Category: Decorating Guides

Consider the most comfortable bed you’ve ever slept in, and what comes to mind? When it’s the sheets, you are in good company. Because they come in direct contact with our skin, sheets are as important as a quality mattress and cozy blanket in sending us off to dreamland.

The sheer variety of sheets on the current market, however, can throw you for a loop when you are searching. Here are our top pointers to help you decipher the labels and decide on the sheets that will suit you best.

Connected: How to pick the right pillow

Sightline Art Consulting

Substance

Back in the day, many sheets in the marketplace arrived in cotton and … cotton. And it is still the hottest sheeting fabric, because of its durability, comfort and breathability.

Cotton equally traps heat and allows cool air pass through summer time, so it is a great choice for virtually any climate. It may be mixed and feel. As with almost any sheets you buy, do a hand check to gauge how you like these combinations.

KUBE architecture

Egyptian, pima and Sea Island cottons would be the gold standard, so look for those terms on the packaging and check to be sure the fabric is 100% that material. Some growers use the term “Egyptian cotton” loosely, however — true Egyptian cotton is grown and processed according to specific stipulations. Be certain that you’re buying from a quality manufacturer and, feel the material for softness.

JayJeffers

Bamboo blends are becoming popular in recent years, often combined with cotton or other materials. Because bamboo is sustainable and naturally antimicrobial, and sips up moisture, it is well worth considering.

Linen sheets, that operate well in hot climates because they wick away body warmth, are another option. Just be ready to do a great deal of ironing, unless you prefer the wrinkled look. Although satin sheets seem glam and feel intimate, they are sometimes too warm and slick for many people.

The Company Store

350-Thread-Count Supima Solid Sateen Bedding – $29

The signature name Supima, a hybrid of “premium” and “pima,” is employed to pick sheets of 100 percent pima cotton, developed in the United States (the title stems in the Pima Indians of Arizona). These luxurious versions, offered in a variety of rich colors are a fail-safe choice for any style bedroom. Have them monogrammed for a preppy, personal signature.

YLiving.com

Inhabit | Plus Sheet Set – $182

This eco-friendly cotton, bamboo and rayon blend wears a low-key graphic pattern that will fall right in step with a contemporary space.

Ken Gutmaker Architectural Photography

Thread Count

including all the buzz around thread count — how many threads in 1 square inch of fabric — it’s easy to presume that greater means softer. But that is not the case. A lower-thread-count sheet produced from fibers that are softer by character, like Egyptian cotton, will feel silkier than a high-thread-count sheet produced from a lower-quality cotton blend.

Paul Rice Architecture

All other things being equal, higher thread counts can indeed translate to increased relaxation. Do not hesitate to buy 800- or 1,000-count sheets, however; you will do just fine using a design in the 400 or 450 range. The extra thread count does not produce enough difference in texture to warrant the purchase price. In reality, the highest-count sheets may even be rigid because a lot of fibers have been jammed so tightly together.

Pottery Barn

Classic Stripe 400-Thread-Count Duvet Cover and Sham, Sandalwood – $39

A broad, cheerful stripe highlights those versatile sheets, which would seem especially nice in a darkened space.

Crane & Canopy

400-Thread-Count Coral Scalloped Embroidered Sheet Set – $159

Dainty scallops plus a hint of coral give these female sheets an extra touch of elegance.

Thom Filicia Inc..

Weave

Crisp or soft? If you prefer your sheets with just a tiny snap, choose percale, which is a plainer weave than the supple sateen. Neither is inherently better; it is an issue of personal taste.

Jersey sheets — that you likely think about as T-shirt sheets — are all made using a flat knit that retains them soft but also means they can be more prone to slipping and slipping on the mattress. If you live somewhere that gets really cold, think about nubby cotton flannel sheets, unsurpassed for keeping you toasty.

Garnet Hill

Lilly Pulitzer Scarlet Begonias Percale Bedding – $50

Percale sheets at a bright, playful print awaken a mattress dressed differently in white.

Navy Gobi Embroidered Sheet Set – $145

These dignified sheets, bearing a contemporary twist on a Buddhist theme, possess a faint sheen as a result of their own sateen finish.

Su Casa Designs

Fit

In case you have ever attempted to wrestle a too-small fitted sheet on a mattress, then you know how important it’s to buy sheets that are the correct size. In case you’ve got a standard-size mattress, such as a double, queen or king, then start looking for features like elastic edging all the way around, which helps guarantee a smooth, comfortable fit.

