Business, Real Estate, Home Furnishing and Interior Designs Link Roundup

On January 7, 2020

Have you heard of the interior design style called shabby chic? This all started with Rachel Ashwell, a woman who simply made slipcovers for herself as well as her friends and then she ended up creating an interior design revolution.

The ideas that she spurred centered in the combination of elegance and comfort. Now, you can buy the lady’s name and trademark attached to her many products. Shabby chic is no longer just a label these days, it is a style that is characterized by comfort and livability while having the highest standard for quality.

Setting Up Your Shabby Chic Home

Every home is meant to be lived in, this is common sense, and this is the very essence of the shabby chic style. Your home is not a museum, neither is it a hospital so it must be a place where the dwellers can rest without feeling stressed.

So where should you begin?

Charge through thrift stores and flea markets to find furniture pieces and accessories that will complete your shabby chic home. The basic chair, for as long as it is comfortable, will make do.

You also need to create a sense of wear-and-tear. In the past, furniture was painted over every time so that they can look new. In time, however, the base paint is seen again as the original wood is exposed for further wearing and tearing. This is exactly the kind of look that you need to achieve.

This does not mean that your home will not have room for contemporary items. The chief thing to keep in mind is to enjoy what you already have and to buy only the needful or basic things. The furniture that you buy must be durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily living. Each item that you incorporate in your home must be crafted with love and be able to tell a story. Each must be durable enough to last for many years.

Shabby chic style is all about variety. As the homeowner, you have the freedom to choose, buy and arrange interior design elements according to her taste. As long as they are cohesive, then every piece is welcome to be added.

If you are on a tight budget, then this style is perfect for you. Here are some useful tips that can help you make a bold statement without burning a hole in your pocket –

Patience is vital since you will go through thrift shops for your furniture and accessories.
Try to move a few things around, this might work, rather than rushing out and buying new stuff right away. Find out which pieces look best inside the living room and which should stay inside the kitchen or the bedroom.
If in doubt, it is always safest to choose comfort. This is the aspect that can make you feel good once it is time to unwind.
Simplicity is key; the less busy-looking a room is, the more relaxing it is.

Now it’s time to learn about the perfect lighting for a shabby chic home. Vintage bedside lamps and chandeliers are suitable for this home. Find sky blue, white, pink or yellow lamps. If you can buy those that come with lace at the bottom, then all the better.

The lamps must have a dangling on-and-off switch thread or chain. The lampstand must be made of wood or heavy metal.

As for the accessories, find light-colored, sheer curtains. Those with floral prints are also ideal. Every accessory must have a wear-and-tear look since you need to evoke the look of many years of bleaching and washing. Find curtains made with vintage, heavy materials in florals or plain color. These are the basic guidelines in utilizing the shabby chic design. For more details, phone a licensed interior designer, meet up and ask away.

The Unparalleled Beauty of Vintage Design (2020 Link Roundup)

On January 4, 2020

Did you know that what is referred to as vintage design is actually the glamorous ‘40s? Not a lot of people know this, in fact, there are some people that think of vintage as something that is quite new. This is, of course, not the case.

The Vintage Era – A Beautiful Period

The beautiful vintage era can be recreated in your home. You will feel extremely nostalgic when you look at the elegant pieces that comprise this period in time. See the historical influences that you can use to mimic the stylish look during that time.

There is a rich history behind the vintage design. Imagine the people and their newly-regained freedom – what did they do with it? Also, many must still remember the sufferings during the period of war and so they just learned to make do with what they already had. If you would carefully look at both the 40s and 50s design, you will realize that they have a distinctive look.

If you want to join the number of homeowners that now utilize the vintage design, then go ahead and do so. Learn some beautiful and helpful tips that can help you go back in time (at least in terms of the design of your home).

Colors All-Around

Imagine the hallway or entrance with a kitsch wallpaper. What you have just pictured is a classical entryway that depicts boldness and a different level of class. As to the lighting, the designer must see to it that it is not too dark or too light. There must be a soothing balance that is achieved as the lighting fixtures are installed.

When it comes to the color scheme that you will use, be sure to stay close to the light, neutral tones. A bolder color can be used to drive a clear impact in a room. Go too bright and you just lost the beauty of the vintage style.

To begin, have an off white color then slowly add pale, soft colors such as egg shell blue. Just imagine a living room that is painted white and egg shell blue – it is unique, expansive to the sight, and it is invigorating.

When it comes to the colors of the upholstery, it is safe to use a mushroom color. To accentuate the beauty of this color, place some cushions with a unique white and navy blue scatter.

Furniture that you can use is the button-backed, upholstered piece. This kind of furniture will surely blend well with the vintage interiors more so when you use leather or plain fabrics.

The walls should be splashed with floral and bold patterns. Do this by having wallpapers installed or finding paint colors that depict the historic era. Consider adding timber wall paneling to the design. Just be sure to put your thoughts in order then put all your ideas on a mood board. Assemble what you can use as well as all your other design preferences.

The ‘40s Look Isn’t Complete Without These

What is the vintage era is there are no huge cabinets, sideboards and display units? Buy vintage box TV and your home will surely be the talk-of-the-town.
Pieces that match the architecture of the room.
A little retro lighting.

Find distressed furniture pieces that you can blend with your other furnishings. The distressed look is what will give your living room that authentic vintage appeal.

5 Money-saving Ideas for Renovation (Link Roundup 2020)

On January 3, 2020

So, you have finally decided that it is time to redesign your home – but what if you have very little budget to accomplish this? And with the economy being as volatile as it is, you may think that this is not the perfect moment to carry on with the renovation project, financially speaking, that is.

On the contrary, this is actually the best time to take on a renovation project because suppliers and service providers are providing the most competitive prices.

It’s Time to Save

The first thing to do is to find out which parts of the renovation project you can do by yourself and what things need to be done by the professionals. The more complex works such as plumbing, electrical wirings and some aspects of interior design can be assigned to the experts.

