quite possible they came from the same source as the doorway.

Tip: Check your regional ReStore for intriguing salvageable materials that may be utilized in your yard.

Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture

Upon viewing this exceptional entrance, I could not help but to imagine the shadows that could be cast as people come and go. There is little doubt in my mind that a little detail in this way could create a heightened sense of admiration, sure to draw a smile.

Amy Jesaitis

Hidden behind foliage, this gate still creates a bold statementthanks to the ornamental medallion that’s displayed at eye level. Of course, the deeply saturated color helps a lot, too.

Eron Johnson Antiques

This charmingly weathered gate offers a glimpse in the sweet purple blossoms that reside in the garden behind. The height of this structure adds an additional element of miracle, although the slotted design allows one to feel welcome and at ease.

Grizzly Iron, Inc

The patterned flower design generously enriches this iron gate, keeping the row of bars from feeling institutional.

environmental notion

Somewhat different than your average fence and gate mix, this set reverses the normal arrangement. Generally the fence is strong while the gate is windowed, but that is an enjoyable change!

Blasen Landscape Architecture

My favorite part about this garden entrance is how easy it is to repeat. A number of the gates that you encounter are grand and somewhat pricey, whereas something like this might be obtainable over the span of a weekend, even with the help of a few tools and a little stack of materials.

Check this out one-of-a-kind of a gate that’s similar in style.

A beautiful gate such as this can not help but pull any and all focus on the lush garden behind. The curved layout makes a powerful focal point that’s fast to draw the eye. Crowned with an arbor, the gate is finished off with a good sense of equilibrium.

InterDesign Studio

This funky door boasts character in addition to a decent sense of flow. Not only are the colours consistent with the home, but the cover of the gate dips down to meet with the height of this fence, making this space feel not as inflexible than if a traditional gate had been utilized.

Aneka Interiors Inc..

A curlicue entrance pairs well with the stunning rounded archways from the distance.

Tip:When deciding upon a gate layout, it might be of help to narrow your options by mirroring an overall shape that exists in the backdrop.

Diane Licht Landscape Architect

The unfinished wood used with this gate was a wonderful selection for its surroundings. Over time, a structure that’s left with no paint or stain will slowly weather. In cases like this, the subdued end goes well with the neutral tones of the home.

Motionspace Architecture + Design

It didn’t take long to observe the stability shared with this home and its entrance. By employing a same colors represented on the exterior of the home, the designer was able to create a cohesive and relaxed feeling.

More exterior information:
Charm Your House with Windowboxes
Design with Weather: Introduce a Rain Chain
8 Great Ways to Use Landscape Pavers

Next: Read additional photos of garden gate designs

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High Design With Solar Panels

Living off the grid might not be as simple as slapping a few solar panels on a roof or side of a structure, but it definitely helps decrease those electricity bills. But if a person decides to add solar panels to a home, the way to do it? Though the panels have slimmed down in size and are making strides towards looking less solar-panel-like, most homeowners don’t want to listen to them. And incorporating them into an existing house requires some consideration and ability. What follows are a few examples of various ways solar panels are being incorporated into house design.

As soon as it’s a common practice to put solar panels on the roof, this multi-family project by Pb Elemental utilizes them overlooking the garden. In this instance it is important to coordinate with the panels together with the adjacent landscaping, therefore the latter does not block sunlight; differently the panels may be better suited to the roof.

What I like a lot about this program is that they way the solar panels do triple duty: They produce energy but they also color the inside space and discard water away in the operable garage-type doorway. Thanks to this canopy, the massive opening combines indoors and out even when it rains.

Sam Crawford Architects

The perfect orientation for solar panels would be southerly (in the northern hemisphere) and in an angle that takes advantage of the sun’s arc across the sky during the entire year. Thus the specific orientation and angle varies, but a scenario such as this photo predominates, because flat (flat roof) and vertical (wall socket ) programs don’t absorb enough of the sun’s rays to make them viable energy producers.

ZeroEnergy Design

In an effort to learn more about the design of busy (solar panels, photovoltaics) and passive (direct solar heating) solar design, a Solar Decathlon is held each summer, inviting architecture schools to design and build a prototype home in a competition for the most”energy-efficient houses powered exclusively by sunlight.” Previously found in the National Mall in the nation’s capital — this year the competition will be held in nearby West Potomac Park — examples similar to this 2005 entrance from Cornell University illustrate what occurs when solar energy drives a design.