Tom Stringer Design Partners

For extra-long twin, California king, pillow-top and other nonstandard mattresses, you will need to look for sheets especially marked for those sizes. Should you add a foam pad or alternative topper into your mattress, then assess the height, then buy an extra-deep sheet that corresponds.

And don’t forget about pillowcases: In case your pillows are under- or overscale (king pillows on a double mattress, for instance), buy fitted sheets, flat sheets and pillowcases as separates rather than as a same-size set.

Horchow

Matouk Twin Extra-Long Fitted Sheet – $77.90

Extra-long twin sheets stretch comfortably within a mattress that accommodates taller sleepers.

Tailored Pinefore White Pillowcase Set, King – $63

Dressmaker details like pintucks and hemstitching grace this sharp king-size pillowcase.

More: 10 Quick and Easy Ways to Dress Your Bed

Buy

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Deeply complicated chandeliers and thick lampshades have their place, particularly in hot home libraries and wealthy dining rooms. But these French lights concentrate about the purity of the goal: shedding light onto the situation in hand.

Although the designs come from several different businesses, all of these focus on the whiteness and lightness of lighting itself. Utilizing bright whites or alternative light-hued materials and airy components, each design has its time of lightness. Bringing that exact same quality to your living room will definitely lighten up things on a cold, drab January day.

Notice: Layout Heure and Beau et Bien goods are available for sale directly from their sites. Dix Heures Dix goods are offered via British and European distributors. Contact Marcel By right via its site.

dixheuresdix.com

Clairière Light

Not only is that a bright white fixture, but the airy spaces between its contemporary branches add to its lightweight qualities.

marcelby.fr

Ciconia Lamp

A graceful arm and lighter-than-air ring in the end add to the weightlessness of the floor lamp.

dixheuresdix.com

Ruban Pendant Light

Pendant lighting is inherently airy, because it always floats over you. But the ribbing of the lamp reminds me of floating hot air balloons.

beauetbien.fr

SmoonCage Sensitive Light

The voluminous forming of the simple flower-like orb allows the glowing white light to function as focus.

en.designheure.com

Lampes à Poser LuXiole Lamp

This little task lamp showcases its lightness in its simple materials, using lightweight finishes and minimal fussiness.

en.designheure.com

Cloud Pending Lamp, Grand, Nuage White

When it’s called Cloud, it already conveys an ethereal sensibility, however the floating cable falling from the pendant lamp exaggerates the light and height of this colour.

beauetbien.fr

Smoon Bijou Bird antiques

This is actually just a little mild you wear as a jewel around your neck. What a sweet way to lighten your outfit — using a floating, glowing bird.

en.designheure.com

Sconce, Petit

Floating sconces on either side of a lavish bed seem like an ideal inspiration as soon as your head is drifting off to bed.

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For me, “comfy dining room” means a conventional, compact room with rock walls, a roaring fire, a wrought iron chandelier, upholstered seats and a round wooden dining table atop an Oriental rug, rather located in a Tuscan villa. Easy — we’ve got a good deal of beautiful examples of those on . But that’s not all there’s to comfy. Exposed brick and rustic beams aren’t a necessity. Cozy can take many shapes and fashions. I’ve combed to find a diverse assortment of dining rooms with a comfy feel. Caution: Don’t turn into a drinking game where you have a sip every time that I write “cozy.” This would be horrible for your health.

Frederick + Frederick Architects

You ask me to get comfy, I imagine this rustic yet elegant room. The flame, the comfortable chairs, the chandelier, the more exposed beams and brick. I could stop right here and claim that this is the ultimate comfy dining space, but I will press and provide you more.

Stephmodo

This dining room is in a stone farmhouse in France. It doesn’t get any cozier than this, except maybe if it had been in Italy, because then the risotto will be even better.

See the rest of this home

CMR Interiors & Design Consultations Inc..

Coziness can mean having to create at least four people get up so for one to leave the dining table. While this sounds inconvenient, it is just part of the price paid for smart space saving, and it is not too big a deal.

Glenn Gissler Design

Coziness can also take the form of sitting shoulder to shoulder along with your dinner companions. This indicates you’re all very close, you like one another and you are having a great time.

Rachel Reider Interiors

Contemporary and cozy aren’t mutually exclusive. Warm woods, textures, colors and lighting give a cozy ambience here, while Cherner dining room provides a dollop of midcentury modern style.

Laura Martin Bovard

This transitional dining room is clean lined and uncluttered, but upholstered seats, art, a round table, exposed ceiling beams and a mix of wood finishes all contribute to the coziness.

