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Vietnam Residence Hosts Family Home and Rice Business

February 11, 2019 by admin

Lan House, a Vietnam residence and rice business venue in Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province, is a dual-purpose home designed by H2 Architecture Studio. The unconventional dwelling accommodates working spaces and a rice storage unit on its bottom floor, while the upper level serves as a welcoming family home.

They split this Vietnam residence into two parts by a staircase and central hallway. “The front side hosts the kitchen, dining room, living room and restroom with laundry. All interiors are neighbored by a green garden. The space behind the stairs encompasses two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a large terrace that connects them,” the architects at H2 explained. Ventilation bricks were used between the two floors, in order to keep away dust from the rice processing unit below.
Home to three family generations, the Lan Residence offers an optimum balance between private and common spaces. The owners wanted an environment where they would feel comfortable both physically and spiritually. This is why religion played a major role in the overall design. The dome-shaped windows add a bit of mystery to the living areas. The dwelling merges traditional design with modern function and is extremely versatile. Information provided by H2 Architecture; photography by Quang Dam.

Take a look inside this dual-purpose Vietnam residence

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These 16 Gorgeous Home Office Design Ideas will give you Total Workspace Envy

February 7, 2019 by admin

Even though your office space will largely be used for work, there’s no reason for it to be strictly utilitarian. We wholeheartedly believe that offices and workspaces can be a beautifully-designed feature of your home. All it takes to come up with stylish office design ideas is a little forethought and planning.

With that in mind, we’ve brought you 16 gorgeous office design ideas to help inspire you. Look them over, in addition to our helpful tips and tricks for putting together the perfect office space, and we guarantee that you’ll be ready to give your space a major makeover.

Follow these tips and tricks to design the ideal office space for you. Image: SeventyFour/Shutterstock

Tips for creating the perfect office space

Too often when people design a home office, they get stuck on the idea that the space has to be totally utilitarian. However, we believe that in order for you to love spending time in your office, there needs to be a good mix of functionality and personality in the space. Follow these office design ideas to create an office space that you won’t want to leave.

Create focus areas: Your office doesn’t have to be simply a desk and a chair. You can create individual focus areas for the different tasks you need to accomplish. Consider adding a seating area if you meet with clients or a reading nook for going over paperwork.
Invest in seating: Seating is the most important element of any office, as it’s how you’ll spend the bulk of your time. Make sure to splurge on the chair that feels most comfortable to you.
Bring in plenty of lighting: Nothing’s worse than squinting over paperwork. Do your best to add plenty of lighting to the space so that seeing clearly is never an issue. Remember AAT – Accent, Ambient and Task lighting make for a well-lit space.
Don’t forget your personality: Finally, your office should feel like a space that’s uniquely your own. Remember to bring in a sense of your personality through the colors and prints that you use, as well as accessories like wall art and décor items.

Check out these swoon-worthy office design ideas

Normally, we’d advise against having your furniture line the walls. However, when you’re working with dual desks you can use the whole room to facilitate the feeling that each person has his or her own space. Image: PlusONE/Shutterstock

The goal with any office is to make the time you spend working as enjoyable as possible. Whenever possible, treat yourself to a beautiful view. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Don’t think that using a formal desk and chair is the only way to set-up an office. You can customize your office layout to fit whatever type of work you’re doing. Image: jovana veljkovic/Shutterstock

t’s not about the space you have, it’s about how you use it. Even if you don’t have a formal office, you can still find space to build a workspace that works. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

This workspace proves that size doesn’t matter. Even with the smallest of square footage, you can still design an office space that you’re happy to be working in. Image: Robert Kneschke/Shutterstock

Consider a sliding door rather than the traditional option to give your office a more modern vibe. Image: Zastolskiy Victor/Shutterstock

Having a proper seating area is important to any office space. This is especially true if you ever plan on hosting clients or other visitors. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

The area above your desk should always be well-lit so that you can see what you’re working on. Think about including a light fixture that will do double-duty by also adding aesthetic value to the room. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

If you really want to get fancy, consider creating an office that can be hidden from sight when it’s out of use. That way, when work is done it’s out of sight, out of mind. Image: Monkey Business Images

Like every other room in your home, your office needs to have a focal point. The wall behind your desk is a natural choice. Think about making it an accent wall or adding a shelf. Image: Breadmaker/Shutterstock

Built-in bookcases are office classics. However, if you don’t have the budget for that, don’t worry. You can recreate a similar look by placing two free-standing bookcases side-by-side. Image: PlusONE/Shutterstock

This space proves that it’s not only possible, but downright fashionable, to have two workspaces side-by-side. Don’t be afraid to share your space with a roommate or family member. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Your office chair is the most important piece of furniture you’ll buy for this room. Do your best to pick out one that you love. Image: Beyond Time/Shutterstock

Your office is your space. Make sure you’re happy there by designing it to your personal style. As you can see, this office’s owner went Scandinavian, but your options are limitless. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

No office would be complete without a place to display accessories. Make sure you have some somewhere to include a little bit of décor in the space. Doing so helps the space feel purposefully designed. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

What are your favorite office design ideas? Do you have a home office you want to show off? Let us know in the comments.

