Wspomnienie późnego lata Memories of late summer

My memories of late summer

CLEMATIS

ORLIK

GOŹDZIKI

BLUSZCZ TRÓJKLAPOWY

CLEMATIS

BARWINEK

LILIA WODNA W OCZKU WODNYM I DZIKIE BRATKI

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Zdjęcia z mojego ogrodu późną jesienią Photos from my garden in late autumn

Photos from my garden in late autumn

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Closet Design Ideas to Maximize the Available Space

Closet Design Ideas to Maximize the Available Space
By Jim Gilbertson

Better storage space has become such a big necessity these days, especially with the current limitation in available living space. No matter how small, every area can be transformed into a space that offers comfort and efficiency with the right organization solution. Therefore, in setting up the interior space, closet space design is as important a choosing high quality building materials and the right kind of furniture. Here are a few guidelines from experts in home organizations systems for people who are currently designing or redesigning their closets.

Design the space based on your wardrobe

One of the most important considerations in designing closet space is to base the general plan on the user's wardrobe. A person's choice of clothes will determine the major divisions of the closet. Does the user's fashion and style choice require a wide hanging space? Do the clothes need to be hanged or can they be folded. What is the user's preference in terms of storage of accessories such as belts and ties? How a person likes to get dress determines the overall design concept. Closets, which are not designed to serve the space requirements of the user, might have too much drawer space with too little hanging storage, or vice versa.

Consider visibility in creating the design

Ideally, a modern-day closet must be durable, adaptable, functional, and convenient to use. Although the closet is primarily a place for storage of clothes and accessories, it must function as an efficient space that also fits the user's lifestyle demands. For instance, it would be easier and faster to dress up in the morning if there is greater visibility. This is possible with a closet that is designed to present all the options to the user with the use of glass-fronted drawers or see-through wire bins, as opposed to just the top layer of clothes. Belt racks and tie racks that make the items readily visible and accessible could decrease the amount of time that a person spends dressing up for work or school in the morning. Precious minutes are lost rummaging through layers of clothes while looking for particular item. The time it takes to get ready could be reduced significantly by customized shelves and increasing the visibility of the stored items.

Taking advantage of the available vertical space

Given the limited floor area in many modern apartments, the smart approach is to take advantage of the space by expanding the storage areas up to the ceiling and down to the floor. Items that are not used very often may be stored higher up toward the ceiling. If the ceiling is especially high, another closet pole may be installed and off-season items may be placed there. Meanwhile, rollout boxes may also be placed on the floor. The less accessible places can house oddball clothing items and accessories.

These are just a few helpful guidelines. There are plenty of resources available for people who want to learn more about closet organization solutions. With the help of a professional team of designers, any closet can be transformed into the ideal storage space.

Think about your wardrobe design.
Check out wardrobe Malaysia.

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Add A Little Color And Pattern To A Room With Throw Pillows!

Add A Little Color And Pattern To A Room With Throw Pillows!
By Randy Jakobs

Throw pillows are one of the most versatile tools in an interior designer's arsenal. Decorative throw pillows bring cohesiveness to a room's color palette and design scheme, while making the space more interesting visually and balancing it out beautifully.

Cushions and pillows can soften the intense looks of a leather sofa or enhance a wingback chair with a solid splash of color. Changing the pillows is an economical and straightforward way of alternating the color and design plan of a room. Purchase new accent pillows and then throw them anywhere, from your sofa to your chaise lounge. House decor becomes simpler, easier and faster with the right decorative pillows.

Decorating with Throw Pillows

Arrange Them Right

Decorative pillows should be arranged in odd numbers, with three, five or seven pillows in a set. These can vary in design, size or pattern for a more eclectic and modern look. Just make sure to stay within the same color family when buying your decorative pillows.

Vary the shapes and sizes of your cushions. Adding a contrasting shape or size into a pillow grouping give it an interesting character and draws the eyes. For example, place an oblong pillow in the center of a couch surrounded by squares on either side. Similarly use single round pillows on living room chairs.

Experiment with Fabric and Color

Contrast your throw pillows' textures and textiles for a delicate mix with some rich vibes. Plush velvets, smooth silks and luxurious premium cowhides and faux furs, can all become a part of the same grouping. Pair stripes and plaids or combine geometrical pillows with floral designs. When it comes to color selection, make sure your choice compliments the other accents in the space. Decide on a color that's common in the room's theme. It's alright if you can't find an exact match, a slight deviation adds natural contrast to the room.

Storing Throw Pillows: The Right Way!

If you'd like to lounge around in the living room, or only want to bring out the pillows when you are entertaining guests, a decorative wicker basket is a great idea. Just put all your accent pillows in there when you don't want to use them. The storage keeps pillows fresh and clean for longer, as they don't have to toil away on the floor.

The Last Word

A vivid splash of color, and a cozy, comfy place to rest - decorative throw pillows serve many purposes! The Thomas Collection gives you so many options to choose from. Select pillows that truly depict your joyous spirit with masterful embroidery and exotic fabrics.

Using decorative throw pillows is a simple yet effective way to, liven up a dull sofa, or add luxury to an already cozy bed! Thomas Collection Inc. has a wide variety of pillows and cushions that are perfect for every budget. Find throw pillows and accent pillows to suit any style. You can see the collection at http://www.PillowsAndDecor.com.

The author, an expert blogger on interior decoration and home improvement highlights how you can style your room decor with decorative throw pillows.

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Curating Your Personal Art Gallery: How to Choose Art Pieces for Your Home

Curating Your Personal Art Gallery: How to Choose Art Pieces for Your Home
By Anders Abadie

Throughout history, fine art has helped convey the human experience and define culture. You get an emotional and redemptive feeling when you admire a photograph, painting, or sculpture that you love. Art enriches your life and puts you in touch with human nature. So - wouldn't it be great to have this experience every day, right in the comfort of your home? Curating your own personal art gallery can bring light and color to your home as well as your soul. Here are a few tips that will help you go from admirer to curator in no time flat.

Use Your Space Wisely

Once you're ready to adorn a room with a few fine pieces, take a good look at the space to determine what kind of work would fit well. Don't overwhelm a small space with a huge canvas, and avoid cluttering walls with too many pieces. Keep scale in mind, and know that less is usually more: a striking, tasteful piece usually stands best on its own.

Trust Your Gut

The world of art sales can be daunting, since so much criticism and scrutiny swirls around artists and their work. But when you're building your private collection, forget all the tastemakers and schools of thought. If you like something and want it in your home, buy it! You're the most important critic in this case.

Seek Out Originals

Prints of classics by Picasso or Van Gogh are nice, but comb your local art gallery for affordable originals of paintings, photos, and other pieces. Original art means your home will take on an original flavor. Seeking out originals also makes the hunt more fun - you'll expand your horizons and find pieces that are off the beaten path. Who knows? Maybe you'll discover a gem by a local, lesser-known artist, or an old theatre poster that strikes your fancy.