SFGIRLBYBAY

This is the house that launched a thousand blog posts. Although Victoria of sfgirlbybay has moved a few times since this was her home, many of us fell in love with her cozy bohemian modern San Francisco apartment with a copper-clad fireplace, schoolhouse chalkboard, farmhouse dining table and tulip seats, and we have been following her around ever since the very first time we watched it.

See the rest of this home

Emerick Architects

This dining room is bodacious and glam, but is cozied up by sheepskin cries on the seats, excellent dimmable overhead lighting and bamboo shades.

Blackband Design

This Spanish colonial dining room is very sophisticated and hot at the same period, thanks to spool furniture, a candle-like chandelier, rich red walls and an antique rug.

Witt Construction

The style of this room can be Spanish colonial, but it is very different from the previous case. In this room the intricate woven textiles on the seats, the honey-colored wood dining table and seat, the faux-textured walls as well as the rugs, drapes and lighting all add coziness in a significantly lighter color palette.

RW Anderson Homes

This dining room is simultaneously comfy yet a bit austere. The wainscoting, cheerful background, drapes and chandelier bring in heat without also earning the mess.

Murphy & Co.. Design

On occasion a dining room is simply a little space where two people are able to enjoy a meal together. Within this comfortable gatehouse, two armchairs and a desk located a pleasant corner inside an open area.

See the rest of this home

Julie Smith

I am not positive whether it’s the rag rug, the cuckoo clock or even the proudly displayed groups, but this dining room feels like a spot where a family loves to collect softly and comfortably.

Risa boyer architecture

Although I don’t usually combine glowing white with coziness, this eclectic room feels like a joyful place that draws people in.

James Glover Residential & Interior Design

Again, tons of white does not necessarily make 1 think of coziness, however slipcovered chairs, candles overhead, a fireplace, rustic beams and a natural floor give this room an intimate vibe.

Michael Fullen Design Group

The dining room and library combo is a surefire way to earn a comfortable multipurpose room. This one gets bonus coziness points for heavy drapes and cushy host and hostess seats.

Extra layers bring extra coziness to this dining room. The dining table is layered in 2 tablecloths, the seats are wrapped in fringe-trimmed fabric, the mantel is layered with china, candles and plants … even the chandelier is strung in colours and greens.

Lands End Development – Designers & Builders

There is something about a rustic aesthetic that makes a space feel tucked far away from the rest of the world in a homestead or camp type of way. Natural materials like big stones and twiggy wood pieces bring in an away-from-it-all vibe; dark wood countertops and ocher walls finish off the look.

Andrea Schumacher Interiors

I cannot seem to write about dining rooms without including this photo. Though the area is relatively big, the extended dining couch, wingback host and hostess seats, red dining seats, cocktail room, rug, window trim and soft wall shade make it unique and so inviting.

Carson Poetzl, Inc..

I will end with the type of space I explained at the start. I am just a sucker for a round wood dining table in a dining room with stone walls, exposed beams, upholstered seats and of course, a roaring fireplace.

More: 20 of those Coziest Kitchens About

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Let’s just be honest. As amazing as it is with that gently curving teak and those blank lines, midcentury modern can be a little, well, primitive occasionally. At its best it’s filled with color, art and playfulness. At its worst, it’s a bleak Soviet vibe.

All these midcentury beauties have the ability to do it just right — to maintain their true midcentury cred without sacrificing whimsy, nature and color. In some cases they are downright comfy, proving that midcentury does not have to stick to a lockstep minimalism to be authentic.

LDa Interiors & Architecture

These furnishings possess the clean, simple lines of great Danish modern, but the layered designs and textures in the rugs, pillows and upholstery give it warmth.

Jan Skacelik

The decoration is pure midcentury blue blood, right down to the Saarinen Tulip Chair along with the trio of Nelson lights. But due to the bright white paint along with the marigold-yellow couch, it’s likewise cheery and welcoming.

Dufner Heighes Inc

This chamber is 1950s. Can not you just picture a few sipping martinis on that couch?

Johnson Berman

Clean, simple and uncluttered. But with a mixture of textures and patterns in the rugs and lots and lots of natural lighting.

Hammer Architects

If the 1970s counted as midcentury, then that low-slung living space, built around the gorgeous Fireorb fireplace, would be on the mark.

Ninainvorm

The midcentury modern version of the cozy cottage, complete with patchwork rug.

SHKS Architects

The pedestal table, the spindle clock along with the Jen Risom sofa seats are midcentury icons. But the room has not gone overboard with its own theme. It seems contemporary.

