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Bathroom Lighting Tips

2004-07-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

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Designers Share Expert Tips on Bathroom Lighting

- When it comes to bathroom decor, the brightest ideas depend on light, or more appropriately, lights. Today, a well-lit bathroom depends on a savvy lighting mix.

"Good lighting is essential for people to see themselves in a complimentary light," says Todd Phillips, president of lighting manufacturer Quoizel. "Whether we are putting on makeup or combing our hair, we want a positive view of ourselves, which can only be accomplished by using the right light source."

Like the rest of the house, the bathroom reflects consumer's changing lifestyles. More spacious and multifunctional, these once utilitarian water closets have become glamour havens -- private retreats designed for relaxation, escape and self-indulgence.

"The bathroom is the part of the house with the densest assortment of materials and finishes," says Dan Blitzer, Manhattan, N.Y.-based continuing educator for the American Lighting Association. "You have wall tile, floor tile, shower tile, faucet hardware, towel bars, wallpaper and paint all in a space often smaller than 100 square feet."

Whether built new or recently remodeled, today's more complex bathrooms demand intricate lighting solutions. Task lighting must be bright enough to do its job, but work well with indirect accent lighting designed to soften the room's ambience by providing a warm glow. Lighting fixtures and finishes must complement, rather than compete with plumbing accessories, tile, paint and wallpaper.

Think of lighting the bathroom the same way as creating the perfect ensemble, suggests Blitzer. "You want everything to coordinate so that anyone walking in views the room as a whole. Everything should work together as opposed to supporting one astonishing fixture."

"When we look at the amount of money that people invest in building or renovating bathrooms, a proper lighting plan has the potential to deliver dramatic results, costs only a small fraction of the project budget, and yet it is often lacking or overlooked," said Gary Taylor, president of Living Lighting of Ontario.

The right lighting can make a bathroom much more gracious. "Lighting is an inexpensive way to make the bathroom shine," says Todd Langner, vice president of marketing and development for Cleveland-based Kichler, a lighting manufacturer. "There's a great opportunity to match the finish of the plumbing accessories with the light fixtures. There is a huge array of styles in the market -- from very ornate poly-resin cast products to sleek satin nickel fixtures with opal matte glass in a variety of shapes and sizes."

While fixtures and finishes range in design from sleek and clean to very ornate, contemporary ranks as the top trend in bathroom design. "While contemporary still makes up a very small percentage of home decor nationwide, people seem to feel most comfortable with contemporary bathrooms -- even if it doesn't necessarily represent the overall style throughout their home," says Phillips.

Currently nickel owns the top spot in bathroom finishes, followed closely by chrome and brass. "Chrome and brushed chrome continue as important finishes," says Phillips. "Chrome coordinates best with mirrors, which are essential in any bathroom." While some take a thoroughly modern approach to bathroom lighting, others warm up to other options. "We are seeing the influx of popular home decor materials like iron and vintage glass being used to make a warmer design statement," says Phillips. "This is a greater continuity to what is happening throughout the home at large."

New technology has added options as well. Fiber optics, with its remote light source, can create twinkling star effects when inset into bathroom ceilings. Halogen bulbs with their variety of sizes allow manufacturers to design more ornate light fixtures. Unusual light sources like wall sconces, sky lights, and lamps perched on a table, vanity or bathroom island provide an unexpected touch. Shower lights brighten up enclosed stalls. Reading lamps by the toilet provide more focused light. Single sconces on either side of the mirror remain popular.

To be most effective, begin your bathroom lighting scheme at the vanity with the lights that do the most work. These lights must be bright enough so you can see to shave or apply makeup, yet soft enough to compliment facial features. Fixtures located on each side of the mirror should be set at eye level to be most effective. Theatrical-style lighting stripped along the sides and across the top of the mirror also do a good job.

Bulb selection is as important as choosing and placing the right fixture. For lighting vanity areas, try colored or coated bulbs designed to enhance facial features. Look for bath fixtures that light down so the heat dissipates easier from the sockets and creates a longer life for all bulbs. Recessed or canned lighting, however, is not the most ideal as a bathroom's main or only lighting source as it casts shadows across the face.

"When remodeling or building a bathroom, don't be convinced that recessed lighting alone will be adequate," says Langner. "You won't be happy unless you have other light sources to fill in the gaps. It's important to layer the light."