Be Bold

Don't be afraid to mix and match styles. Your home doesn't have to be like a museum wing, with every piece drawn from the same period or school. Don't fear mixing modern with classical, photography with oil on canvas. An eclectic collection will add color and dynamism to your home, and keep visitors on their toes as they admire your personal art gallery.

Art collection isn't some snooty, high-society pursuit like it's often made out to be. You've got taste and the art you bring into your space reveals and compliments your personality, while enhancing the beauty of your home.

For custom framing for your art gallery, Mechanicsburg PA residents should visit, http://www.artworksgalleries.com/.

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How to Give Your Bedroom a Romantic Makeover

How to Give Your Bedroom a Romantic Makeover
By Jacom Staurt

We've all seen pictures in glossy magazines of bedrooms that look so totally beautiful you'd do anything to stay in them. We're talking about those rooms that ooze style and sophistication and look like they cost a fortune to makeover. If you're looking to give your bedroom a bit of a romantic feel, then there are a few simple design ideas that you can follow. Read on to discover more...

It's all about texture

Romantic rooms benefit from a lot of fabric. You'll usually find the curtains are elegantly draped around the windows, the beds are swathed in all manner of throws, blankets, and cushions, and the flooring is covered in wall-to-wall thick carpet or beautiful shaggy rugs. So let's start with the windows.

Windows in a romantic bedroom need a layering effect. Start with a simple white muslin curtain - not only do they look stunning, they also help with privacy. You can buy these extra long ready made curtains with little effort and they're usually pretty inexpensive. Next up, you need the second layer - the one that provides the real interest. For an extremely romantic look, why not opt for a luxurious velvet fabric. You can buy extra long ready made curtains in all sorts of materials, but for an opulent look, it's best to go for thick velvets, linens, and brocades. Long curtains that fall all the way to the floor look elegant - and most importantly - romantic.

When it comes to dressing your bed for the romantic look, you needn't think it's all about satin sheets. Traditional vintage-look fabrics can look equally as appealing and rather more sophisticated. Or you could keep it simple with an elegant crisp white duvet cover, then add detail with warm woolen throws at the end of the bed, and freshly-plumped cushions on top.

Elsewhere, there's the floor and the walls to think about. Add interest and comfort by placing a long-pile rug by the side of the bed - it will be soft under foot, and will look sumptuous too. On the walls, add your favourite photos in pretty vintage-style frames. Give them a romantic shabby chic look by spray painting them white or a pastel shade.

You can also add warmth to your bedroom by using wall hangings and door curtains. A wall hanging above your bed in a fabric that complements the bedding can look really stylish, while a door can be covered with extra long ready made curtains that swoop down to the floor and help give your room that intimate feel. Darker colours such as ruby reds, navy blues, and forest greens may seem like a bold choice but if you're going for the 'boudoir' look, they can really help to add the finishing touch.

Whether you're aiming for a bedroom with a modern romantic or traditional feel, you can get loads of ideas by reading home design magazines and checking out interior design blogs online. But whichever style you choose, the devil is always in the detail - and that detail is usually the soft furnishings.

Author is an expert article writer who has written many articles related Interior Decoration. Currently, he is writing Content on Extra long ready made curtains.

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Tips to Create a Great Dining Space

Tips to Create a Great Dining Space
By J Hudson

Your dining room doesn't have a boring room in the home, in fact brightening up the space can make it a more enjoyable room to make use. Many people turn their dining rooms into dark spaces which are unappealing, not functional in any way and seem as a place that is seldom used.

When you choose dark dining tables and chairs, adding lighter tones, splashes of color and creating a welcoming space can make sure you have a room where you can sit down as a family and enjoy a family meal each day without feeling as though the walls are closing in on you.

You can easily add color by adding light and bright blinds or curtains in the room.

This can immediately give the room a little lift, even the darkest room can enjoy the benefit of light-colored window dressings which are essential items and also highly functional, stylish and leave you with a light and bright design.

Ensure you paint the walls a lighter color, especially if you have a smaller space to work with. Darkened walls, rich in color may seem as calming, but they can turn any room into a dark dungeon.

Choose light colors that can complement your dining table and chairs while making the space feel larger and more spacious than it actually is.

Lighting is essential and a modern option is to add some beautiful pendant lights that hang over your dining table.

Your dining table are alive with light, making it easier when sitting around the table to see and speak to each other. Pendant lighting has grown in popularity and when carefully placed as a spectacular feature.

This lighting can also be beneficial to open plan dining spaces where you want to differentiate the rooms, making the dining table separate from the kitchen or living room.

Another great choice is to mix and match the chairs you place around your dining table. If you have a heavy solid wood mahogany table, choosing light-colored chairs and mixing and matching their style can create a unique design for the space.

This is done on a more regular basis these days, creating a spectacular and comfortable space that has a special design feature.

Always add a cabinet in the area. You'll be amazed how much you will rely on this one piece of furniture and how convenient it. A cabinet is used to keep plates, cups, extra cutlery and serving dishes.

It eliminates clutter on the dining table when not in use and it also gives you more room in your kitchen for all your other items.

Ensure your cabinet blends in with the rest of the furniture items in the room, they should work together to create a spectacular place where you can entertain, enjoy family meals and make use of the space every day.

If you have a dark wooden dining table and you want to brighten it, the best way to do this is to use a light runner across the length of the table.

Runners are exceptionally useful items that can also create a great feature on the table. The runner can add some contrast to the table while also creating a stunning design when the table isn't in use.

It takes a darkened item and adds that much-needed splash of light to brighten up the space.

Dining table size is imperative. You need to make sure you create a comfortable and functional space where you can move around with ease.

Consider the chairs around the table and see if you can get around the chairs if someone is sitting in them, this can help you decide on size and shape of the table you need to create a great dining space.

Hudson Furniture is Sydney's leading manufacturer of furniture, but they have that element that makes them stand out from other manufacturers. First of all, all of our products are hand made to the specifications of the customer and secondly, it's made from sustainably harvested and reclaimed timber. We have a showroom in Camperdown, Sydney, or they have a website for orders. You can visit their website at http://www.hudsonfurniture.com.au

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Making Interior Design Product Selections

Making Interior Design Product Selections
By Rachel Waldron

Embarking on an interior design project can be overwhelming, to say the least. Not all of us can afford an interior designer (geez, I can't even afford myself!) and those who can want to be knowledgeable and understand what we're getting into.

One of the most fun parts of the job, is selecting products. Materials, finishes, fixtures, and furnishings, oh my! So many options, and even the options have options!