Even without a great deal of color, this impeccably put-together midcentury room includes warmth. It’s partially because the bones of the Spanish home seem to be much, much older.

Kristen Rivoli Interior Design

A Moebius side table puts the mid century tone here. Nevertheless, the contemporary art, bright accessories and upholstery make the room bright and unique.

Shirley Meisels

Some traditional pieces — including a shag rug! — a minimalist strategy, and a simple tricolor palette give this space a very calm, quiet feel.

John Lum Architecture, Inc.. AIA

It’s bright, easy and open with the right icons, however, the ceiling is what actually makes it. Nobody did wood and white like the designers of the midcentury.

Ninainvorm

Another comfy version of midcentury. Rather than sterile and serious, this room seems fun and lighthearted.

Watch more midcentury and modern decorating guides

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Play Home in a Time Space in Brooklyn or get crafty at Chicago’s Randolph Street Market Using a DIY workshop. Whether scoring the great antique wood carving or sussing out the newest modern product is something, our roundup of events has something to you.

West Architecture Studio

TOUR — June 9–10, 2012
Modern Atlanta Home Tour

Among the modern homes selected for this year’s self-guided Modern Atlanta home tour, curated by AIA Atlanta, are a farmhouse inspired by Edward Hopper paintings and the modern live-work area of TaC Studios. See how a number of the designers efficiently incorporate sustainable materials and green construction practices with digital technology. Designers include Dencity, Lightroom, Plexus R+D, Clark & Zook and West Architecture Studio (photograph).

Hours: 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Price: $35; $25 students. Purchase tickets online

brooklynmuseum.org

EXHIBIT — May 25–Aug. 26, 2012
“Playing House”
Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Pkwy., Brooklyn, New York

See how four modern artists changed eight period rooms to bridge the past and current. Betty Woodman decked outside a dining room (photograph) with color-saturated ceramics and paintings; Mary Lucier set up video which plays right on the antique furniture Ann Agee altered a artist studio and Anne Chu attracted nature inside via mixed media.

Hours: Thursday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; closed Monday and Tuesday
Price: $12 suggested contribution

randolphstreetmarket.com

MARKET — May 26–27, 2012
Randolph Street Market
Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington, Chicago

The Randolph Street Market is home to four indoor-outdoor markets, including the popular Chicago Antique Market. Shop for that special vintage brooch at Modern Vintage Chicago or some handmade present at the Indie Designer Industry. Take in the spring sunshine around the grounds, learn how to sew at a DIY demonstration from The Sewing Maniac, get urban farming information from the Urban Canopy and visit hundreds of other sellers.

Hours: Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: $10 at the gate, $8 in advance; $5 students, $3 in advance. Purchase tickets online

antikbar.co.uk

FAIR — June 7–17, 2012
Olympia International Fine Art & Antiques Fair
Olympia Exhibition Centre, Grand Hall, Olympia Way, London W14 8UX

The Olympia fair draws a large audience of celebrities and other fine art and antiques fans looking for high-caliber pieces. Lectures on topics in the “Trophies of this Russian War” into midcentury cloths are also on the program. See the full schedule

Hours: June 7, 12, 14: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; June 9–11, 13, 15–16: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; June 17:
11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: #55 Record day; #10 single entrance; #18 entrance for two; #8 students and seniors.Buy tickets online

caesar.it

SHOW — June 11–13, 2012
NeoCon
Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago

Hear from former Chicago mayor Richard M. Daley and catch up on design trends, products and interior design concepts for homes, offices, healthcare providers, resorts and institutional spaces at this design exposition and conference. Take your choice from more than 120 CEU-accredited conventions and see what neighborhood design students and emerging designers are around in a special student exhibition.

Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: Expo is free with preregistration, $25 onsite; CEU conventions are $55 with preregistration, $65 onsite. Register online

EXPO — June 5–7, 2012
E3: Electronic Entertainment Expo
Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles

Whether you’re eagerly awaiting another Half-Life setup or you’re working on your own hit video game, E3 is the place to be if you’re in the electronic entertainment industry. Play games soon to appear on screens in living rooms and home media centres, capture demos of new products and watch the most up-to-date in groundbreaking interactive technologies for computers, video game consoles and handheld devices.

Hours: Tuesday, 12–6 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Price: Open to commerce and business professionals only. Register online

Inform us : What’s in your calendar?Let us know in the Remarks.

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Style embraces the side of design. Soft textures and colors, a tiny glimmer of light from candles and antique mirrors and, of course, florals all will include a romantic touch to your property. Whether you employ this to one room (might I suggest the bedroom? ) ) Or your entire house, you are going to be feeling more amorous in virtually no time.