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5 Ways to Stay Organized While Building a Home

February 7, 2019 by admin

Let’s face it: building a home comes with a lot of paper. Whether it’s rough plans drawn on a napkin, pictures torn from magazines or a receipt for that perfect neutral gray, it’s easy to find yourself buried in important documents. Then, when it’s time to find the info you need, you’re left paging through a mountain of paper – sometimes to no avail.

Staying organized during your build doesn’t just help you keep your desk clean – it’ll save your sanity. From communication with your contractor to finding your dream cabinets, the construction process means you’re constantly checking and rechecking information. By putting a system in place, you’ll easily be able to locate what you need when you need it. Organization doesn’t have to be complicated. Try these five tips to help yourself stay organized so you can easily access everything you’ll need for a smooth build.

Getting organized keeps your vision in sight. Image: New River Building Co.

1. Delineate between wants and needs

The first step for an organized build is making sure you know the difference between wants and needs. With all of the inspiration, trends, materials and ideas available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The fastest way to gain control of your build is to know where you stand on wants and needs. Take the time to write a list of five to ten must-haves. These should be items that your home needs for you to be happy with the end result. Then, do the same with a few nice-to-haves: things that you’d like, but won’t make or break the experience. By knowing the difference and creating a strict line between the two, you won’t get sidetracked by tasks that don’t really matter in the long run.

2. Create a build binder (or board)

Building a home is an exercise in collaboration. You’ll be working with a myriad of professionals, from interior designers to concrete workers. A build binder helps you stay organized and on track no matter who or where you’re meeting. A build binder is simple: just use tabs to organize your home into different categories. One way is to split your home into different rooms. Or, if you find it easier, go by categories, such as cabinetry, flooring, countertops, paint and so on.

If you’re more comfortable going digital, use a tool like Pinterest to create inspiration boards and invite your contractors to collaborate. Your interior designer can show you some of the hottest trends while you keep all of your favorite layouts, colors and materials in one place.

Create a filing system that goes from the office to your phone. Image: Donald A. Gardner Architects

3. Organize receipts and documents

There’s no shortage of receipts and docs during the build process. You’ll have land contracts and build contracts, material receipts and floorplan print-outs. If you don’t stay organized, you won’t be able to easily refer to them as needed. While you should always keep important home document hard copies in one place, you’ll need mobile versions, too. If you don’t want to find yourself lugging a file cabinet to every build meeting, use your phone as an organizational tool. Create a folder in your phone’s photo album for home documents and snap a picture anytime you receive something important. You’ll have easy access to all of your contracts, receipts and other important docs on the fly.

4. Create email folders

While the building of your home happens on your lot, the logistics will happen in your email inbox. Don’t lose important communication among your work and junk emails. Create a space for home-specific mail.

You can easily create custom folders within your inbox. If you use Gmail, for instance, you’ll click “Settings,” then “Labels” and “Create New.” You can then name your new label anything you want and use that new label to file important messages. If you really want to stay organized, you could create an entirely new email address for your build and create folders for the different categories of your build. Whatever you decide, it’s about having organized and easy access to all of your communications throughout the process.

Keep a tape measure handy 24/7. Image: Covenant Kitchens

5. Carry a home kit

If there’s anything you should know about building a home, it’s that a meeting can spring up anytime, any place. Whether you’re visiting your home site, dropping by the cabinetry showroom or running into your contractor in the grocery store, you might find yourself making decisions on the fly. That’s why you should stash a home kit in your car at all times. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but should include:

A tape measure
A notebook
A pencil
Your build binder
A pair of shoes you don’t mind getting dirty

Wondering if a light fixture will work in your home? Grab your tape measure! Think you might have found the perfect shade of blue for your front door? Scribble it down. Schedule an impromptu walkthrough? Throw on your shoes and take a look. With a home kit, you’re never caught without the tools you need to keep the build moving.

It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed by the logistics of building a home. There are a lot of moving parts and contractors to manage. By getting yourself organized, you can feel more in control of the process and easily identify areas that need a little more work. Stay organized and you’ll keep your build on schedule (and the end in sight).

