Fireplaces

Picture: Just How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster?

by Busucher June 27, 2019

Even in the event that you don’t know who Norman Foster is, chances are you’re familiar with his work. Take a moment to look the Swiss Re Tower in London or the Hearst Building in New York to refresh your memory — remember now? It’s fairly tough to forget Foster’s unique appearance.

“How Much Can Your Construction Weigh, Mr. Foster?” Traces the existence of the British architect — from his life in Manchester, to his education at Yale, to his very first company in London, to his worldwide triumphs. The documentary is distinguished by its striking cinematography and extreme narration, which only emphasizes Foster’s extraordinary work. But what’s even more fascinating are the pieces of insight that the viewer gets into Foster’s persona. His love of flying airplanes, his personal dress and his distinctive hand drawings are all part of what creates his apparently effortless architectural style.

“How Much Can Your Construction Weigh, Mr. Foster?” Opens at New York’s IFC Center Jan. 25, 2012.

First Run Features

The enigmatic name of this film comes out of a well-known question that American inventor, architect, author and all-purpose genius Buckminster Fuller once requested Norman Foster. Both had a fantastic friendship, and Fuller was always challenging Foster’s views, particularly in the domain of sustainability. Fuller once requested Foster how much one of the buildings weighed. Of course, he didn’t have an answer then, but Foster figured it out a week or so later. By answering the question, he realized that most of his building’s weight has been stored in the unseen concrete areas of the structure — a complete waste of material. To Foster, powerful design was tied into layout which has been lasting and was eco friendly, and he strongly believed that his buildings should do the most with the least way possible.

First Run Features

Directed by Spanish documentary filmmakers Norberto López Amado and Carlos Carcas, the film was created by Antonio Sanz and Elena Ochoa. Although creating a film on Foster was something the supervisors and directors had discussed within the course of many decades, it didn’t quite click until they moved to a trip to Foster’s newly assembled Beijing Airport — what is now the most significant building in the world.

The filmmakers meshed with Foster and his group, and determined that producing this film was a must. “I’m not an architect, nor do I consider myself someone who understands architecture,” states Carcas. “So for me, the main issue in this film is’Why should I care about architecture, and also what does it matter to me?'”

Above: The Millau Bridge in Southern France

First Run Features

The film covers Foster’s life, career, architectural achievements and worldwide influence in fantastic depth. The majority of his primary work is shown at some point in the film, but many of his more famous pieces are discussed in detail. The Hearst Building in New York, The Reichstag in Berlin, the Millau bridge in France, London’s Swiss Re Tower (pictured here), the HSBC Main Building in Hong Kong, along with the Wonderful Beijing Airport are all examined in terms of their structure, inspiration and architectural technique.

Above: The Swiss Re Tower in London

First Run Features

The cinematography in this film is just striking. The camera moves slowly, frequently drifting through foggy skylines as the edges of Foster’s epic designs are slowly revealed. All of Foster’s major works have been shown from incredible angles, and in ways which most people would not see unless they had been right there. Each framework highlights the magnificent intricacy of the design. As somebody who had only the smallest bit of experience with Foster’s job, it was jaw-dropping to see such shots — it’s hard to imagine how beautiful these buildings have been in person.

As a unique contrast to the big and bold shapes of Foster’s buildings, his most delicate hand-drawings look many times throughout the movie to illustrate the structures and techniques he is describing — and frequently his clearly labeled sketches clarify concepts better than the more complex computer renderings. His drawings are extremely controlled — there are no wasted lines or movements — just like his buildings.

Above: The HSBC Main Building in Hong Kong

First Run Features

Above all else, this film leaves the impression that Foster is an artist. The film explains how Foster constantly carries around a pencil and paper, just in case inspiration strikes — and as an artist, he finds inspiration in the strangest places.

Picture: “How Much Does Your Construction Weigh, Mr. Foster?” Opens at New York’s IFC Center on Jan. 25, 2012. More

More:
Eames on File: The Architect and the Painter

See related

Decorating Guides

Design Calendar: What to See and Do in July 2012

by Busucher June 25, 2019

Whether you’re interested in finding new artists or speaking architecture, choose a design event below for motivated.

Inform us What’s in your creative calendar? Let us know about your beloved July design events in the Remarks.

hirshhorn.si.edu

EXHIBIT — Through August 12, 2012
Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, and Space
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, D.C.

Sometimes you Only Want to violate the rules and touch the artwork. In the Hirshhorn Museum’s “Suprasensorial” exhibit, you’re invited to do precisely that. Engage your senses in an interactive wonderland of neon lights, mirrored passageways along with noise. Installations from five revolutionary Latin American artists wonder the best way to observe the art because you become a part of it. Highlights include Jesús Rafael Soto’s “Blue Penetrable BBL”(photograph), an immersive square jungle of blue hanging nylon strings, and Carlos Cruz-Diez’s “Chromosaturations,” three distinctively lit rooms which change hues depending on where you look.

Hours: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. daily

EXHIBIT — Through Sept. 23, 2012
Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Although Chicago was named the birthplace of the skyscraper in the late 19th century, the lure of building constructions sky high has always analyzed physical, technological and material limits. At the latest exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art, artists dig to the individual longing to build through the clouds with video, film, sculpture, painting and photography.

Hours: Tuesday, 10 a.m.–8 pm; Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: Free (kids under 13) to $12; free on Tuesday for Illinois residents

Photo: “Portable City: Hangzhou, 2011,” © Yin Xiuzhen, courtesy of The Pace Gallery, Beijing

EXHIBIT — July 14–Sept. 5, 2012
New Function by Akio Nukaga
Heath Ceramics, San Francisco

Known for his elegant, contemporary pottery, Japanese master potter Akio Nukaga is coming to San Francisco; his job will be the first show at the new Heath Ceramics Theater and showroom. The show will feature Nukaga’s hand-thrown strands and strands broadly inspired by cubism.

Meet the artist at the opening reception from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 14. Then at 2 pm on Sunday, July 15, visit his technique in the potter’s wheel.

aguinigadesign.com

EXHIBIT — July 12–Sept. 8, 2012
Come In! Les Femmes
Architecture and Design Museum (A+D), Los Angeles

The next installment of A+D’s summer exhibition show, “Come In! Les Femmes” includes work by 25 female musicians across all areas, transforming the museum into an interactive gallery. Artists include furniture and fabric designer Tanya Aguiñiga (photograph) and Amy Jean Boebel.

Mingle with the artists and snack on food truck offerings in the opening reception on July 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 11 a.m.–5 pm, Saturday, Sunday, 12–6 p.m. (closed Mondays)
Price: $10 general, $5 students, A+D members free
Buy tickets Ahead of Time

Uhuru Design

CYCLONE LOUNGER

EXHIBIT — July 20, 2012–Feb. 3, 2013
40 Under 40: Craft Futures
Renwick Gallery, Washington, D.C.

“Craft Futures” features the work of 40 artists younger than 40 in celebration of Renwick Gallery’s 40th anniversary. The selected works reveal the value of contemporary sustainable practices.

Select works from the exhibit also provided inspiration for distances in the Washington Design Center’s DreamHome. This Coney Island–motivated lounger by Uhuru (photo) motivated the dining area.

Hours: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. daily (closed December 25)

SHOW HOUSE — July 22–Sept. 3, 2012
2012 Hampton Designer Showhouse, Water Mill, New York

As if spending some time in the Hamptons in summer weren’t enough of a draw, take a look at this year old designer show house, presented by Traditional House magazine and become motivated by the inner transformation of a traditional shingle-style home. Over 20 designers worked to outfit every square foot, from the butler’s pantry to the breakfast area. Proceeds benefit Southampton Hospital.

Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: $225 gala preview party; $30 admission
Buy tickets on line

Amazon

TALK — July 11, 2012, 7:15 p.m.
Houses+Origins, by David Stark Wilson
Menlo Park Library, Menlo Park, California

Join San Francisco Bay Area architect David Wilson of WA Design because he presents his newest illustrated publication and leads a discussion on homes designed and built in the exceptional California landscape. A native of Berkeley, California, Wilson creates modern buildings which explore how substances, shape and color experienced in character evoke resonant answers in the built environment.

To learn more, email [email protected].

laforum.org

EXHIBIT — July 13–Aug. 26, 2012
Unfinished Business: 25 Years of Discourse in Los Angeles
WUHO Gallery, Los Angeles

With the aim “to open up a rich and potentially provocative dialogue,” an upcoming exhibition at the L.A. Forum for Architecture and Urban Design takes a look at two decades of the organization. The forum has functioned as a place for architectural discourse since the 1980s, and by revisiting the history of its programming and books, the exhibition aims to delve into the advancement and projection of architectural expansion in one of the country’s liveliest urban environments.

Hours: Thursday, 1–8 pm; Friday–Sunday, 1–6 p.m.

remsberg.com

FESTIVAL — July 20–22, 2012
Artscape, Baltimore, Maryland

Each summer, Artscape invites thousands and thousands of Baltimoreans outdoors to enjoy a visual feast of performance and art. See ordinary sedans transformed into art bits and stroll through “At-TENT-ion”: 20 tents turned to thought-provoking “secret worlds” Also on display are 16-foot-tall metal interactive sculptures designed by artist Christian Ristow; each sculpture comprises one of the major facial muscles to convey an androgynous individual face.
See the full program

Hours: Friday, Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

See related

Fireplaces

For the Boys: 5 Homes With Masculine Energy

by Busucher June 22, 2019

I write this ideabook with my tongue placed firmly in my cheek, as whenever I attempt to strike a few man-centric subject, folks write in and say”you could tell a chick attempted to write this around dudes.” Well, busted, however, these are seriously chic spaces where real guys really dwell. In reality, four out of five of these are bachelor pads, with no table made out of a keg in sight.

Scot Meacham Wood Design

This San Francisco condominium was inspired by fashion, particularly by one of the homeowner’s tasks as a stylist at Ralph Lauren. A rich leather couch, a bearskin throw and pillows covered in suit cloth give the space a warm and manly feeling.

Scot Meacham Wood Design

Metallic finishes, a Chinoiserie cupboard and more menswear-inspired cloths on the window treatments prevent matters from getting rancid.

Scot Meacham Wood Design

An expansive dining room outside extends the house’s living room outdoors. See the rest of the home

NICOLEHOLLIS

This Pacific Heights home was supposed to be minimal, unique, and also have European flair.

NICOLEHOLLIS

An 8-foot-long fireplace keeps the crisp space hot, as do unique accent pieces similar to this classic black rain drum.

What’s a proper bachelor pad with no guy cave? This dark media room is comfortable and trendy. See the rest of the home

This stunning flat in San Sebastián, Spain knocks my socks off. A mixture of vintage, modern and contemporary pieces reside in harmony against a white walls, trimwork and ceilings.

Dark-colored textiles add a manly feel to the bright guest space.

This is still one of my favourite moments of photo styling. In reality, it inspired an entire ideabook about the Seven Deadly Sins. This shot served as gluttony.

See the rest of the home

Dabito

This smart L.A.-based blogger, Dabito, has gathered and curated an impressive collection of thrifted vintage treasures. These bits are arranged throughout his home in a means that makes it seem easy (it is not).

Dabito

A set of his own etchings and lithographs, as well as artwork given to him by friends, decorate the walls.

Dabito

Things like an alpaca blanket out of Ecaudor are cozy not just for Dabito, but also for Beatrice Arthur, a star pet.

See the rest of the home

estudio gutman lehrer

Ultimately, we’ll travel down to Buenos Aires to get a peek at a small but luxury attic. This gorgeous space takes advantage of every spare inch without consuming a bit of polish. There is even a gallery to gaze at above the bed.

estudio gutman lehrer

The home was retreat from the hustle and bustle of city and career demands. Therefore, a custom platform bed bedecked in soft textiles was crucial.

estudio gutman lehrer

While this resembles a slick bar, it is really a fully-functioning kitchen. Appliances and supplies are integrated into the wall and cabinets. See the rest of the home

More:
Pattern Play: Masculine Ruggedness Modernized
Masculine Upgrade: Ladders in the Home
Make Your House More Man-Friendly
The Gentleman Cellar: Anti-Man Cave

See related

Decorating Guides

Design Calendar: Things to See and Do in June 2012

by Busucher June 20, 2019

From a rooftop exhibit at the New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art into West Coast design festivals, you will find an assortment of inspiring things to keep your home looking refreshing this summer. Bookmark this guide, grab a friend and make some plans to escape and get motivated.