Related: So Your Design Is: Romantic

Urban Outfitters

Waterfall Ruffle Duvet Cover – $149

For intimate linens, look no further than cascading ruffles. Ruffles work on curtains bedding and table linens.

Resources:
• Locate this duvet cover, curtains and more at Urban Outfitters.
• Search for shower curtains and other ruffled finds at Rian Rae.

Horchow

Arched Mirror  – $750

Smoky or classic mirrors add a feeling of history in addition to glamour. They are not just for hanging on the wall — attempt leaning mirrors or perhaps mirrored furniture.

Resources:
• Browse the many antique mirror options at Horchow.
• Try these Crate & Barrel mirrors at a grid.
• There are lots of antiqued choices at West Elm.

Wisteria

Large Whitewashed Directoire-Style Chest – $699

Whitewashed wood provides a romantic touch to furniture and accessories alike. The worn patina pairs well with ruffles and other female touches.

Resources:
• See more whitewashed furniture in Wisteria.
• Get mirrors and other amorous bits at Anthropologie.
• Decorative whitewashed wall decoration from Z Gallerie will match any intimate space.

Ballard Designs

Mercury Glass Candleholder – $15

Candlelit dinners are a cliché for a reason: Candlelight is only more amorous than bulbs. Even if you’re not using candles for light, a romantic room requires them to your own mantel, buffet, dresser or dining table.

Resources:
• Check out these candlesticks from Ballard Designs.
• Find lots of antique-inspired designs in Candelabra.

Ada and Darcy

Custom Made Chippendale Bamboo Carver Chair – AUD 650

Floral rolls in cloths and backgrounds add a romantic air. If you are not in the market for new furniture, reupholster a piece you already possess in a flowery fabric.

Resources:
• Get this chair at Ada and Darcy.
• Source amazing ecofriendly floral fabrics at Rubie Green.
• Attempt the fantastically bold florals in Furbish.

Farrow & Ball

Calamine Paint

For paint colors in a romantic residence, stick to airy and soft colors such as this pink. Pastels, hot grays and even shades of white could be romantic.

Resources:
• Attempt this pink: Farrow & Ball Calamine.
• For a cool tone, go with Sherwin-Williams’ Light French Gray.
• For a hot neutral, use Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee.

Pottery Barn

Capiz Flower Pendant – $199

Pretty lighting is a superb way to add a romantic feel to the space. You will want lots of soft lighting throughout your house so you may correct it if the mood strikes. Look for delicate details, floral themes and crystal.

Resources:
• Get this and other romantic lighting in Pottery Barn.
• You will find lots of elegant options at Layla Grayce.
• Lamps Plus includes feminine table lamps.

More inspiration on amorous fashion:
Read photos of intimate rooms

Tell us Is your style intimate? Share a photo of your decoration below!

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In March 2012, California assemblywoman Fiona Ma introduced a bill (AB 2482) that could take a license to practice “registered interior layout.” The bill is set for an April committee hearing and could eventually become a part of the California codes only when it passes both legislative houses and can be accepted by the governor. As you may anticipate, the pending legislation is getting a lot of ers talking.

For those of you not familiar with the proposed legislation, here are the nuts and bolts.The bill would require a license to practice “registered interior layout. “To qualify, an individual would have to procure an interior design diploma or a certification by a two- or four-year college.Interior designers would be required to pass the NCIDQ exam.The invoice would create practicing without a license a criminal offense, with fines of up to $2,000 and prison time of up to one year, or both, plus civil penalties of up to $10,000; criminals also would be prevented from collecting any charge for services.Registered interior designers are limited to working on small single-family and four-unit multifamily residential dwellings with timber frame construction no longer than two tales high.Registered interior designers could still be able to decorate, prepare layout drawings and pick decorative materials in structures over two stories, as long as they are coping with non-structural or non-seismic elements, as outlined in the invoice. Current Requirements

In California, anyone can call himself or herself a interior designer. But to use the name “Certified Interior Designer,” an individual must demonstrate education and experience, and must pass an examination (IDEX) that deals with California-specific building codes and systems.

California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) executive director Douglas Stead says his issue with the pending legislation is that it requires interior designers to take the NCIDQ examination — a general, nationwide examination that doesn’t deal with California building codes and systems. “Can you hire a lawyer in Texas who has not passed the Texas bar examination? No,” Stead says. “You’d hire a person who’s quite comfortable with and has passed the Texas bar examination. The identical logic must apply to any sort of interior design licensing examination in California.”