ZeroEnergy Design

The east-west orientation of the National Restaurant signifies homes gesture towards the south to soak up the sun’s rays. In this case it is the roof that does the job in terms of active solar design. Photovoltaic panels can be found on the sides, but at the center is something different: a solar thermal system that uses sunlight to warm water circulated through pipes and tubes. This water is then utilized to heat water in a boiler, reducing the need for external energy to perform the same. One common application of this system is to assist heat pools.

ZeroEnergy Design

In terms of passive solar design, the south-facing elevation has quite small glass: a couple small openings along with a folding glass wall. The latter lets sunlight into the living area and opens the space to the patio. The mainly wood cladding minimizes direct sunlight in the remainder of the home, thereby reducing the need for cooling the home in warm weather. Horizontal shades at the of each opening cut on direct summer sunshine.

Back in 2006 Workshop/apd won a competition for GREEN.O.LA, a competition co-sponsored by Brad Pitt as a part of his efforts for rebuilding New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward after Hurricane Katrina. Their design comes with a shed roof outfitted with solar panels clipped to a standing-seam metal roof. Such as the Solar Decathlon home prior, this home lets sunlight create a part of its form.

David Vandervort Architects

Inside this project in Seattle, Wash., the solar panels are restricted to a small pop-up section of the home. It’s like the walls and roof are reaching towards sunlight and the sky, grabbing sunlight for electricity use. This part is angled from a portion of the home below to reap maximum advantage from the sun’s rays.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

This last example departs from all the last designs, in the solar panels have been employed to flat skylights. House Ocho from Feldman Architecture has plenty of windows, yet this skylight assists daylight reach the profound center of the strategy.

Feldman Architecture, Inc..

The integration of photovoltaics into House Ocho’s glass skylight allows to get a filtering of the sunlight entering the spaces. This perspective also shows the way the grid of the PV panels are just like a microcosm of this bigger grids made by the wood and steel beams; aesthetics is still an issue in this simple application.

Fulcrum Structural Engineering

Last is an opinion of House Ocho’s skylights from out. Surrounding them is a green roofing. This illustrates that active solar design is typically 1 aspect of a larger embrace of sustainability, extending to factors of vegetation, water, biodiversity, etc.

More:
Save Tree: Construct Your Deck Around It
Bathe at the Light of Clerestory Windows
Modern and Contemporary: What’s the Difference?
The situation for Interior Courtyards

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Guest Picks: The Best of the Greatest Little Web Shops Around

If you’ve ever wondered where shield mag design and editors bloggers go to find the upcoming big (small ) thing, look no further then this roundup of well-edited web stores which are”off the beaten path.”

From handmade heirlooms, vintage wit and the creations of global artisans, I have chosen a few of my favourite selections from each store. It’s the substance stylists’ dreams are made from.
–Jenn from Department of the Interior

Haus Interior

Clear Glass Edison Light Lamp – $195

I discovered Haus Interior while switching a few of my shield mags, and noticed they are all sourcing from here. I adore Haus Interior and navigate it anytime I think my flat is in need of an infusion of NYC cool. Case in point, this ultra cool edison lightbulb hurricane.

Haus Interior

Blue Collection Painting – $175

Grouped together or separately, these little blue paintings really are a great, nondescript accent for any sort of house, but it’s the little details that get mein this situation, the little weather report in the base of each painting.

canvas

Dauville Gold-Brushed Nesting Bowls

You might remember visiting the Shelter Island residence of Canvas owners Harriet Maxwell Macdonald and Andrew Corrie in some magazines, which Scandinavia–cum–shore house feel translates to the easy, airy aesthetic of the store’s wares. I’m always a sucker for an easy white bowl, however, the gold-brushed inner liner of those bowls elevates them into show-stopping status.

canvas

Pilmlico Bedroom Chair – $1,890

Another basic of Canvas’s line-up are traditional furniture shapes made fresh with muted handwoven linens. The Pimlico Chair pictured this is a personal favourite.

canvas

Basics Candles – $28

I’m of the belief that you can never have a lot of white scented candles stocked in your cabinets. I adore the delicate scents of Canvas’s fundamental cocktail, and also the packaging guarantees a winning hostess present.