As soon as you have defined what stuff you can do on your own, it’s time to contact an interior designer to start the planning phase. If you opt to become the general contractor for this project, then you are guaranteed a significant amount of savings. Ask around for local contractors and designers, even home improvement stores for specialized help.

As soon as the larger projects are done, you and the interior designer can sit down and discuss the finishing touches.

The flooring is often the first aspect that needs to be discussed. Determine how certain rooms will be used or how a new room will function. For rooms with high foot traffic or those with children or pets; you might want to consider installing hard wood flooring (or any type of durable material) which can also be easily cleaned.

If you are renovating a bedroom, you may want to consider installing a carpet. If tiles, wall-to-wall carpeting or real wood flooring is not affordable for you at the moment, then shop around for less expensive alternatives.

Rather than regular tiles, there are now stick laminate tiles in the market that are equally beautiful yet a lot less expensive. They also look just like the real tiles and not a lot of people are even able to tell the difference. They also come in a variety of styles and colors providing the look that you need in any room.

Here are other tips to save more money on a renovation –

Increase Efficiency, Not the Size

If you can reorganize the kitchen, for instance, there may not be a need to knock down walls just to gain square footage. Begin by replacing bulky shelves with cabinet-high drawers. There are those that come in just 8 inches of width but with racks for canned items and other goods.

Efficient use of dividers, pull-out trays for pots and lazy Susans; will also save you hundreds of dollars in expense.

Let In Some Light

Before you actually cut more holes on your walls for additional windows, why now try to capture light?

A windowless hallway or bath, for instance, can use a light tube which can be installed in between roof rafters. These can funnel in the sunshine into any living space.

Think Long-term

An extra dollar or two may spell the difference between sturdy furniture and the haphazardly-built ones. Be sure to closely inspect each item that you buy, this way, you save on repair costs in the future.

Sell or Donate Unwanted Items

When remodeling, you can invite the local Habitat for Humanity to pick up the items that you no longer want. Either you do a total takedown or you can just take off the cabinets, sink, tub, etc.

And just as you can sell or donate unwanted stuff, perhaps, you can also find recycled furniture somewhere. ReStores by Habitat for Humanity have about 400 stores all over the country. They offer salvaged items which you can buy at half the price.

Finding State-of-the-art Interior Design Schools

On December 28, 2019

Many people, these days, are confused when it comes to the career path that they should take. Of course, it is obvious that certain jobs require a set of skills. If you have an eye for fashion and architecture, then you could enjoy a career in interior design. Your job then is to give homes a unique appearance and you can only do this if you are properly trained. Begin by looking for a reputable interior design institution.

The Beginner’s Path

One of the first few things that you will need to do is to develop your interior designer skills. This is achieved if the basic curriculum taught in your chosen interior design school includes classes that teach about color, form, texture, balance and many other elements of interior design. You see, it’s not all about being artistic, there are also certain rules that should be followed.

The reputation of the interior design school matters. It must have a good standing to begin with and must be known to produce talents and the most skilled professionals. Reputation is key to gaining a foothold on the industry as early as your graduation day. The best schools can provide you with a well-designed portfolio as well as the best connections in the market.

If you do not know where to find such institutes, then peruse the latest interior design magazines. They often feature the best interior design schools in the country. You should also consider looking for good schools in your area. Be sure also to check school ranking in different magazines and books.

Do not let these rankings blind you from your own judgment, though. Sometimes, your gut feeling is a lot more reliable than any kind of ranking. If you feel that you will learn a lot from a certain interior design institute, then go for it.

As soon as you have listed a number of potential schools, the next thing that you need to do is to consider visiting them. Making an ocular inspection give you a broader idea of the programs and facilities that are being offered by every campus. Take note also of the overall campus environment.

Keep in mind that most interior design institutes take in more applications than the enrollees that they are able to accommodate. Because of this, they can become extremely selective as to their entrance requirements. This is good, in a way, since they ascertain that the quality of training is not affected. Since this is the case, it wouldn’t hurt to have a few backup options.

Another thing that you have to take note of is an interior design institute’s accreditation. Whether or not they are accredited matters a lot and so does the type of instructors that they employ.

Find out if any of the schools are able to offer guest lecturer series. Also, find out if the instructors are practicing interior designers. If they have no professional portfolio yet, then why should you trust in their teachings?

Another factor that matters is the institute’s location. Location is always a practical issue that you need to seriously think about. Are you willing to relocate just so you could attend one of the nicest interior design schools? If not, then learn to be contented with the programs that are being offered in local programs within your vicinity. If the location is a big issue for you, then you could also consider enrolling in an online course. There are several online institutes that offer interior design courses. Find out which one caters to your wants. It always pays to do a little research before enrolling in any school. As you can see, it takes more than just a flair for art to be able to establish a career in the field of interior design.

6 Steps to Setting Up A Home Office – Learn Marvelous Interior Design Guidelines

On December 27, 2019

Back in the day, working from home was considered impossible. But with the advent of digital technology, more and more companies are now embracing the work-at-home concept. People who choose this setup must have a separate office space, though, where they can easily concentrate and work more efficiently.

Here are some useful guidelines –

Write Down What You Need

Begin by analyzing your home office requirements. Of course, you will need a laptop or a desktop computer; perhaps a few books, a fax machine, telephone, documents, notepads, and stationery items. These things, alone, already require space.

Go High Tech

Thanks to technology, you may now design your home office layout way before you physically install anything. Use computer software such as Google Sketchup to plot the room, the placement of windows and doors, furniture, and electrical points.

Since you are going to spend hours each day in this room, take your time in planning and designing it. It must evoke feelings of happiness, efficiency and comfort.

Pick the Space Where You Will Work

Choosing a space where you will be setting up your home office is vital. It can be anywhere in your home – the basement, an empty room, even the attic. With family members going about their daily activities all around you, make sure that you choose office space that will not impede their tasks and vice versa.