Tell us What’s in your calendar this month? Let us know about your favorite upcoming design occasions below.

tomassaraceno.com

EXHIBIT — During November 4, 2012 (weather permitting)
Tomás Saraceno on the Roof: Cloud City
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

Climb and walk throughout the Met’s latest rooftop summer commission: Tomás Saraceno’s Cloud City. The reflective, interconnected constellation of contemporary structures is an impressive web of Plexiglas, steel and tension cables reminiscent of an urban jungle gym. The Argentine installation artist explores habitable networks based on interconnectivity, and while you ponder the ways that we occupy and experience our environment, you are going to find a pretty sweet view of Manhattan.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday, Sunday, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Friday, Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; closed Mondays (except holidays, Thanksgiving Day, December 25 and January 1)
Price: $25, $17 seniors, $12 students, 12 and younger, free

beautyisembarrassing.com

FESTIVAL — June 14–24, 2012
Los Angeles Film Festival

Calling all cinephiles! Whether documentaries, short films or music videos are something, the Los Angeles Film Festival has something that you see. One of the many films to be screened, the documentary Beauty Can Be Embarrassing (photo) by manager Neil Berkeley follows artist Wayne White’s career, extending from New York’s East Village into the set of Pee Wee’s Playhouse into the thrift shops of Los Angeles. The Summer Showcase Provides a look at the summer’s most talked-about independent film releases on the festival circuit, including Sundance romantic humor Celeste and Jesse Forever, starring Rashida Jones and Andy Samberg, to the world premiere of L.A. “dramedy” It’s a Disaster, with America Ferrera and Julia Stiles. Also on the lineup is Pixar’s newest animated feature, Brave, starring a red-haired Scottish heroine.
Watch the schedule for screen times and places

Price: $13 individual films
Purchase tickets and passes online

FESTIVAL — June 22–24, 2012
Dwell on Design
Los Angeles Convention Center

Feast on contemporary design in the form of tens of thousands of products, presentations, home tours and presentations in this year’s Dwell on Design, celebrating the theme “Modern Beyond Expectations.” Highlights from the three-day occasion contains a rope installment from the Oyler Wu Collaborative, a screening lounge featuring short films on industrial design and architecture, in addition to winners of this prestigious Swiss Design Prize.
Check out the full schedule

Hours: Friday, 10 a.m.–8 pm; Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tappan Collective

Chateau Marmont Photograph, Gia Coppola – $200

ART SHOW — June 9, 2012
The Tappan Collective Group Art Show and Launch Party
The Jeffries Building, 117 Winston St., Los Angeles

Two young creative graduates in the University of Michigan have teamed up to Supply an Internet platform for others to find emerging artists. To kick off their new internet venture, they’re placing on a launch celebration featuring artwork by photographer and filmmaker Gia Coppola (photo), photographer Clara Balzary-Flea, The Stillhouse Group and several others in downtown Los Angeles. Enjoy refreshments, meet the inspiring entrepreneurs on the other side of the site and take home that ideal piece for your sterile wall.

Hours: 7 p.m.–11 p.m.

museumofdesign.org

EXHIBIT — During June 3, 2012
Stories in Form: Chair Design by Portfolio Center
Museum of Design Atlanta

Have a seat, or reimagine what it means to do through the eyes of design students studying the history of modernism. The Museum of Design Atlanta has partnered with Portfolio Center to honor the background and design of this chair. Pupils were challenged to combine their personal history with design background, exploring the delicate balance between old function and their new imaginative journeys.

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 Gamble–5 pm; Sunday, 12 p.m.–5 pm; closed Mondays
Price: $10, $8 seniors, $5 students and 17 and younger, members free

FESTIVAL — June 23–July 8, 2012
London Festival of Architecture, U.K.

For two weeks this summer, London will become “The Playful City,” indicating ways where both Londoners and visitors can be active participants from reinterpreting recognizable places through new installations and cartoons. This curated festival redesigned three big hubs and multiple public spaces to encourage physical fitness at the spirit of the Olympic Games and interact with all the city’s historic buildings in new ways. “Date a designer” by simply enrolling in a free 30-minute consultation, explore a treehouse or select a walking tour to find that the city’s hidden architectural gems.
See the Entire event schedule

FESTIVAL — June 2–3, 2012
Sunset Magazine Celebration Weekend
Menlo Park, California

Research the grounds of Sunset magazine’s Bay Area headquarters for the yearly weekend festival celebrating West Coast gardening, food, travel, home and garden. Love food tastings, chat with garden and home sellers or sip locally made wine. There will be plenty of things to see and do, from a cooking demonstration of grilled Dr. Pepper pork flatbread from the Food Network’s Guy Fieri into a workshop on travel photography using your smartphone.
Download the full schedule

Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: $16, $14 seniors, 12 and younger, free; discounts available

FESTIVAL — June 11–17, 2012
San Francisco Design Week

Proceed an open-studio crawl and peek in the studios of Apparatus Architecture, Gensler and Lunar Design, or attend an exhibition presenting new typography from young Swiss designers. Celebrating the diverse creative community of the Bay Area, San Francisco Design Week is an initiative by AIGA SF in partnership with local professional design chapters to emphasize and increase public awareness of innovative design work. Events happen all around the city.
See the Entire schedule of events

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Eclectic Homes

Guest Picks: Baby Your Walls

by Busucher June 16, 2019

With baby number four (my fourth boy) about the way, I have nursery on the mind. I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to customize my newest little man’s space. Obviously, even with boys, I can’t help but”ooh” and”ahh” over a number of the more girly prints, so I have thrown in a few of those, too.
— Rita from Fighting Off Frumpy

Etsy

Children’s Art Print Poster, Mustache by Pumpkin & Butterfly – $23

This print makes me laugh — what is far better to look at all the time than something that makes you laugh? It’s perfect for my dudes.

Etsy

Love String of Hearts Folk Art Print by Tascha – $14

What a sweet picture! It’s just so unique. I love the unusual crackle finish along with the girl’s small heart-shaped lips.

Etsy

Nursery Art Print, Homes by Kathy Panton – $16

The vibrant colors and swirling patterns in this film are mesmerizing. Plus, who doesn’t love cute little houses?

Etsy

Alphabet Nursery Art, ‘Alphabet Soup’ by Sugar Fresh – $32.50

This is just so clean and contemporary looking, in spite of the traditional decoration theme. I love that the artist can perform customized colors, so this piece can fit perfectly with whatever scheme you have got going on.

Etsy

Owl Baby Nursery Art by Missprint Design – $18

This small owl is cute! It’s a fun and lively print, and it is totally customizable with color along with your kid’s name to boot.

Etsy

Fine Art Bird Photography Print Flock by Bomobob – $85

This film includes a cool, retro-hipster vibe that is softened by the fluffy white clouds against the blue sky. I dig the peaceful feeling that it rains, and I’m pretty certain a baby could, too.

Etsy

Carnival Photos Nursery Art, Turquoise, Ferris Wheel by Bomobob – $45

This isn’t just 1 picture; it is a pair of eight, and it is just so magnificent. I love the color scheme, and the theme is joyful and surprising for a nursery.

Etsy

Cherry Blossom Orchard, Tree Art Nursery Print, Wonderland by Raceytay – $210

This is stunning. I can’t imagine a prettier theme or colour scheme for a little girl’s nursery.

Etsy

Trafalgar Rabbit Catch A Falling Star by Trafalgar’s Square – $20

Simple and sweet, this cute little bunny grabbing a falling star could be perfect for either gender.

Etsy

Nursery Art Print, Little Red Car by Simply Sublime Baby – $14.95

This tiny red car is so adorable. It’s a nice, cheery, non-fussy piece of art. Additionally, I’m a sucker for anything that can be personalized. My boys will love this.

Etsy

Nursery Art Print, Ever So Sweet by SophieBella Photos – $14

The vintage feel makes this piece a standout, and I love the colour combination.

Etsy

Personalized Definition Typography Nursery Art by Announce It In Design – $15

I completely adore this piece for two reasons. First, I’m a word nerd, and dictionaries make me salivate. Second, you can personalize it with whatever adjectives and nicknames you desire, taking the customization mode beyond the name.

Etsy

Alphabet Paintings by Over Da Crib – $150

The bright, bold swirls of colour make for this intriguing statement. Additionally, they are not so babyish that they’d look out of place when the nursery isn’t a nursery .

Etsy

Personalized Nursery Art With Baby Pictures by Celadon Home – $200

This isn’t your normal wall art, and that is exactly what I love about doing it. A vintage songbook together with the modern lines of this frame make this an intriguing conversation piece.

Etsy

Summer Bird Tree Painting Art Print by Sascalia – $18

I adore the colors, the flowers and that adorable little bird nestled directly at the fork of the tree! This film would add such a spring-like feel to a room.

Etsy

Nursery Art Print, Monsters by Pituda – $18

I wouldn’t normally consider monsters as a nursery theme, but this monster is so stinkin’ friendly and adorable.

Etsy

Automobile Display in Mini by Katie Lloyd Photography – $50

As the mother of 3 boys (and yet another on the road ), these cars are a staple in my home. Maybe if this cool and colorful print were hanging on my wall, I could tell folks that the cars strewn across the carpeting were just there to highlight the art.

Etsy

Nursery Decor, Whimsical Fine Art Photography by Carl Christensen – $30

This is just another fairly atypical — or at least, surprising — piece of art for a nursery school. I adore its retro look and the comparison of the glowing blocks from the weathered wood.

Etsy

Daybreak On The Farm Acrylic by nJoy Art – $84

With all these colors in this adorable and cozy farm landscape, you can tie it in to just about any colour scheme. And these sheep are cute!

Etsy

Boy Nursery Art I Love You to the Moon and Back by Hop Skip Jump Paper – $20

This picture is so peaceful and serene. In the sleeping birdies into the way in which the moon and stars look virtually vaccinated against the backdrop, this is something I would love to have hanging on the wall.

Next: The New Look of Nurseries

See related

Eclectic Homes

Guest Groups: Soup Essentials

by Busucher June 12, 2019

Soup — of all types — is my favourite meals. It’s also something that I write about and photograph quite frequently for my website. This month’s set of things consists of things that I love for the soup-making kitchen. I have found stylish serving pieces, cookware with pops of color and a few things to make your soup demonstration really unique. — Tami from Running with Tweezers

West Elm

Mug with Lid – $8

Versatile for casual soup meals or hot winter drinks, the coaster doubles as a lid to keep the contents warm.

Terrain

Simon Pearce Brookfield Spoon Rest – $35

This isn’t your typical secondhand spoon rest — it’s sleek, minimal and modern.

Etsy

Porcelain Pottery Bowls in White and Golden Yellow by Suite One Studio – $52

Suite One Studio makes a number of my favourite ceramic bits for both photos and dining at home.

Vitamix

Vitamix 5200 – using Compact Container – $449

I’d be lost without my Vitamix. It’s the most used appliance in my kitchen — nothing compares to the texture of soups created in this thing.

Le Creuset

Le Creuset – 8qt. Stockpot – $80

A large-capacity stock pot is a must-have my kitchen. Le Creuset has choices that are vibrant and classic.

Anthropologie

Vegetables From An Italian Garden: Season-By-Season Recipes – $39.95

This cookbook lives in my kitchen in colder months. It’s so much inspiration for using seasonal produce.

Pottery Barn

Antique-Silver Ladle – $29

Amazing such as this ladle, can make viewing simple everyday sauces seem unique.

IKEA

ELLY Dish Towel – $3.49

The vintage vibe of those towels makes me happy, and at less than $4 for four of them, you don’t care if they have stained with canned berries.

Williams-Sonoma

Big Double-Handled Soup Bowls – $32

I love these double-handled soup crocks for hearty french onion soups and stews. They are oven safe so you can melt cheese and toast bread on top!

Emile Henry USA

Flame Top Round Dutch Oven/Stewpot, 7qt. – $235

I adore my Emile Henry Stewpot. The 7-quart capacity makes it easy to cook huge batches of soups and stews in a lightweight pot.

Hayneedle

Smart Stick Hand Blender – Green – $32.99

While I don’t feel like distributing the Vitamix, or I am making soup in tiny batches, so I whizz things up in the pot along with my Cuisinart immersion blender. I am in love with this kelly green color.

Crate&Barrel

Weck Canning Jars – $3.95

I utilize Weck glass jars for soup storage. They’re so minimal, allow the soup shine through the glass and don’t discolor or take on odors like some plastic storage containers.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Round Canape Plates – $4.99

I love the notion of gussying up plain white soup cups using picture saucers or charger plates. These would be a fantastic conversation starter in a dinner celebration.

Bloomingdale’s

Bernardaud “Dune Blue” Soup Tureen – $790

While I tend to lean toward nominal dishes and serving pieces, I am a sucker for a beautiful tureen. The color of this one makes me swoon.

Ace Hardware Outlet

Hot/Cold Food Jar 10oz. – $8.92

I am now in love with this vintage-style thermos. It’s a stylish way to take soup for lunch, picnics or road trips.

CB2

8-piece Spoon Coffee Mug, White – $15.80

I love the concept of having a set of these for entertaining. They are a really fun way to present a flavor or soup course.

Amazon

All Clad Stainless Steel Simply Soup Establish – $189

This set is a great gift idea for a soup lover — the All Clad metal ramekins are extremely exceptional.

