Interior Design, Design News and Architecture Trends

Author: ION

  • Why Every Home Needs A Sump Pump

    Why Every Home Needs A Sump Pump

    You do everything you can to protect your basement from flooding – you keep your gutters and downspouts clear and you extended the downspout to keep the water as far from your foundation as possible. You’re fastidious about maintaining your weeping tiles (4″ drainage pipes that route excess water into the ground). Your landscaping is designed and maintained so water flows away from the house.

    But even with all these measures in place to keep your basement dry, you still need a sump pump, especially with fall and winter weather on the way. Heavy sustained rainfall and run-off from melting snow and ice can inundate the soil and overwhelm the external drainage system causing water to seep into your basement.


    When you protect your basement with a sump pump you also protect your health. A damp basement is a breeding ground for mould, which can be especially problematic for people with chronic respiratory issues. Sensitivity to mould can cause eye and skin irritation, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. A sump pump protects your home’s health by preventing cracking of the walls and floors and keeps the house structurally sound by preventing soil erosion.


    In the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) the Toronto Flood Subsidy Program will help defray the cost of counter-flooding measures. Citizens of the GTA who don’t have a sump pump or one in need of repair should contact a licensed plumbing professional like Mister Plumber especially since, as mentioned, fall and winter weather is fast approaching. In 2013 Alberta experienced a severe flood and flooding is projected to become a greater issue for all of Canada in the coming years, so it pays to be proactive.

    A sump pump can also increase the value of your home. The cost of having a flooded basement professionally dried-out and repaired is determined by the extent of the damage and the size of the basement, but on the very low side, it could cost you $500. On the very high side, it could cost you $10.000 plus. In short, by keeping water out of your basement via a sump pump keeps money in your bank account. Also, homeowners who take proper flood precautions (i.e.; having a sump pump) could get a break on their flood insurance premiums.

    There are two types of sump pumps: pedestal, and submersible. The pedestal is the cheaper of the two, and although it is effective, it may not be the best choice for areas prone to heavy flooding; it is also loud, because the motor is above the pump’s catch basin. The submersible is quieter because its motor is below the water line, and is more powerful so it can handle larger amounts of water than a pedestal sump pump. Consult a professional plumber to determine which type is right for you.

     

    In short, every home should have a sump pump. Not only does it keep harmful mould from growing in your basement, but it can also potentially save you a lot of money in damage. Contact a local, licensed plumber before fall and winter hit – they’ll definitely tell you the same.

     

  • Do’s & Don’ts for a Perfect Bathroom Remodelling

    Do’s & Don’ts for a Perfect Bathroom Remodelling

    A Bathroom is the busiest space in the house. Planning its renovation can be both, exhilarating and nerve-wracking. One would really have to give it a serious second thought as it will also demand high investment, along with your time.

    But with proper planning, consultation, and efficient tools, one can pull off a successful remodel. Here is our expert compiled list of all the do’s and don’ts you would need to consider in the event of remodelling your bathroom.

    DO: Look for design inspirations

    Magazines, newspapers, guides, and internet are full of stunning bathroom designs and styles. But those perfectly pictured bathrooms usually come with a hefty price tag. You need a plan before you go shopping for that stuff. Before you tear up the floor or put a rainforest shower, imagine the final look of the bathroom, with all the inspired stuff in place.

    You can browse the different inspirational blogs to find out the bathroom design ideas, that suits your need to the maximum extent. We have a collection of articles for bathroom remodel ideas.

    DON’T: Overlook the need for the budget

    The value of budgeting is undeniable. It helps in reality-check and keeping your expenses under control. With a budget in hand, you could easily know how much you have and how much your ideal project would cost. This further helps you in choosing the most appropriate bathroom stuff for remodelling which does not exceed your pocket’s capacity. For more accurate estimations, you can consider taking the quotation from a variety of contractors and compare online prices for the stuff.

    DO: Neutralize

    The interior designing expert advice on purchasing the high-end stuff like tile flooring or shower design, to be as neutral as possible. The neutrality allows you to play with a more colourful mix & match for the stuff, within the bathroom. You can add your personality-specific, visually striking accessories like mirrors, hand towels, decorative items, etc.