Brook Farm General Store

Cotton Blanket

Brooklyn-based Brook Farm General Store is the number one source for nicely made, no-fuss fundamentals. I remember curling up under a cotton blanket substantially enjoy this one for the majority of my youth, and that I could think of several things more comfortable and nostalgic for me. Speaking of nostalgic, the published phrase senovinis on the trimming means”immemorial” or even”conservative” in Lithuania, where the blankets are created.

Paris Hotel Boutique

Decorative Artwork of Victoria’s Era ~ 1st Ed. – $75

I have yet to find a better source for vintage books than Lynn Goldfinger’s Paris Hotel Boutique (assuming you judge a book by its cover — and styling potential, of course!)

Actually, I managed to evaluate a 1950s edition of Jane Eyre I had been hunting for months only yesterday. Because I’m a very nice woman, I have left this first edition in stock only for you, although it would seem mighty nice on my coffee table…

Sue Fisher King

Astier de Villatte Sobre Big Paris Vase – $212

There once was a time when just a trip to Paris could place you in possession of Astier de Villatte’s decadently milky ceramics. Fortunately for state-side collectors, these days are long gone. Sue Fisher King has the best online choice by much, and the remainder of her high end offers are perfectly beautiful as well — think D. Porthault bedding, John Derian decoupage and Christopher Spitzmiller lamps.

Pod

Fog Linen Kitchen Cloth – $16

While Pod’s store is small, I really like their choice of Fog Linen and other handmade items for your kitchen. If you like food photography, Pod has an abundance of little details which make the care that you put into your cooking come through on film.

Haus Interior

Petite Wire Mesh Pot – $9

These wire planters retain all of the attention on the blossoms they hold, and that is why I love them.

Haus Interior

Sailor Stripe Pillow – $56

Haus also offers a fantastic choice of accent pillows. This sailor stripe one is posh enough to adorn a sofa in the city, shore or nation.

The Loaded Trunk

Granada Oval Trays – $65

Loaded Trunk owner Roni Jaco trots the world looking for truly unique artisan-made products: think authentic suzanis, Mexican bedspreads and those aluminum trays from Granada.

The Loaded Trunk

Hand Woven Iringa Basket – $59

Hand-woven baskets such as these are catching on everywhere, but there’s nothing like the real thing. The Loaded Trunk’s baskets are woven in Tanzania and at $59 are reasonably priced. I really like the shot of hot pink in this .

L-atitude

Beach Towel – $45

L-Atitude is another wanderlust purveyor that crossed my radar when ultimate style blogger Garance Doré composed about them. L-Atitude’s offerings are primarily fashion at the moment, but there’s a small home segment sourced directly from Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Hammam towels are most definitely on trend, and that I really like the fact that this beach towel can double as a sarong.

HORNE

Family Chairs Style 3 & 4 Set – $630

Horne is another perennial editor fave, and no wonder — they always deliver clean contemporary design and home accessories in a respectable price point (read: not completely through the roof, but not cheap either). This pair of stick back seats from Design House Stockholm are ideal illustrations.

HORNE

Cowhide Rug – Caramel Yerra – $452

Cowhide is not for everyone, but if you are a fan, this authentic hide from Horne is a fantastic value.

Etsy

Handmade Pendleton Wool Pillow Cover by Little Byrd Vintage – $38

I couldn’t finish this list without mentioning some of my favourite Etsy stores. Small Byrd Vintage in Portland has an amazing choice of western/country vintage, like this pillow made from a vintage Pendleton throw.

Etsy

Vintage Cast Iron Horse Dual Wall Hook by High Street Market – $28

High Street Market is another brilliant source for vintage on Etsy having an infinite supply of quirky brass knicknacks, refurbished lamps and more. It’s like rummaging through a fantastic estate sale from the comfort of your property.

wakerobinshop.com

Vintage Louis XVI Chair – $1,895

Inspired by the eponymous book by the naturalist John Burroughs, Wake Robin is still another source for artisan-sourced merchandise. I fell in love with the comparison between the elaborate shape of the Louis XVI chair along with the simplicity of the cotton canvas upholstery.

Calypso St. Barth

Pig Bank – $195

Resort-wear store Calypso St. Barth is another unexpected source for home decor, but they possess a secret choice of gorgeous rugs, cushions, books and much more — including this kooky trendy semi bank. Every home requires some wit and also this Harry Allen designed gilded piggy manages to be cute, smart and, well, sort of weird all at once. So of course I love it.