UncommonGoods

Ramen Spoon and Fork – $14

Specially created for a ramen noodle restaurant in Japan, this “spork” is a super neat kitchen addition for lovers of Asian-inspired soups.

RedEnvelope

Culinary Growing Kit – $69.95

Fresh herbs are always a touch I add to my soup recipes, and indoor herb blossoms allow you do this yearlong.

Bella Cucina

Spouted Pourer – $11

1 thing that I love to do when entertaining is pour soup to guests’ bowls in the table. It’s an easy touch that makes soup look fitting for a dinner celebration.

Next: Baking Stations Make Cooking More Enjoyable

See related

Eclectic Homes

Guest Picks: I'll Have a Blue Christmas

by Busucher June 9, 2019

You won’t be feeling blue once you break away from tradition and celebrate the Christmas season with this fun, fresh and trendy colour palette! Whether turquoise, teal or aquamarine, blue is the “it” colour this season, and it couldn’t be easier to integrate it into your holiday decoration.
— Heather and Vanessa from In the Picket Fence

Etsy

Beaded Christmas Ball, Paisley by Meredith Dada

We love the combo of chartreuse and blue in those handmade beaded ornaments. The paisley design is stylish and traditional at exactly the exact same moment.

Crate&Barrel

Jester Teal Candleholder – $5.95

Can’t you just picture this with all the delicate glow of a candle shining through? Placed atop a mantel or just on a side table, this is certain to be a bit you use year after year.

Modern Holiday Decorations – $14.95

Having the blues does not have to be a bad thing when it is possible to buy a number of items for your holiday decoration at one time. We love this combo of aquamarine silver and gold.

Eclectic Napkin Rings – $40

We think this nod to one of our favorite feathered friends is the best way to add a bit of glamour into your holiday table setting this year.

Etsy

Blue Christmas Yarn Wrapped Wreath by Morning Songbird – $42

We turn to our entrance doors to set the stage for our decor. Hanging this joyous and fun blue yarn wreath will let your visitors know that you plan on using a “blue Christmas” this year.

Modern Charger Plates – $18.95

Chargers are a terrific way to spice classic white or ivory china. These will add the perfect touch of blue for a table setting and can be used throughout the New Year’s Eve parties too.

Cost Plus World Market

Blue Flour Sack Kitchen Towel, Set of 3 – $9.99

We adore the colour palette of those kitchen towels from Cost Plus World Market. Sitting on the kitchen counter or in the pub area, they don’t just be convenient for casual holiday spills but also add a festive touch of blue into the area.

FRONTGATE

Place of 12 Teal Beaded Picks

We love how items similar to this can be utilised in a variety of methods in your property. Add them into a Christmas tree for a few frosty blue sparkle, or bunch them together in a large vase for a big visual effects. The possibilities are endless!

CB2

Elroy Ornament – $2.95

This fun and amazing ornament is perfect all on its own, but we love the idea of utilizing it as a napkin ring or perhaps a decorative detail on a wrapped gift.

Eclectic Decorative Pillows – $29.95

The sparkle does not have to end if the holidays do! We love this stunning beaded pillow will bring a touch of glamour to your decoration all year-round.

Nordstrom

TableTopics ‘Dinner Party’ Conversation Starters – $25

Forget awkward lulls in the conversation or having to listen to Uncle Joe’s corny joke for the umpteenth time. These Table Topics cards will fill in the gaps and help you get to know your family and friends a bit better. You could be surprised — or fearful! — with everything you find out. Either way, it will be a vacation to remember.

Etsy

Metallic Gold and Blue Tasseled Christmas Tree Skirt by Deer Camp Creations

We are pretty sure we would not want to pay this up with gifts. This magnificent Christmas tree skirt with an icy blue pattern can definitely stand by itself. We enjoy it so much we could just wear it ourselves.

Papyrus

Gold Snowflakes Fill-In Invitations – $9.95

We absolutely love to play hostess during the holidays, and we think these beautiful invitations would be the perfect way to kick off the season of entertaining in style.

Papyrus

4×6 Beaded Sequin Frame – $42

A frame such as this shouldn’t just be put out for the holidays. We love how it meets the joyous and fun requirements of the season, yet it would be equally as beautiful to welcome the warm summer breezes.

Grandin Road

Martha Stewart Flights of Fancy Gold Stocking – $39

No coal for all these stockings! This unique combination of gold and turquoise will make a statement on your mantel this year, and we know they’ll be just as beautiful when filled to the brim with Christmas goodies.

Tiffany & Co..

Tiffany Blue Box® Charm – $250

This is our kind of ornament! It may be dangling from our wrists instead of our Christmas tree, but once we see that famous shade of azure, we’ll know we were certainly on the “nice” list this year!

Lenox

Gilded Tapestry 5-piece Place Setting – $195

What about this fresh spin on traditional vacation china? This beautiful place setting is just one we’d want to utilize year-round, even if they are just holding takeout.

Grandin Road

Ashley Pencil Christmas Tree – $169

It might not be for everybody, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t at least stick it out there, correct? We think this bright and cheerful tree takes “Blue Christmas” into an entirely new level.

Target

Home Blue Floral Quilted Table Runner – $17.99

Something as simple as adding a runner can bring an original touch to your decor. We love this just captures the heart of winter with its arctic blue tones and simple branch layout.

PFI Western

Could there be a more appropriate way to celebrate with a “Blue Christmas” compared to a toast to The King for this Elvis Presley Blue Christmas Cabernet Sauvignon? We think that this Napa Valley wine is a fun and one of a kind gift for the Elvis fan on your list.

Next:
Dreaming of a White Christmas
Make a Fashionista Christmas Tree

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Color

2012 Color Trends: Using Red in Your Kitchen and Bath

by Busucher June 5, 2019

This 2012 Color Trends series is about five hot colour trends projected for the year. In particular I will be showing you how to integrate them into your toilet and kitchen in a way which is logical for your preference and your home.

Red shows up on pretty much every 2012 Color Trend report. Sherwin-Williams sees reds burning brightly, from deep fuchsias into red-oranges. Yolo Colorhouse and Behr see 2012’s reddish as earthy and rustic, more evocative of clay compared to flame. Benjamin Moore sees the spicy side of red for 2012.

The previous rules of reddish pairings are broadening too. It punches the hell from white or cream, but feel free to pair it together with different neutrals like stainless and walnut, in addition to colors which may not have occurred to you in the past, including those in red’s colour family, such as purple and pink.

Move as large or small with red as you feel comfortable in your space. Here are a few splashy and sensible fashion ways to do it.

More 2012 Color Trend Suggestions: Orange | Blue | Green | Purple

Snaidero USA

If you absolutely, passionately enjoy red and plan to remain in your home indefinitely, by all means, knock yourself (and your guests) out.

Red cabinetry, particularly premium European red cabinetry, is a very private, very lasting investment. This highly effective choice demands you to turn down the volume on all of your kitchen choices. If everything is a focal point, then nothing is a focus.

Dallas Renovation Group

Talking of focal points, you are able to integrate red cabinetry with only an island. This island adds a punch of colour to the surrounding creamy neutrals.

Know more about this particular kitchen

Glenvale Kitchens

Another big-commitment way to incorporate red is through your appliances, most commonly on a range. Unlike stainless steel, you’re (hopefully) not going to go red for every one of them. Choosing paneled and hidden models for your other appliances would be the way to go when adding a dramatic color like red.

As you would with reddish cabinetry, keep the other colors in the room neutral.

Tatiana Takaeva

Red on a countertop creates a strong statement. I have yet to design a kitchen with red countertops (and can’t see it happening), but a pinch of this hot trend colour works nicely on an island or in a powder room. Both thrive on drama.

Niche Interiors

Red tile may produce a strong design and trend statement in your bathroom or kitchen. If you fear you’ll tire of it in the future decades, incorporate it strategically in accents, as revealed here. You do not require a totally reddish shower or kitchen backsplash to create your point.

Modern Chandeliers

You adore the glass jar mild trend, but you won’t wish to have the exact same style that all your neighbors have. Add colour; it makes your glass jar uniquely you.

Paint is a fantastic way to add a colour trend to your space, particularly when it is a high-drama colour like deep reddish. If you tire of it down the line, it is comparatively simple and affordable to change.

Sharon Portnoy Design

You’ve heard (and perhaps tired) of accent walls, right? How about accent insides instead? The deep red back of an open maple or birch cabinet really can warm up their cool blonde tones. It also functions as a sudden color punch within an otherwise neutral space.

One of the simplest, most temporary techniques to incorporate red to a toilet or kitchen is with furniture. While you’re unlikely to take a brush or spray can to your cabinets, painting a chair or counter stool red is a fun and amazing move. Dining chair slipcovers and banquette accent cushions may have a similar impact in exchange for very little work or investment.

gelpro.com

GelPro Crocodile Red Gel Mats | Gel-Filled Comfort Flooring Mats and Kitchen Mats – $99.95

Red accents can serve a function, in addition to a colour punch. Since your kitchen may benefit from a comfortable mat, why not get one in a dynamic color and feel? Red towels, cafe curtains and counter tops may also add colour tendency to your own kitchen.

More:
Sangria Hues: Punch Colors for the New Year
Will a Red Bathroom Make You Blush?
Shade Pop: Bold Red robes

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Budgeting Your Project

The way to Get Your Landlord to reduce Your Rent While on Unemployment

by Busucher March 4, 2019

One of the main concerns when losing your job is the ability to pay for your rent and keep a roof on your head. Getting unemployment benefits is useful, but usually the amount that you’re entitled to every month is significantly less than what you’re making at your work. Legally, your landlord has the capability to alter your lease if you both agree to the alterations; however, he’s under no obligation to do so. Method your neighbor from a company standpoint to negotiate a decrease in rent till you get back on your feet.

Figure out how much money you can set aside for rent every month. Cut your expenses down to only requirements, including your telephone bill and food. Subtract that number from your total unemployment income to see what you have available for rent. Factor in any severance money which you received or any money which you have in a savings account if applicable.

Make a proposition to your landlord. Explain your financial situation, and let your landlord know how much you can reasonably pay monthly for rent while unemployed. Let your landlord know your task status is temporary and that the reduction will ideally only be for three to six months, for example.

Offer to work out a payment plan for the missed rent as soon as you’re gainfully employed. Determine approximately how much money you expect to underpay within a certain length of time. For instance, possibly you’re asking for a rent reduction of $300 monthly for six weeks, that might be a total of $1,800. Explain your proposed repayment plan, such as you may pay your normal rent amount plus $180 monthly for 10 months. Place the terms in writing so he sees you’re serious.

Ask if you’re able to work for the decrease in rent by doing cleaning, cleaning or doing maintenance work across the property. Propose an hourly or fixed cost per job and specific hours that you’re available to work. Place the conditions in writing, and sign the file with your landlord. Have your landlord sign off on a reception after every completed job.

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Saving Water

How to Estimate the Amount of Wire Needed to Rewire an Average Home

by Busucher March 2, 2019

So far as wiring is concerned, there’s no such thing as an ordinary home. Not only is every single house a different shape and size, but it’s different electrical demands. To have a realistic estimate of the amount of electrical cable your project is going to require, you are going to require a floor plan or a simple wiring diagram. The accuracy of the estimate is dependent upon the accuracy of the floor plan.

Importance of the Wiring Diagram

All the electrical circuits in a typical house originate in the primary panel, which is usually on the ground floor in the point at which the electricity drops in from the electricity lines. An electrical diagram displays information about each circuit, including each light fixture or fixture that’s on it, and — most important for the purposes of estimating — the location of the last device. The distance in the panel to the previous device about determines the amount of cable you require for this circuit. The cable might need to follow a circuitous path to achieve all of the apparatus on it, but for estimate purposes, you can assume it follows the most direct route.

Regarding Wire Gauge

Residential circuits in North America have a voltage of either 120 or 240 V. You want to distinguish these when pellet cable needs, since they require different wire gauges. Moreover, you might need require a different gauge cable to service your 240-V stove than you do for your water heater, and 15-A,120-Metal circuits require a lighter wire gauge than 20-A circuits. When studying your circuit diagram, note the voltage and amperage of each circuit so you can make a record of just how much cable of each gauge you require, but book 240-V installations for a expert electrician.You might opt to follow the advice of some contractors and use 12-gauge cable for all 120-V circuits. This simplifies installation and guarantees that all of your circuits are up to code, though it’s a little more pricey.

Adding It All Up

Now that you’ve got the electrical diagram, relevant distance dimensions of your house and information about the cable gauge required for each circuit, then you have all you will need to make an wiring estimate. Work out the length of each circuit, with your home’s floor plan, and add this length to each of the other lengths for that cable gauge. Add a 10 percent overage to the last summation to account for twists, bends and backtracks. You purchase wire in rolls, so for safety’s sake always round up to the next highest number of rolls. For instance, if your calculations show you require 7 1/4 50-foot rolls, then purchase eight of them.