The Opposition

Others say the bill is a misuse of legislative efforts as customer confusion regarding interior design services has not been demonstrated to necessitate industry-wide licensing; present building codes and systems adequately protect customers.

A fact sheet released by the National Kitchen & Bath Association adds, “The public does not lack the ability to make informed choices about who they keep for design services; they are very effective at reviewing portfolios and websites, interviewing prospective designers, and checking references and personal accreditation credentials to determine what degree of designer matches their undertaking.”

Designs for Living

Supporters of Licensing

Interior design student Jill Roberson Awbrey shares her stance on the problem: “As an interior design student who has also practiced inside design prior to working towards a level, I find some significance [in accreditation]. There is a large difference between decorating and designing. Any time you are dealing with building codes, then there should be a license [requirement]. Decorating is a talent that can’t be learned through schooling, but architectural and structural elements should be educated, the identical way as electrical or plumbing knowledge is educated.”

Launched in the Middle

Others in the industry say that a fine line distinguishes professional interior designers who are educated in surface maintenance, light fixture choice, fireproofing, soundproofing, material types and durability, and green issues, among other things, from decorators who may or may not have too much instruction but can compose a balanced, beautiful area. Green certified interior designer Tineke Triggs says that although she doesn’t think that it’s required to have a license to decorate a house, it’s important for a interior designer to have a certified engineer or architect in the image when structural materials are transferred or remodeled. “Personally, I believe experience is actually the most important factor to think about,” says Triggs.

A typical contractor from Oasis Design and Remodeling says, “Great design isn’t just about throw cushions, it is about balance, scale, light, color, among other things. Some elements of that are educated, some are innate.” consumer cjbirk adds, “a license won’t create a designer but in hiring a certified designer, the customer will be certain that the professional has fulfilled the minimum competency of the profession”

ers, tell us : Should a license be required to practice interior design? Please share your ideas below.

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No matter how thorough you are throughout your rounds of spring cleaning, it might look like there’s an inevitable pile of crap that can not locate a home. Things like older lightbulbs, batteries and boxes of tangled cables wind up pushed into the rear of the closet again, concealed until next spring.

If you are finally ready to tackle those difficult things, then here is the way to do it the right way.

LLC, summit Design Remodeling

Unused electronic wires and remotes. Everyone has that leftover box of unfamiliar cables, wires and remotes. Some of these cables have been found to have harmful toxins in them which are released when they’re incinerated, so avoid throwing these in the trash. Because they have aluminum in them, cables are of value to recyclers, but finding a recycling centre does require some research. Consult the Electronics Takeback Campaign or the EPA’s eCycling site for official facilities, or simply do a quick Google search for an electronic recycler near you.

Broken glass. If only thrown into the trash, broken glass (or any glass) is just like a concealed weapon — it could quickly cut through plastic and paper and lead to severe harm to others or yourself. The best thing to do would be to wrap glass in some kind of disposable cloth and lightly hammer the glass so it divides into much smaller pieces. Set the cloth in a box or bag and tag it”broken glass” before placing it in the trash.

IKEA

Sparsam Low-Energy Bulb E12 – $6.99

Lightbulbs. Assess your package to affirm, however, most LED lights may be recycled, since they don’t include any hazardous chemicals. Incandescent and halogen bulbs can not be recycled, but they can be thrown in the trash. Set them in a plastic bag to contain any broken glass.

CFLs (compact fluorescent bulbs ) and fluorescent tubes have mercury in them, which makes it illegal to throw them in the trash in certain nations. Your town may have a neighborhood drop-off for all these bulbs or you may have a look at large retailers like Home Depot and Ikea, which provide recycling solutions for bulbs purchased through their shops. You could even check out Earth911.com for different choices.

Beach Vintage

Old dishes. Glass dishes could be recycled, but ceramic dishes are more complex. Thrift shop are normally the best place to choose ceramic dishes — even when they’re chipped or cracked, folks may want them for crafts. If you’ve got ceramic dishes which are entirely broken, hunt online for an art course or a craft group that’s in need of mosaic supplies.

Batteries. There’s some debate, but generally it’s a good idea to recycle batteries. Because they contain trace quantities of mercury (and even more mercury if they had been made before 1997) and other toxins, even though, you can not put them in a normal recycling bin. Check with your trash-removal firm for safe recycling choices.

It is illegal to throw off rechargeable batteries in certain countries — this includes batteries to your mobile phone and laptop, which include toxic heavy metals. Most consumer electronics chains, such as Best Buy, Circuit City and Office Depot, provide recycling solutions for dry mobile and recyclable batteries. You could even check out Earth911.com to obtain a battery recycling facility near you.