Next: More guest blogger product selections

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Layout Dilemmas: 5 Questions for Design Stars

Houzzers, are you up to this question of solving this week’s query roundup? Please share your information about that pesky space above the kitchen cabinets and creating the perfect cozy vacation cottage — or assist user jdevine decide whether or not to make a deal on a house. Read on, then click away to discuss your design information that is savvy.

Post your design issue here!

Houzz Design Dilemmas

1. How do I enhance the landscape because of my terraced front lawn?
“We only bought this house and have been renovating indoors. It needs some serious work for curb appeal. It had completely overgrown junipers and we took them out, but we do not know what to do . I’m debating painting the door but I’m scared. Please assist!” Click here to answer.

Houzz Design Dilemmas

2. How do I add personality to a suburban tract house?
“My husband and I are thinking about placing an offer on the house. If it weren’t for the awesome neighborhood and large backyard I likely wouldn’t look at this house double. It has no curb appeal at all.

My issue is, what do we do to make this house look pretty? I’m thinking French, with large black urns filled with blossoms. Any other thoughts? What about in the winter when there aren’t any flowers? The house is stucco. Thank you!” Click here to answer.

Houzz Design Dilemmas

3. How should I decorate above my kitchen cabinets?
“I’ve floating cabinets in my kitchen and want to add decoration to the top. I’m not into imitation plants, plates or roosters. Any hints?” Click here to answer.

Houzz Design Dilemmas

4. How do we provide our home the expression of a Northeast cabin?
“We are renovating a cabin with four households and are working on choosing colors for the living/kitchen location. We finally have a totally empty space, but have selected organic hickory kitchen cabinets, pine for the cathedral ceiling and a moderate pine for the floor.

Any hints for colours for walls, counters, backsplash? We are trying to get that”upnorth cabin” feel. Thanks.” Click here to answer.

Houzz Design Dilemmas

5. What colours match dark cherry floors and black appliances?
“I’ve recently purchased dark cherry laminate floors with black weave throughout and have black appliances. What color cabinet wood would be complementary, and what color paint and granite countertop and backsplash? Our kitchen is 26 x 10 ft. Any help, please? We are compromised! Attached picture is of the older kitchen.” Click here to answer.

Post your design problem!

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Houzz Interview: Rebekah’s Weekend Farmhouse Retreat

Rebekah Zaveloff is now the principle designer of Kitchenlab, in addition to the co-founder of Style at a Bag.com, but the path she followed to wind up where she is today was a small fun zig-zagged one. In the same way, a serendipitous missed twist and a U-turn led her and her husband to their beloved weekend escape, a farmhouse at Michigan. In the her career and finding this house, timing, adventures along the way along with a convergence of conditions have all been crucial to where they have landed. You can discover more about Rebekah on her profile on Houzz and on her site.

Please tell us about how you found your beautiful farmhouse. What was your first meeting with the house like?

This is a hilarious marriage story! So my husband, that NEVER gets lost…if he’s been to any town after , he knows his way round. Columbus where I grew up. NY, London, several towns in France, Seattle, does not matter — it is beyond annoying for someone to be right this much! That being said, we’re on our way to a buddy a of friend’s house for dinner out in Michigan…and he has been there just once, years ago. He drives past their road and strikes a T at another road and decides to turn around, imagining we passed the turnoff. We pass a”for sale by owner” sign — I freak out, never one for subtlety…and write down the number. Mind you, we’ve looked at around 50 homes this summer alone, the majority of which we anticipated by first sight to be near our budget and are frighteningly NOT. I predict the following day, and that I swoon once I hear that the owner say a price that is really within our range of’hopeful.’ We go meet her that day, spend 6 seconds in the house and both knew, it had been the one.

What managed to impress you much in these 6 seconds?

The floor plan was amazingly modern for a farmhouse over 100 years old. Amazingly it has 2 baths, but strangely, both have been on the first floor…not that unusual for this era. The house had been surrounded by grapevines on all 4 sides, belying the fact that it had been just 1 acre but felt just like a hundred! There were no neighbors, that had been my husband’s sole requirement. We had been sold. Nevertheless, it was needing some serious love, which we have documented in our”This Old Farmhouse” blog series.