    DON’T: Go without storage

    Storage may not be as admirable as other features of a bathroom, but it is a necessity and a functional part. You can’t miss it just because you think nobody will say flowery lines for it. You can be too imaginative over the storage by utilizing even the tiniest available space, like making storage behind the toilet.

    DO: Binge on the shower

    Having a praiseworthy bathroom is a dream of every homemaker. It must be designed to have an eye-catching appearance. You may install multiple shower heads or different types of shower heads, for the luxurious look. But do consult your budget before falling for some extravagant stuff.

    Even if you really want to go extravagant, think of combining your pricey items in a more useful bathroom furnishings, like walk-in-baths and showers which are specifically designed bathing area for disabled people.

    For checking out options in walk-baths and showers, click here.

    DON’T: Skip on the vanity

    The bathroom vanity is used to make a style impression on others. There are many wow options being displayed with the vendors, that feature double sinks, large mirrors and plenty of storage. The vanities made of the material such as granite or marble can add more visual interest to the bathroom space.

    A bathroom remodelling is a test of your patience. Keep calm and understand, what is and what is not to be done. But decorating the bathroom with your imagination is something you can cherish for life.

    If you have ever been a part of bathroom remodelling, share your personal experience and tips in the comments below.

  • List of Changes to Make In a City For Secure Accessibility for Disabled People

    List of Changes to Make In a City For Secure Accessibility for Disabled People

    In an article on the UN’s official site, it has been stated that by 2050, there will be an estimated of 6.25billion people living in the Urban centers, 15% of which, will be the population with disabilities. This poses the question whether our cities are ready to provide an accessible living for this section of the population.

    The main barriers for physically disabled are the blocked wheelchair ramps, buildings without lifts, inaccessible toilets, shops without step-free access. Due to these, the disabled people are less likely to socialise or work without accessible transport.  Cities also miss out on economic gains: in the UK the “purple pound” is worth £212bn, and the accessible-tourism market an estimated £12bn.

    Many major cities of the developed nations are investing in the construction of accessible housing societies, offices, transport, rail and bus stations, hotels and almost every place in and around the city. There is a need for following the changes, to give a more independent life to people with mobility issues.

    • On the technical front, there is a need for navigational apps like AccessMap (At present, this app is available in Seattle only) which enables disabled users in planning the accessible trips on pedestrian ways with more useful data like sidewalks specifications, curb ramps, constructions information, street crossings, elevation etc.
    • The official building design structure must feature column-free spaces and a low concierge counter to help disabled people move around the building more easily.

    • Lift doors must stay open for a longer period to provide enough transit time to disables.
    • Handrails flank should be placed on both sides of the staircases, and the chairs must have grab handles.
    • For the people with hearing impairments, a hearing induction loop at the places in the city enables clearer communication.
    • Braille directions, tactile guidance and easy-to-read pictographs will be helpful for the visually impaired.
    • An aerial ropeway and climbing wall for wheelchair users and an integrated pulley system is a modern transportation method for people with limited mobility.

    • The homes, offices, restaurants and hotel rooms can be equipped with electronic curtains, ceiling hoists (equipment laid on the ceiling that helps disabled people to move inside the house without using wheelchair all the time), beds that can be automatically raised or reclined, adjustable height sinks and accessible baths/toilets (Click here to check what is included as the accessible bathrooms).
    • Drive-through lifts can help people with a wheelchair to exit the lift without having to turn around.

    • Install tactile knobs on railings so that the blind people can easily tell which floor they are on.
    • The toilets at public places must have changing placing facility.
    • The movie theatres should have flexible seating for the groups of disables.

    The efforts are being shown; Last year, Chester in north-west England became the first British city to win the European commission’s Access City award. Along with easily accessible commuting structures and buildings, Chester has provisions for users to receive audio cues via their smart phones, providing directions or real-time information about issues such as escalator outages and advice such as: “Approaching three escalators on left. The second escalator has limited access- it does not go to the level 0.”

    It’s the small things that count.