Your home office should not hinder anyone’s chores. It must be comfortable so that you can concentrate and will have a minimal distraction.

Consider proper lighting as well. A dingy environment is generally depressing, hence, it can hamper your productivity. If you can set up your desk near a window so that natural light can come in, then do so. Natural light is known to induce concentration.

Take into consideration also the ventilation as well as the placement of electrical outlets.

Personalize Your Work Zone

The greatest part about working from home is that you get to work while in your comfort zone.

You can use paintings, spiritual stuff and family photos that can inspire you as you work. Stress may inevitably creep in while you work so it is good to have some things that can motivate you to move forward.

A little music in the back ground will also be helpful so this means you may also set up a music system. If you need to control the noise, it is best to install a partition wall or a door so you can have your own space.

Optimize Space

As soon as the furniture and electronic equipment are set, it is now time to plan the optimization of your home office space. You can achieve a more spacious look by literally freeing up space.

Say no to huge furniture pieces; purchase the more compact ones. You can consider placing foldable tables so that you can prop them against the wall once you are done. Doing this will help you have more floor space.

Have overheard shelves installed for more storage space.

A Few More Tips

One can never emphasize the importance of ventilation. Healthy air flow is needed for any successful home office space. You may choose from ventilation systems, fans or just go all natural by setting your table by the door or window.
Use ergonomic keyboards and chairs. These will help ease muscle stress and pain which might develop as you sit in front of the computer all day long. These are pricier than their regular counterparts but their benefits easily outweigh the costs.

Lastly, congratulate yourself. Once you have set up your home office, you can now enjoy the fruits of your labor. Just embrace the idea that you have the opportunity to work in your home while the rest of the working population is racing on highways to get to their offices!

The Making of An Heirloom Piece: 5 Tips In Buying Would-be Heirloom

On December 25, 2019

It can get confusing to shop for furniture. While you think that you know what furniture pieces are attractive, there are certain factors that can be attributed to that significant purchase. Furniture, after all, is supposed to be durable enough so that your children and (cross your fingers) even your grandchildren get to see and use them in the decades to come.

‘Your objective? To buy furniture that can last a hundred years!

The Look of Excellence

The first factor that you need to consider is the furniture’s quality. Wood is often the material that many heirloom pieces are made of. Would you like to purchase hardwood or softwood furniture? Hardwoods are trees with leaves that fall off during autumn while evergreen trees are known as softwoods. Both can be used in furniture and both have their pros and cons.

The common hardwoods are cherry, ash, maple, mahogany, pecan, oak, rosewood, poplar, walnut and teak. If you want to use softwoods, look for cypress, cedar, pine, fir and redwood.

Every one of these woods comes with a unique look, feel and hardness. The kind of wood that you would choose can greatly affect the construction and price. The highest possible quality for any line of furniture is solid cherry, oak, maple or mahogany.

Wooden Combo

A lot of the mid-priced furniture are mixed woods such as cherry on the exterior and any less expensive wood underneath. One other method is staining a less pricey wood to make it look like an expensive one. A few manufacturers could sell a table with the cherry finish which is actually just wood that was stained to look like cherry.

Nothing Beats Solid Wood

When checking for the construction of the wood, be sure to check for solidity. Solid wood can definitely last longer when compared to other less costly materials. Do not buy furniture with low quality such as pieces made with engineered wood, plywood, plastic, particleboard or fiberboard. None of these will look great as an heirloom piece. And while plastic may last just like hardwood – or even longer – it will never be able to offer the same beauty that natural wood gives.

Check also how the furniture has been constructed. Even the best solid wood is undermined where it is poorly constructed. Even with the advent of new machinery, handmade pieces are still esteemed highly in terms of the construction of heirloom quality furniture.

No Less Than a Superior Finish

It is crucial for a would-be heirloom to have a superior finish. This will protect the furniture from wear and tear as it will also bring out the wood’s natural beauty. There are various techniques that are being utilized to finish wood furniture pieces. Each one can provide a different look and offer different degrees of sturdiness. Sure, it takes a bit longer to create furniture with high-quality finish but it will definitely last longer.

More often than not, the best finishes are a combination of different methods and products. Stain can be used in enhancing the wood color and even add grain depth. Varnish or shellac can provide gloss as well as protection. Choose between high gloss or a natural, satiny appearance.

Find furniture that is smooth to the touch and is free of bubbles, dust and other impurities. Hand rubbed finishes tend to look softer and more natural so choose this rather than a shiny high gloss synthetic finish if you want the simplest look.

Other Tips

Here are other things to check –

Drawer corners that have secure joints
Doors that open easily
Doors that close properly
Hardware is durable and secure

No rough edges

How to Find the Appropriate Style for Any Home?

On December 20, 2019

The initial step towards designing your home is to find out which style you are inclined to and how you can go about in creating a home according to your taste. The most successfully designed interiors are those with occupants, who are able to express their interests, personality, and individuality into the themes, hence, you need to define your style even before you call an interior designer.

Your family also plays a huge role in finding out the style that is most suitable for your home. Remember that you will be sharing your home with them so you have to agree on a style that you and your loved ones are all comfortable with.

There are people who were born with an inborn sense of style but there are also those who simply have to be told what to do, now which one are you? Here are some useful questions that can help you come up with your own style –

Where Do You Live?

The place where you built your home will have a huge effect on the style that you end up choosing. Do you live in the suburbs or in the city? Are you a homeowner in a village or town? It is important to answer this question so that you can blend in with the rest of the neighbors. Keep the community theme consistent or be unique but do not become an eye sore.

Does Your Home Have Ample Lighting?

Is your home excessively sunny, dark, or airy? A dark home needs to be lightened up with colors on walls, ceilings, and flooring. Choose bright-colored furniture and lots of mirrors.