Just how does it differ from your house in the town? How is it different working from the farmhouse and working in town? Is there a change in your mindset or work?

I shoot a large, deep sigh to be able to answer this question…it is so funny, the moment we cross hit on this one depart, Lake Station, off of 90 and back on 94, I sense myself just exhale and release all of this town stress! Everybody I know that resides in both areas feels like this, and it never gets old. I can concentrate in a different way in the country than I can in town. From town it is all cliché hustle and bustle — back to back meetings, planning my day based on neighborhood, traffic, client schedules, client’s child’s naps, customer’s child’s carpools, sports, etc.. I’m so busy bouncing around town that I do not sit down for long — the speed is kind of nuts, but I really like it.

The moment I get to the farmhouse it is a different kind of concentrated intensity. I understand I have a whole day in front of me going to jobsites – to concentrate on drawings, phone calls, orders. I definitely can not get that kind of work done once I’m in town, I’m too tempted to jump in my car and put out the fire du jour, or du moment. Possessing high speed internet access (even in my backyard!) , a fax machine, scanner, and most of my books and magazines make working at the farmhouse dreamy and simple. I can possess un-interrupted calls with clients, and uninterrupted time to draw and design. I’ve made it Fridays are my’office’ day — even if that means my’office’ is sitting in my backyard working in my notebook with the crickets chirping.

What is your favourite place in the house?

The back patio is first — I see this as an extension of the house. But when I had to select a second — it is the kitchen of course! I love being at the kitchen in Michigan because it is the place I’ve time to cook and hang out with my spouse and friends. Throughout the week that he does all of the cooking. I’m a lucky woman.

What was the very first measure of your remodeling/decorating procedure? How did this use at the farmhouse?

Measuring and placing everything into Autocad is always first. I will not even discuss particulars of thoughts with a client on site until I get everything in the pc and begin space preparation. This design phase differs for me than the decorating phase. Finishes for me personally come after, though I have an idea in my head, I find most clients, and myself, find it overwhelming to try and do space planning and picking finishes all at precisely the exact same time. Too much! A good, clean, functional space that addresses the customer’s requirements and the challenges of this room always comes first. Once I’m confident with these decisions and the drawings are all done, we begin taking a look at hard surfaces such as countertops, tile and cabinets, we then move to the finishes such as lighting, furniture, rugs, wall colors.

For our farmhouse…it had been the space planning and layout as well. I measured the whole house before we shut and had everything attracted. Enlarged openings, including windows, relocating doors, and adding the French doors, and designing the kitchen. As chronicled in our blog, our decorating changed and evolved since we moved along.

What was the biggest renovation/decoration challenge you faced?

It is cliché, but doing your own space is your toughest. I tell my clients to help quell their nervousness, and I wonder if they think that it’s me talking them off the cliff, but I truly mean it! It is hard! I have fun and I’m confident in my choices for clients…I agonize over the right combination and the right equilibrium, but in the long run I know that I’ve put at time and I’m usually quite pleased. For my own spaces there’s no boundaries on the criticism…it is like an continually unfinished painting. While I have the time, I always consider things such as’we ought to paint the walls in the living room x’, or’we ought to change the pendants at the kitchen, sconce in the bathroom, rug in the living space, ” — it never finishes. I’ve a sense of closure and satisfaction with customer’s projects that I’ll never have the luxury of feeling with my own house. I pretend so my husband does not divorce me. The majority of these ideas I keep to myself, except for the few that leak out from time to time.

Besides photos and pets, what would you grab in a fire?

After my husband and dog, sadly, my next thought is my notebook. I guess that means I need to back up my files longer. Next, my paintings. After that…When I could carry our sofas from the home (bought off a movie set), and our inherited Eames couch…along with the dining table that was a gift from fabulous boss said above also off a movie set…coffee table that my husband built from old ceiling joists….But really, all that can be replaced, even the photos if I manage to catch my notebook. Dog and husband are the only things that matter.

What is your next house project?

Besides the wonderful projects I’m now working on with Kitchenlab clients, our coach house renovation following a fire we had in April. We’re turning the back attached coach house into a mini urban house. Stay tuned!

What is your favourite resource for home decoration?