Specialty Wire Needs

Heavy-gauge 240-V cable is not the only specialty cable you are going to want. If you intend on installing three-way lighting switches, which can be a system whereby two switches function the same lighting fixture or fan, you are going to want 12-gauge three-conductor cable having an extra hot wire. If you plan to install outdoor lighting, then you’re going to want exterior-grade cable that can be buried. Make an extra record for these specialty cables to ensure you have them when you want them. If you aren’t sure which cable type you will need for a specific program, consult with an electrician. You do not want to install a circuit with substandard cable that can not handle the load without straining.

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Home Cleaning

What Are the Benefits Derived From Cleaning My Upholstered Furniture?

by Busucher February 28, 2019

Upholstered furniture gets stale and dirty no matter how small you use it. Cleaning it not only retains it looking its best, but in addition, it can help keep dust, cobwebs or pet fur off your clothes. Normal upholstery cleaning might even benefit your health, especially in the event that you have allergies or asthma.

Clean Looks

One big benefit to cleaning upholstered furniture is the fact that it looks clean. Visiting family and friends won’t be appalled by crumbs, dirt or pet hair scattered all around the fabric because there won’t be any. Upholstery is a bit like clothing: When it begins to get dirty, it is only a matter of time before it looks filthy as well, if the upholstery is a textile, leather or faux leather. Spills of sticky liquids attract dirt and debris, making the stains much more evident as times pass. Likewise, spaghetti sauce, tea or wine might soak into fabric, making the upholstery look anything but welcoming. Wipe away spilled items immediately, and pick up or vacuum debris and lemonade to keep such problems from working their way deeper into the furniture.

Clean Clothes

If you have ever sat on a couch covered with pet hair, you have probably found it in your clothing hours after you leave your seat. Guests wearing sweaters might not enjoy leaving your house with unexpected added fibers clinging for their apparel. Likewise, sitting extremely dirty upholstery whilst wearing light-colored clothing may mean stains, marks or stains from grease, dirt or food on your clothes. Keep the upholstery tidy so you and your buddies don’t have to question whether it is safe to sit down. When you have pets, then vacuum the furniture often, or use a lint rubber or rubber glove to roll up the loose pet hairs away. Use an upholstery brush attachment and vacuum the furniture every few weeks at minimum to keep it clean, even in case you have no pets or don’t sit on that particular piece of furniture.

Fresh Scents

Upholstered furniture maintained clean is more likely to smell clean, free from cigarette and pet odors in addition to overall stale smells. To keep the furniture smelling fresh, sprinkle it with baking soda and allow the powder to set for half an hour or so. Baking soda absorbs odors from upholstery, like it eliminates unpleasant odors in a fridge. Vacuum the baking soda away with the upholstery brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Excellent air flow and dry states also help to prevent and eliminate scents embedded in furniture.

A wholesome Environment

Maintaining upholstery clean, especially by utilizing natural rather than chemical-based cleaners, results in a healthier indoor environment. Vacuuming often removes dust and other potential allergens like pet dander. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to pick up mold spores in the event the fabric smells moldy or musty, as it most likely includes mildew or mould. Inspect the vacuum cleaner bag and replace the filter outdoors while wearing a dust mask. Keep the furniture out of excessively dark and humid environments, as moisture may cause mold, which might exacerbate allergy and asthma symptoms.

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Home Cleaning

Tips on Cleaning Kitchen Towels

by Busucher February 26, 2019

Kitchen towels might be one of the very germ laden in the house, subjected to all kinds of food substances and bacteria. The longer the same towel is used between washings, the more the bacteria breeds, potentially spreading back on your hands or about items you wipe with the towel. Frequently wash towels in warm water to keep them tidy.

Kitchen Cleanliness

Your kitchen towel might be used to dry dishes, wipe your fingers or wipe up spilled water on the countertop — sometimes all three. This amounts to a lot of bacteria that has been multiply the longer the towel stays around the kitchen, particularly if the towel is moist. Wash it in the hottest water possible and dry it on a popular setting to kill bacteria. In case the towels smell less than fresh, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. The vinegar helps remove odors like powerful food or grease smells. Use the towels for just a day each. Wash them collectively, ideally without other laundry, to avoid cross-contamination.

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Decorating Guides

DIY Rolling Storage Drawers for Under the Bed

by Busucher February 22, 2019

If you suffer from a shortage of square footage or are missing a cabinet or two, or you just need a handy place to stash additional stuff in the bedroom, use the wasted space under the bed. Custom storage units aren’t required for those winter blankets, guest cushions, kids’ toys or board game set — all you need is an old dresser to cannibalize and a few screw-on casters.

Measure the distance from the bottom of the bed frame into the floor to ensure that a drawer in addition to the height of the casters will easily clean the framework and the bottom of the bed.

Clean the drawers and remove the hardware to paint or whitewash the wood. Sand any rough spots and apply a coat of primer. Give each drawer two coats of paint, or even, to get a shabby chic-style finish, paint the bottom coat and follow instructions for applying crackle glaze into the exterior of the drawer just, before inserting the final coat of whitewash. The glaze causes the top layer of paint to craze into fine lines which symbolize the effects of aging.

Protect your work with a final coat of clear lacquer, allow it to dry, and bend the casters on each of the four corners of the bottom of the drawer. Duplicate for each drawer to provide storage under the bed.

Expand the drawer-pull hardware to each drawer to make it easier to retrieve the drawer when you need to get the storage.

Cut a piece of fabric to just cover the inside bottom of each drawer and secure the fabric to the drawer using a dot of glue in each corner. This measure is optional and is not required if your drawers have a smooth paint or lacquer finish inside.

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Eclectic Homes

Teatime to Get a Tiny Portable Home at Oregon

by Busucher February 19, 2019

Architect Todd Miller was determined to help his Japanese customer create a home she could both afford and love — which meant including a tea ceremony room. There is a lot to remember when you’re designing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony room in any scenario, however squeezing one into a 134-square-foot home is especially tricky.

The solution — combining the living space together with all the tearoom — not just gave the customer what she desired, but it also cut costs, removed the necessity to own property and reduced the customer’s energy bill. All these very small homes certainly are not for everybody, however they can”help free people from extra baggage, including high monthly mortgages and home duties,” says Miller.

in a Glance
Location: Marcola, Oregon
Architect: Todd Miller
Size: 134 square feet
Cost: Around $34,800, including materials, labor and design fees

Oregon Cottage Company

Miller used as many renewable and nontoxic materials as you can, including cedar for the exterior which has been sourced by a local mill, and no- and – low-VOC products. He avoided glues whenever possible.

Building such a small home required fewer materials, of course, reducing expenses and waste. The energy bills average $20 a month.

Oregon Cottage Company

The customer, who grew up in Japan, desired her home to be a soothing, quiet area where she can host and meditate traditional tea ceremonies. Miller split the area into a private bathroom and a spacious kitchen and tea ceremony room with a lofted sleeping area. The kitchen sits between the bathroom and the tearoom, which allowed him to pile functions and reduce pipes expenses.

The kitchen is small but efficient, with a 5-foot red oak counter, a double burner plus on-demand hot water. The streamlined kitchen leaves just enough space for a dining table on the opposite wall.

Oregon Cottage Company

Puck lighting recessed into the thick black walnut top shelf provides task lighting for your kitchen.

Oregon Cottage Company

The tearoom required a warming hearth for the pot. Miller hid the mechanics of the system below the floor; its streamlined coiled heating element can be switched on and off with a switch.

Oregon Cottage Company

An alcove emphasized by a single slab of walnut retains a hanging scroll an significant part the tea ceremony. A branch out of a madrone tree, found in the woods behind the home, sits between the scroll alcove and the customer’s tea ceremony chest.

Oregon Cottage Company

This custom red oak ladder on a black walnut trail leads to the loft. When not in use, the ladder can be stored upright alongside the counter top, as shown here.

Oregon Cottage Company

From the loft three easy tatami mats surrounded by a pine and black walnut framework compose the customer’s bed.

Oregon Cottage Company

The bathroom sits underneath the sleeping loft, behind the kitchen. The owner wanted a Japanese-style soaking bathtub, which reminds her of her childhood bathing regular, and this streamlined model worked perfectly in the tiny bathroom. A showerhead above enables the bath to double as a shower.

The property’s graywater is steered via an RV waste flange, which can hook up to a septic system, mobile waste system or custom system. A streamlined composting toilet on the opposite side of the bathroom eliminates any blackwater waste.

Oregon Cottage Company

A standing-seam Galvalume roof tops the comfy cabin, while wheels underneath make the road-legal structure entirely mobile. “Portability enables the owner the flexibility to really have a home wherever she goes, in addition to independence from property acquisition and rates of interest,” says Miller. Presently the home is parked on private, rural property which the customer has permission to use. She plans to stay here for the upcoming few years.

This very small house suits the customer’s independence; she owns a home that has been a small investment also has the freedom to go where she pleases.

Watch more small houses on

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Kitchen Guides

11 Pantry Doors Which Capture the Kitchen's Spirit

by Busucher February 15, 2019

Even if you never receive a full tour of an individual’s home, a peek in the kitchen may tell you a good deal about the owner’s preferences and fashion. A pantry door may play a big role in that, encapsulating the spirit of the kitchen and offering an chance for creative expression. Let the 11 pantry doors that follow inspire your own design journey.

Home Systems , Wendi Zampino

Traditional

This pantry doorway, which looks as though it might just as easily lead out, catches the old-world essence of the kitchen designed by Wendi Zampino.

The custom-made door features classic bronze woven wire backed with seeded glass. Oil-rubbed-bronze hardware mirrors the rest of the area’s bronze finishes, for a look that blends seamlessly.

Murphy & Co.. Design

This home’s traditional-style cabinetry is a mix of solid wood and obscured-glass doors. The abundance of glass at the large pantries on the best generates a gorgeous wall of mild and pops of colour.

The remaining portion of the home continues this windowed motif as efficiently.

Ashley Anthony Studio

Farmhouse

This home wears its farmhouse style proudly, down into the screened pantry door painted vibrant yellow. Although its colour does not match other prominent characteristics in the area, the doorway vintage style blends in perfectly with all the home’s diverse, down-home vibe.

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Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

This barn door is in keeping with the kitchen’s architecture without calling undue attention to itself. It blends in with the remaining white kitchen via its colour and through hardware that reproduces the cabinetry.

The doorway’s track is hidden behind a wood valance that was painted to match the wall.

2fORM Architecture

Modern

These imaginative sliding pantry doors were created by 2form Architecture. The Lumicor resin panels possess fine metal threads embedded within, developing a near-opaque surface that’s just as interesting as the adjoining metal and resin backsplash out of Alkemi.

SEE MATERIALS INC..

Watch Materials created this modern kitchen with Scavolini cabinets. Dark walnut frames the smoked-glass pantry doors, making a look that welcomes audiences into wanting to find out what’s beyond.

Mary Prince Photography

A series of tall built-in pantries fitted with slick Poggenpohl doorways is a quiet backdrop that does not distract from the dining experience here. The shortage of hardware to the doors echoes the clean lines that the rest of the home celebrates.

Watch the entire Residence

RemodelWest

Transitional

This doorway plays off of the kitchen’s red birch cabinets and striking geometric motif. The glass panel is composed of an array of different-size rectangles that line up vertically, providing contrast to the backsplash’s flat arrangement.

Watch the rest of this kitchen

Antonio Martins Interior Design

Eclectic

Antonio Martins needed a pantry door as abrupt and fascinating as the rest of the home he designed. This one-of-a-kind barn doorway has about $300 worth of Plexiglas from TAP Plastics, matched with $100 worth of basic barn-door hardware in The Home Depot.

Berkeley Mills

Asian

Shoji screens made by Berkeley Mills conceal the cleaning pantry that flanks the kitchen’s laundry centers. The doors slide on aluminum hardware hidden behind a wood valance, to get a clean appearance that resonates with the rest of the home.

Sunscape Homes, Inc

Country French

This custom doorway was created to follow the kitchen’s endings into a T. It was painted and distressed to match the island, and fitted using fabric from the exact same manufacturer that made the fabric used for the window treatments. The wrought iron detailing and dark wood frame remain true to the kitchen’s material palette, which in turn matches the entire home’s resounding style.

Show us: Does your pantry door reflect the unique style of your kitchen?

More: 11 Ways to Wake Up a Walk-in Pantry

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Laundry Rooms

Luxury of Space: Designing a Dream Laundry Room

by Busucher February 12, 2019

Few people prefer to do laundry, and an space could make it even worse. These are not rooms we prioritize spending time in and cash on, but making layout choices which emphasize comfort and practicality can create laundry less of a chore. Rather than shoving your washer and dryer into the cellar, try following some of these tips to lay out a fantasy laundry room you will really enjoy spending time in. Helpful improvements — drying cupboards, elevated appliances, great lighting — will boost your laundry room’s design and function, also.