FIRST AND FOREMOST, WHETHER YOU ARE WORKING WITH A DESIGNER OR GOING IT ON YOUR OWN, LET THE PROFESSIONALS BE PROFESSIONALS.

It's okay to get an idea of what you want and what you like, but let them guide you! Even if you're popping into Home Depot to work with what they have, they can do their job best and guide your decisions if you inform them fully about what you like, why you like it, and how you intend to use it. Designers do this too! We use specialists in the field to make sure that we are providing the best options and are informed for your project.

PRIORITIZE YOUR PURCHASES

Make a list of what you'll need. Next to each item, list your dream product (if you have one). Then note why you want these things. It's easy to forget items when we don't do this every day. So, take a look at pictures of similar spaces (save the ones you like for your designer or for your design inspiration) and note each item you see. Your list may look something like this:

• Counters- granite: aesthetics
• Sink- Stainless steel, undermount: Aesthetics, easy to clean, durable
• Faucet-???: I'm open and have no real opinion
• Refrigerator- A lot of freezer space: We store a lot of leftovers and prepare bulk meals
• Dishwasher- QUIET: Personal preference. Noisy dishwashers make me cranky
• Stove/Oven- Gas, 6 burners, single oven: I like the look of professional stoves, but I don't do a lot of baking.
• Microwave- Built-in: More counter space
• Floors- Wood: Aesthetics
• Tile- Recycled Glass: Easy to clean, aesthetics, environmentally considerate

Bring this list with you to your designer or to the store where you are selecting your products. A good professional may question your selections and dig further into the "whys". Our example wants 6 burners, but doesn't do a lot of cooking... so why 6? Is it really necessary? If they do not ask questions or talk about it before purchasing the products, shop around a bit. Let them be the pros!

KNOW THE LOOK YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE

This is easier said than done, and if you're struggling with it, talk to a designer even about just establishing a concept- trust me, it's worth your dime! Use magazine clippings, Pinterest, or whatever guides you best. But, whatever resource you use, make it something you can bring with you when you shop. Look at the images you've selected. Does the product fit in those spaces, or would it stand out? Follow this rule for EVERY selection. I find mood boards or an image of one inspirational space to be the most helpful tool when shopping.

Armed with these tools and tidbits, the job of making product selection should be that much easier. But, when in doubt- talk to a designer. Waldron Designs offers concept design services online to get that vision on a piece of paper (or tablet) that you can bring with you on your shopping trips. Click here to view our e-design options!

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Venetian Blind Repair

Venetian Blind Repair
By Alex Pupkin

Venetian blinds are versatile, practical, and durable. It's no wonder they are such a popular choice for home and office window coverings. Nevertheless, even the sturdiest Venetian blinds can develop some problems - cords break and slats can be damaged. Fortunately, you can usually fix many of these problems in just a few steps, and you'll often find there are Venetian blind repair kits with all the materials you need. Let's take a closer look.

Replacing Venetian Blind Cords

Before you start replacing the cord, you should inspect your blinds and see how the cords work. Broken or frayed cords should be replaced, but you'll want to look at an intact cord and see how things work. From the bottom of the cord (where there is usually a tassel or plastic end), strings rise up through a gravity catch across the top of the blinds and through holes in the slats. There is also a set of strings that are shaped somewhat like a ladder which work to rotate the slats. If you think you need help remember the cord system, just take some photos with your phone or digital camera.

Remove your blinds from the window and ensure your replacement string is an appropriate length. Find the string access point at the top and bottom of the blinds. Most access points are easy to identify at the top of the blinds, and at the bottom you'll usually find some kind of cap or slide that can be removed to access the string.

Disconnect the cord at one end, and always replace just one string at a time. Carefully thread the string through the base of the blinds and upwards through the holes on the blind slats. Always try to follow the same path as the original string. You'll follow the path through the top and to the bottom of the blinds, making sure to secure the cord along the bottom rail of the blinds. You want to make a knot that won't slip out, and you'll notice that the blinds have a pair of holes to attach the string through.

Finally, replace the caps and rails that you had to remove to access the bottom of the string. Hang your blinds and ensure the new cord works properly.

Caring for Slats

Ultimately, you should take care with the slats on your blinds, ensuring to clean them regularly. Still, from time to time, slats will need to be replaced.

First, you'll want to order replacement slats through the manufacturer. You could also bring the broken slat to a hardware store and look for a match in their blind department. On the bottom rail of the blinds, you'll notice some small buttons that can be easily removed with a flat-head screwdriver. Untie the knot strings so you can remove the bottom rail and subsequent slats. Pull up the cord just to the point of the broken slat(s). Next, string the new slats into position, making sure they are in the correct position and direction. Finally, replace the bottom rail, and retie the knot cord. Insert the buttons once you've verified the bottom rail and slats are tied evenly.

For more information please visit our website Arlene's interiors.

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Functionality and Decorative Suspended Ceilings Are Possibilities

Functionality and Decorative Suspended Ceilings Are Possibilities
By Alexander H James

When choosing a certain type of ceiling for any type of building, it is going to be important to understand the many features of it and how it is going to benefit the building. Some features are more beneficial than others. Suspended ceilings have many aspects of functionality and decorative possibilities for each use.

The lighting is something that is going to have to be considered closely when choosing any type of ceiling. There are some types of ceilings that are going to be able to allow for any type of lighting. A suspended ceiling may allow for recessed lighting fixtures or allow other pieces of equipment, such as speakers to be easily installed in the ceiling without much being noticeable.

Not every building is going to be able to use these though. It will depend on how the ceiling is already and the height of it. A suspended ceiling may make the ceiling too low if it is installed. Everything has to be taken into consideration when choosing this.

Ceilings are vital to the success of a company too. The color of it and design that is on the ceiling and more can affect how the lighting looks in a room. This is something that is very important to consider.

Every company will have a different option when it comes to choosing their ceiling and lighting options. Suspended ceilings are able to cover up blemishes in the actual ceiling also. This is something that can be very beneficial if the blemish is very expensive to repair.

There are different materials used for all of the different ceilings too. This is something that will be important to research before purchasing anything. The size of the tiles, type and more will need to be addressed.

The way that they are held in place is also important to know. The ceiling above has to be sturdy enough to hold these in place. It is something that can affect the way that it looks and how effective it works.

Another added benefit to choosing a suspended ceiling is going to be the ability to access certain parts of the utilities, such as heating ducts or water lines. This will allow them to be hidden easily. There are a lot of things that these ceilings are able to do for homeowners and business owners.

There are many different designs that are used for these too. The colors and styles that are chosen will reflect many things. Some are rather plain looking styles that will look great with almost anything, while others have a lot of charm to them.

Whatever is chosen, it is going to be easy to install and help people cover up things that they do not want guests to see. This is something that will be very important for people who live in older homes or in homes that people have different types of equipment.