     

  • Environmentally-Friendly Ice Melt Products for Your Home Exterior Landscape

    Environmentally-Friendly Ice Melt Products for Your Home Exterior Landscape

    For at least a short time every year, we all love to have a winter wonderland. However, ice and snow tend to cause major problems on our home’s exterior landscape and driveways.

    Snow can be blown away with a good electric snow blower or shoveled out of the way with a snow shovel. Ice, on the other hand, can be a bit more complicated to remove.

    So, what might be the best way to clear up those slippery ice in the dead of winter? That would be ice melts!

    How Does Ice Melt Work?

    Ice melts drop the freezing temperature of the water that causes ice and snow to melt and prevents it from refreezing again.

    There are some varieties of ice melts that can soak down through the thick snow or ice and can cause a brine in order to form at ground level, making the snow or ice easier to remove. There are other types that just cause the ice to turn to a soft slush which can be easily swept away or scooped.

    And although the most common and probably the oldest form of ice melt were a simple rock salt, varieties of chemical compounds are now being used today. The problem is, some of these compounds are not environmentally friendly and can cause plant life to have problems and may not be safe to use around pets. There are even a few varieties which are known to pit the surface of the concrete.

    Therefore, it is important that you know what you are using and making sure that what you get is eco-friendly.

    The ice doesn’t just coat our front yard. It also flows over the sidewalk and onto the bottom of our driveway.

    Nearly all ice melt products have potential side effects. They might not be safe with pets or have detrimental effects on plants, etcetera. However, there are some types out there that are generally safer than the others.

    • Safe Paw Non-Toxic Pet Safe Ice Melter

    This ice melt is non-toxic and is guaranteed to be safe for pets. It has a timed-release formulation which helps in preventing re-icing for up to 3 days’ time. It is safe to use on concrete brick and safe for vegetation,  children and pets. This eco-friendly ice melts is available in an 8-pound size.

    Pros:

    • Generally environmentally friendly
    • Child safe
    • Pet safe
    • Safe on concrete bricks
    • Timed-release formulation

    Cons:

    • Takes longer to melt snow and ice than other types

    • Snow Joe Melt-2 Go Nature + Pet-Friendly Ice Melter

    Sleet-busting, ice dicing, and snow-shredding winter weather wonder in a box, the Snow Joe Ice Melter is an eco-, kid-, and pet-friendly product that will not harm metals, concrete, wood, grass, vegetation when used as directed. It contains enhanced calcium magnesium acetate or CMA that provides you with very effective and fast results.

    Pros:

    • Pet-safe
    • Environmentally-friendly
    • Easy on concrete
    • Fast results

    Cons:

    • Blended material
    • Could be safer if it were more CMA than other active ingredients

     

    • Natural Alternative Inc., Ice Melt

     

    Another ice melt products that are safe for pets and kids and does not harm vegetation or cured concrete, this ice melt from Natural Alternative Inc., has been tested and is quite affordable. The whole bag can cover 12,500 square feet of space and leaves no greasy residue on floors.

    Pros:

    • Safe for plants
    • Safe for pets
    • Does not damage concrete
    • Melts ice really well

    Cons:

    • Not that safe unlike other products

     

    • Snow Joe Professional Strength Ice Melter

     

    This ice melt from Snow Joe contains 94% Pure Calcium Chloride Pellets which accelerates the melting process by creating a large amount of heat on contact with ice and snow. This ice melt can last up to 4 hours for a superior traction control and comes in a resealable bag for easy storage.

    Pros:

    • Established brand
    • Inexpensive
    • Quick ice melting action

    Cons:

    • Not as child or pet safe as other products
    • Might be hard on concrete and plants

     

    • FDC 96% Calcium Chloride Ice Melts

     

    This Ice melt from FDC provides maximum safety with the least effort. With 96% pure calcium chloride, this pellets is the best for extreme conditions and can generate powerful heat in order to quickly melt thick ice and snow accumulations.

    These ice melts will not harm shrubs, trees, or lawns and will not leave residues behind. Ideal for roofs, patio, porches, walkways, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and more!