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Art Studios: Ideas to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing

February 7, 2019 by admin

Whether you paint, sculpt, illustrate or specialize in another type of art, an art studio provides a place to work in solitude, store your supplies and display your work. While some artists may work in warehouses, lofts or office buildings, you can create an art studio in your home. Below are several art studios to provide inspiration, along with tips for creating the type of workspace that will stimulate your imagination and inspire you to create your best work.

Location

Location may be your most important choice. Image: LightFieldStudios./Getty Images

Your first and most important decision is determining where to place your art studio. An attic or an unused room in your home would be an excellent choice. A basement with sufficient sunlight is also a good option. If you don’t use your garage, consider transforming it into an art studio. Or you have enough space on your property to build or buy a small shed, this type of structure is ideal.

Color

White is a popular color, but yellow can stimulate creativity. Image: AlexD75/Getty Images

The color(s) of your studio will depend on your preferences. Art studios are often white, but Mary Kay Liston, president of Five Star Painting, recommends adding a pop of color. “If your paint colors consist of white, white and more white, you’ll create a sterilized feeling,” she says.

Liston recommends the color yellow. “This is often considered the cheeriest of colors. Yellow denotes a fun-loving, happy vibe,” she says. But there’s another reason to consider this color. “Yellow stimulates the logical side of the brain, creates mental clarity and helps inspire imaginative thinking,” Liston explains.

If you decide to go with a traditional white art studio, she says you can add pops of color through accessories.

Lighting

Art studios need natural light. Image: LightFieldStudios/Getty Images

Ideally, art studios will be designed so plenty of natural light is streaming in during the day. “Lighting is key to reading color correctly and anyone who has worked in art or design knows a piece can read completely differently in one space versus another because of lighting,” says Austin, Texas-based interior designer Stacy Murphy. “Your decorative ceiling fixtures or table lamps could turn the color medium you are working with either too warm or too cool, which is why natural daylight is truly your best friend in a creative working space. It’s also great for your wellbeing; you’ll be more creative if you’re connected to natural elements.”

Workspace

You can never have too much space. Image: ondatra-m/Getty Images

While a small studio is fine, don’t underestimate the value of plenty of space. This will allow you to transition from one area to the next without worrying about accidentally knocking over your easel or stepping on artwork or supplies. “Also, you should get a comfortable chair or stool that is height adjustable so you can alternate between standing or sitting heights, depending on what type of art you are creating,” advises Murphy.

Place for Materials

Keep supplies organized and easily accessible. Image: Hero Images/Getty Images

“Make sure you have an appropriate storage system to keep your supplies neat and organized,” advises Murphy. “IKEA hacks are a great way to get a chic supply storage system for less.” Depending on your type of art, you need a place to store paint, paint brushes and other supplies. Being organized helps you work more efficiently – and hide clutter.

Ventilation

Windows need to be easily opened for ventilation. Image: Tetra Images/Getty Images

Proper ventilation will ensure that you don’t pass out from the fumes in paint, ink, glue, cleaning fluids and other chemicals. The art studio pictured above has a folding glass wall/door system that can create a completely open space in one corner of the room.

Durable Materials

Assume everything could be subject to paint splatters. Image: Monkeybusinessimages/Getty Images

When choosing materials for art studios, make sure that everything is durable and easy to clean – or include well-used items and objects that you don’t mind soiling. The paint splatters on these floors can actually add character. However, if you would prefer not to add character to your floor, consider vinyl or laminate flooring, both of which are easy to clean. As a bonus, the cushion in the underlayment can help ease the pain in your feet or legs from standing all day.

Liston also recommends using paint with a satin finish in your art studio. “A satin finish reflects light for an elegant look,” she says. “Walls can be easily wiped clean and withstand exposure to moisture, making it a top choice for your craft room if things get messy.”

Cleanup Area

Clean up before you leave the studio. Image: Inti St Clair/Getty Images

Because art studios can indeed get messy, consider installing a sink so you can clean your supplies and work area and wash the paint, chemicals, dust and other matter off of yourself before returning to your living area.

Inspiration

Display your artwork in the studio. Image: ADA_Photo/Getty Images

Your art studio should also provide the inspiration to create your best work. “You want your at-home art studio to make you feel transported,” Murphy says. “Dreaming of being a painter in Paris? Pin up some photos that make you feel like you’re there. This space is all about you and your craft, so make a place where you can do you and be you,” she says.

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The Coolest Designs From Tempaper Designs, Your Go-To For Removable Wallpaper

February 7, 2019 by admin

Whether your tastes change faster than you can say “interior design” or you want something that will keep your security deposit safely intact, you should know that removable wallpaper isn’t just for kids anymore. These days, Tempaper Designs is here to bring you fresh and modern takes on this fast decor solution.