Heating ducts can be ran in the ceilings sometimes. Other times, they are installed under the floors. A home that has a basement may benefit from having a drop ceiling installed in the basement.

The interior of a home can add value to the home if it is something that looks amazing. There are many different choices that every homeowner will have. The colors can have an effect in how the room feels also. The ceilings can be different colors in each room also.

Suspended ceilings give the homeowners the ability to easily change the panels in many of them. This is something that can be very beneficial for a lot of reasons. Every ceiling will offer something different to the homeowner, but making sure that it is installed properly is going to be very important.

Efficiency in an office or other type of workplace is important. Having partitions, proper lighting, the right type of flooring, decorations and more will be a vital part of making that happen. Every business owner will choose something different for their building. Handpicked Commercial Interiors LTD. offers many options for them. They have a wide variety of different kinds of walls, flooring, partitions, lighting and even the d�cor that can be used in a place like that. This can cut down on distractions and increase the efficiency of their staff. For more information, check them out at http://handpicked-interiors.co.uk to see what they offer.

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How to Measure for Ready Made Curtains

How to Measure for Ready Made Curtains
By Jacom Staurt

Buying ready made curtains online doesn't have to be a real chore. As long as you're armed with all the correct information before you begin your hunt for the perfect pair of curtains, it couldn't be simpler. To make sure you buy curtains that will fit when you hang them up, here's our how to guide to ensure you get the perfect measurement.

Firstly, there are three types of curtains:

• Tab top
• Eyelet
• Pencil pleat

When you're buying your ready made curtains online, here's how to do it...

First of all, you need to make sure you fix your curtain pole or track before you take your measurements. Your track or pole needs to be bigger than your window by about 15-20cm on either side of the window. This is to allow space for your curtains to hang when they are open so they don't obstruct any light from the window. Also make sure that you hang the curtain pole or track about 15cm above your window. This will help keep as much light out as possible when the curtains are drawn.

Width

To ensure accurate measurements it's a good idea to use a metal or wood ruler so you get a perfect reading. Using your metre rule, measure the full length of your curtain track or pole. You don't need to measure the finials, but you do need to account for the length of your track if it overlaps at the mid-point (where the curtains draw closed).

Length

If you're buying tab top or eyelet ready made curtains online, then measure the drop of your curtain from the top of the curtain pole. This is to make sure the curtain doesn't come up short at the bottom. For pencil pleat curtains take the measurement from the bottom of the small curtain ring if you're using a curtain pole. If you're using track, measure from the top of the track to ensure it's covered by curtain.

Measure down to 1cm above the window sill for curtains that will sit at this height, or down to your ideal length if your curtains will sit below the window sill. For floor-length curtains, measure down to 1cm above the floor to ensure a nice clean finish.

Finally, you need to take into consideration how gathered you want the ready made curtains you're buying online to look. If, for example, you're buying a pencil pleat curtain with a standard 168cm width, and you hang it on a pole with a length of 150cm - 210cm it will have a full appearance. Hang it on a longer length pole and the gather will be less full and much flatter. This is the same for tab top and eyelet curtains.

Now that you know how to measure for your ready made curtains, buying online should be a cinch. But always make sure you double check your measurements before you go ahead and click the 'buy' button.

Author is an expert article writer who has written many articles related Interior Decoration. Currently, he is writing Content on ready made lined curtains.

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How to Burn Your Candles Evenly

How to Burn Your Candles Evenly
By Rick Martis

After watching your candle burn into a wax cavern, there is little you can do for that candle. However, when you purchase a new candle there are some ways that you can ensure it burns evenly. The first thing you should do is determine if your candle is even. To do this, you will need to place your candle on a flat, level surface. Next you will need to place a pencil on the surface; if it rolls your candle is not even and will burn unevenly. To fix a candle that is not level, you can either melt it down until the surface is flat, or trim the surface until it is level.

Next, you will need to light your new candle. This process should only be started when you have a minimum of an hour to allow the candle to burn. If you have a larger candle, or a three or five wick candle, you will need to allow at least two to four hours of burning time. Higher-end candles are designed to burn slower; you should take this into consideration when you begin the process.

After your candle has melted to its farthest edge, you can then blow it out. If you're burning a jar candle or tea light, you should wait until the wax has melted all of the way to edge of the container before blowing it out. Once you have blown out your candle, you will then need to fold the softened wax inward towards the center of the candle. The next time that you light your candle, you will notice that the entire candle is melting rather than simply a hole in the center.

Scented candles are a great addition to any home, which is why if you can burn the entire candle you will ensure that you are not throwing money away. The steps that I have listed above will ensure that you will now be able to burn your candles completely without having to throw away a large portion of unused scented candle.

Now that you know how to burn your candles more effectively, you will not only ensure that your home continues to smell great, but that you are getting the most out of them. This is a great technique that will help you make your investment last a lot longer; which will save you money and frustration down the road.

Rick Martis is the Founder and CEO of StinkyCandle Inc. and Yank King. Yank Me Candle is your premier source for the best gag gifts. While our 100% high quality soy candles are designed for humor, they will also provide an enjoyable aroma once they are lit. You can't go wrong when you purchase Yank Me Candles. 50% off all proceeds go directly to animal shelters in need. To learn more about Yank Me Candle gags, visit Yank Me Candles.

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How to Burn the Perfect Candle

How to Burn the Perfect Candle
By Rick Martis

Whether you're burning a jar candle, votive, taper, or column candle it is estimated that you are likely only burning 80% of the candle. What this means for you, is that you are throwing away a big portion of a candle that you have spent a lot of money on. If you're tired of throwing away candles that haven't burned all of the way, the following tips will help you burn the perfect candle.

� Trim The Wick - One of the most effective techniques you can perform to ensure that your candle burns properly is to keep the wick trimmed. It is highly recommended that you keep the wick trimmed to � of an inch. Wicks that are longer than this size tend to burn faster and produce more smoke.

� Avoid Drafty Areas - Burning a candle in a drafty area can cause them to burn unevenly and produce an excessive amount of smoke. Drafts will also cause your candle to burn much faster than if it was placed in another area of your home. To avoid burning a candle in a drafty area, you should not place them near any air-conditioning or heating vents and windows.

� Keep Them Cool - When you store your candles in the refrigerator, they will burn slower. To properly cool your candle, you should wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to keep the wick from absorbing moisture. After they are wrapped properly, place them in the refrigerator for an hour. When you light them, you will notice that they last longer than other candles.

� Putting Out The Flame - When blowing out a candle, it is recommended that you use a candle snuffer. If you do not have available, you can always blow out the flame by placing your index finger in front of the flame and blowing the candle out gently.