Abbey Construction Company, Inc..

The 3 Laundry Zones

There are three distinct zones in every thriving laundry room. The dimensions of each zone will probably be different based on the laundry room dimensions, but having all three will earn a laundry room more effective.

First there is the preparation zone. This areashould have space for baskets of dirty clothing, overhead cupboards and a sink that will help you get your laundry prepared for washing.

Tip: A deep spout can help when you are soaking woolen things and delicates. A tabbed tap, such as the one in this photo, can also create watering plants a cinch.

The Berry Group

The wash and dry zone must include your washer and dryer, and shelving or alternative storage to your cleaning products.

Tip: if you’re designing a galley laundry, make sure you have at least 36 inches in the front of the washing machine (front-loading washers need less) and 42 inches before a dryer, so that you can access your appliances without repainting cabinets.

The Kitchen Supply

Create a folding zone with a basket for wash clothing, a counter top for folding and hanging rods for anything that needs to air dry.

Tip: If you are renovating your laundry, ask your cabinetmaker to install pullout baskets inside cupboards for your own dirty and clean laundry.

ASKO Appliances, Inc..

Useful Laundry Room Additions

Drying cupboards use high airflow and low heat to dry just about anything. These components come with adjustable pullout racks — several have up to 52 square feet of hanging space. They are great for cold climates and apartment dwelling, or for anytime air drying large amounts of clothing or heavy duty items is difficult.

Tip: Some drying cupboards are far better than other people, so do your homework. You’ll also need adequate ducting or a very well-ventilated area for a drying cupboard to function correctly.

Sullivan, Goulette & Wilson Ltd.. Architects

Drying racks tend to be less expensive than drying cupboards. Installing drying rods above your sink or counter and leaving enough room in the back for hangers can help double up on available room, also.

Tip: If you would rather not cramp your walls, look at utilizing your ceiling to hold a drying rack. A pulley system can keep it neatly out of sight if it is not being used.

E3 Cabinets & Design

Raised appliances are great ergonomic choices and will help free up storage area. Certain front-loading versions come with an optional drawer beneath. If you do not have a lot of space for baskets, you can use one drawer for wash clothing and one for dirty items.

Tip: If your laundry is close bedrooms or living areas, choose appliances with extra insulation and superior suspension to keep the noise down. Dryers without a decibel rating and washing machines with a high-speed spin cycle of more than 1,000 revolutions per minute will probably be noisy.

Haefele Design

Wide lighting can allow you to see and fight stains better. Use a mixture of task lighting installed below your cabinetry and ambient ceiling lighting.

Tip: Install double wall sockets over countertops for apparent task lighting. My rule of thumb is to install one fixture every 6 feet.

Ellen Grasso & Sons, LLC

Laundry flooring requires just as much attention during the design procedure. With this much water in the room and a probability of leaks and flood, you ought to apply a waterproofing membrane before you lay down your flooring. Nonslip tiles are the most practical in high-moisture zones, since hardwood flooring may swell over time. Tiles are also a way of bringing a design feature into a laundry that is bland.

Tip: To prevent flood ask your plumber to install a washing machine valve shutoff kit. These kits include a sensor which can find any puddles and immediately shut off the valve.

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Bedrooms

Give Your Baby the Healthiest

by Busucher February 8, 2019

Infants spend the majority of their first year sleeping. So naturally they ought to have the most secure, most nurturing space possible, right? The Environmental Protection Agency has found that indoor air is two to five times more polluted than outside air, and many of the pollutants and chemicals that could harm your baby aren’t observable to the naked eye. Plastics and vinyl may off-gas potentially harmful phthalates and BPA, and many textiles are treated with toxic flame retardants. Luckily, in light of the marketplace has responded with chemical-free Automobiles and furniture and organic mattresses and sheets, all of which feel much better, smell better and keep your baby comfortable, healthy and safe.

ella+elliot

To locate the safest crib, prevent medium-density fiberboard, plywood, particleboard and laminated wood, which virtually always contain carcinogenic formaldehyde, which may seep into the air of your infant’s room. Solid wood with a nontoxic, water-based finish or wicker produced from natural fibers like rattan, willow or bamboo are your best bets. The Kalon Studios crib shown here is made from Forest Stewardship Council–certified raw walnut and finished with nontoxic finishes.

Keep in mind as you search for a wholesome crib:
If you are buying used, locate a crib made after 1990, when the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s criteria were upgraded. Cribs made before 1990 could be structurally weak and also have loose components. Antique Automobiles may have lead paint.If you are unsure about your crib’s wood or finishes, put it outside or in a well-ventilated garage for at least a month prior to using it. This will make it possible for any problematic substances to jelqing before you bring it into infant’s room.If you do buy or inherit a crib which contains particleboard, seal it thoroughly utilizing a specially made sealant paint from AFM Safecoat to prevent any chemicals from entering the air.

Fawn&forest

Naturepedic Organic Cotton Quilted Deluxe 252 Crib Mattress – $359

Traditional crib mattresses are made from plastics, which leach BPA and phthalates, and therefore are treated with flame-retardant chemicals called PBDEs. Each of these chemicals can be absorbed through infant’s skin and ingested or inhaled, harming developing hormone and nervous systems. Some are possible carcinogens.

You can prevent putting your infant to sleep in a bed filled with chemicals by opting for vinyl-free wool and cotton mattresses like this one from Naturepedic.

Keep in mind as you search for a wholesome crib mattress:
Soybean foam, which is often advertised as “green” and “healthful,” is generally polyurethane foam combined with 12 to 17 percent genetically engineered soybean oil and treated with toxic flame retardants. It is risky and much better avoided.Any mattress with an organic cotton surface or filling cloth can be called organic. Some “organic” mattresses have vinyl coverings. Vinyl, which is made using lead and potentially carcinogenic chemicals, is best prevented. “Organic cotton” doesn’t meet the very same criteria as organic cotton and is likely to be filled with chemicals.Look for mattress interiors made of untreated wood, metal and nontoxic adhesives.Look to get a mattress that satisfies the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), meaning it is free of toxins and produced from fiber and materials certified by Europe’s National Organic Program.

ABC Carpet & Home

Coyuchi Organic Cotton Baby Blankets – $50

Organic cotton and wool are your best bets when it comes to bed pads and beddings, but bear in mind that wool mattress pads can not be machine washed. The very best mattress pad is made from tightly woven cotton. Coyuchi makes organic cotton mattress pads in addition to the vibrant organic cotton blankets shown here.

Keep in mind as you shop for infant’s bedding:
Hemp, a durable fiber from a plant which grows well with compounds, is also a good choice. Sometimes silk is inserted to make hemp fibers softer.Goose-down comforters may trigger allergies and sudden infant death syndrome.Polyurethane foam pads are treated with fire retardants, and vinyl — which, as already said, is made using lead and may wreak harmful germs — is never a good alternative.

Kalon Studios

Changing Trunk – $520

The fact is, you don’t have to buy a changing table if it is not in your budget or you lack distance. It’s possible to change your baby’s diapers onto a blanket or towel on your bed or on the ground. Changing tables are suitable, however, also this particular one from Kalon Studios is made from bamboo and finished with nontoxic wood oil.

Keep in mind as you search for a changing table :
Look for solid wood with a nontoxic, water-based finish.Wicker, when it is made from natural fibers like rattan, willow or bamboo, is durable and more affordable than hardwood.Look to get a table that’s powerful and secure and doesn’t wobble when weight is applied.Make certain the table has adequate security straps and rails to stop your baby from rolling away.

Buy Buy Baby

Organic Organic Cotton Velour Changing Pad Cover – $14.99

Bicultural Mama’s 100% organic cotton changing pad is a great alternate to chemical-soaked plastic and vinyl.

Homescapes Europa Ltd

Organic Cotton Chenille Shaggy Rug Natural Color – GBP 69.99

Area rugs are excellent in babies’ rooms, because they may be vacuumed or machine cleaned regularly. This undyed organic chenille carpet from Homescapes is comfortable underfoot and sumptuous enough to sleep on.

Keep in mind while looking for carpets:
Even natural carpets can have artificial backing, chemical dyes and fire retardants. Start looking for rugs with jute or natural latex backing and vegetable dyes.Rugs with a green Carpet and Rug Institute label have been tested for VOCs and other emissions.Consider organic wool, organic cotton or hemp. Natural fibers, such as jute, sisal, sea grass and coir, are durable but not very soft underfoot.

Carousel Designs

Flax Linen Hidden Tab Drapes

Natural-fiber shades and drapes, like these linen and cotton curtains from Carousel Designs, are your very best option. Linen holds up well in sunlight but generally requires dry cleaning, which may bring undesirable compounds. After dry cleaning these drapes, take them from the plastic and let them off-gas outside or in a well-ventilated garage before rehanging.

Some things to consider when choosing window coverings:
It is very important that you keep window-shade cords permanently from children’s reach, and never put a crib or playpen in range of a window blind.Curtains have a tendency to collect dust and dust mites, which may cause allergies and other respiratory complications, so scrub them often.Hemp fiber holds up well in sunlight.Solid wood farm colors with nontoxic finishes are easier to clean and collect less dust than drapes.

Traditional paint contains benzene, formaldehyde, mercury, solvents and petrochemicals, and it sends a cloud of VOCs in your infant’s bedroom. Investing in nontoxic, VOC-free paint is a wise choice that will keep horrible compounds from your nursery. AFM Safecoat’s no-VOC paint (shown here) comes in a vast assortment of rich colors.

A few things to remember while you’re picking paint:

• Some paints carry a round Green Wise emblem on their label, which might seem like a good indication that the paint is environmentally safe. Green Wise is green scrub. The emblem means the paint meets with criteria. It doesn’t signify the paint is chemical free.
• “Low odor” doesn’t mean that the paint is free of chemicals.
• Zero-VOC paint is practically VOC free, but no separate standard exists to verify that.
• Natural Paint, produced from food-safe ingredients from plants and minerals, and milk paint, produced from milk, pigments, lime, clay and water, are secure, chemical-free alternatives.

All-natural, nontoxic American Clay wall coverings bring a soft appearance to any nursery.

Removing wall-to-wall carpet, which off-gases compounds and harbors pollutants and toxins, is the healthiest thing you can do in your nursery. If that is not possible, seal existing carpeting using AFM Safecoat’s SafeChoice Lock Out, which keeps chemicals from off-gassing and repels dirt and stains. Cork or vibrant natural linoleum, like the kind exhibited here from Eco-Friendly Flooring, are also good bets.

Keep in mind while you’re picking flooring:
If you choose bamboo, store carefully. Prefinished bamboo flooring may off-gas formaldehyde and other damaging chemicals.If you choose carpeting, elect for untreated 100% wool carpet and have it installed utilizing a tack-down method rather than glue.Don’t pull carpeting yourself whether you’re pregnant. Pulling up the cushioning could introduce you into some cloud of PBDEs. After the carpet is eliminated, have someone clean up the tiny particles with a HEPA-filter vacuum and wash.

Cusano Construction Company Inc..

Natural wood floors finished with nontoxic oils are one of the smartest choices you can make in the nursery.

Carousel Designs

Whether you use new furnishings or hand-me-downs, a little maintenance will go a long way toward producing the healthiest room for your infant.

Some more things to remember:

• Before you draw anything into the nursery, allow it to sit outside in a covered place or in a well-vented garage for a couple of weeks so that any potentially dangerous compounds can off-gas outside.
• Wash everything you bring in the nursery — clothing, drapes, upholstery, and changing pads, bumper pads, even the padding from auto seats and swings with a cup to a cup and a half of vinegar to get rid of flame-retardant chemicals.
• Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter or use a wet mop twice weekly to minimize chemical particles that break off from textiles, finishes and electronic equipment.
• Assess all hand-me-downs for rips, chips or tears, and repair or seal them right away.

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City Guides

Travel Guide: Seattle for Design Lovers

by Busucher February 4, 2019

Seattle’s downtown has grown up in the previous 50 years. Its growth spurt didn’t really start until the Space Space Needle, using an observation deck and restaurant, was erected to the 1962 World’s Fair. Over the decades since, the skyline has filled with mammoth office buildings, residential towers and, in 2012, a giant Ferris wheel.

Today the town famous for grunge cutting-edge and music technology is finding its own structure shaped by some of those same influences, particularly the latter. Microsoft, Amazon and Starbucks are making — or have made — their mark around town, with everything in the Gates Foundation’s ancestral headquarters carrying shape to Amazon’s new office towers earmarked for the skyline.

Ventana Construction LLC

It’s easy to spend a week seeing all that the town has to offer you. But allow three or more days to visit the very best architectural- and design-oriented places.