We broke down their selection into seven themes that are currently on-trend. Look them over to find your next adventure in wallpaper.

Floral

Florals aren’t exactly new to the wallpaper scene, but these aren’t the dainty daisies that once adorned the walls of your grandmother’s house. Today’s florals take on much more of a cool, tropical vibe in order to help you make your home into the oasis it was destined to become.

Metallic

Metallics are in and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Whether you want something twee like the bird watching print above or something more in-your-face like the two bold, geometric prints, Tempaper has got you covered. Plus, with options in silver, gold and copper, no matter your personal taste, you’ve got options.

Surfaces and textures

Don’t have any natural architectural features in your apartment? No problem. With on-trend options like an exposed brick finish and wooden planks that look like shiplap, you should be able to recreate that sun-drenched loft feel.

Geometric

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from the emerging 2019 interior design trends, it’s that the 70s are back in a big way. With that comes plenty of geometric patterns. No matter whether you prefer the small and subtle look of the CONNECT wallpaper or bolder styles like MAYA’S PAPAYAS, trust us when we say that you’re going to want to get into this style next year. Be ahead of the curve.

Jungle

For those who can’t get enough flora and fauna, Tempaper also has a collection dedicated to jungle-inspired prints. There are palm leaves and ferns galore. This is a good opportunity for you to let your wild side shine with a border or accent wall. No tropical climate required.

Asian-inspired

Asian-inspired styles have been around for years and, thanks to trends like Japandi, we’re still finding ways to keep these looks fresh. As you can see, Tempaper has chosen a muted take on these styles that will go well with a variety of applications. These looks allow you to give a subtle nod to Asian cultures without it feeling too over-the-top.

Kids

Removable wallpaper will always cater to kids. After all, when their tastes inevitably change, this makes it super easy for their decor to change with them. With styles ranging from celestial orbits to dinosaurs and medieval knights, there’s something here to pique every kid’s interest.

How to use removable wallpaper

Here’s how to use removable wallpaper in your home. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

There’s so much more that you can do with removable wallpaper than decorate all four walls. If you’re stuck on how to use this design element in a way that works, we have some inspiration. Keep scrolling for five unique ways to incorporate removable wallpaper into your home.

Accent walls: Accent walls are practically tailor-made for removable wallpaper. Don’t be afraid to go big and bold with your pattern. Remember, the great thing is that, when your tastes change, you’ll easily be able to switch that wallpaper out with another print.
Lining drawers: If you want to give your home organization a little twist, consider lining your drawers with removable wallpaper. It’s a fun way to spice up a boring cabinet or dresser. Plus, it may even help you remember where everything goes.
Lining shelving: Boring shelving units are so last year. Give yours an extra pop of visual interest by lining the interior of your shelves with removable wallpaper. Just remember to pick a pattern that coordinates with the color of the shelving unit itself.
Gallery walls: The best part of a gallery wall is that it can include any piece of art that strikes your fancy – and who says removable wallpaper can’t be art? When you see a pattern that you love, consider framing it and making it part of your collection.
As a headboard: If you don’t want to go all out and spring for a real headboard, removable wallpaper can help you create the same look for pennies on the dollar. All you need to do is measure the width of your bed and cut your panel to size.

The post The Coolest Designs From Tempaper Designs, Your Go-To For Removable Wallpaper appeared first on Freshome.com.

Get Ready to Fall for the Whimsical New Emily & Meritt Collection for Pottery Barn

February 5, 2019 by admin

Designers Emily Current & Meritt Elliott are no strangers to Pottery Barn’s aesthetic. The duo has previously collaborated with the store’s younger outfit, PBTeen, on a line of whimsical bedding that runs the gamut from old Hollywood glam to Parisian mystique. Now, they’re back with the new Emily & Meritt line, a collection of grown up housewares.

Get ready to add a touch of whimsy to your table with the Emily & Meritt Collection. Photo courtesy of Pottery Barn

The Emily & Meritt line features fun and sophisticated housewares

This 58-piece collection is a delightful hodgepodge of items. It includes dishware, bar cart tools, bedding and even a few Christmas decorations. But rather than feeling disjointed, each piece feels perfectly curated to fit the designers’ signature style.

The items, while practical, all have twee detailing to them. If you’re a fan of Modcloth or Zooey Deschanel, you’ll know exactly the vibe we’re talking about. The detailing, though, is much subtler than it’s been in previous collections and it’s balanced out by a purposeful use of rich materials. This makes the collection feel elegant and sophisticated, yet still playful.