� Safety - You should always keep any lit candles in your home away from pets and children. It is also important to remember never to leave a burning candle unattended.

� Spilled Wax - If an accident has occurred and you have spilled wax on your carpet, the best way in which to remove it is using a paper towel and iron. Place the paper towel or piece of a brown paper bag over the wax. Next, place the iron over the paper, the heat from the iron will melt the wax and it will be absorbed into the paper.

Rick Martis is the Founder and CEO of StinkyCandle Inc. and Yank King. Yank Me Candle is your premier source for the best gag gift candles. While our 100% high quality soy candles are designed for humor, they will also provide an enjoyable aroma once they are lit. You can't go wrong when you purchase Yank Me Candles. 50% off all proceeds go directly to animal shelters in need. To learn more about Yank Me Candle gags, visit Yank Me Candles.

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How To Get the Most Out Of Your Candles

How To Get the Most Out Of Your Candles
By Rick Martis

Constantly purchasing new candles can become quite expensive, which is why I have listed the following tips to ensure that you are not overspending when it comes to scented candles.

Floating Candles

When you are burning floating candles, it is important that you place your bowl in the desired location first. Once you have settled on the perfect spot, you should fill the container with water. After the water has been added, you can then add your floating candles. It is important to remember not to get the wick of the candle wet when using floating candles. It is also recommended that you fill the container using warm water, this will help extend the burn time of your floating candles.

Pillar Candles

To properly burn pillar candles, it is recommended that you place them on a plate or holder. If a pillar candle is burned properly, it should self-consume leaving you with no unburned portion of candle. When you burn a pillar candle for the first time, it should burn for between 3 - 6 hours depending on the size of the candle. This will allow the candle to burn all the way to edge, which will help you avoid a pillar burning down the center and leaving the sides unmelted. If your pillar candle features a bell-top design, you should only burn your candle for five or ten minutes on the first lighting. Each lighting after that should be increased until you have gotten rid of the bell-top.

Taper Candles

When you place tapers in holders, it is important that you ensure they are firmly set and straight. If your tapers feature a stem that is larger than the holder, you should place the stem half of the candle in warm water. This will soften the wax allowing you to gently place the candle in the holder allowing the stem to be custom fit to size and design of the holder.

Glass Jar Candles

It is highly recommended that you burn glass jar candles on a non-combustible surface, and placed on a holder. You should also practice extreme care when handling a glass jar candle that is or has recently been used. The jar may become very hot and could cause you to burn your hands. You should also ensure that the flame never comes into direct contact with the side of the jar. To keep this from happening, you should keep the wick trimmed to a quarter of an inch. If you notice that the wick is no longer in the center of the jar, you should reposition it while the wax is soft. This will help provide the needed distance between the wick and the side of the glass jar.

Rick Martis is the Founder and CEO of StinkyCandle Inc. and Yank King. Yank Me Candle is your premier source for the best gag gift candles. While our 100% high quality soy candles are designed for humor, they will also provide an enjoyable aroma once they are lit. You can't go wrong when you purchase Yank Me Candles. 50% off all proceeds go directly to animal shelters in need. To learn more about Yank Me Candle gags, visit Yank Me Candles.

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Dollhouse Decorating - Unfortunate Color Choices

Dollhouse Decorating - Unfortunate Color Choices
By Susan Downing

Creative use of color can be a wonderful tool. Light colors tend to open up a room, making it seem lighter and more spacious. Dark hues can add depth and warmth. Using a dark color on a single accent wall creates visual interest, without making the room feel smaller.

However, unexpected mistakes can be avoided if accepted decorating principles are followed. The color of surrounding objects, such as carpet, curtains, furniture fabric, will effect how individual colors appear. Make sure the colors are compatible. If you are in the "blue" family, don't slip in a Chinese red accent.

Beware of too many patterns in a small space. Your color choices may result in a friendly palette, but if patterned wallpaper, curtains and rug are too close together, a "busy" look may not be the worst problem. A viewer's eye can get confused and focus on a minor shade, and you may not be able to figure out why the room just doesn't look right. Try replacing one of the pattern objects with a solid color.

The perceived color of a surface will vary with the light source illuminating that surface. Incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, even if both are balanced for "daylight," have different reflective properties, as does the surface. A flat paint absorbs more light than a semi-gloss. If you notice an unwanted bounce from one surface to another, use flat paint.

A warning about white walls and ceilings: pay special attention to how surrounding elements will reflect light and alter the color. For example, red furniture or carpeting might make white walls look pink. This is especially true in a room box, as there is mostly reflected light present.

Blue can give the room a cool feeling; it can also make it look cold. A blue wall will give a cool bluish-white cast to the whole room. A reflected light source can give everything in the bathroom, especially a white ceiling, a bluish cast, destroying the desired contrasts.

Contemporary miniatures can have a problem with the a 60-30-10 rule, where a selection of three different colors should be used in that proportion. The idea is the color of the primary surface, usually the walls, will be the dominate color; large objects like furniture, will be a compatible, or an acceptable contrasting secondary color. Trim and accessories are the third-place color. Interior designers often use dark primary and secondary colors, which can be fine in a real room, but deadly in a room box. If a decorators work is your inspiration for the miniature, choose lighter shades of the same colors or break the 60-30-10 rule.

The color police won't come knocking on your door.

Susan Downing is the owner of MiniDecor & More, specializing in dollhouse furniture and accessorizes. To take advantage of a free dollhouse decorating service, click on the Free Stuff tab at http://www.minidecorandmore.com. Dollhouse news and decorating tips are offered on http://www.facebook.com/MiniDecor

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Retro Vs Modern Signs - Which Is Your Style?

Retro Vs Modern Signs - Which Is Your Style?
By Sian L Morgan

There has been an explosion of interest in vintage style signs for the home and in business. Designers such as Cath Kidston and Red or Dead have created an ever expanding market for quintessentially quirky products that reflect a design essence from the past. They are cool but still manage to evoke a comforting confidence that takes you back through previous generations of memories that most of us are too young to recall and yet still have a fondness for.

In the sign industry, there has always been a demand for traditional styling, whether it be for a well-established small businesses or sites of historical interest. The most commonly seen use of vintage sign making is the Blue Plaque Scheme. Originating in London in 1866, these schemes have been set up to commemorate where a notable person has lived or worked in the past and there are over 850 of these plaques on walls throughout the country, so they are indeed a familiar sight that immediately connects us to the past.

Original vintage signs are collector's items but the market provides us with reproductions that can be personalised with messages of love and humour or that just host your house name or address in a welcoming way. Their old-school appeal provides us with a sense of belonging and usually makes us smile and yet despite our en masse new found love of retro interiors, vintage styling as a consumer is not always what we want to see.