If your home is overly sunny, then find out how to properly use curtains and blinds to control the amount of light that goes in. Choose from sheer to heavy curtains – the former allows more light to come into your home while the latter can completely eliminate natural lighting. Experiment with curtain styles such as retro, florals and solid colors. Have fun mixing and matching them.

Are You Willing to Play with Colors?

What are your favorite colors and which of these colors would you be able to live with for a lengthy period of time? Did you know that you can set the mood inside your home by simply painting the walls with particular colors?

White creates a feeling of peace and serenity in a room. But to eliminate the hospital-like feeling that white paint invokes, it is best to decorate wall edges with red or blue. White is most suitable for bathrooms and bedrooms. You can never be more minimalist than white.

Black, on the other hand, is often associated with darkness and gloom. But it can be bold choice for someone who wants to have a touch of style. In order to balance the boldness of black, you must use light-colored furniture. If you are not sure about this color yet, it is best to use it in small doses first.

Yellow evokes feelings of cheerfulness; blue is soothing and relaxing; brown hues can create feelings of security; green is calming while pink suggests tranquility.

What Is Your Status?

No, not your Facebook status – you need to find out how well you are doing financially. The rule is pretty simple; the style that you are going to use in your home is greatly affected by your financial capability.

Do you also entertain a lot? If you do, then you need the most elaborate treatments to prove your status in life. If your home is the backdrop for entertainment and lavish lifestyle, then you need to have the latest interior designs. Once you have answered all of these relevant questions, only then can you get in touch with interior design and discuss what you have in mind – the two of you are sure to work wonders.

The Path to Becoming an Interior Designer (Link Roundup)

On December 11, 2019

Are you artistic by nature? Have you always been told that you have a keen eye for detail and that you have a burning passion for home design? If this is so, then you might as well establish a career in interior design.

The most common misconception about this career is that there is no longer any need for formal study. However, a careful look at this industry and you will know right away that education is not only an option but is essential.

So, what interior design school should you consider?

All schools may not offer all types of degrees like Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in interior design so find out which one you would like to finish. Associate’s degree has two years of study which includes interior design basics, residential design, CAD design, drafting, and architectural methods. The Associate’s degree is typically the course that leads to a junior designer, design assistant or a decorative product specialist job.

If you aim to become a construction project designer or manager in the near future, then you need to finish a Bachelor’s degree. The program curriculum varies per school but all institutions offer this at four years. The majority of the courses are also those from the associate degree level but business courses, as well as advance design courses, are added. Such courses include perspective drawing, contract design, public relations, and interior environments.

Those who wish to have their own interior design firm will need to earn at least a Master’s degree. Depending on whether you graduated with an Interior Design bachelor’s degree, then this will be the basis of whether you will be required to take more classes. The Master’s degree program takes 2-3 years to complete if you did not take Interior Design with your bachelor’s degree. Additional courses include design digital media, inclusive design, design theory and environmental psychology.

There are now a lot of design schools in the country with some even offering a-hundred-percent online education. There are advantages to taking your interior design course online. First, you pace your study according to what is most comfortable for you. You also get to earn the credentials in no time as you also get to spend time with your family. Just make sure to check the accreditation before you enroll, with the Council for Interior Design Accreditation being the chief accrediting body.

Choosing the Interior Design Career

Interior design can be an exciting career. Enrolling in the right school could help you understand the technical side of the job. The schools can teach you about the profession’s history, architecture, space planning, and computer-aided drawing. You will also learn about rules and regulations in handicap access, fire laws, lighting design, sound design, and building regulations.

A student will also need to take the NCIDQ exam; this is also referred to as the National Council for Interior Design Qualification test. This is an extremely important exam that can give the student his initial credentials in becoming a qualified interior designer.

Interior design schools should prepare the student for the NCIDQ exams. The student must also have six years of solid experience plus two, post-secondary education years.

Now it is time to talk about earnings – how much would you want to earn as an interior designer? If earning $22,000 to $44,000 each year is good enough for you, then becoming an interior designer is the path for you. Of course, your salary level depends on your educational background, experience and the qualities that an employer seeks from you.

The well-trained and experienced designers can earn as much as six figures, just make sure to check on the bachelor’s degree option first. Be sure to get the facts before attending an interior design school whether online or in a traditional school.

Hot Trends in Home Decor and Interior Design [Infographic]

By Admin

On December 11, 2019

People are getting adventurous in their kitchen, forgoing traditional white for black when it comes to cabinets and accents. Patterned backsplashes are also in fashion and when thinking of bathrooms, people are using large soaking tubs as a centerpiece. Originally published at https://mymodernmet.com/interior-design-trends-2019/

Learn About Cost and Trends in Residential Interior Design [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Admin

On December 5, 2019

Interior designers need to be experts with more than color, fabric, and furniture – they are both engineers and artists. They must know materials, electrical capacity, and structure. And they should understand how to budget, communicate well with clients, and manage projects from start to finish. https://lemonly.com/work/interior-design-trends-industry-infographic

Minimalism Guidelines: Learning To Live With Less

On December 5, 2019

Did you know that you can actually make a room look posher by removing furniture rather than placing them? With the autumn season just around the corner, the leaves are falling and people are thinking of ways to make their homes look more in the season. Sure, cleaning up maybe one of the least favorite chores but this is something that should be done if you want to alter the theme of your home. Better yet, if you are going to declutter anyway, why not learn some minimalism guidelines in the process?

There are a lot of misconceptions with regard to the minimalist theme. Minimalism is often misconstrued as the loss, scarcity or deprivation of design. On the contrary, minimalism offers more space and simplicity.

Look around your home and find out where the clutter comes from. Stop feeling stressed and frustrated over those things that are lying around, instead, look at them as a reminder that you need to let go of stuff that you no longer need.

Now imagine a minimalist home. Your vision should not be an almost empty building that has a stark color but a place where tabletops and counters are clean. The walls must also be free from unnecessary artwork which have been bought simply to fill up the wide walls.