Witt Construction

Expired canned food. Let us face it, you are not likely to use that last can of lima beans — it’s time to throw those expired cans and spices. Some food banks may accept expired goods within a certain time frame; call your neighborhood and inquire what its policy is. Otherwise, dump the food in your garbage disposal or compost bin and then rinse out the can for recycling.

Plastic bags. Plastic bags can be recycled, but not in a standard recycling bin. Many supermarkets offer plastic bag recycling boxes. Obviously, it’s always a good idea to reuse as many plastic bags as possible beforehand.

Inform us: What else would you’ve got trouble getting rid of correctly? What are the tips to get rid of crap and mess around your property?

More:
Lose It: CDs, DVDs, Cassettes and VHS Tapes
How to Eliminate Old Keys
How to Eliminate a Mattress

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Spool furniture gained fame in the 18th century, but like most great furniture fashions of European source, you will find modern translations. Upgraded versions of spool design (also called spindle design) could be seen these days in benches, side tables, lamps and chairs. The appearance can vary radically with cloth and complete, and distinct looks create their own kick for transitional, modern and traditional spaces.

The allure of spool furniture is simply in the insistent ball pattern that provides a textural and whimsical layer to a room. Here are some especially gratifying ways designers are using spool furniture now.

LDa Architecture & Interiors

Within this contemporary-style area, the black seat with white upholstery adds play.

J. Hirsch Interior Design

A similarly constructed seat is completely transformed with white paint and neutral upholstery. Notice how soft and feminine it looks in this traditional setting.

Charmean Neithart Interiors

Try a bolt seat at a desk instead of a chair. This classic bench proved to be a great selection for double-wide chairs in this British colonial–style desk.

Martha O’Hara Interiors

This petite desk chair has only a touch of spool construction on its front legs. I would consider this space to be transitional because of this detail; with no, it would feel traditional.

Kate Jackson Design

Here a pair of spool chairs adds a wonderful visual line of repetition. Repeated spool detail on seats, repeated seats … the eye enjoys this formula. Notice that the great contrast of the green and black palette also.

Tara Bussema – Neat Organization and Design

Quick color change to white for these dining chairs and you’ve got instant modern detail. I love the comparison of the seats against the grey walls. This is precisely what I’d refer to as “soft modern.” The modern lines are there, but they’re softened by feel and slipcovers. Very California.

Patrick Sutton Associates

One great advantage with a spool-style seat is how great it appears from the trunk. The textural back makes this seat versatile for placement.

Anthony Baratta LLC

The spool detail in this petite end table is replicated in the stairs detailing. This table, such as the architectural details in the remainder of this area, is powerful but toned down with a very simple shade. This traditional space feels quite refreshing and curated with a couple stately pieces.

Inform us : How does this furniture detail interpret for you — modern, traditional or transitional? Tell us in the Comments section.

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Celebrating a Classic: Spool-Turned Furniture

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This year’s showcase home in 2012 International Builders Show is without a doubt a celebration of the Florida lifestyle. Designed around a central courtyard, pool and terrace, it features big glass walls that slide and fold out of the way, balconies accessible from bedrooms, and retractable screens to keep the bugs away. It all makes for this barefoot lifestyle that people in temperate climates like.

This year’s showhouse, designed and built by architect Phil Kean in Winter Park, Florida, is the tiniest “New American Home” showcased by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) within many years. However, at nearly 4,200 square feet of living area, the home is — as showhomes have a tendency to be — substantially larger than the typical American residence.

But despite its bigger size, the home includes a comfortable scale and intimate quality. The big spaces in the main degree can easily accommodate a large celebration, but aren’t overwhelming when occupied by only one or two people. The home is on an infill lot in walking distance of Rollins College, the Winter Park public library along with the Winter Park downtown region. It’s simple to image the household living in this house infrequently needing to use any of those three cars that may fit in the garage.

In a walk-to-everything place and with the incorporation of many energy saving and sustainable products and technology, it is no wonder that the home has many certifications including the USGBC LEED-H Platinum.

More Concerning the International Builders Show | More regional modern home design

Phil Kean Designs

Like all good Florida houses, outdoor spaces are a part of the living area. Front door, on the left side of this photo, doesn’t result in an interior room but rather into the open atmosphere “lanai” (that the Floridian term for a screened space) with family space on one side along with a pool and terrace on the other.