Using cutting edge design in sign making suits many industries and events. A commercial architectural practice for example is going to use progressive design with clean, graphic lines in its profile to suggest creative vision and precision. And a medical practice is not going to use antiqued signage to promote the clinical care on offer as it would be rather disconcerting for any waiting patients wondering if their medical treatments would be similarly old-fashioned. Signs for youth focused events demand contemporary images and styling with traditional designs being seen to be backward thinking and twee. Any promotional imagery being targeted at a younger adult or teenage market is going to have to rely on fresh innovative design if it is to have any appeal at all.

So, with regard to retro signs verses modern signs, each have their place in our streets, in our businesses and in our homes. There is no competition when all we need are the right signs.

Check out the wide range of designs. shapes and styles produced at Croft Cast Signs (http://www.croftcastsigns.co.uk)

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Quilt As an Important Part of Decor: A Quick Review

Quilt As an Important Part of Decor: A Quick Review
By Arvind Benjara

During the Christmas season, decorating the interior of a home can honestly be one of the best artistic works in a festive season when we all try to do our best in decorating our houses in several ways. Interior decoration adds aesthetic appeal to a house and turns it more attractive with festiveness.

Much similar to show pieces on tables, quilts bring curve appeal to the interior with eye-catching footprints. A range of designer quilts are available with several online retailers who have good understanding of the high quality fabrics which are used in quilts. On the other hand, it is also necessary to go for health-friendly quilts, as we spend much of our time sleeping and a health-friendly quilt can keep us away from all kinds of allergic conditions. Your bedroom, where you go to have a break from your hectic schedule, should have comfortable and cozy bedding products.

If your quilts reflect the elegance in combination with interior decor, it can create a preferable and pleasurable ambiance inside your home, which means you can naturally get relieved from the stress, caused by daylong hectic schedule.

Online retailers offer a range of quality quilts at an affordable cost, having so many variants in colors, patterns, and size. They collect the best handmade quilts in several patterns like pin wheel, plaid, cowboy and floral designs. The artists reveal their artistic aspect with great influences while making handmade quilts.

In order to meet the requirements, online retailers do also have a good collection of designer quilts in several sizes like queen size quilts, super king size, baby quilts, king quilts, and others.

Since a quilt is an appreciated aspect of your home decor, you should consider some key points while selecting a quilt for your home. The purpose of a quilt in your home is not confined to the style and elegance; rather it is also purposed to provide a sleeper with comfortable and health-friendly environment he/she can have nap contentedly.

If you are purchasing king quilts for your home, you should first check if the select comforter is made from health-friendly fabric materials like cotton and other fabrics. The king size quilts have 3-7 hand stitches and are brought with batting inside them.

For high trustworthiness and durable products, you should select an online store based on some key prerequisites: types of quilts, range of quilts, price, shipment options, and payment option. After selecting a particular store, you start exploring the product and place an order for the selected quilts.

If you want to find out more about queen size quilts, king quilts and handmade queen size quilts. Please visit our website: http://www.wildorchidquilts.net

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Staying Safe and Secure With Top Quality Roller Shutters

Staying Safe and Secure With Top Quality Roller Shutters
By Tushar Deep Singh

Still having second thoughts about your home security? If yes, then you must install a security shutter door as it's the best precaution you can take to safeguard your property. Installing security shutters definitely helps in ensuring security and achieving peace of mind that you always wanted. Also, they can provide you benefits like privacy, protection and improving home value. In general, roller blinds are bendable doors and window barriers that are formed from joined covering of metals such as wood, aluminium or galvanized steel. They can be easily installed and are available in different sizes and styles as per the home design.

They can be classified as automatic and manual shutters. Manual blinds can be operated manually with the help of a battery whereas electronic or automatic blinds are operated with the help of a remote or control panel. There are many decisions you'll have to make while buying a shutter door such as picking an appropriate color, getting an idea about the installation fee, choosing between the automatic or manual version, and much more. There are many advantages of these security doors such as utmost security, preventing noise pollution as they are good noise regulators, protection against bad weather, they do not obstruct light, bringing down your electricity cost, and more.

There are many types of roller blinds available in the market these days such as:

Wooden Shutters - these blinds make your home feel alive by leaving an everlasting impression on everyone. Wood is softer and warmer as compared to other materials. It is a cheaper option because of which it is highly used in all parts of world. Wood can definitely help in giving any room a flawless finish. They add a more rustic and elderly appeal to them.

Benefits of using wooden blinds:

• Lighter in weight & stronger in strength - wood is stronger and lighter as compared to aluminium. This makes wood more durable than other materials.
• Different colours and sizes available - wood can be painted to any colour whereas aluminium roller blind on the other hand provides limited colour choices.
• Natural look - wooden rolling screens are always praised by everyone as it gives your home a natural look.

Aluminium shutters - As one of the most popular roller blinds available in the market these days, they are way ahead than wooden and vinyl blinds in terms of good looks, functionality and strength. They can be used effectively for both indoor and outdoor purpose because of its high adaptability. They are adjustable and are perfect for places where excess light is not required. Also, they are more durable as compared to other materials which help you in saving your valuable money and safeguarding your house.

Benefits of using aluminium shutters:

• Highly durable and long-lasting - aluminium is very tough and robust, which makes it a better choice than wood.
• No need to repaint - aluminium is an everlasting material which doesn't require repainting like wood.
• Moisture resistant - aluminium can even resist to humidity and moisture.

So it's better to take advice from family, colleagues and friends before taking any decision.

For top quality roller shutters, grilles and doors, Contact Us

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In Carpets Versus Hardwood Flooring, Carpets Win

In Carpets Versus Hardwood Flooring, Carpets Win
By Jillynn Stevens, Ph.D., MSW

Be realistic about options for carpets versus hardwood flooring. Hardwood flooring-while beautiful and appropriate in certain areas of the home-simply isn't as utilitarian as you think. Obviously, carpeting in the kitchen and bathroom is unpopular. But the bedrooms, living rooms and dens? There's nothing hospitable or cozy about cherry wood floors (without radiant heating) when you want to curl up for movie night. In an era where seemingly everyone wants hardwood flooring, where's the love for your high-quality carpet?

Fortunately, Americans have recovered from the trauma of wall-to-wall shag carpeting, poor quality fibers and those creamy swirls so prevalent in the 1990s. Today's carpeting mixes beauty with comfort. Considering the flooring options for your remodel or new construction? Here are a few reasons to take a closer look at carpet:

1. It's break resistant

This is true not just for bones if you should take a spill, but also for your belongings. The odds of your grandma's depression glass breaking on carpet versus hardwood are much lower. If you (or someone in the family) is a klutz, a little extra padding might be just what you need. For a house brimming with breakables, nothing beats carpet.