And do not forget your raincoat, no matter what time of year it’s. There is an expression in Seattle that if you do not like the weather, wait for 10 minutes. However, Seattle is not a constant slog; Atlanta really has more rain annually. The weather is simply a little more unpredictable here.

Must-Sees

Duwamish Longhouse: Tribal heritage museum and cultural centre
Location: 4705 W. Marginal Way
Noteworthy: The Longhouse supplies the people with a unique chance to experience the culture of Seattle’s first Men and Women.

Duwamish Tribe associates — the descendents of Chief Seattle — raised funds to purchase land near the historical village of hah-AH-poos (yes, it’s spelled like that) and constructed a longhouse using traditional cedar post-and-beam structure that was designed by Byron Barnes, a member of the Blackfeet Tribe. The Duwamish Longhouse opened in 2009 and doubles as a place for tribal and other occasions as well as a museum dedicated to the tribe’s history. Tribal members installed the mosaic wood floor, which shows the Duwamish Tribe’s physical place between the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.

More information: Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center

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Though Seattle’s skyline is continually rising, the Space Space Needle continues to anchor its identity.

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Pike Place Market: Stalls for produce, seafood, crafts and much more
Location: 85 Pike St.
Noteworthy: be sure to have a look at the fish sellers, where employees toss fish to one another.

Over a hundred years old, this historical landmark includes a farmer’s market, fresh fish and bakery stands, and dozens of independent busineses and craftspeople. From the multilevel warren of shops that overlook Elliot Bay, it is possible to discover new clams, music, Mexican folk art, Polish pottery and flowers.

More information: Pike Place Market

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Seattle Central Library
Location: 1000 Fourth Ave.

Drawing on the ability of architects Rem Koolhaas and Joshua Ramus, the new glass-clad 11-story central library opened its doors in 2004. The design includes enormous, light-filled public spaces along with a big public lecture space constructed with interesting renewable materials.

More information: Seattle Public Library

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EMP Museum: A dazzling construction by architect Frank Gehry
Price: Infants, $20 ($15 on line)
Location: 325 Fifth Ave.
Noteworthy: Over 21,000 custom-made colored aluminum shingles decorate the arch, twisting building. It never looks the exact same way twice.

EMP is the brainchild of Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, also is dedicated to music and science fiction. It’s exhibitions on musical artists such as Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix, and on topics such as “Can’t Look Away: The Lure of the Horror Film.”

Hint: If you ride the monorail into the EMP from downtown Seattle, you’ll ride through a portion of this construction.

More information: EMP Museum

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Location: 440 Fifth Ave.
Noteworthy: The base’s amazing work on global issues such as poverty, sanitation and disease management occurs in an amazing building, which opened in 2011.

During the customer’s center excursion, guests learn about the foundation and get a glimpse at the boomerang-shaped buildings in which the base’s employees operate. Besides the innovative design, which comprises a below-grade courtyard and cantilevered segments, the project earned an LEED Platinum rating because of its sustainable design, such as green roofs and a cistern for mowing the landscaping.

More information: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

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Must-Eats:

Sky City Restaurant
Location: Near the surface of the Space Needle
Price: Entrees from $38

Combine top-of-the-Space-Needle views using a restaurant that revolves 360 degrees, and you also have a dining experience you won’t forget. A meal at Sky City — brunch, lunch or dinner — comprises a elevator ride up into the restaurant and accessibility to the observation deck (a $19 ticket for those not dining).

More information: Sky City

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Marination Mobile: Hawaiian-Korean restaurant with multiple locations
Areas: Marination Ma Kai, 1660 Harbor Ave. (West Seattle); Marination Station, 1412 Harvard Ave. (Capitol Hill); along with Big Blue (food truck that travels around town)

Fabulous food using a Hawaiian-Korean bent, such as tacos, sliders, the inimitable Kimchi Rich Bowl and Spam Musubi. The West Seattle place (“ma kai” means “by the sea”) is situated at Seacrest Park, which is the end of the line for the water taxi that starts downtown. As a consequence, that you may expand your waterfront meanderings into a travel across Elliott Bay to get a meal.

Ivars Salmon House on Lake Union is also worth the trip.In a replica longhouse with an extensive group of native canoes, photos and art, it is possible to dine on alder-smoked salmon and other seafood specialties. Its location along the north end of Lake Union makes it feasible to dock a ship alongside the restaurant’s outside seating area.

More information: Marination Mobile, Ivar’s Salmon House

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The Pink Door: Italian-American restaurant and cabaret lounge
Location: 1919 Post Alley

There are dozens of stellar restaurants downtown, but not at a construction like this. Here you get just a little bit of everything, and it all interesting. Guests enter the restaurant through a low-key pink door on Post Alley. Take in the spacious and eclectic decor whilst dining on delectable Italian food — and if you time it right, see a trapeze act high over the tables. Cabaret shows go on in the lounge next door, and terrace seats allows Elliot Bay views.

More information: The Pink Door

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Must-Dos:

The Seattle Great Wheel: Ferris wheel
Price: Infants, $13
Location: 1301 Alaskan Way (Pier 57)

In 175 feet tall and extending 40 feet past the edge of the pier, the Seattle Great Wheel offers excellent views of downtown and the Olympic Mountains, if you’re able to stomach such fantastic heights. Enclosed gondolas imply it is possible to ride rain or shine, along with the LED lights along the spokes are usually lit up in symbolic colours and patterns. (If they’re blue and green, the Seahawks are playing.)

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour is just another fun experience. During Seattle’s reconstruction after the Great Seattle Fire in the late 1880s, a decision was made to boost the level of downtown roads over the muddy mess they had gotten. After retaining walls went in and were filled in for the new roads, the original main floors of several companies remained buried below. It is an architectural tour unlike any other.

More information: Seattle Great Wheel; Underground Tour

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Kerry Park viewpoint
Location: 211 W. Highland Dr. (Queen Anne)

Together the south slope of Queen Anne Hill is a town park that attracts photographers from all over to get a perfect shot of town. From here the Space Needle is in the front of the skyline, and Mt. Rainier will be to the right. Be warned, however: On a day of ideal shooting conditions, anticipate to jostle for a position on the railroad.

More information: Kerry Park

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Log House Museum: Seattle history construction
Price: $3 suggested donation
Location: 3003 61st Ave.

In a restored hundred-year-old log construction, learn about Seattle’s pioneers who landed at Alki Beach, also see photos of original buildings and homes. The Log House Museum was the carriage house to the first “modern” home on Alki at 1902, known as the Fir Lodge, constructed by William and Gladys Bernard. The Fir Lodge is only down the road — it’s currently called the Homestead Restaurant — though a fire damaged it a few years back and it’s not available to the public.

Walking tours are just another excellent way to learn about Seattle’s history and architecture.The town offers a list of free self-guided walking tours of downtown areas like Pike Place Market and the International District, as well as areas such as Ballard and Columbia City.

The nonprofit Historic Seattle offers guided walking tours of areas such as First Hill. These are on a charge basis and may sell out, so plan ahead.

Another totally free and self-guided excursion consists of Seattle’s many stairways. Considering all the hills, there should be staircase, and the website (see below) maps a number of them. The staircase also happen to take you through areas with some of the best views and many interesting mixes of houses.

More information: Log House Museum; Historic Seattle tour; self-guided walking excursion; stairway walks excursion

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Must-Stays:

Inn at the Market
Location: 86 Pine St.

Sometimes it makes sense to Keep in the Middle of it all, along with the Inn at the Market is appropriate there. Measures from Pike Place Market, a few blocks from great shopping and surrounded by excellent restaurants, the inn has a small size and excellent company, making it a relaxing and comfortable home base for your stay.

Or visit First Hill, only a fast walk east of the downtown center, to the Sorrento Hotel, with 76 unique rooms and suites. The hotel boasts Italianate architecture and offers an afternoon tea at its historical lobby.

More information: Inn at the Market; Sorrento Hotel

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Must-Visit Shops:

Seattle Design Center
Location: 5701 Sixth Ave. South

Instead of traipse all over town looking for showrooms, start in the Seattle Design Center, home to dozens of designers and a lot of custom furniture, floor coverings, light fixtures and fabrics. Bonus: The area around the SDC is known to those in the biz as Tile Town due to the large quantities of tile and slab showrooms within a block or 2.

Some Luxurious cloth suppliers have their very own downtown showrooms. Start Looking for Ann Sacks Tile & Stone, Flor and SieMatic cabinets, to name a few.

Meanwhile, Pioneer Square provides an opportunity to return in time with your own decor. The company district’s website (see below) includes an entire list of carpet and antiques galleries, all within walking distance of one another.

More information: Seattle Design Center; Pioneer Square

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Hidden Stone

Schmitz Park
Location: 5551 Admiral Way

A 53-acre park with old-growth forest in the middle of a major city? This is Schmitz Park, whose entrance point along Admiral is through a historical bridge. It’s also possible to enter in the park’s easternmost point or in the gate near the southeast end of Alki Elementary. Woodpeckers, streams and other wildlife abound.

There is also Volunteer Park at the heart of Capitol Hill, a neighborhood with diverse restaurants and nightlife and a number of the city’s grandest old houses. Love the park conservatory of plants and flowers and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Or have a picnic while enjoying the views of downtown and Isamu Noguchi’s sculpture “Black Sun.” When you are done, stroll the neighborhood to observe a number of Seattle’s most amazing and well-preserved houses and mansions.

More information: Schmitz Park; Volunteer Park; Seattle Asian Art Museum

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Eclectic Homes

Book It: Bring a Mini Library For Your Front Yard

by Busucher February 1, 2019

Todd Bol has a background in international business growth. More specifically: He was able to help developing countries institute societal change. He had been proven to think big and globally. But this man of social generosity couldn’t have anticipated that, while messing around and constructing things on his deck daily, a dollhouse-size structure he turned into a free community library could have the global effect it does today.

Bol’s prototype spawned Small Free Library, a nonprofit that seeks to put small, accessible book exchange boxes in areas around the world. Users can buy the boxes directly from LFL’s website, download programs to build their own or fully wing it.

The concept is straightforward: A house-shaped box in a neighborhood carries a few dozen novels. Neighbors are invited to share with a book, leave a book or possibly.

The LFL almost always utilizes recycled materials for the custom libraries it sells on line, for an average price of $250 to $500, but in addition, it offers plans for creating your own.

The concept has taken off, growing from 100 libraries in 2011 to 6,000 libraries in 2013, with 2 million novels shared. “That being said, we’ll have 25,000 libraries by the end of the calendar year,” states Bol.

A homeowner or a different local steward, such as the one displayed here, takes possession of this library, which makes sure it is in good form and that book materials are appropriate for the neighborhood.

Small Free Library owners can buy a charter for $35 that places their library in the company’s database and devotes them reductions and information about maintaining, maintaining and encouraging their own libraries.

Bol is most proud of the way Small Free Library is bringing communities together. “It has started a local exchange. It gets people talking and more comfortable with their neighbors,” he states. “This contributes to them helping each other.”

Nearly every library is unique. This one in Northern California was built out of a wine cage that was used.

The libraries operate best in areas where stewards can better keep the box. “In parks you’ll get a box full of reductions for haircuts and burgers,” Bol notes.

Small Free Libraries does custom paint and assemble some of the boxes , even creating memorial libraries for loved ones, such as this one in Houston honoring Donald F. Markgraf.

And there is no limit to the possibilities. For this library, also in Houston, the proprietor added miniature stairs, a drawer manage and colorful Mardi Gras beads.

In Pasadena, California, a brightly colored library has major curb appeal.

Small Free Libraries are all around the world. Go to the organization’s site for a planet map of front-yard libraries and also to see how to make your own.

Poll: have you got a mini library into your front lawn, or are you motivated to try one? Take our poll

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Eclectic Homes

When Color Could Kill: Stories In the History of Paint

by Busucher January 28, 2019

Victoria Finlay is the author of Color: A Natural History of the Palette and Jewels: A Secret History. She resides near Bath, England, and is writing a second color publication for the Getty Museum. Her research has led her around the world and deep into the history of color — and the risks we’ve taken to bring the most beautiful hues into our houses.

“[I am] sorry to find that the Green paint which was made to provide the dining room another coat must have turned out so awful,” composed the 45-year-old George Washington in the battle in 1787. The summons to the farmer-turned-soldier to take the role of commander in chief of the continental army had come at a somewhat inconvenient time for the decoration at his home at Mount Vernon, and he wrote home frequently, asking updates on each aspect of the job, for instance, long-running saga of the green to be utilized at the massive dining room.

The large dining room at George Washington’s home in Mount Vernon, Virginia.

George Washington’s paint in question was verdigris, a pigment produced from suspending copper over a tub of vinegar; it was very trendy in both Europe and America at the close of the 18th century. Looking at its restoration (using hand-ground paints) at Mount Vernon, Virginia, now it still seems so exotic — you can see why the upcoming president obsessed about it. However he and his craftsmen hadn’t done their compound prep, to miserable effect.