Layers of light also reduce glare, important to our aging population. "As the eye ages, glare becomes a bigger problem," says Blitzer. "The eye needs more light to see well as the aging eye lens yellows and thickens. By 55 years old, you need twice as much light to see as you did when you were 20."

To further reduce glare, opt for frosted white bulbs, rather than clear models and avoid fixtures with exposed bulbs.

Check with local building inspectors about electrical codes before installing any new lighting. Fixtures used in wet areas must be approved for such a specific use. "Make sure that your lamps are UL rated for damp locations insuring safety," says Phillips.

Sometimes there are restrictions on the placement of various types of lighting fixtures. Portable lamps, for example, should not be put near a sink or tub because of the possibility that it might fall into the water and electrocute you.

Finally, don't worry about having too much light, note the experts. "You can never have too much light in the bathroom," says Phillips. "It's easy to install a dimmer control to reduce the amount of light to create a mood."

For more information or to find a lighting showroom near you, call toll free (800) BRIGHT IDEAS or visit us on the World Wide Web at www.americanlightingassoc.com.

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Top Kitchen Remodeling Projects 2002

2004-07-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

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Top Kitchen Remodeling Projects For 2002

Hot Trends Mean Cool Products for Your Kitchen

-- Now that you've cleared your schedule for the weekend -- you're ready to clean out the garage, scrub the tub and tile, and seal the deck. But as hard as you try to give your home a fresh, new look for the warmer months, there is still one room that is painfully behind the times: your kitchen. As the main gathering place in the household, the kitchen is where you entertain guests, cook the family meals and help the kids do homework. It is truly the hearth of the home and the area that everyone visiting your house sees.

Contemplating a kitchen update? You're not alone. According to "Kitchen & Bath Business" magazine, more than 4 million homeowners plan to remodel their kitchens this year-- a 7.1 percent increase over last year.

So what is on every consumer's wish list to make their dream kitchen a reality? "Kitchen & Bath Design News" magazine asked this question of 300 kitchen dealers, designers and remodelers. Of those surveyed, 78.2 percent said their clients want an updated appearance and new features, and 64.7 percent wanted a more efficient layout. Other top responses included increased storage space, new cabinets, unique designs and new appliances.

With consumers expected to spend a record $42.7 billion in 2002 for kitchen remodeling, what are the "hottest" trends and the "coolest" products this spring? Wendy Silverstein, former editor of "HomeStyle Kitchen & Bath" magazine, says that while most Americans still feel comfortable with pale woods, granite tops and stainless steel, European decor trends are infusing new materials and colors into kitchen design.

"Europeans are moving to full walls of kitchen cabinetry that mix and match walnut wood with bright lacquers. These cabinets offer plenty of display areas and sliding doors, all influenced by the look of furniture," says Silverstein. "Here in the United States, manufacturers are putting a lot of thought into how people use their kitchens with innovative new products such as ovens that can cool and sinks that double as dishwashers. Customization is also big for Americans, from dishwashers that offer movable racks to sinks that have plenty of add-on gadget choices. Overall, people are investing in their kitchens no matter what the size."

New Countertops

The Kitchen & Bath Design News survey revealed that the top priority on consumers' kitchen upgrade wish lists was a more expensive countertop material such as granite. Granite offers the benefit of minimal maintenance and will retain its good looks for years to come. It is the most durable and least porous of all stones and offers a rich look in the kitchen. Plus, each piece of cut granite is unique. Because remodeling with granite for all countertop surfaces can get costly, experts advise that mixing and matching materials is becoming popular. A homeowner might use granite solely on an island countertop to serve as a focal point.

A new countertop material coming onto the scene in 2002 is concrete. Comparable in price to granite, concrete opens up the possibility of having customized colors mixed into the countertop. Tiles can be added to the concrete to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Solid surface countertops are also at the top of consumers' most-requested list. Because of their smooth and non-porous texture, solid surfaces will not promote the growth of bacteria or mold -- an important feature when working with raw meats, vegetables and other food products. Available in a wide array of colors, solid surfaces offer seamless construction and the option of an integral sink. Nicks, scratches and burns can be buffed out if necessary. Corian, Surrell and Avonite are common trade names of solid surface countertops.