2. It minimizes injuries

Here's a sour surprise-if someone gets hurt on your property, you might be sued for a personal injury claim. Particularly if you have kids, carpet can cushion all those slips, falls and tumbles. They'll still happen when an impromptu game of hide and seek breaks out, but carpeting provides the necessary buffer that can make the difference between a bruise and a trip to urgent care.

3. It helps with insulation

Particularly helpful in multilevel homes, carpeting is a natural sound insulator. You won't have to put up with your roommate, spouse or kids practicing tap upstairs in their bedrooms, walking around in heels or those who are simply "heavy steppers." As an added bonus, carpet is also a heating/cooling insulator for multilevel homes, too.

4. This isn't your mom's carpeting

It's understandable that some people are wary of carpeting, given some hideous trends in recent years. Whether you had to wear booties around the house as a kid to keep those stain-magnet white carpets white, you still break out in hives at the thought of shag or that poor-quality carpeting gave you a rash, don't worry. Today's options for carpet material are truly plush, hypoallergenic and toe the line between trendy and classic. They're made to last a lifetime in both quality and style.

5. They're just more comfortable

Whether you're opening presents during a special occasion, hosting a slumber party or simply relaxing in the family room during a gathering, it's cozier and more comfortable to gather on carpet. Sure, you could invest in throw rugs and pillows for hardwood floors, but you're basically creating makeshift carpeting. Go for the real deal and forget about rug shaking or pillow storage.

Carpeting isn't what it used to be. Check out the options today that can turn your house into a home. Talk to the professionals to help you weigh your options for carpets versus hardwood flooring.

Jillynn Stevens is a writer and researcher. She is the Director of Digital Content Marketing for Be Locally SEO where she enjoys helping clients expand and improve their businesses through articles, blogs, website content and more.

For everything from new stone counter tops to flooring, see Salt Lake City, Utah's Granite City.

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Remodel Your Home to Add Value

Remodel Your Home to Add Value
By Janet Myers

Your home is indeed a huge investment. Choosing a great home takes time and effort. Adding value to your home by remodeling can make your investment pay off both for you and for prospective buyers if you make the right choices. To maximize the return on the money you pour into a remodeling project, follow these tips from our remodeling experts.

Create Value and Comfort with a New Bathroom

One of the most important rules to remember is that an update should make you more comfortable living in your home. Even if you plan to sell your home, buyers look for features that give them a more comfortable living space. A new bathroom can do just that. Having enough bathrooms to accommodate family members and guests creates a relaxing environment where no one need to wait to use the bathroom.

In your new bathroom, you can add some of the touches of luxury that you have always wanted. Dual sinks, for instance, make it possible for a couple-or two family members at a time-to brush their teeth at the same time. A shower and tub combination can give homeowners the gift of choice when it comes to bathing. Add a Jacuzzi, and you will give your family and guests a luxurious, spa-like place to relax.

A new bathroom will not only add to your home's comfort. Upgrading your home to include a new bathroom can increase your home's value-an important thing to remember in today's competitive real estate market.

Create More Space and Privacy With an Attic Bedroom

You may not think that your home has any more room to expand without an expensive addition. Yet have you considered the attic space? You may not have realized it, but most attics have enough room to create a spacious bedroom out of the space for a fraction of the cost of an addition.

An attic bedroom will give children, parents, in-laws, or guests who stay with you the privacy they need without living in a separate building. Homebuyers, of course, will welcome the extra living space that you have created by remodeling the attic into another bedroom.

Create a Space for Reflection and Work With a Home Office

Many people these days do some of their work at home. Whether you are on a flexible work schedule that allows you to work some days at home, or if you have a home business that needs a private office space that doesn't take up space in the dining room, creating a home office out of a little-used space in your home makes perfect sense.

Work is best accomplished with few interruptions. With a space set a distance apart from the everyday domestic goings-on in your home, you will certainly get more work done in less time. That, in turn, will free more of your time to spend time with friends and family.

If your business involves confidential matters, a home office is essential. Even if most of your work is done at the office, there will be times in which you must bring work home. A separate office space will keep you from worrying about whether your children barge in on you just when you are composing a letter about a sensitive matter to one of your best clients.

In your home office, you should install a wireless computer network. Your whole house will benefit from the convenience of wireless Internet access. From your kids on their Xbox gaming system to your convenience in printing a document from your laptop as you relax in front of the TV, a wireless network is a great advantage in a contemporary home.

A home with a separate office will, of course, appeal to potential homebuyers. Even if they do not plan to use the space as an office, they will be able to use the room as a den or as a study-an asset to any homeowner-whether single or with a family.

Whether it is a home office or a new bathroom, your local design professionals have the knowledge to help you create a room that will both meet your needs and add value to your home. Our team of designers know how to get the most value out of your remodeling budget.

The designers at David Gray Design Studio can help you create a custom-designed look for your home through the imaginative use of color. If you want help updating your home to reflect your personal tastes, call David Gray Design Studio today to make an appointment for a personal consultation.

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Give Your Home a Sense of Continuity With a Harmonious Color Scheme

Give Your Home a Sense of Continuity With a Harmonious Color Scheme
By Janet Myers

To provide a sense of continuity, a home's color scheme should flow from room to room. Does that mean that the color for each room must be the same? Of course not. Yet the colors you choose should blend together to provide a harmonious environment that makes people feel comfortable when they walk from one room into another.

To choose such a scheme, one does not need to be a design expert, nor have extensive knowledge of color theory. Your own preferences can guide you in your choice. Here are some tips to get you started on choosing your home's colors.

Use a Color Wheel To Help You Choose

A color wheel is a circular illustration that allows you to see the entire spectrum of possible colors-both primary and tertiary-at a single glance. Primary colors are yellow, red, and blue. Tertiary colors-orange, green, and purple-are created by mixing two primary colors together. You can usually pick a color wheel up for free at a home improvement store or an art supply center.

Choose Colors That Appeal to Your Tastes

When you look at the color wheel, which of those main colors appeal to you most? If only one color sticks out in your mind, you may want to go with a monochromatic-or single-colored- color scheme for your home. With such a color scheme, you would choose various tones of your favorite color to decorate your home.

If you like two colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, you may prefer an analogous color scheme. An analogous color scheme, such as purple with blue, or green with blue, usually provides a relaxed, soothing feel in your home.

If the colors that you prefer are across from each other on the color wheel, you will achieve a bold look in your home. Blue and orange, for instance, is a complementary color scheme that will create an exciting feeling when you walk into your home. With a complementary color scheme, you may want to dial down some of the excitement by using the two complementary colors as accent, and then using a neutral grey or cream for the base color.

Once you have selected your color scheme, however, you are ready to choose the wall coverings, flooring, furniture, and accent pieces for your home. If you select them to blend with your overall scheme, you will have a harmonious look all through your home.