I Must select one!!!! ? You are speaking to a recovering collagist here! If I need to select 1, or two it are the last 2 in my list for a stop shopping…. Otherwise, if I can list a few more….Antique shops that are off the beaten path in which I can discover bargains! Antiquing in Michigan’s harbor country — Ipso Facto Antiques, Marco Polo, Alan Robandt, Lakeside Antiques. Rugs from Madeleine Weinrib, textiles from John Robshaw, light from Circa Lighting, tile from Ann Sacks tile, and accessories and furniture from Jayson Home and Garden along with ABC Carpet and Home.

I made a reference earlier to your zig-zagged career path (or perhaps it is more like a lot of rivers converging at a delta? Poet I am not!) Anyhow, you’re a full service designer, but you ended up focusing in kitchens and baths. What fueled your passion for these spaces particularly? How did you wind up here?

Well…truth be told, I think that it’s amazingly cool that all my different passions and pursuits have come to an intersection in what I do today with KitchenLab and Design at a Bag.com since it wasn’t planned like that. I studied fine art throughout high school and college. I really started working in pubs at high school and that is when I became interested in food and cooking as well, but most of my interests were compartmentalized at the time. Design, cooking, traveling, entertaining, set design, graphic design, fine art, rehabbing old buildings, interior design, psychology…it all connects in what I do daily. My time waitressing my way through school in LA and Chicago made me more interested in restaurant design, wine, food, and cooking. I worked in set design for film and television for a while following faculty, and had the absolute best manager in the world in this time who invited my abilities in all their different and unfocused types. Do not underestimate the ability of a boss or mentor that sees your potential and nurtures it it’s a beautiful thing. . .and sadly, the experience was hard to find again. I became disenchanted with this work. I had this gnawing feeling that I wished to make’real’ chambers…not sets anymore. So back to college I moved…and loved it! It had been problem solving at a visual and creative way that I found addictive. I instantly gravitated towards hard surfaces, rather than soft goods like fabrics, and landed my kitchen design job a couple of weeks in my first semester.

I sort of dropped into kitchen design, but I don’t see it as a coincidence at all. I absolutely adore the problem solving side of kitchen design particularly, along with my love of cooking, I get quite into how each client uses their kitchen whether it is as a busy household making sandwiches for 4 kids, or an amateur gourmet. As a designer I’m organic and all about following what I’m attracted to viscerally and cerebrally. I encourage my clients to try and do exactly the same. Within my fine art education, I always concentrated on collage. I dabbled in painting, sculpture, film, but that I was always happiest when I had been working with found object and substances — making them into something brand new. It has also found its way into my design sensibility and how I approach jobs – layering. After years of nurturing KitchenLab’s growth, my husband and I launched Design at a Bag.com last fall. It is all about bringing readymade design recipes for individuals without access designer or designers products for a fraction of the price tag.

Kitchens and baths are catchy, possibly the chambers where designers are most needed – would you please spill a secret or two for individuals attempting to plan out theirs by themselves? If they are on a budget, then where if they splurge and where can they detract a little.

There’s no doubt that a larger volume of your homeowner’s funding will visit those 2 spaces, therefore that they need to be doubly smart! I err toward the classic and classic because the substances I assist my clients select tend to be much more lasting than a sofa, coffee table, pillow or throw, and much more expensive to replace! So, I encourage people to go with classics for your large expensive purchases, and then have fun with the smaller budget items such as light (which may be expensive, or not, but may be changed out in the event that you get tired of it), decorative accessories, hardware, along with tile being the last. Tile backsplashes make a huge impact, and are messy and expensive to tear out and replace, but it is doable if you tire of it! Do not be afraid to invest in this — it will change your whole kitchen! In terms of toilets — prevent moving pipes if you’re able to help it. Look for creative ways to use inexpensive tile in enjoyable ways – a boundary of fancier tile to create character, either on the ground or wall. Do not skimp on wainscot tile, even if it’s basic white, it makes a statement and you can always paint the wall above a stunning and intriguing colour! Think drama and contrast — but be wary of this trendy. You can always change the paint color, but we all understand how those shiny brass fittings and pink tile look to us now — dated!!!!! Think to yourself, what will I enjoy in five years or longer.