If Washington or his works manager, Lund Washington, had had access to the 15th-century classic Il Libro dell’ Arte (The Craftsman’s Handbook) from the artist Cennino Cennini, they would have discovered that, according to the publication:

A shade called verdigris is green. It is very green alone. And it’s manufactured by alchemy, from vinegar and aluminum. This shade is great on panel, tempered with dimensions. Take care to not receive it around any white lead, for they’re mortal enemies at each respect. Work it up with vinegar, which it retains according to its own nature. And should you want to generate a perfect green for bud … it’s beautiful to the eye, however it doesn’t last.

But Lund set lead white about the finishes, and within a month or two, the bright turquoise had darkened and had to be replaced — though it was finished again in time for G.W. along with his family to be in this room in 1789 when they learned he was to be the first president of the USA.

Notorious green

The paint that afterwards became notorious for being toxic was discovered almost accidentally in Sweden in 1775 by a scientist named Carl Wilhelm Scheele. It was a bright and almost shocking shade, reminiscent of deep emerald. He predicted it Scheele’s Green, also by the start it was a feeling. Parents particularly adored it for their children’s bedrooms, as it was much brighter than the dull grays and browns they were used to, but it was also used for artificial flowers, rugs and clothes, and it remained in vogue for a century.

Yet this shade was a killer: Children and invalids died from sleeping in their green chambers; a Persian cat locked in an darkened bedroom has been found covered in pustules; Napoleon expired rather mysteriously on St. Helena Island at a green bedroom, and it was just in the 1980s that anyone was able to do an analysis on his own hair. It’d traces of a few of the vital ingredients of Scheele’s green: arsenic.

Why England’s article boxes are reddish

The color of England’s pillar post boxes, which we now take for granted, was a topic of profound consternation once the post office began using them (rather than home collections) from the 19th century. The first boxes were green, until people complained that they were constantly bumping into them so from the early 1880s they were repainted an eye-catching reddish silicate enamel. The tooth didn’t survive, and in a number of places faded hopelessly to a pinky white inside a month or two.

The problem was, for years there wasn’t any paint available that was bright and yet could withstand the competing challenges of sunshine and frost. From the post office archives there are lots of letters from members of the public complaining about the color. One person suggested they paint them grey like battleships, which at least could have had the virtue of staying color consistent — because surely people knew by then in which their regional post boxes were to be found.

Crisp Architects

Color becomes constant

As part of my study, I went to deepest Dorset, England to visit the headquarters of Farrow & Ball, based in the 1980s when the English National Trust wanted an expert to mix paints for its great homes in need of redecoration.

Nowadays Farrow & Ball paints, using terrific names like Clunch (from old slang for a chalk building block), Blackened (speaking to when soot was utilized to make an off-white pigment using a silver colour), String, Downpipe along with the startling Dead Salmon appeal to people wanting the colors in their sitting rooms to be just like those in British stately houses and then, sometimes, just a tad more eccentric.

Before I went, I had a romantic image of the people at Farrow & Ball using several of the same pigments and ingredients that a 19th-century decorator could have used, but this isn’t the situation. First of all, 19th-century decorators needed to assemble the paint components for themselves (as a young Irish immigrant noticed when he came at Brooklyn in the late 1870s, determining there should be an easier way. His name was Benjamin Moore).

Wall paint: French Gray, Farrow & Ball

Best & Company

Secondly, as Farrow & Ball’s managing director, Tom Helme, pointed out, the quality of these exact fugitive 19th-century paints wouldn’t have been great enough for our modern-day requirements. “Nowadays people want the color on their walls to stay constant. In the past people knew it would change immediately, and they were resigned to it.”

And next, as I found in my trip, lots of the old paint colors are now illegal. These include lead white, which was banned from the U.S. in 1977 but which is still utilized in several nations — as recently as last year, activists at Calcutta, India, were protesting that deities thrown symbolically into the river Ganges through processions should not be painted, as the lead is poisoning the sacred river.

Wall paint: Blackened, Farrow & Ball

Mercedes Corbell Design + Architecture

We can, naturally, be nostalgic for a past in which the colors of those paints were made from real things: stones, plants, galls, soot and sometimes (in the case of carmine) little rounded bugs. But we can be grateful too: Now’s synthetic colors probably won’t poison us they will probably not blend with other paints and have dramatic chemical reactions. And unlike with George Washington’s much-wanted, although quickly evaporating, large green dining room, we can be pretty confident that after it’s on the wall, it is going to stay on the wall until we make the considered decision to paint over it and try something new.

The author using Doreen Tipiloura of the Tiwi Islands, who painted Big Sheep Little Sheep Dreaming, showcased in Color: A Natural History of the Palette, published by Ballantine in the U.S. and Sceptre from the U.K.

More: Back to the Future of the House

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Color

25 Many Bookmarked Colorful Homes of 2012

by Busucher January 23, 2019

This was the year of color on . While we still love our grays and browns, saw an explosion of houses with vibrant colours on the website in 2012, and readers embraced the welcome death from many neutrals. Here we provide the most photographed homes on . From a weekend house in São Paulo, Brazil, to a funding remodel in Ireland and also an unfolding flat in Manhattan, these houses have daring, beautiful color.

Rikki Snyder

1. An Antique Cape Cod House Explodes With Color

This homeowner — an artist and sheep farmer in Massachusetts — did not hold back in her home’s decor. Bright chartreuse walls, handmade background and eclectic details cover every available surface in this wonderful home.

S / Wiley Interior Photography

2. Lively Meets Thrifty in Southern California

The turquoise front door of the happy home opens into a collected but refined living space. Splashes of turquoise draw people thorough the entryway, pattern-filled living room and family-friendly kitchen and dining space.

DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami

3. Modern, Entertaining Home in Florida

This Florida dwelling proves that contemporary and minimalist do not necessarily imply sparse. Color makes its presence known in each room. Yellow office shelving, orange and blue artwork, a chartreuse kids living room and the enjoyable teen room shown here help bring the clean-lined house to life.

Integrated

4. Gloriously Untamed Shade in a Manhattan Home

The unbiased casing of the New York City home plays host to an Unbelievable array of colorful accents. This office, coated in Orla Kiely background, is just the tip of this iceberg. ers adored the homeowners’ daring style, beautiful blue lacquered piano and contemporary custom made playroom.

Caitlin Wilson Design

5. Energy and Color Aplenty in a Live-Work Lease

simply because you’re a renter does not mean that you can not own fashion, as this colorful Philadelphia house proves. This designer outfitted her family’s flat in female hues which nevertheless feel family friendly. readers adored her bold but girly fashion — observed within this peppy pink couch.

Louise Lakier

6. Little, Vivid Island Home in Washington

Affectionately called the Salsa House for its dinner made on the property, this bold-colored home lives up to its vibrant nickname. Salvaged materials from all over the neighborhood give the interior character, while the vivid exterior speaks for itself.

Lindsay von Hagel

7. Colorful Hand Painting Bedecks a Creative Home

It is clear these homeowners like to take risks in design — the purple, ombré, Southwest-style walls in the dining room function as evidence. Pattern, color and handmade details burst in each room — it is no wonder so many ers spared this one for inspiration!

Alisha gwen interior design

8. Shade frees a Family-Friendly Show House to Life

rather than opting for the normal beige palette which often appears in show homes, this designer paid tribute to her love of Dorothy Draper and cheerful hues. ers loved the mix of patterns in the living room and the unexpected shots of apple green.

Shannon Malone

9. Colorful, Architectural Gem in Ojai

Japanese, Southwestern and California Mission styles come to life in this charming California home. Citron and a wealthy red-orange adorn the entry and the kitchen’s habit built-ins and cabinetry. From the kitchen to the more relaxing bedrooms, this house has plenty of ideas that ers desired to recall.

Sarah Greenman

10. Flea Market Glamour in Texas

in case you have plenty of patience and a fantastic eye, hunting for furniture in flea markets may pay off. This Texas couple loves to attract old items back to life, reupholstering, painting and refinishing flea market finds to make them contemporary treasures.

Valerie McCaskill Dickman

11. Budget-Friendly Bohemian Ranch in Dallas

This Dallas ranch house demonstrates how a paintbrush and a few good colours can alter everything. A combination of DIY details and amazing furniture provides this house a unique, eclectic texture. Shade adds depth to each part of the house — from the black dining room to the bright yellowish master bed to the turquoise front door.

Design Manifest

12. Eclectic Jewel Box Loft in Philadelphia

This Philadelphia attic has a divided open space with colorful nooks on almost every wall. Wallpaper, royal blue paint and a daring black permit for specified living, bar and working spaces.

Michael K Chen Architecture

13. 400-Square-Foot Unfolding Flat

A size of 400 square feet does not exactly look amusement friendly, unless you’re seeing this revolutionary New York apartment. As a result of some custom unfolding unit against one wall, a bed, desk and storage space could all be confined to a spot, leaving plenty of room for hosting guests and cooking dishes.

Believe Contemporary

14. Colorful Quirkiness in an Irish Home

This Irish couple wanted a house that would constantly feel uplifting, but they did not have the budget to do a massive remodel. Even though the kitchen cabinetry, bathroom tiling and flooring stay exactly the same, the creative use of color and layout gave the house a brand-new look.

Madison Modern Home

15. A Cabin of Curiosities in Los Angeles

This Hollywood costume designer lives in a House that feels almost like a film set. Eclectic cloths, collected taxidermy and knickknacks fill just about every nook and cranny. ers adored the homeowner’s unabashed style and artistic consequences.

16. Sunny Colors Lighten a Century-Old Home

Colorful textiles interject playfulness to this classic East Coast house. The eye-catching mix of colours feels natural too. Classy vaulted ceilings and warm wall colours contrast with vivid upholstery and patterned curtains, giving this traditional house a contemporary undertone.

Sarah Greenman

17. An Oregon Cottage With 21 Flavors of Shade

This Northwest cabin has color on its most attractive architectural details. Red trim and a soft blue door perfectly match with all the flowers on the front porch. A purple and green kitchen and a soft blue bedroom offer just a flavor of this cheerful color palette inside.

Natalie Younger Interior Design, Allied ASID

18. Colorful, Casual Hawaiian Vacation Home

To blend the outside and inside, this designer made use of Hawaii’s most vibrant greens and blues. Natural cloths tie each of the spaces together, and ers fell in love with this home’s soothing, tropical and contemporary color palette.

Chimera Interior Design

19. Splashy Colors Spark a Contemporary Guesthouse

This Arizona family refused to let their guesthouse feel second rate compared to their beautiful home. While they used durable materials that could stand up to kids, bright contrasting colours and dashes of chartreuse liven up the cement flooring and easy layout.

Carolina Katz + Paula Nuñez

20. Eclectic midsize Home Embraces Trees

Even though the interior courtyard (complete with four ficus trees) first drew ers to the house, readers fell in love with all the diverse color palette. The dining and living areas remain fairly neutral, however this Chilean house explodes with color in the office, bedrooms and kitchen.

Michael J. Lee Photography

21. Boston Home Goes Ironic conventional

This home’s ancient 20th-century architecture seems traditional but was injected with a brand new take on preppy style. From the outside it is difficult to believe that rooms full of oversize plaids, bold orange upholstery, zebra rugs and chevron armchairs reside inside this shingle-style house.

Holly Marder

22. Plastic Is King within an Out-of-This-World Home

Straight from the 1960s, this retro-inspired, plastic-furniture-filled house makes use of virtually every daring color imaginable. Located in the Netherlands, it has been remodeled into a retro design lover’s dream. Bright oranges, blues and yellows are offset by white and brown modular shelving. The homeowner’s decorative dish collection is in vivid shades of crimson!

Kaia Calhoun

23. Sunny and Cheerful DIY Home in Minnesota

Sweet and simple, this Minnesota duplex was famous for its livability and happy fashion. The youthful owners fixed up their new home on a budget, using paint and wall art to produce affordable design announcements.

Marco Antunio

24. Splashy, Sustainable Shack in São Paulo

A patchwork-style interior and exterior set this little weekend house apart from its São Paulo environment. This Brazilian designer couple wanted a retreat that would incorporate their love of nature and color. The multicolor design, which blurs the lines between the inside and outside, does exactly that.

JayJeffers

25. Distinctive Edwardian ‘Design Lab’

For many designers, their home becomes a place to experiment — according to this beautiful San Francisco Edwardian. Even though the original structure was retained, the house’s unique color palette gives it a fresh, contemporary texture. ers adored the contrasting trim throughout the house and the magnificent darkened kitchen backsplash.