Last, but certainly not least, is tile. Decorative, hand-painted tiles can be used for trim and backsplash areas; and ceramic, porcelain or quarry tile for main countertop areas can be added to create a distinctive or highly personalized look.

Faucets

Another "must-have" kitchen upgrade is a new faucet. "One of the easiest and most inexpensive changes a homeowner can make to a kitchen is installing a new faucet," said Kathleen Yates, Moen Group product manager, kitchen. "Today's faucets have so much functionality that they make quick work out of kitchen tasks. In addition, these faucets add a sense of style to the kitchen."

For example, Yates notes that Moen offers pullout faucets that can do everything from fill large pots to clean the remote corners of the kitchen sink. And, with so many finish options, these faucets can be the centerpiece of the kitchen. Take for instance the Colonnade faucet from Moen, which offers a classic, traditional look and is available in one of the hottest finishes for 2002 -- copper -- to complement the trend in cookware and other kitchen accents. Or, for those envisioning a more modern look in the kitchen, Moen's Salora pullout has a sleek and contemporary look accentuated by a brushed stainless steel finish to match the latest looks in kitchen appliances.

For those concerned about the quality of their water for drinking or cooking, there are now many options that provide bottle-quality water right from the kitchen tap. The PureTouch filtering faucet or the AquaSuite filtered water dispenser offer easy ways to get filtered water at the touch of a button. Their stylish looks are much more attractive than clunky faucet attachments, and are far more convenient than pitchers in constant need of refilling.

Cabinets

Not long ago, homeowners thought their kitchens were well equipped if they had built-in and having to live your life within the confines of a dorm room or small apartment.

Many college students are used to living in a home with a large den, a spacious kitchen and a bedroom with tons of closet space. When they head off to school, they'll need to adapt to a new living style and embrace the idea of combining many rooms into just one or two small spaces.

IKEA, the leading home furnishings retailer, offers simple solutions and ideas about how college students, even without all of the rooms that they may be accustomed to, can still feel at home in their college dorm, off-campus housing or apartment.

The Den

With limited space, an easy way to duplicate the comfort and relaxation of a den is with plenty of pillows. Big and small pillows in different colors and textures are a fun and comfortable way for friends to sprawl out and get cozy while hanging out. When not in use, the pillows can be piled up in a corner of the room or even on a bed so another function can take center stage.

The Bedroom

It's always a bonus when it's possible to get two uses out of one item. A futon or sofa bed is the most functional furnishing for any college student, especially in a small living environment. When it's time to go to bed, the sofa opens up, converting the room from living room to bedroom. And visiting guests will appreciate not having to sleep on the floor.

The Kitchen

Even though most college students don't cook that often -- unless you consider macaroni and cheese a delicacy -- it's still important to have an area in your space that can serve as a kitchen. Storage bins can be used for canned and non-perishable goods and the top surface to stack plates, silverware or even a small microwave. Use wall space to hang pots and pans out of the way and a shelf for paper goods, mugs and other kitchen items that can cause clutter. Also, using a half table that can be placed flush against a wall is an ideal space saver with multiple functions including eating, studying and even a late night poker game.

The Closet

It may be a "culture shock" for some who are used to lots of closets at home and now have to either share one with a roommate or squeeze everything they own into a closet one tenth the size of their old one. To ensure that the closet isn't overflowing into your living space, invest in clear storage boxes so items can be easily identified; covered bins to hide away private articles you may not want exhibited to the world; and stacking containers to make the closet seem double the size and hold twice as much.

Small space living in a dorm or apartment can be fun and stylish. Students can still maintain the comforts of home while away at college, even if there are fewer rooms and amenities. For more information, solutions and ideas about how to affordably decorate your home away from home, go to www.ikea-us.com or call 1-800-434-4532. Recent Wood Innovation Ideal for Gardens

- Wood is a natural in garden construction, but what type of wood is best for your garden?

Whether building retaining walls on a sloped site, improving soil with raised beds or simply defining the edge of a planted area, wood has been a favorite construction material for residential gardens. Wood is readily available, easily cut and fastened with common tools, and blends with natural settings.

For wood structures that will endure in a backyard, the usual choice is pressure-treated wood. Its chemical protection helps this lumber resist termite and rot damage for decades.

A recent innovation in wood preservation provides the same longevity as traditional treated wood but uses a different preservative chemical. Although there have been no reports of adverse effects from the traditional treatment, known as CCA, some people have questioned its suitability in close proximity to food plants.