Many people, however, like to work in the opposite direction to find a color. If they have a favorite possession, such as a painting, a quilt, or another piece of fabric, they may want to choose a color scheme that picks out the main colors in that piece. That one piece can inspire the d�cor for an entire home.

Choose Lighting to Accent Your Color Scheme

Lighting can make a huge impact on the color scheme in your home. Natural sunlight from a window or skylight will bring in warm tones of lights-yellows in the morning and oranges late in the afternoon and evening. Regular fluorescent lighting, however, produces cool, blue-toned light. Some fluorescent lights that put out warmer tones, can, however, be purchased. Look for the term "warm" on the box. Incandescent light bulbs usually create warmer tones of light, slightly more red than natural light.

As you look through the choices of light bulbs at the store, be careful to read the information on the package. There are so many choices today in both fluorescent, LED, and incandescent lights. Take care to choose the right bulb to create the right mood in each of your rooms. Work with your colors, and select lighting that best shows off your home's colors.

The surfaces that reflect the lights can also impact the color in your room. Light reflecting off a bluish-white ceiling, for instance, will have cooler tones than that reflecting off a creamy white ceiling, with its warm yellow undertones. If you choose lighting that works with your chosen colors, your color scheme will be well-balanced and harmonious.

The designers at David Gray Design Studio in Jacksonville FL can help you create a custom-designed look for your home through the imaginative use of color. If you want help updating your home to reflect your personal tastes, call David Gray Design Studio today to make an appointment for a personal consultation.

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Countertops That Will Transform Your Kitchen Into a Sanctuary

Countertops That Will Transform Your Kitchen Into a Sanctuary
By Janet Myers

One of the best places in the home to make into a sanctuary is the kitchen. Homeowners and guests gravitate to the kitchen as a place of warmth and comfort. Revamping your kitchen to provide you with even more comfort as you prepare meals and congregate around the table for conversation is one of the best home improvements you can make.

The countertop is where you and other family members will prepare meals. Great countertops can inspire great meals. The materials you choose for countertops can set the tone for the design of the entire kitchen. Professional design teams have great ideas for you to consider as you choose countertops for your kitchen.

Granite Countertops Provide Protection, Durability, Elegance

Granite countertops, crafted from natural stone, come in many colors that can blend with the color scheme that you have chosen for your kitchen. The durable, polished surface is highly resistant to germs as well as household chemicals, so it makes an ideal choice for a kitchen countertop. Sealing the countertops on a regular basis will keep their surface easy to clean and maintain.

Marble Provides Classic Beauty With a Cool Surface

Also a natural stone material, marble gives your kitchen a classic, clean appearance. For bakers, marble is the material of choice. Marble keeps cool longer, since it is not a material that conducts heat easily. Like granite, it is durable, but its surface does scratch easily. It is, however, available in a multitude of colors to create a seamless blend with your kitchen's design.

Countertops from Recycled Materials Help You Save the Earth, One Meal at a Time

For environmentally-minded families, a countertop crafted from materials that have been tossed out in the trash and repurposed as construction material may be the best choice. Countertops can be made from cement that has been recycled, as well as from glass from soda bottles in a variety of colors. Many countertops made from recycled materials, like granite, must be sealed to provide a durable surface that will give years of service. Our design team can give you even more ideas how you can use recycled materials to create attractive and functional countertops for your home.

Soapstone Lends Texture to Your Kitchen Countertops

If you love the feeling you get when you touch mineral talc, you will love soapstone countertops. Like soapstone, they are smooth to the touch. Generally, this material darkens with age, giving a richer appearance to the countertop. Quartz veins in the soapstone add a touch of luxury to this touch-friendly material.

Stainless Steel

For a contemporary, workmanlike appearance in your kitchen, stainless steel will fit the bill. Stainless steel countertops are a breeze to clean. Their smooth surfaces repel germs and resist corrosion from household chemicals. Its streamlined look and neutral color fits well into nearly every kitchen color scheme.

Your local design professionals can help homeowners feel more at home in their kitchen with upgrades, decoration, and remodeling that can be customized to each family's preferences. To see how you can update your kitchen countertops to make your kitchen a more welcoming place, make an appointment with our design team today.

David Gray Design Studio is a full-service Jacksonville home remodeling contractor. With a variety of services for your bathroom or kitchen remodel, David Gray Design Studio is sure to impress you with a customized design for your home!

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New Year, Old House, New Styles

New Year, Old House, New Styles
By Desare A Kohn-Laski

2015 has turned its second page. With it, many of us are still formulating in their minds the goals and ambitions to accomplish along with the resolutions we promise to fulfill this year. Asking some homeowners around, a majority of them dream of having a new house. Yet, their financial restrictions still prevent them from doing so. But do you really need to have a new space for living? What if you just like to re-imagine your house? Here are some few tips that will help you style your old house anew this New Year.

Paint your house anew with the color of the year.

In one of the previous articles by this author, it has been mentioned that marsala was proclaimed as the Pantone color of the year for 2015. Why not influence the color of your house with its warmth and seductive yet subtle shade? It is ideal to make any surface alive and vivid too.

Goodbye large furniture, hello multi-purpose and space-saving ones.

Inspired by minimalist designs, multi-purpose and space-saving furniture pieces are now having its own market as demanded by homeowners like you. Say goodbye to large tables and chairs when you can have a sofa which can also function as table when needed. In home depots, you can now see a set which has a middle part that can be protruded upwards to serve as table. The remaining sides which are not raised will serve as chairs or seats. There are also sofa sets in which the actual cushions serve as separate seats. There are expandable tables whose sides can be folded and unfolded as needed.

If your house has a restricted space, then these new pieces of furniture can provide the new styling for the New Year home makeover you want.

Go greener.

You might have implemented things which made you go green last year. But hey, you should not stop from there. You can go greener in a lot of ways apart from maintaining your garden and lawn. For instance, investing in a rooftop solar panel might just be what you need to reduce your power consumption.

Replace old appliances.

Old appliances may be memorable, but they are now costly as many of them may not be compliant with energy efficiency rules in effect today. Grab the advantage offered by brand manufactures as they release more energy-efficient appliances each year. In fact, they are also applying new technologies as some of them can actually be run using the heat of the sun.

Living in a comfortable house doesn't mean that you have to move into a larger one, nor by one that is newly-constructed. Sometimes, it just takes some tweaks in the design and arrangement which may require a modest amount of your savings to implement.

Desare Kohn-Laski is a proud realtor and experienced Military Relocation Professional in Florida. She is a real estate broker who is knowledgeable and familiar of the South Florida real estate market. Her areas of services include Broward County, Palm Beach County & Miami-Dade County. Stop the chase for your dream house with her professional and expert assistance. For more information, hop on to http://www.skyelouisrealty.com.

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