Check out a selection of our favorite pieces below

1) The Emily & Meritt Bunny Ear Napkin Ring, Set Of 4, $24.50

The Emily & Meritt Bunny Ear Napkin Ring, Set Of 4 Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Who says dinner parties have to be stuffy and boring? Give your guests a smile with the cute pair of bunny ears on these otherwise-simple napkin rings. Best of all, the design is unobtrusive enough to be used all year long, not just when spring rolls around.

2) The Emily & Meritt Gold Top Hat Wine Stopper, $14.50

The Emily & Meritt Gold Top Hat Wine Stopper Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Dealing with leftover wine is a problem that most of us have to contend with at one point or another. However, with this Gold Top Hat Wine Stopper, you can ensure that your wine stays fresh until you have time to come back and finish it.

3) The Emily & Meritt Quilted Brass Champagne Ice Bucket, $69.50

The Emily & Meritt Quilted Brass Champagne Ice Bucket Courtesy of Pottery Barn

No bar cart is complete without an ice bucket to help keep the party going. Emily & Meritt’s version does just that. However, the quilted pattern that adorns the outside adds an extra layer of refinement to the whole affair.

4) The Emily & Meritt Brass Moon Bookends, Set Of 2,$69

The Emily & Meritt Brass Moon Bookends, Set Of 2 Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Day or night, these Brass Moon Book Ends are the perfect fit for any bookcase or shelf. Their crescent moon shape is enough to add a just hint more complexity to your decor without drawing any attention away from where it needs to be.

5) The Emily & Meritt Lean On Me Sentiment Pillow Cover, $29.50

The Emily & Meritt Lean On Me Sentiment Pillow Cover Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Repeat after us: Interior design doesn’t always have to be serious. This Lean On Me Sentiment Pillow Cover proves it. It’s a way to bring your sense of humor into your home while still helping create a design that feels chic.

6) The Emily & Meritt Starry Night Double Old Fashioned, Set Of 2, $24.50

The Emily & Meritt Starry Night Double Old Fashioned, Set Of 2 Courtesy of Pottery Barn

If you’ve always associated Old Fashioned sets with the Mad Men era, you’re not alone. However, the Emily & Meritt take on the Old Fashioned set proves that there’s plenty of room for this generation to get in on the fun. The subtle star detailing on each of the rocks glasses adds a touch of whimsy that’s more than welcome in the 21st century.

7) The Emily & Meritt Hanging Mirror, $79

The Emily & Meritt Hanging Mirror Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Without question, this mirror is one of the simplest pieces that this collection has to offer. But we love it because of its versatility. Geometric designs have been in for years and that’s not changing anytime soon. With that in mind, the shape of this mirror is bound to add a touch of visual interest to any room while still making sure that the design stays fully-rooted in today’s trends.

If you like what you see, you can view the Emily & Meritt collection in its entirety here. What are your favorite pieces? Let us know in the comments.

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Shipping to your Door Soon: Alexa-Enabled Amazon Prefab Homes

February 5, 2019 by admin

Amazon is doubling down on the smart home space. They’ve set up the Alexa Fund to provide up to “$200 million in venture capital funding to fuel voice technology innovation.” And almost $7 million of this fund is going to Plant Prefab, a Southern California start up that builds sustainable prefabricated homes. It looks like you’ll be able to click and ship your very own quick and affordable Amazon prefab home soon.

But how does the prefabricated home fit in with the Alexa Fund’s directive of developing voice technology? Future Amazon prefab homes will feature the growing collection of Alexa voice tech and smart home innovation throughout the home’s floor plan.

The C6 Living Home in Van Nuys, California, is one of the prefab home styles that may be available through Amazon soon. All images: Plant Prefab

According to Paul Bernard, the director of the Alexa Fund, “There are now more than 20,000 Alexa-compatible smart home devices from 3,500 different brands,” he stated. “We’re thrilled to support Plant Prefab as they make sustainable, connected homes more accessible to customers and developers,” he said of the Amazon prefab homes.

Plant Prefab specializes in building modern, green homes designed for an urban environment. The startup claims that building the home in an offsite factory using new technology and automation can save half the construction time of a tradition build. And time equals money: their prefab houses use better quality materials and finishes for less time and cost.

A prefab home being delivered to the home site for final assembly.

A home can be ordered online from a selection of standard floor plans or a custom design. And according to Plant Prefab, the home delivers “90% complete and installed in a day.”

According to Plant Prefab’s founder Steve Glenn, “In the housing-crunched major cities like Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, along with areas like Silicon Valley, it takes too much time to build a home from groundbreaking to occupancy.” It looks like future Amazon prefab homes will solve this headache.