Take a look at the shelves; these should not be filled with hordes of mementos. As for the furniture, there must only be enough to suit the family’s needs – no more, no less.

Your Practical Guide

Decluttering your home could be a bit taxing at first. To begin, make sure that you learn to let go of old stuff. Start in a small room such as the home office or your bathroom. Before long, you will find that you have already conquered your hoarding tendencies.

Next, you need to assess what needs to be done. Before taking action, stand right in the middle of a room and look all around you. Do you see items that have a special meaning to you or your family? Those that mean very little should be dumped.

The purging process is the most difficult part yet it can also be the most rewarding. Put all the things that you no longer need inside a box. You may need to throw huge items like some of your furniture. Keep in mind that everything inside your home may be nostalgic to you but ask which ones you really need. When throwing stuff, remember to leave only the things that are still useful.

Now that you have managed to throw the things that you do not need, it’s time to look for a place for the remaining stuff in your home. Use the uncluttered surface areas to display artwork and family photos. Look for the perfect spot for your laptop. Every little thing must have an appropriate place whether it is an aesthetic or a functional piece.

Get rid of the notion that empty spaces should all be filled. If there is nothing that can be placed on a certain area, then just leave it empty. Remember that this is the perfect time to clean up. Minimalist homes take less time to clean – that’s wonderful news, isn’t it? Remember to clean as you go, whether you are merely washing the dishes or moving furniture around. The last of the minimalism guidelines is to find a place for those items inside your unwanted stuff box. This should be a place that is out of sights such as a garage or the basement. Place the large items into any of these rooms. You may call this as your waiting room because this is where your unwanted stuff is going while they are not yet provided a new home. If the things inside the box no longer have any use for you, then just have them donated.

The Interior Design Career Lane (Link Roundup)

On November 29, 2019

What are you in for when you sign up for an interior design career? Interior design is a fusion of architecture, art, and engineering. But this is not a career that is centered on mere furniture or fabric choice. An interior designer needs to be able to read blueprints, comprehend electric codes and be able to speak with confidence to contractors.

A designer is the one that’s responsible for preparing interior construction designs that will suit the client’s budget and preference. Modern designers now use a computer in planning the layout as well as architectural details. They also coordinate designs by picking furniture, color palettes, floor and window treatments.

There are many work environments for an interior designer. He can work in both the residential and commercial settings; many experienced professionals have specializations for certain settings such as restaurants, night clubs, even historic renovations. As a designer, you often need to join forces with electricians, architects, and contractors.

Education Is A Requirement

College-level education is needful in order to begin working as an interior designer. Only very few clients want to trust a designer that does not have any kind of formal training.

If you want to begin right, a Bachelor’s degree is advisable. Right after graduation, an aspiring designer can begin his apprenticeship so that he can gain a needful experience. Taking the national licensing examination or becoming a member of a professional association will greatly add to a designer’s trustworthiness.

More than 20 states now require interior designers to undergo the licensing procedure. The NCIDQ or National Council for Interior Design Qualification is the organization that is responsible for administering the licensing exam.

An applicant must have no lower than six years of experience and education in interior design. When you pass this exam, you will be given a Certified, Licensed or Registered Interior Designer title. Of course, as you progress in your interior design career, it is needful to have continuous education. It is also vital that you maintain your license by renewing as necessary.

Sectors for You to Join

As soon as you obtain your license, you can choose the sector that you will join. The residential sector is focused on home designing. This is a popular career option among designers because the home design is what everyone thinks about the moment the interior design is mentioned. Designers under this sector can be commissioned to stylize living rooms, master bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and other rooms of a house.

Home staging is quite new with only a few designers doing it at the moment. In this sector, a home is staged through redesigning, and all this is done so that the house can become presentable to potential buyers.

The corporate sector is all about the design of banks, offices and other places for business. This is a challenging sector to delve in since you have to make a room look formal enough but not too much else it takes the comfort out of the picture. This might also require that you have a thorough knowledge of electronic appliances and telecommunications.

The healthcare sector is all about the design of nursing centers, clinics, hospitals, doctor’s offices, surgery rooms, laboratories, outpatient departments, and other healthcare facilities. A designer in this sector must have a specialization certificate and should have ample knowledge of the industry that he is designing for.

The hospitality sector, on the other hand, focuses on designing restaurants, hotels, cafes, banquet halls, convention centers, and health clubs. You need to be highly creative to become a designer in this sector. There are a lot of factors to look into such as comfort, aesthetics, and functionality. There are many ways that you can earn a living when you embrace an interior design career. It is up to you to choose the path that you would tread.

5 Benefits of Engineered Wood Flooring That Makes it the Popular Choice

By Admin

On November 29, 2019

Engineered Wood is always the top choice when it comes to the flooring of your house and office. It has all the looks of solid wood, while the concealed layers make the flooring extra stronger and resistant to some of the options of hardwood. The Engineered Wood is seen as stylish, classic and 100% natural and this makes the flooring option highly sought-after. But, there is other Benefits of engineered wood flooring which compels everyone to go down the engineered route.

Today, Engineered Wood is becoming the most common type of wood flooring that is used across the world and for a variety of good reasons.

How Engineered Wood is Made?

The secret behind the success of Engineered Wood Flooring is its construction. It comprises mainly of three different layers, of which the surface layer comprises of the natural solid wood which gives the flooring the beauty and looks of natural solid wood. In middle, it has the supportive core which is the combination of dozens of bonded sheets of high-density fibreboard, softwood or particle wood which gives the floor the most stable and robust construction. At the base, you will see a solid backboard that is there to offer secure and solid wood alternatives and protect it from damages.

Due to this type of construction, it always remains the top choice for many households and even in offices with high traffic.

Engineered Wood Flooring is Stable

Because of multi-layered core construction, the Engineered Wood is always the resilient choice for flooring, especially when there is a change in humidity. The natural wood is hygroscopic in nature which means it absorbs the moisture naturally and this may cause swelling in the wood. Similarly, when the humidity reduces and temperature changes the trapped moisture evaporates automatically and the wood tends to shrink.