    Pros:

    • Melts ice very fast
    • Ideal for extreme conditions

    Cons:

    • Not as environmentally-friendly or child and pet safe as other products

    Conclusion:

    All Ice melt products are not environmentally friendly. Even though some products may be called environment-friendly, there are still some risks that come with it. However, when measured up against the dangers of thick snow and slippery ice in winter, ice melts are necessary.

    These ice melt products can help you remove stubborn ice and snow at your home exterior landscape. Visit Mid-Atlantic snow removal contractors and make your home snow free!

     

  • How to Use Pendant Lights in Decor

    How to Use Pendant Lights in Decor

    Lighting is an important aspect of interior decoration. Lighting not just adds functionality but it also enhances the look of the particular room or space by adding style to it. Lighting adds ambiance and also can be used to make a place look cozy or spacious depending on the need. Lighting goes hand in hand with the room size, the type of furniture used in the room, the colors of the room, and the natural light in the room.

    There are different types of lighting one can use to decorate their homes or business space. One of the prominent ones among them is the pendant light. Pendant lights are a great combination of being visually decorative as well as functionality. You can play with the colors, sizes, patterns, styles, textures that these lights come in.

    Size of the Pendant Lights

    Pendant lights come in an array of sizes it starts from 5 inches and goes on to 43 inches wide. Keeping in mind the location where the pendant light will go and its use in that particular space, one can decide on the appropriate size of the light. How low or how high you want to hang the pendant lights are also an important part of décor. If it is too low, people can bump into it, if it is too high, it may not serve the purpose. For example, if you are hanging the pendant light over the kitchen island or the dining area, the hanging height should be around 24 inches to 30 inches, so that the light can focus and brighten up the island or dining area without blocking the view of people seated there and also avoid from people bumping into it. Pendant lights usually accompany with adjustable chains or extension rods to adjust its hanging height accordingly.

    Choose Your Style

    Pendant lighting comes in different styles. Although there are umpteen different styles, you can comfortably put them in four different types:

    1. Classical: They have this beautiful ornate look with a lot of detail. If you are going for that classy or vintage look or a rustic look, then this style is definitely for you.
    2. Modern: For those who want to go for the minimalistic look, the modern style is the best option. The neatly defined edges and the sharp yet minimalistic look, make it the perfect choice.
    3. Evolutionary: A design that is interim and is a transition or a combination of traditional and modern is a look that will fit in perfectly with décor which has elements of both worlds, the traditional as well as the modern.
    4. Assorted: A mixture of more than one style, this is perfect for those who love to experiment with different looks, and add an eclectic piece of lighting.

    Materials and Finishes

    Glass, metal, clothes, ceramic, and plastic are some of the common materials that are used for pendant lighting. With each material, you can also get a myriad of finishes. Clear glasses are always great for a place where you want the maximum amount of light. However, even in the glass, you have different shades that are available such as colored glass, Tiffany style glass, frosted glass, smoked white glass diffuser, etc. and each of these enhances the look of a space in their own way. In metal, you get different finishes like brushed nickel, polished chrome, polished nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, black iron, etc. Each finish can give one of the aforementioned styles such as conventional, modern, evolutionary or assorted. Plastic is also great but they can lose color over time, hence they can be used in corners. Cloth finishes add a rustic look but can accumulate more dust hence it should be placed in places like the living room, where dusting is much easier. The shades also come in different patterns such as cut out patterns, which are great to hand in enclosed spaces such as corridors which gives a dreamy effect when the patterns appear on the walls. It also gives an illusion of extra space if placed in a narrow hall.

     

    Different Types of Pendant Lights

    • Mini Pendant Lights: These are small-sized lights which can be used solo, in clusters, or in rows. Best for study area or light above a sink.

    • Island Pendant Lights: This is a single fixture which can contain a number of mini lights in a row. Best for kitchen islands or dining area.

     

    • Multiple Light Pendant Lights: This is a single fixture which can have more than one row of mini lights and can have as many as 10 mini lights in one single fixture. These are also great for the dining area and also can be used as an alternative to chandeliers.