Amazon hasn’t announced when you’ll be able to click and ship your dream smart home, but here’s a look at what prefab homes are currently available through Plant Prefab:

Yves Behar 1

Square Feet: 625 square feet
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Soaring ceiling and lots of windows create a space that feels larger than 625 square feet.

Ray Kappe 1.1

Square Feet: 3100 square feet
Rooms: 5 bedroom, 3 baths

The 2-story modern features quality materials like steel and reclaimed wood.

An open floor plan allows for easy flow throughout the house.

C6.2

Square Feet: 1096 square feet
Rooms: 2 bedroom, 2 baths

The C6.2 model is compact enough to fit on a small, narrow lot.

Modern, high-end finishes are part of the prefab home’s design.

Kieran Timberlake KT1.5

Square Feet: 1622 square feet
Rooms: 2 bedroom, 2 baths

The exterior of the KT1.5 is contemporary and low-maintenance.

All spaces in the prefab home are large, airy and open.

What do you think of these modern prefabricated homes? Would you buy one through Amazon? Let us know in the comments.

The post Shipping to your Door Soon: Alexa-Enabled Amazon Prefab Homes appeared first on Freshome.com.

How to: Clean your Refrigerator

February 4, 2019 by admin

If your kitchen is spotless, don’t let your fridge spoil it. Use this guide to clean your refrigerator. Image: JadeNinaSarkhel/Twenty20

The new year always offers a fresh start. Why not take this opportunity to knock out a few to-dos that will help you start the new year strong? This is an ideal opportunity to take on those tasks you always say you’ll get to someday. Tasks like taking the time to clean your refrigerator.

Sure, it’s not fun. Yes, it will take time. And yes, you will probably find a long-forgotten condiment growing something you wish you hadn’t seen. But that’s all the more reason to jump on it! Every time you open your sparkling clean fridge, you’ll get a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you’ll likely end up clearing out some space you can use to help yourself on any New Year’s healthy eating resolutions.

So where to start? Here’s a quick checklist you can use to deep clean your refrigerator.

Shutting off power and emptying out the fridge makes your deep clean a lot easier. Image: BondRocketImages/Shutterstock

Step one: disconnect the power

You will need to open your fridge door for quite a while, so there’s no sense wasting energy while you clean. Either unplug your fridge or, if you’re not keen on climbing behind it, turn off power at the fuse box or circuit breaker.

As soon as you disconnect power, open your freezer door so it can begin to defrost. No one likes to have cold hands while they clean!

Step two: transfer food

If you think you’re going to hustle through this project, you can simply take all your food out and put it on the counter. But if you’ve got a larger fridge, know yours is going to need some serious elbow grease or simply don’t want to feel rushed, grab a cooler. Load the highly perishable items like dairy and fresh produce into the cooler with items from your freezer to buy yourself some time.

While you’re at it, take any removable parts – like glass shelves and crisper drawers – out and put them on the counter. Letting them come to room temperature before you start cleaning them can help you avoid cracks.

Would you let people take photos of your open fridge? After this clean, you’ll be setting up your own photoshoot. Image: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

Step three: wipe it down

While it might be tempting to grab your Windex and get to scrubbing, don’t. Chemical cleaners shouldn’t come into contact with your food, even indirectly. Instead, choose a food-safe option. You can make a paste of baking soda and water for caked-on grime (like that oddly-colored goop that accumulates under condiments in the door). Use a spray of half vinegar, half water for your general wipedown. A wet towel can be a huge help in grabbing particles from all the tiny nooks and crannies inside your fridge.

Step four: clean the door seals

Have you ever looked inside the flexible seals around the edges of your fridge doors? This is an often-overlooked area, even if you regularly clean your refrigerator, so don’t skip it now! Spray it down with your vinegar solution, then use your wet towel to get inside the folds of the seal.

While you’re at it, check the seal. If your fridge doors aren’t sealing properly, your fridge is working overtime. This shortens the lifespan of your refrigerator and drives up your energy bill, so it’s worth getting fixed.

Don’t just wipe down your fridge’s interior. Clean the removable parts and exterior, too. Image: bezikus/Shutterstock

Step five: clean drawers and shelves

While it’s tempting to throw your shelves and drawers into the dishwasher, they could crack in there. Instead, use the same food-safe solutions you used above to get them sparkling clean. Or, if you’ve got a large enough sink, you can wash them the same way you would any other dishes.

Make sure these items are completely dry before you add them back to your fridge. Otherwise, trapped moisture can breed bacteria, undoing all your hard work.

Step six: clean the exterior

You’re almost done! When you clean your refrigerator, don’t forget to wipe down the outside. Disinfect the door handles, then grab a step stool. Wipe down the top of your fridge to keep your kitchen that much more sanitary. Clean fridge doors with the appropriate solution (e.g. glass cleaner for glass fridge doors, stainless cleaner for stainless doors). Because the food stays inside the fridge, the no-chemical rules don’t apply here.