In case you have dated cabinets, that are in good shape structurally, and you can not afford an all-purpose remodel, painting your cupboards is large on sweat-equity, low on price, and will offer a huge change to your room. For a number people, awaiting that day once we can afford the all-out remodel may be years off — do what you can do now to make your space more your own. Our online design company, Design at a Bag.com was created so that we could channel what I do daily for those on a budget in places without access to designers and designer resources.

Rebekah, thank you so much for taking the time to talk about your wonderful weekend house, in addition to your story with us! Readers, to keep up with Rebekah and Nick’s remodeling experiences, be sure to follow their blog over at Kitchenlab. There are also some great articles with unbelievable before pictures of this farmhouse.

Rebekah is offering a $50 Style in a bag giftcard to a blessed Houzz reader! Only leave a comment under Wednesday, September 8 2010 to enter.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

This was a missed turn and also a subsequent U-turn that led Rebekah and Nick to this charming farmhouse.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

An eclectic mix of seats helps to keep the air of the house relaxed.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

“I’ve made it Fridays are my’office’ day — even if that means my’office’ is sitting in my backyard working on my notebook with the crickets chirping.”

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah’s country”office”

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

The sensation of not having neighbors – CHECK!

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Once they saw the first floor layout, they were sold on the house (in about 6 seconds).

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

The dining room table was a gift from Rebekah’s favourite boss. It was from a movie set.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah was constantly attracted to hard surfaces over fabrics when she was in design school, which led her to specialize in kitchens and baths.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Baths are a natural extension of my passion for hard surfaces, mixing substances, etc.. Bathrooms are sort of the reverse of kitchen emotionally. They invoke thoughts of private spaces, calm, quietude, sanctuaries, etc.. The contrary of this hustle and bustle of a kitchen and a chance to talk about the other side of our personalities.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah’s favorite form of art has always been collage, and you’ll be able to see how this carries through the way she arranges matters.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

I’ve a sense that this workplace is highly neglected during the summertime, when Rebekah can shoot her notebook out to her back patio!

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

“I love being at the kitchen in Michigan because it is the place I’ve time to cook and hang out with my spouse and friends. Throughout the week that he does all of the cooking. I’m a lucky woman.”

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

In your opinion, what is so great about the kitchen? Why do you love it so much?

See above — working in restaurants, being more interested in food and wine. My husband having an amazing cook! And largely, the profound believe that food is the ultimate cultural money….people wish to create spaces where our nearest and dearest need to hang out and spend time with us. The kitchen is where all the action is, where people can assist, take part, feel life happening and be a part of it…even if they don’t understand how to hold a knife! Who cares! Pull up a stool and also help wash veggies, shuck corn, chop herbs, whatever. People want to feel a part of something along with also the kitchen instantly creates a sense of belonging that no other room in the house has the ability to create. “What do I do” function as normal question of anyone who comes around for a dinner party, a cookout, anything.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Can you get a big style pet peeve? If so, please dish!

Symmetry! Period! That’s an easier answer! I think symmetry really kills the humanness, the sense of the individual imprint with just a little insanity and imperfection, in space. I love rooms that have tension, contradictory scale and feel, a little messiness, a little chaos and mismatching, a little clutter. Any room that’s too great and too considered feels stale and neutral.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

It is so important to get a lot of fun books and matches round in a weekend house.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Rebekah’s husband Nick, that has been renovating homes for several years, made the coffee table from old floor joists. Also, see the 2-over-2 windows.

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8 Tips for Fast House Cleaning

House cleaning is something that we must all do at one point. After all, nobody wants to live in a dirty home with clutter all over. Contrary to many misconceptions out there, cleaning up your home is not as easy as most people assume. The amount of efforts you will need to put in is quite substantial and if you don’t plan accordingly, this may turn out to be a very stressful experience for you.

Well, here are eight tips that can help you with house house cleaning San Jose:

Keep All Supplies Together

If you want to wrap up home washing as fast as possible, make sure you’ve gathered all supplies in one place. Moving around the house looking for supplies will take too much of your time. It will also make your job more hectic than it should be.

Play Some Music

There’s no better feeling than cleaning up every inch of your home to the sound of your favorite songs. Music has a way of making time fly and if you don’t want to take ages cleaning your house, maybe it’s time to burst up the speakers and get to it.

Clean As You Go

Don’t overlook any mess in the house. You need to clean as you move. If you come across anything you don’t want around, deal with it immediately.