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Small Bathroom

Guest Picks: Lighting to Perk Up a Powder Room

by Busucher January 21, 2019

Selecting lighting to get a powder room gives you an opportunity to choose fixtures which are little prettier than what you’d choose for a main tub or en suite. After all, guests will probably use it. As powder rooms occasionally do not have any natural light, a blend of a ceiling fixture and wall sconces may be in order. Whether you’re trying for a modern, vintage or glam look, there are lighting options in every style. — Vanessa from Decor Happy

Vanessa Francis

The lighting option should match the bathroom’s style. In this toilet, my customers fell in love with the vintage feel of those sconces from Restoration Hardware. They really add to the overall charm of this bathroom.

Colors of Light

Well Appointed Bath Light, 2-Light – $269

I love the vintage vibe of the brass wall sconce. Paired with the milk glass shades, it strikes just the right note.

Lowe’s

Z-Lite 3-Light Warwick Semi-Flush Ceiling Light – CAD 225

Apothecary lights are a long time favorite, and this one is accessible and reasonably priced.

Restoration Hardware

Edison Milk Glass Sconce – $159

If space is at a premium in a narrow powder space, these slender milk glass sconces are the best answer.

Pottery Barn

Quinn Beaded Double Sconce – $129

The beading on the backplate and the aged look of this double sconce would add rustic charm to a powder room.

Restoration Hardware

Lugarno Triple Sconce – $155

If your powder room is big, then a triple sconce hung above a mirror will offer ample light.

Colors of Light

Soft Contemporary Sconce – $55

This very simple sconce with a metal ring on the color will look smart when put on either side of a very simple mirror.

The Home Depot

Brookside Collection Antique Nickel 1-Light Wall Lantern – CAD 97.45

I would place just one of those above the mirror, as two can overwhelm a powder room, which is generally on a small scale. It would work nicely with a white and navy colour scheme for a contemporary look.

Ballard Designs

Rylan 3-Light Pendant – $249

In case you’ve got tall ceilings in your powder room, then this fairly glass sphere will add interest and glamour.

The Home Depot

Pillar Collection 1-Light Chrome Wall Sconce – CAD 108

This slender sconce in a chrome finish will add a modern element into a room.

Elte

Elkins Sconce – $415

I love the combination of the bronze and brass finishes on this double sconce. Ensure you’ve got loads of space on both sides of the mirror to install these.

Schoolhouse Electric

Northwestern 2.25″ Lighting Fixture – $85

This ceiling fixture is indeed unusual — it is a light in a light! I adore its simplicity.

The Home Depot

Luxuria Collection 1-Light Chrome Wall Sconce – CAD 186

I have to acknowledge this sconce is not one I would pick for my own powder room. However, if you’re opting for something over the top, these would add just the ideal amount of glam.

Elte

Boston Functional Library moderate – $465

I’ve seen these flexible wall sconces in a toilet. They have quite a presence and lend a Hamptons/nautical vibe into the space.

Hudson Valley Lighting

Nyavk 450-AGB Wall Sconce

Modern, easy and fairly, this brass sconce has it all.

Schoolhouse Electric

Hamilton 2.25″ Pendant Light Fixture – $125

In case you’ve got the distance, hang two of these from the ceiling on either side of a mirror using a natural wood frame.

Restoration Hardware

1920s Factory Sconce – $259

I’ve utilized these retro sconces in a toilet, and they include just the ideal amount of industrial-cool style.

IKEA

Lillholmen Wall Lamp – $16.99

For those on a limited budget, these cheap wall sconces just can work. I’ve observed similar sconces for ten times the cost.

Hudson Valley Lighting 6220-AGB 120 6 Light Pendant – $1,605

Lanterns are so flexible they work in just about any space. This brass one will add glamour to make a statement in a powder room.

Purchase

Pottery Barn

Metal-Head Single Sconce – $99

The hexagonal color on this aged brass sconce is indeed unique.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Quoizel Downtown Wall Sconce With 1 mild – $149.99

The soccer ball detail on this wall sconce is fairly yet not over the surface.

Next: 8 Tiny Bathrooms With Big Personalities

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Eclectic Homes

12 Great Ways to Use Home Office Corners

by Busucher January 19, 2019

Corners can be tricky, but you can trick them into making them work hard for you. Thus far we have looked at clever ways to take advantage of corners at the kitchen and corners at the living room and living space. Now we will tackle corners at the home office. Here’s a peek at clever ways designers and homeowners have approached office corners, making them considerably more stylish and functional.

Mary Prince Photography

Angle shelves round the bend. Bookshelves that move ‘around the bend make the most of a corner storage potential. This creates a fantastic place in which to float a comfortable reading chair or chaise longue.

Bertram Architects

Stretch a panoramic perspective. A desk before a corner window receives a huge, uninterrupted view.

b. van hecke – Canmore Interior Design

Nestle at a work place. A curved desktop countertop provides smooth and easy access to file and office drawers in addition to additional desktop space in arm’s reach.

Holly Marder

TransFORM | The Art of Custom Storage

Tucking an office chair to the corner takes advantage of space where cupboard drawers would have been knocking into each other and creates additional leg space. This approach also works good in a little space or at the corner of another room, like a kitchen or an office. The cabinets provide enough storage space to keep the office clutter tucked off.

Mark pinkerton – vi360 photography

Insert cushioned chairs to get a comfy, versatile meeting space. When people dream of scoring that corner office, two sides with a perspective is exactly what they’re actually after.

Inside this office, the desk and two comfy chairs take pleasure in the corner viewpoints. Versatile swivel chairs let the lounger choose which way to confront.

David Howell Design

Take wall shelving up to the ceiling. This unique corner shelf by Jim Zivic corrals newspapers and supplies, using space all the way up to the ceiling. Assessing the background to the corner adds work surface and allows the owner to enjoy the view out the window while still hard at work.

See the rest of this loft

CustomMade.com

Here’s another take on corner shelves.

IN Studio & Co.. Interiors

A blend of shelf units and floating shelves articulates this corner and gives the back wall an open atmosphere.

Tracy Murdock Allied ASID

Let two workspaces meet. This corner allows work spouses to segregate their distances.

See the rest of the home

Highmark Builders

This office for 2 makes the most of both sides. Perhaps they flipped to the one with the better opinion!

Erika Bierman Photography

Angle at a desk. If you would like to look out on the whole office, nestle yourself into the corner with all the desk facing to the room. I also like this strategy if a workspace is from the bedroom — you don’t feel so imprisoned in your desk when you have a vast perspective of the whole space.

Margaret Donaldson Interiors

Causa Design Group

Angle shelves and cabinets to the corner behind the desk. This curved desk and angled built in function nicely together.

Laura Britt Design

Insert a comfortable seat. Corners are a excellent place for an extra armchair.

Kathryn Waltzer

Create a cozy space for dialogue. In authentic tic-tac-toe style, sometimes circle takes the square. The corner can be a fantastic spot to meet in comfy armchairs, and a circular table can tuck into the corner between.

Cornerstone Architects

You can always place chairs and tables facing corner shelves. Note how this carpet positioning requires a cue out of the corner.

Doyle Coffin Architecture LLC

Install a fireplace. The worker in this room can take pleasure in the warmth out of the adjoining desk; a lounger can enjoy the cozy perspective of the flames out of the club seat throughout the room.

Conquering the Corner Fireplace

Habersham Home

Choose hardworking furniture made for corners. Some desk units are made for corners, while it is a massive piece like this …

Amy Renea

… or a more compact corner desk.

Adrienne DeRosa

Include a guest bed. If your home office doubles as a guest room, setting the mattress at the corner is a superb space saver. Additionally, having it at the corner makes it simpler to transform it to a daybed, since there are two walls for throw cushions.

The danger in this setup is the temptation to take a nap in the middle of the workday.

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Traditional Architecture

Rotunda

by Busucher January 15, 2019

Rotundas are around buildings or rooms, sometimes with a domed roof. The word “rotunda” has its origins in the Latin word “rotonda,” meaning “around”; those structures became popular in medieval Central Europe. Curves in structure consistently require just angled cuts and additional materials and technology, so these major feats of structure were initially utilized in churches, libraries, government buildings, museums and halls as showpieces.

Siemasko + Verbridge

Rotundas have cylindrical walls and most commonly a domed roof. Dormers are bumped into the domed ceiling of the rotunda to let light in.

Deep River Partners

Cove lights circle the dome of the rotunda, and pin lights create a starry-sky effect.

Colleen Brett

A semicircular domed or vaulted space off a main structure of a building is known as an apse. Apses are seen in churches.

Christopher D. Marshall Architect

Although the ceiling is not domed, this room can nevertheless be thought of as a rotunda since the walls are somewhat cylindrical.

Neuhaus Design Architecture, P.C.

This rotunda has a metal domed roof that is comparable to an onion roof.

omnidome

These duplex homes wouldn’t be known as rotundas, since the walls aren’t cylindrical; they’re spherical.

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Tropical Style

8 Pickable Plants for Fall Centerpieces

by Busucher January 13, 2019

An alteration in the season often inspires a change in house decor. Bring a bit of your fall garden inside to change things up. Here are some fall floral favorites which make charming autumnal structures and centerpieces.

Amoroso Design

With their big, multiflowered clusters, hydrangeas make excellent cut flowers. The simple fact that they are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors makes them suitable for virtually every landscape. Not just gorgeous at first blush, many turn into an attractive red purple for fall beauty as well. These two varieties are great for cutting:

Smooth Hydrangea
Botanical name: Hydrangea arborescens
USDA zones: 3 to 9 (find your zone)
Water requirement: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
Light condition: Partial shade
Mature size: 3 to 4 ft tall and broad

Oakleaf Hydrangea
Botanical name: Hydrangea quercifolia
USDA zones: 5 to 9
Water requirement:Medium moisture, well-drained soil
Light condition: Full sun to partial shade
Mature size: 6 to 10 feet tall and broad

With the help of a male pollinator, the feminine winterberry ‘Afterglow’ grows abundant orange-red fruit. These berries will persist through winter and provide food for birds. A simple spray of orange winterberry onto a table instantly evokes a sense of fall.

Botanical name: Ilex verticillata ‘Afterglow’
USDA zones: 3 to 9
Water requirement:moderate to moist soil
Light requirement: Full sun to light shade
Mature size: 3 to 6 ft tall and wide

Amy Renea

The bright yellow, fluffy plumes of goldenrod or Soldiago bring exceptional fall color to the landscape as well regarding the dining table. The ease of this table arrangement magnifies its effect.

A native into the U.S., Solidago has been wrongly accused of causing hay fever, which is actually brought on by wind-born pollen from plants with a similar bloom time, such as ragweed.

Botanical name: Solidago speciosa
USDA zones: 3 to 8
Water requirement: Dry to moderate moisture, well-drained soil
Light condition: Entire sun
Mature size: 2-3 feet tall and broad

Debra Campbell Design

Native to dry plains, prairies and meadows in the U.S., late-blooming sunflowers attract cheerfulness to some table arrangement. Easily grown from seed, they are available in a vast selection of sizes and colors for cutting, intended.

Botanical name: Helianthus annuus
USDA zones: N/A; yearly
Water requirement: Dry to moderate moisture, well-drained soil
Light condition: Entire sun
Mature size: 3 to 10 feet tall and 1 1/2 to 3 ft broad

The Holy lotus isn’t just famous for its big, spectacular flowers; its own seed pods are precious additions to drop floral structures when dried. Since this plant could be grown submerged, it creates a terrific addition to pond and water gardens. But it is best to maintain submerged groups of it in containers for manageability.

Botanical name: Nelumbo nucifera
USDA zones: 4 to 10
Water requirement: Wet, boggy soil
Light condition: Total sun
Mature size: 3 to 6 ft tall and 3 to 4 ft wide

Kim Gamel

A vase of tree branches with fall foliage creates a fall arrangement that is very simple. While maples are thought to be go-to trees for fall color, another tree worthy of consideration is the ginkgo, or Maidenhair tree. The unique fan-shape leaves turn a brilliant yellow in fall — ideal for a tabletop display.

Botanical name: Ginkgo biloba
USDA zones: 3 to 2
Water requirement: Medium moisture, well-drained soil
Light requirement: Total sun
Mature size: 50 to 80 feet tall and 30 to 40 feet broad

Debora carl landscape design

Known by many psuedonyms, curly willow hasbranches that include a rustic yet whimsical feel to structures. Whether mixed with flowers or on their own, these architectural branches make a statement.

Botanical name: Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’
USDA zones: 5 to 8
Water requirement: Medium to moist dirt
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Mature size: 20 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide

Missouri Botanical Garden

An extremely unique-looking “fruit” to consider for your fall table is Osage orange. A native to Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana, this thorny tree contains inedible grapefruit-size, wrinkly fruits which ripen to a bright chartreuse. Put in a bowl on your table and call it a day.

Botanical name: Maclura pomifera
USDA zones: 4 to 9
Water requirement: Dry to moderate vulnerability, well-drained soil
Light condition: Entire sun
Mature size: 35 to 60 feet tall and broad

Tell us What are some of your favorite fall plants to bring inside?

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