Phil Kean Designs

The home’s architectural inspiration stems from mid-century modernism in general and also the Sarasota School in particular. This is no more obvious than on the very front, street-side of the home. Architect Kean refers to the home as “a reinterprtation of this Classical White Box.”

A lot of this home was built with insulated concrete forms (ICFs). This sort of structure, which has concrete positioned between boards of Styrofoam or similar insulating material, yields a more energy-efficient home. The bulk of the concrete also keeps most of the surrounding sound from the interior.

Phil Kean Designs

Among the major living areas on the main level is that the gallery situated on the western edge of their property. This room doesn’t have windows to the west to avoid heat from the day and evening sun, as well as to provide privacy from the adjacent alley.

A large set of glass doors reverse this wall can be pushed out of the way to connect this space to the patio and pool.

Phil Kean Designs

A large family room is to the left upon entering the home. This chamber has a kitchen area at one end, stair into the upper layer in the opposite end, built-in storage, fireplace and entertainment centre at one side and glass doors to the terrace and pool in the other side.

Phil Kean Designs

Glass doors open the living room into the pool area. Retractable and aerodynamic displays can be lowered from the ceiling to keep out insects.

Phil Kean Designs

The stair reverse that the kitchen is a sculptural element in the area, appearing as stacked blocks zig-zagging their way down and up.

Large windows across the front provide ample natural light into the stairway and family room.

Phil Kean Designs

A large drop-down screen comes down from the ceiling if it’s movie time. This screen is visible in the pool and terrace area so it’ll be outside movie night when the weather is correct and the doors are available. A wonderful spot to get this Superbowl party.

Phil Kean Designs

The working and visible portion of the kitchen is maintained minimal and spare. A block-like island with sink and a cooktop with sculptural hood nearby is everything you see.

Phil Kean Designs

Everything else is hidden behind cabinetry and down a hallway resulting in the side lawn and garage.

Phil Kean Designs

In the side yard, a pet shower stands in the ready to clean off our best friends.

Phil Kean Designs

The dining area fills the corner in which the gallery and kitchen spaces come together. Walls of glass doors slide away to start up the interior to the outside.

Natural stone floor starts outside the front door and proceeds throughout the primary level. Laid in strips, the flooring has some of the overall look of a wood flooring while being more durable.

Phil Kean Designs

A table with integral water feature sits in one corner of the terrace and patio area. Water flows through the 2 pieces of glass that form the tabletop.

Phil Kean Designs

An outdoor kitchen lies on the opposite corner of the terrace and patio area. With this kitchen, the kitchen, a small kitchen in the pub and also a small kitchen space in the upstairs master suite, the prospective owners of this show house will never be too far from food and beverage!

Phil Kean Designs

Also located on the primary level: a bedroom, an office, a full bath and 2 powder rooms …

Phil Kean Designs

… a research using its own tub …

Phil Kean Designs

… which is available to the terrace and patio area.

Phil Kean Designs

To reach the upper level, you may take either stairs or this elevator — a wonderful feature for people who want to remain in the home well into older age.

Phil Kean Designs

Upstairs, a loft space and balcony adjacent to the master bedroom is the best place to see a novel or watch tv if you want some quiet alone time.

Phil Kean Designs

The exercise area has access to the master bedroom balcony and its own bath. Floor-to-ceiling windows causes it to be a bright and light area to work up some sweat.

Phil Kean Designs

Also adjacent to the loft area is the 12’x17′ master bedroom.

Phil Kean Designs

This bedroom resides quite large, as a result of its balcony. Just create yourself a cup of java in the adjoining kitchen space and sit to the balcony to appreciate this glorious, “good morning, Florida” weather.

Phil Kean Designs

The master bath has two closets at each end, a small kitchen, full-size tub, walk-in cupboard, bathroom area and a double vanity. Also accessible from the master bath is a big laundry area complete with a fold-down entry centre.

Phil Kean Designs

The shower features a bench, linear drain, hand-held wands in addition to a rain head and side wall sprays. A pretty nice showering experience for certain!

Phil Kean Designs

Though connected to the grid, the home does incorporate several solar energy items, such as these collectors.

Phil Kean Designs

An emergency power generator is ready for those times during hurricane season when the electric grid may be down.

Phil Kean Designs

The main level plan shows the property’s courtyard design, together with the pool, patio and lanai in the centre — all outside spaces. (North is to the right of this plan.) On the left is the family members and kitchen areas, and in the top is the gallery.

Phil Kean Designs

The upper level consists of the loft, workout area and master bedroom plus bathroom. The big rectangle near the peak of the plan is that the gallery ceiling.

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