     

    • Inverted Pendant Lights: This is great for ambient lighting. They are similar to semi-flush mount lighting but instead of directly being mounted on the roof, they hang like a pendant from a chain. Great for a breakfast nook or a dining room.

     

    Light Bulbs

    While considering the right light bulb for pendant lights one must consider the color temperature, lumen, and wattage. You should never exceed the wattage mentioned for your light fixture ever. There are different types of bulbs available such as the incandescent bulb, halogen bulbs, HID bulbs, LEDs, and CFLs. LEDs and CFLs help in reducing energy costs as they have a lower wattage with a similar amount of brightness. For living room and bedroom opt for bulbs with warm white color, for workspace and kitchen go with bright white color temperature, and for the study area, you can use daylight color temperature.

     

    Hope this article will help you make the right choice. Check out the pendant light selection form Lighting House for your home or office space.

  • 4 Genius Ways You Can Hide the TV in Your Bedroom

    4 Genius Ways You Can Hide the TV in Your Bedroom

    If you have spent months planning and hundreds of pounds on redecorating your bedroom, the last thing you will probably want is a huge black box ruining your carefully curated sanctuary. So, how can you enjoy binge watching your favourite box-set and not let your TV ruin it?

    Image Credit: TV Bed Store

    1 – TV Bed

    The best way to hide a TV in your bedroom is, of course, a TV Bed. One can now choose a TV Bed to suit the decor of your room as well as a whole host of other storage and style requirements. Do you need more storage? Then an Ottoman bed is ideal. Want something a bit bigger? Then you can choose a double, king or super king size bed. As we found out when speaking to the guys at the TV Bed Store, a TV bed doesn’t mean you need to compromise on style either as they come in a huge range of shapes and fabrics.

    Image Credit: Colin Poole

    2 – Make it part of the decor

    Why not turn your TV into a feature wall in your bedroom? Feature walls, are a great way to to turn a bland living room into something that looks a lot more appealing. Why not do the same for your bedroom? If your feature wall (with a TV) looks great you won’t mind it being there.

    Image Credit: Colin Poole

    3 – Hide it in a wardrobe

    If budget is an issue, and you have some space in your room to play with, why not simply hide it in your wardrobe? This way, if you don’t want to see the TV, you can simply keep the wardrobe door closed.

    Image Credit: Simon Whitmore

    4 – Hide it behind framed prints

    If you want your TV to remain as wall mounted, but don’t necessarily want it to be on show all of the time, hiding it behind some framed prints is a great way to disguise it. You can then incorporate your favourite works of art into the decor of your bedroom to both add beautiful decoration, as well as hiding the wall mounted TV.

    Out of all the options above, our recommendation would be a TV Bed. Not only do they look stylish, the novelty of pushing a button and watching your TV emerge from the foot of your bed never really wears off — it feels space age, but you don’t need to be on the Starship Enterprise to get one. Also, if you really need to, you don’t need to tell your kids that you have got a TV in your room, and, of course, when you don’t want to watch the TV you simply keep it hidden. Not only is a TV Bed a great way to hide your TV, TV Beds come in many different shapes and sizes with different features that work around your lifestyle and storage needs.

  • 5 Tips to Personalize Your Home’s Décor

    5 Tips to Personalize Your Home’s Décor

    Your home is your castle. This means it should reflect yourself and your family, rather than being a cookie-cutter replica of someone else’s preferred look and style.

    Sometimes, it’s difficult to figure out just how to do that. The good news is, it can be easier than you think. However, it is not going to happen overnight. Remember, turning a house into a home is something that can take a while, and it’s okay to make adjustments and changes along the way.

    If you are ready to turn your home into a personalized space you love spending time in, then use the tips and advice found here.

    1. Create a Gallery Wall

    In the past few years, gallery walls have become extremely popular. One of the best things about them is that each one is unique. You can mix family photos with artwork, prints and even acrylic photo blocks. The options are endless.

    What’s great about a gallery wall is that you can change it as needed. You can use some of the same components and create an entirely new look by adding in something new.

    1. Paint Your Front Door

    There’s no question that painting anything provides an instant face-lift for a home. However, painting the entire interior or exterior of your home is a significant investment. Do you want the benefits of a fresh coat of paint without the huge commitment of a large space? If so, paint your front door.