Voilà! Once you load your food back in, your sparkling refrigerator can become a source of pride. Image: asbe/Getty Images

Step seven: reload the fridge

Now comes the fun part. Use this opportunity to organize your fridge and you’ll be significantly more likely to keep it clean. Before you put any item back into the fridge, check the expiration date. This is the perfect time to make sure you haven’t been harboring any long-expired products in the depths of your refrigerator.

What tips and trick do you use when you clean your refrigerator? Did any of these help you out? Let us know in the comments.

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5 Secrets for Creating a Romantic Feng Shui Bedroom

February 4, 2019 by admin

Decorate your Feng Shui bedroom with The Twillery Co. Akins Duvet Cover Set in romantic light pink. Courtesy of Wayfair

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When you think of Feng Shui, romance may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Feng Shui principles are all about enhancing our living spaces — including the bedroom. The elements of Feng Shui are meant to bring out the right energy, (or Chi’i) for every room in our home. The colors and elements of this practice focus on many areas of our lives, including family harmony, creativity and romance. The good news is that you can create a Feng Shui bedroom with just a few simple changes.

Here’s how Feng Shui elements can create a romantic and relaxing vibe for your bedroom.

1. Start with a romantic Feng Shui bedroom color scheme

The Burrier 6-Piece Comforter Set, in a neutral gray and rich red palette, create the perfect color scheme for a romantic Feng Shui bedroom. Courtesy of Wayfair

The Feng Shui colors meant to enhance loving relationships at home are, not coincidentally, the same colors we already associate with romance. Traditional Feng Shui bedroom colors include red, pink, and white. It’s not practical to decorate your bedroom in such a limited color palette, but a soothing neutral color palette with Feng Shui color accents is a wonderful way to incorporate them. Here’s how to use these romantic colors in your bedroom decor:

Choose artwork with red or pink accents to enhance your romantic bedroom color scheme.

Add a few throw pillows or a luxurious throw in the Feng Shui romantic colors.

Candles can not only enhance your color scheme, but also add a romantic vibe.

Fresh flowers in red or pink are especially beneficial to achieving the romantic Chi’i (energy) in your bedroom.

Think beyond a simple red, pink or white Feng Shui color palette in your bedroom. To create harmony, you can choose shades that fit your color scheme, like peach, rust or ivory.

2. Use Feng Shui romantic symbolism in your bedroom

Wall26 Romantic Swan Wall Art is the ideal Feng Shui symbolism for a romantic bedroom. Courtesy of Walmart

There is more to Feng Shui than colors or furniture placement. When it comes to your bedroom, there are designs and symbols thought to enhance the romantic energy.

Decorate in pairs. The symbolism of “twos” is important to Feng Shui bedroom design. Images or figurines of swans, Mandarin ducks, in pairs, is especially auspicious.

Artwork that evokes love and relationships. Whether you frame happy photos with your significant other for your walls, or hang classic art that depicts loving relationships, this type of wall art is a must for romantic Feng Shui.

Avoid art and decor that suggests unpleasant emotions or loss.

Family photos are wonderful in other areas of the house, but are not considered favorable for a romantic Feng Shui bedroom — this is the space for romantic photos that support your relationship.

3. Add romantic bedroom lighting

The pretty Kappler Comforter Set, and pendant lighting over a nightstand, adds glamor to a romantic bedroom. Courtesy of Joss & Main

The most romantic bedrooms are relaxing, and lighting is a big part of that. Every bedroom needs basic overhead lighting for cleaning, getting dressed and finding things. Your romantic bedroom lighting is another layer of light that sets the mood for your romantic Feng Shui bedroom.

Bedside lighting can come from table lamps, sconces and swing arm lamps, or hanging pendants over your nightstands. To achieve romantic ambiance through lighting, your bedside lights should be dimmable and soft. You can add additional romantic lighting with LED candles, which can be purchased with a timer and remote, for hassle-free mood lighting. You can also put up delicate string lights in your bedroom for a totally romantic look, year-round.

4. Choose romantic and luxurious bed linens

Finding the perfect bedding for your romantic bedroom makeover is magical, like this gorgeous Lush Velvet Tack Stitch Quilt + Shams from West Elm. Soft pink accents makes this the perfect Feng Shui bedding. Courtesy of West Elm

Your bed linens are the most important element in a romantic bedroom. The Feng Shui element for love is Earth — this means that bed linens in natural fabrics and neutral colors can enhance romantic energy in your bedroom. The most romantic bed linens should feel romantic and luxurious to the touch, even if they aren’t expensive. Complete your bed linen ensemble with throw blankets and pillows in the colors of Feng Shui romance.