But, the construction of Engineered Wood is different which restricts such things when condition changes, thereby ensuring higher stability across the floor of your house and office.

Engineered Wood Flooring is Versatile

The underfloor heating system is becoming quite common during winter months. But the heat that is generated under the floor usually dries out the solid wood moisture easily and as a result, it starts shrinking. But you won’t be experiencing such issues when your office or house is having Engineered Wood. In many new constructions and renovation projects, underfloor heating is the essential norm and with the use of the Engineered Wood floor, you won’t be facing any complications. You will also find the Engineered Wood floor in conservatories and basements where the level of moisture is higher because Engineered Wood is less likely to trap the moisture like solid wood, making it a good choice for such areas as well.

Easy to Fit

Because of the wooden core, the Engineered Wood floor is not just restricted to the conventional tongue and groove joint that you usually see on solid Wood Flooring in Your Office or house. The Engineered Wood floor comes with click and glueless loc solutions which means that floorboards can be floated easily over any kind of underlay without the need for adhesive or nails. This is truly the bonus for everyone fitting a floor on their own.

Long-Lasting and Low Maintenance

You must not question the lifespan of Engineered Wood as they are long lasting and demands for very less maintenance. The Engineered Wood can be refinished and sanded easily just like the solid wood. It tends to wear only 1mm per 100 years. So, making it the best choice for your house and office where there is high traffic. The Engineered Wood is very less prone to moisture damage as compared to solid wood and this means it is less likely to experience water damages.

Cleaning can be done with simple vacuuming or soft-bristled brushes. You can also use the damp mob to clean the dirt and dust from the surface without worrying about any moisture damaging. What makes the Engineered Wood floor a great choice is its unique construction, the natural beauty of solid wood, higher stability, durability and easy to work with. You can visit the site of BVG.co.in to explore the variety of stains, finishes, and species in their section of Engineered Wood flooring.

Interior Design Elements: Making Your Indoors Look Fabulous

On November 28, 2019

Empty rooms can be imposing to anyone who does not have interior design know-how. You must know the interior design elements before you can even begin working on beautifying your home. These elements are your raw materials so you have to know how to use effectively use them.

Here are the basic elements of interior design –

Space

This is the prime material in all interior designer’s palette. Through space, you can visualize forms, feel the wind, and hear different sounds. Space absorbs whatever aesthetic and sensual features the surroundings have. Space can be anything from wood or stone. In essence, it has no true definition; as soon as an element is introduced to its midst, it soaks it up and becomes it.

Geometric elements like line, point, volume, and the plane can be used to define space. Architecturally speaking, these basic elements are transformed into planar walls, linear columns, ornate roofs, and beautiful floors.

More often than not, you are not able to determine space, instead, you are left with the challenge to utilize the space in the most effective manner.

Color

In a nutshell, colors can affect your mood so they have a very powerful impact when it comes to the overall feel of the room. Since every shade comes with a particular psychological value, think hard before you invest in the paint or wallpaper that you buy. If you find it hard to decide on your own, read decorating books, magazines and blogs. Choose a limited range of colors since too many colors can create a cluttered look.

Line

This is second only to color in relevance when it comes to creating the mood in a room. Lines come in dominant forms such as horizontal, vertical or diagonal. Your choice of highlighting the lines’ direction will define the kind of mood that you want to create.

Lines are also fused to create planes and shapes and finishes can be used to set up strong lines in a space. Horizontal lines tend to evoke grounding, stability, direction, and emphasis. Mostly this kind of line creates length and lowers the ceiling but they can be effectively used to highlight a certain focal point.

Vertical lines, on the other hand, are associated with stability, strength, elevation, and balance. These lines extend away from man’s visual plane, hence, it can create artificial altitude.

Form

Lines that are fused together can form a particular shape which then puts an impact in a room. Straight lines can be used to create squares, rectangles, and triangles. Curved lines are responsible for ovals and circles.

The term form is often used in architecture but it is just as important in interior design. The form is often referred to as form and space. This term describes the relationship between solids such as the ground, walls and ceiling and empty space in which such solids take form.

Rhythm

Interior design defines rhythm in a visual, repetitive pattern. This can be recurrence, continuity, or organization. To be able to achieve a workable theme in your design, you must know how to achieve repetition, progression, contrast, and transition. Use these to have a semblance of movement in your space. Rhythm can take the eye from one element to the next.

Focal Point

All the interior design elements will never work if they appear bland or boring. A well-designed interior will always have one or more focal points. The focal point is something that draws attention from the viewers. This must be the dominant feature of the room. This is something that leaves a lasting impression on your mind. Anything can be a focal point – it can be your flat-screen TV, the bed (for all bedrooms), a beautiful artwork, or the fireplace.

Choosing A Nightstand: Getting To Know This Accessory Piece

On November 27, 2019

Shopping for furniture is never an easy task. There are so many things to consider especially when you are looking – not for a main piece of furniture but – for an accessory piece that is supposed to complement the bigger pieces of furniture. Choosing a nightstand, for instance, can be a confusing task if you don’t even know where to begin.

Stanley Furniture Bedroom Nightstand 007-23-80 at McCreerys Home Furnishings

A lot of people love having nightstands because they can offer a place to set their things (especially those that they will need during the night or very early in the morning). Imagine the convenience that nightstands offer as you can place your reading glasses, a book, a bedside lamp, even an alarm clock.

Nightstands come in different sizes, shapes, and designs. They can be built with baskets, drawers, shelves or cabinets. There are a few that come without any storage except for the surface.

When shopping for nightstands, make sure that you check the following –

Size

This is paramount since this will determine whether the furniture will fit your room or if it will only crowd out the rest of your furniture. The crucial measurement that you have to make is the top of the nightstand. Be sure to account for a pair if you intend to have one placed on both sides of the bed.