Start With Your Least Favorite Room

Well, most people love their homes but there’s always that one room that doesn’t really excite. It could be the kitchen, the closet, or even the bedroom. If you’re cleaning up your home completely, try to begin with the least favorite room.

Work from Top to Bottom

Always start from the top. The top areas are often the hardest to clean and take a long time. Finish with them first so you can use the little energy you have left to finish up the job as quickly as possible.

Don’t Overuse Cleaners

A lot of homeowners always have this misguided belief that the more cleaners they use when cleaning their home, the better the results will be. This is not always true. Using many cleaners will leave behind a lot of residue that will need more work getting rid of. The residue may also damage surfaces on your home.

Put Supplies Away

All your home janitorial services San Jose tools need to be stored in a clean place and arranged neatly. You need to know where everything is so that next time you decide to clean up you know exactly where the supplies are. The last thing you want is to spend hours looking for the cleaning supplies.

Go from Dry to Wet

Before you pour water on everything, you may want to start with some dry cleaning services San Jose to get rid of the dust and other debris. Start by wiping off surfaces with a dry cloth before finally using water and cleaners.

Getting your home cleaned up as fast as possible is easy. The simple tips above will help you get the job done.

Kitchen Design: A Picture Frame For The Backsplash

If you’re looking for ideas for a traditional kitchen backsplash, look at creating a picture-frame feature above your stove or cooktop. All these are square or rectangular tile layouts bordered by molding, similar to a photo frame. Consider it as wall art for your backsplash. Here are some fantastic examples of picture-frame backsplashes plus some strategies for doing so.

The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn

Frame a panel of remarkably shaped tile. These multi-colored cent rounds add interest and style to a mostly-white kitchen. The blend of contrasting colours generates visual movement, and a dark inner lining adds definition. Doesn’t it look like bubbles are coming out of the tea pot? Another fun thing to note: The round cupboard knobs echo the shameful penny rounds.

Rob Kane – Kitchen Interiors Inc..

Select a design and color that relates to the remainder of your kitchen. I really like this panel created from pillowed metallic tile set on the diagonal. It has the look of a quilt, brings out the silver gray tones from the granite, and softens the stainless steel stove. If you look carefully, you can see small square accent tiles (called “dots” in vinyl lingo). The thin coordinating bar liner is the perfect finishing touch within this French Country kitchen.

Robin Rigby Fisher CMKBD/CAPS

Consider readymade decorative tile attributes. Within an English Tudor kitchen, a carved medallion is bordered by a round beaded lining, four coordinating corners and a easy molding. This olive set is from Sonoma Tilemakers. The earthy tone works well with the mild mocha subway tile, cream cabinets, forged aluminum hood and terracotta walls.

Pay attention to placement. Center your picture frame feature over the range or cooktop. To ascertain how high to put it, make a paper mockup of this feature, tape it up and fix it until it seems right. This one is centered between the base of the hood and the top of this blue tile base.

Here, the backsplash feature is completed in a pleasing palette of blue, olive and light gray ceramic tile with white accents. The counter complements it well in Volga Blue, a black granite with gray tones and metallic blue flecks.

Venegas and Company

Mat your decorative feature. Much like framing a bit of art, add a coordinating mat inside the outer edge to put off your design. The brown edge in this feature makes the three diagonal squares stick out.

Frame a hand-painted mural. A lemon tree has been painted on mild tumbled travertine tile for a magical appearance within this Old-World kitchen. You can commission a custom tile mural or find a readymade one.

Frame a mosaic mural or pattern. This grapevine design was made from intricate parts of stone mosaic tile. New Ravenna is the Tiffany of this tile flooring world.

Turan Designs, Inc..

Length a decorative wall plaque. Tile plaques make an eye catching feature. Add coordinating accent liner bars and tiles in the rest of the backsplash for a pulled-together appearance.

Divine Design+Build

Use one tile but change the pattern. Square tile put in a right pattern covers the majority of this backsplash. A simple feature was made with the identical tile turned on the diagonal.

Mahoney Architects & Interiors

One of my favourite layouts is subway paired with a framed herringbone feature. The result is subtle and refined.

Dresser Homes

Do you have a picture frame tile feature you’d like to share? Upload a photograph below!

More: Great Backsplashes for Wood Cabinets
Mosaics Bring a Classical Art Form Home
Kitchen Backsplashes That Function

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