5. Feng Shui your bedroom with romantic accent decor

The romantic Urban Habitat Comforter Set in neutral colors and peach accents sets a calming mood. Your Feng Shui bedroom doesn’t have to be elaborately decorated, just inviting and romantic. Courtesy of Bed, Bath & Beyond

The wonderful secret to bringing the benefits of Feng Shui into your home is that it works in any decorating style. Your accent decor doesn’t have to be Feng Shui-themed, it can be in whatever style you choose for your bedroom. Your goal for achieving a romantic bedroom is to consciously choose each piece of decor, and ask yourself if it will enhance the relaxing and romantic style you hope to achieve through Feng Shui. The most romantic bedroom decor invites you to linger and relax.

The post 5 Secrets for Creating a Romantic Feng Shui Bedroom appeared first on Freshome.com.

5 Ways to Make Modern Valentine’s Day Décor

February 4, 2019 by admin

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There’s always been a bit of an issue with Valentine’s Day: it’s marked by gaudy décor items like paper hearts, pink teddy bears and frilly Valentine’s Day cards. But you can decorate your home so that you can celebrate the holiday, yet keep it classy and sophisticated. There are plenty of ways to go about having a classy Valentine’s Day. However, they’re all marked by the principle of minimalism. If you place just a few accents to celebrate the holiday, you can set the mood without being surrounded by a frilly, overly pink nightmare. So take a look below to find some top ways to go about having a modern Valentine’s Day.

Small, bright accents can set the tone for Valentine’s Day without overpowering the space. Image: Anna Oleksenko / Shutterstock

Small Framed Accents

One idea is to find a piece that works as a smaller focal point. For instance, you could find a framed piece, like in the photo above. Something like this would fit on the wall, or you could even place it over the mantel. Then you could place small red accents around the room for some design cohesion.

This concept works best with a piece of framed art. But you can get creative by finding other classy accents. For instance, you might find a modern red heart piece on a stand. Or you could go for a simple, classy Valentine’s Day wreath.

The bold reds and pinks of the holiday are great as accent colors. Image: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Using Accent Colors

Another idea for a modern Valentine’s Day is to make use of bold red or bright pink as your accent color. In today’s styles, accent colors are popular. They add a fun pop to otherwise neutral and light color schemes that define contemporary styles.

You can see an example of how something like this could work in the photo above. Bright shades of red pop in the space, a natural color for Valentine’s Day. Then you could easily add a red heart piece on a shelf to set the tone for the holiday. And if you already have red or pink as an accent color, a heart décor item idea is an obvious choice.

Keep it understated with a white and light pink color scheme. Image: Jane Rix / Shutterstock

Add Subtle Pink Accents

Instead of going for bold accent colors that pop, you could also go for subtle pink. A light baby pink won’t visually compete with anything, especially if you have a lot of white in your space.

You can see an idea for how to incorporate pink into a space in the photo above. You can have some simple light pink confections in a clear jar, like these white and pink marshmallows. Don’t feel like you have to overtly go Valentine’s Day. An idea like this can create a subtle, modern Valentine’s Day by focusing on the color scheme of the holiday alone.

Go for word art to set an instant feeling of romance, like with this Hand Made Modern Unfinished Craft Be Mine Heart, Courtesy of Target.

Classy Art for a Modern Valentine’s Day

We covered framed wall art above, but you can use word art in other pieces. By working with word art like this, you can easily set the mood for the holiday. But a simple piece like this doesn’t overpower the space. It can hang on its own, or as part of an overall Valentine’s Day room design.

An element like this would be easy to hang, too. And it’s neutral color fits in with just about any room design. Though if you wanted to get a funky look, you could place it on a table askew for a more creative take. It’s unfinished, so you could also customize it.

Valentine’s Day-themed throw pillows make easy and understated accents, as you can see with this Be Mine Linen Throw Pillow, Courtesy of Wayfair.

Small Throw Pillow Accents

The best way to keep things contemporary and easy is to simply add a holiday-themed throw pillow. This classic red heart pillow in the photo above sets the mood for the season, but its light backdrop would allow it to fit in with just about any room style.

The rustic print and burlap texture would also help it fit in with rustic chic styles. And the deep shade of the red pops, but it’s not an overly saturated or neon color like you’d see on some of the loudest Valentine’s Day cards. A classy throw pillow like this is just a good, basic piece that fits in with any modern Valentine’s Day.

What are your favorite modern Valentine’s Day decorating ideas? Let us know in the comments.

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