People tend to make the mistake of measuring the space once they’ve already measured the nightstands. Take note that you will need more space for the pair of nightstands to be perfectly fitted. Make sure also that both sides of the bed still have ample space for you to walk around in.

Still, on size, one other part to measure is the side of your bed. Of course, you would not want to have a nightstand that is too small or too tall for your bed. The perfect height for nightstands is equal to the height of your bed (not the headboard!) or just a couple of inches shorter. Any other piece that is taller than these will result in a mismatched look.

Style

After taking the correct measurements, you also need to find a nightstand style that suits you. It is distracting to find different furniture styles peppering just one room. If you can find bedroom sets that already come with nightstands then you’re in luck. This means you won’t have to worry about matching styles anymore.

If you have to shop for separate pieces, then just make sure that the nightstands will match the color of your bed as well as the rest of the décor. This doesn’t mean that these pieces should have the same color. Matching means you know how to harmonize the design elements even when they come in different colors. Be sure that you know which shades complement which.

Quality

You must never compromise quality for style. Don’t just buy furniture that looks nice, instead, make it a point to check beneath the surface. Be sure to check for any signs of weakness such as an uneven surface or wobbly legs. Inspect the edges – are they perfect or crooked?

Check also where the furniture would come from as well as the materials that were used in crafting it. Authenticity and warranty are two important things that you must never miss. If you have to ask for a certificate of authenticity, then do so. Also, if you are shopping online, then be sure that you only shop in trusted furniture retailer sites. Choosing a nightstand means touching, not just seeing. Your quest for quality must include checking construction frames. Find an all-wood frame because this type is one that has been seen to last for many, many years.

Choosing An Interior Design School – The First Step In Becoming The Finest Interior Designer

On November 27, 2019

What Does An Interior Designer Do?
How to Become an Interior Designer
How To Become An Interior Designer
How to Become An Interior Designer – Interior Design Degrees

If you are blessed with an eye for art and a pair of artistic hands, then you would definitely enjoy designing different spaces. With this much art running in your system, it would be wise for you to pursue a career in interior design. But this all begins in choosing an interior design school that will catapult you to where you need to be.

Formal Training Is Essential

To get started on your chosen career path, it is crucial to have obtained some formal training. An accredited interior design school can teach students the skills that they will need to succeed in a rather competitive field.

Prior to the application process, you should narrow down the program options. It is important to find the best school that is suitable for your preferences. Consider your financial situation, your personality, and more importantly, your goals. You need this kind of assessment to define the field that you want to pursue.

As soon as you identify the particular career that you would like to be good at, you can then look at different schools’ curriculums to find out if they offer related courses. If you are still uncertain about your field of interest, then perusing different curriculums might give you an idea about what you are truly fascinated in.

Top designer schools offer a variety of courses ranging from technical knowledge to computer literacy in the interior design world. The world is now moving with the use of computer technology so expect a lot of computer classes that are thrown in with the traditional fabric selection and color design courses.

Right after making this decision, it is time to find a school that has a valid accreditation. Find out also what type of instructors they actually have. Does school provide lectures on interior design and meetups with instructor experts? An expert is someone who has actually worked as an interior designer for a number of years. He is also someone who has an existing client base.

To narrow down your choice of interior design school, you should also think about its location and its distance from where you live. Are you willing to relocate just to attend the school that you want? Or would you be content with the programs that are being offered within your locality?

There are also online courses that make non-traditional learning possible. This means that you can still work even while studying.

It is also vital to consider the school’s reputation. This is important especially when you want to get a foothold in the industry right after your graduation. The best schools send graduates off with well-designed portfolios. They almost always have the right connections so that you can develop your own network and be able to market yourself effectively.

You may also want to review the different interior design school rankings. This should give you a better sense of the school’s current standing.

Reading design magazines might also get you somewhere. How? There are now publications that list the most reputable interior design schools. In finding a good school, you should consider this said list. Different books and magazines come up with different rating systems. Top schools always rank high so make sure to take note of the names that usually appear.

Consider a school that is accredited by organizations such as CIDA or the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. This is a non-profit non-government organization that recognizes the best institutions and gives rankings according to their set of standards. A CIDA-recognized institution is sure to offer a quality education. Choosing an interior design school takes time and effort on your part so be sure to have a lot of both.

Useful Reference Links

How to Give Yourself the Home Office You Deserve

By Kevin Conner

On November 21, 2019

In Business Related

When you’re working from home or even starting a new venture such as affiliate marketing, you’ll quickly find that your workspace in part defines your productivity. Working from the couch has its benefits, but trust us when we say it can get old rather fast when you find yourself easily distracted and napping with your laptop tucked away between the cushions.

You probably need something more, even if at the start it is a humble alcove. Fortunately, there are decisions you can make at nearly any budget that can make your home office a brighter, happier, and more productive one. One you’ll want to spend more time in.

Here are a few things to consider when creating or rearranging your beloved home office:

A Contemplative, Quiet Space

The first and perhaps most obvious thing your home office should have is a location that is a bit out of the way so that you aren’t unnecessarily bothered by well-meaning and unknowing little ones, passersby, and small and unimportant household events. Many people have turned their attics or basements into home offices, for instance, but we simply recommend the most out of the way room available in the house.

If it’s terrible you can get some sound dampeners to line the room with, or otherwise you might want to invest in some comfortable noise-canceling headphones that can help you stay on task and not worry about the traffic (figurative and literal) of life.

Give Yourself a Nice View

Once you find a nice spot to make permanent camp, the layout and view come next, and the primary consideration is where you want to place your workstation and which direction you should face. We prefer a nice window view if it’s available, so the ideas can keep flowing, but you might have a different idea.

We also recommend trying to avoid staring directly at a wall for hours on end, as this will get boring and even claustrophobic quickly. If your room doesn’t give you much choice in that regard, try putting up at least a few decorations that will mitigate that effect.