    When you are choosing the paint color, think about if you want to update the hardware on your door, too. After all, new hardware can help give your home a fresh look. While you’re at it, change your locks too – this is a smart move from time to time, as it will increase the safety of your home and family.

    1. Mantels and/or Vignettes

    Choose a spot in your home you can easily change, either for a different season or holiday, or just because you want to. Adding a tabletop, shelf or mantle to this spot is a simple way to update your home. After all, what’s easier than changing the décor on your mantel?

    This doesn’t have to be a complex process or filled with many different items. Consider using one bigger item in the middle or on one side. Once you have the bigger item, fill in the empty spaces with smaller accessories.

    1. Change Your Kitchen Faucet

    Has the faucet in your kitchen seen better days? If so, consider changing it out for a sleek, new one. This is a single, simple change that can help make a huge impact on the overall feel of the kitchen. Even better, this is an affordable improvement.

    The key to getting the best bang for your buck is to make sure your new faucet coordinates with the existing hardware you have in place. If you can’t find something that matches, consider changing all the hardware in your kitchen. This will provide a bigger change in the space.

    1. Add Fresh Flowers to the Space

    Adding a bouquet of cut flowers, regardless of if you get them from your backyard or the grocery store, can help make any room feel friendlier. Make just one arrangement go a bit further by pulling out a few of the blooms to put in bud vases all around your house.

    As you can see, there are several ways for you to add a personal touch to your home. Try out the ideas here, or use a few of your own, to provide a custom look to your home.

     

  • How New Windows and Doors Winnipeg Make a Difference for a Property?

    How New Windows and Doors Winnipeg Make a Difference for a Property?

    Considering the significance of new windows and doors in Winnipeg, it makes sense to be worried about a new property. Whether it’s a fixer-upper or an old place that needs to be upgraded, experts always suggest to pay attention to their charm and character. Living in an old home means that they may be inefficient uptill now and so, it’s high time to work on their re-construction and design in order to bring back the same standard and look as it was before. Having rotted, cracked or warped wood frames means that homeowners now have to plan for their replacement to ensure minimal energy loss during extreme conditions. For this, vinyl windows and fiberglass steel doors turn out to be the perfect option. So, here is how they make a difference:

     

    • Windows Give a ‘Wow’ Factor

     

    Remember that it’s not necessary to go for big improvements. Simple work can also bring the desired outcomes; it’s just about making the right choice. Since windows and doors in Winnipeg are responsible for overall aesthetics and well-being, they are available in myriads of options, be it modern or traditional. There are shapes, styles, colors and materials to meet all types of home requirements. For old homes, there are Sunrise windows while vinyl windows are intended for durability and high performance. There are also bay windows, sliders and those having eco-GAIN glass system for optimal energy efficiency. Though, if someone doesn’t like, it’s recommended to opt custom-made designs.

     

    • Front Door Charm

     

    No doubt, front doors are the focal point for the property that need to look nice and beautiful all the time. Keep in mind that homeowners couldn’t simply choose any option that comes in front of them because just like windows, they should also be in harmony with the rest of the property. The best door with appropriate finishes, colors and styles should be there. Also, the model should also offer fire protection, sound insulation and security.

    Here, another thing to remember is the purpose, meaning that how homeowners want entry doors to work. If it’s about security and versatility, steel doors are the best since they are affordable and durable. Fiberglass doors are provided with realistic grain whose panels can be painted or stained in varieties of natural tones having the wooden warmth.

     

    • Energy Conservation

     

    The chosen windows and doors Winnipeg should be Energy Star certified so that there is no chance for energy to escape from inside. Be sure that these components are capable of reducing up to 30% of monthly utility expenses along with maximizing insulation and air seal.

     

    • Security

     

    Yes, safety is another considerable thing and it should never be compromised at any cost. Most of the window and door manufacturers understand this fact and therefore, they used to follow the entire criterion of manufacturing the components. They have multi-point locking systems and safety mechanisms that are easy to use and durable.