You’ll want to find a balance of getting a spot with a nice view and being able to remain focused, so you might want to experiment or imagine a few different layouts. Just remember that when asking yourself if you like an option, try to ask the same thing to a version of yourself six months in the future, as they will need to like the view as well.

Use the Space You Have

Don’t try to overpack your home office to the degree you’re tripping over everything, even if you think those two-year documents you’re never going to read again are important. Give yourself plenty of legroom and even some space for guests (if your home office might see clients in person) or just some room to pace around in during those stressful days.

You’ll know the best space for you, but consider storing files digitally and taking some measurements before you add any new furniture. Also, consider vertical space when looking for physical storage solutions, and consider what items you use the most so you can keep those and only those close at hand.

Get Better Tech and Stay Connected

Your home office is not only comprised of the space you work in but the tools you use to get your work done. In most remote work situations this means your computer and any peripherals that might help you (or be outright necessary). The ultimate budget will depend on need and your life of work, but make sure to get what you need, and consider it an investment. A slow computer means wasted time that quickly adds up.

This also applies to your internet connection, seeing as it is your lifeline to your work. Even if you don’t think you need the absolute best connection, the small price difference will be well made up by skipping loading times and knowing your connection won’t drop so easily. Try to run a cable right to the office, or at the very least pick up some adapters that can pick up a strong signal.

Remove Distractions

This is something that you can adjust over time, but you’ll want to remain cognizant of the distractions in your life and how you can keep them out of your office. Having a stress outlet is fine, but if you find yourself doing too many things that aren’t work in your home office, consider moving it out.

The same goes for your digital home office space. There are plenty of apps that will block you out of popular yet frivolous websites, keeping you focused on the task at hand.

Lighting and Comfort Mean a Lot

On one last note, we strongly advise you invest some money into getting a chair you would be comfortable sitting in for long periods of time and making sure that you have all the lighting you need so when nighttime or cloudy days come you won’t feel so drained should you want or need to work.

The idea is the same as making sure you have a good view and a nice space. You simply can’t do your best work when your back is aching you constantly or if you must strain your eyes to see what you’re doing. Taking care of yourself is a vital part of working from home, and you will want to ensure that your office meets those needs.

Conclusion The home office is ultimately a personal space, despite the work you do in it, and it’s a space you’re likely to spend a great deal of your time in. Take these steps into consideration and if you don’t like how a certain thing is, don’t let your decisions be set in stone. Adjust as necessary and with a solid focus, you’ll have a space you can do your best work in.

Useful Reference Links

How to create an appealing and practical home office
10 Ways to Make Your Home Office an Oasis
Giving Your Home Office More Space for More Serenity
How to design a home office

4 Modern Living Room Ideas 2020 (Link Roundup)

By Admin

On November 20, 2019

You generally have a living room of different sizes in your home to decorate. The living room is smack bang in the center of the home. So it needs to be a high level of “functional.” And it’s the room we relax in after a long day at work, entertain in at the weekends. It’s probably where you spend the majority of your evenings and weekends. We want to feel relaxed in our living rooms.

So your living room’s design should be carefully thought out to reflect your own impeccable interior style and how you want to enjoy it. But how can our decor influence that? Foster those feelings with a clean, simple, modern living room designs. You can create a space that allows the mind to rest.

There are a few things you have to consider before you pick your modern design. Those are

Furniture
Natural Light
Colors
Space

Furniture

How many kinds of furniture can you use to decorate your living room? There is the ordinary sofa and coffee table option of course, but what if you don’t want to go for ordinary? What if you want your living room to be extraordinary or otherwise different? Sofas and coffee tables don’t have to be the star of the show, but those are the ground of your design. Is this the year to replace those? Go for something with a breezy feel, clean lines, and neutral colors. It can be expansive, also it can be sweet and shapely. Whichever way you lean, if you’re going to create a room where the couch is the centerpiece, make it one you love. The size of your space and the number of people in your home will dictate the size.

But the modern living room doesn’t always mean that you have to run out and buy a new couch. Don’t get the wrong idea.

Natural Light

Exposure to daylight has been linked to improvements in our wellbeing and mood. Natural light is the holy grail of any room. And it can make a room lighter, brighter and give the feeling of more space. Capturing it properly works to open up space. Evaluate your own space. Are you taking full advantage of it? This might be as simple as taking down any heavy drapery and opting for something translucent. Rearranging the furniture can also work to make the most of the light, and capture any views. You can also try moving furniture away from the wall and into the center of the room.

Colors

Leisure, comfort, togetherness. It’s the setting for countless memories and peaceful moments. So it’s not surprising that paint colors for living rooms have a huge impact on the overall mood of your home. Depending on your home’s unique personality, your space can be soothing or statement-making. If you have a neutral base you can afford some wild color decisions. Try adding a pop of color with an accent chair. Starting smaller? Swap out the throw pillows. If you’re already playing with several colors, it could be as simple as removing one color group to get the rest in step.

Space

Working with a large room? After you’ve got your grounding item in place, add your other items (lamp, coffee table, sideboard or shelving), bearing in mind that too much is … too much. Be spare. You’ll know your perfect balance when you see it.

Working with a small room? Small spaces are great canvases for simple designs. An economy of space makes paring down essential. You can go for a neutral couch, with your main piece in place, build out from there. Choose an accent color or two. Or in very small spaces, consider unexpected items as a coffee table.

If you’re looking to update your living room you’ve probably been with the latest trends, but which ones will stand the test of time and leave your living room looking fresh for 2020? From the coolest color trends to much-loved Modern styles, we decided to put 55 Modern Living Room Ideas for 2020. The designs are all unique and you will find a variety of colors, styles, themes, furniture, and more. For creating a room that’s purposeful with clean lines, open spaces, a sense of order, and a tangible sense of harmony. Get inspired by the newest ideas for 2020. Just in time for the New Year!

Granite Countertops: Seeing the Pros and Cons (Link Roundup)

On November 17, 2019