This alternative type of preserved lumber is called Wolmanized Natural Select wood. Developed in Europe and now in use on four continents, the preservative is copper-based with an organic fungicide for supplementary protection. It was introduced in the United States in 2001.

Natural Select wood is produced with two levels of protection -- above ground or ground contact -- so it can be used for everything from fence pickets and landscape timbers to tomato stakes and the walls of raised beds. Other uses include outdoor play structures, decks and gazebos.

This lumber was installed in late 2001 at the Woodlawn EcoScape garden in Birmingham, Ala. This project, which has involved the Southern Environmental Center of Birmingham Southern College along with local garden clubs and various other organizations, incorporates more than 2000 linear feet of Natural Select timbers, used mainly for the construction of raised beds. Members of the Woodlawn neighborhood are tending the gardens, and much of the produce grown there is going to a community kitchen sponsored by the adjacent church.

A growing number of lumber dealers across the country keep the product in stock, and many dealers will place orders for their customers upon request.

Its appearance is much like the slightly greenish color of traditional treated wood and it turns a honey brown color before eventually fading to gray after extended exposure to sunlight. As with other types of treated wood, it can be stained or painted. No maintenance is needed to retain its termite and rot resistance, but it should be coated periodically with water repellent to minimize normal cracking and warping caused by moisture.

Gardeners now have another choice for structures they want to blend with natural surroundings yet endure outdoor conditions for years. A Bathroom Built For Two

Most of us can imagine our own glorious bathroom if space and cost were no object. We'd have our own private sanctuary where we could escape from the rest of the harried world. In reality, however, many of us have a small bathroom that we share with a spouse or other family members. Nothing shatters the dream of respite faster than toothpaste globs at the bottom of the sink, crusty medicine cabinets and collections of scummy shampoo bottles.

Creating a comfortable, functional bath that accommodates two isn't as difficult as you might think. All it takes is some smart planning and a little creativity. Here are some tips for designing or remodeling your shared bathroom space to make it work for both of you. While some of these ideas require building or remodeling, which often involves significant time and expense, others can be implemented easily and inexpensively.

Double Up

The key to keeping the peace in a shared bathroom is to offer each user individual space and features whenever possible. If space and budget permit, double up on the following:

* Sinks -- Installing two sinks is a simple way to keep the peace, allowing you to brush your teeth while your partner shaves. For added comfort, install the sinks at different elevations to accommodate your individual heights. If installing two sinks is not an option, make sure the height of the fixture is comfortable for both of you. Many manufacturers now make sinks and toilets in various heights to meet the needs of different users. American Standard, for example, offers many sinks in their exclusive Right Height design. The sinks are a little taller, so bending over to brush your teeth or wash your face is more comfortable.

* Toiletries -- We all like our brand of shampoo and toothpaste. Don't force a compromise, just buy two of the things you find frustrating to share and make sure you have enough storage space to keep everything tidy. Keep only the items you use daily in the medicine chest and store occasional-use items in the linen closet or bedroom. Compartmentalized plastic caddies make it easy to quickly retrieve these items and transport them to the bath.

* Showerheads -- Add a second showerhead opposite the original to transform a simple shower into a spa experience. A second showerhead adds more rejuvenating steam and can keep you both warm in a shared shower.

Share and Share Alike

Of course, you can't have two of everything in a shared bath. So add some luxuries to make sharing easier and more comfortable.

* Whirlpool à Deux -- Install a whirlpool tub that's big enough for both of you to enjoy...alone or together.

* Multi-media -- Add a built-in stereo with auto settings for both. Separate CDs into your own private collections. Install a television with picture-in-picture so you can both keep an eye your favorite programs while getting ready for the day.

* Refreshers -- Consider installing a small refrigerator to keep juices on hand or wine chilled for a relaxing bath. Also, add a double-carafe coffee maker for brewing both your favorite blends in the morning.

Separate Spaces

If space permits, include separate areas for privacy in a shared bath including:

* Separate rooms for the toilet or bidet to provide privacy while allowing both to use the bathroom at the same time.

* A private steam room or sauna for absolute privacy and relaxation.

Two Styles...One Bathroom

Make sure that both of your tastes are represented in the design and décor of the room.

* Create a board of the colors and fabrics of your design ahead of time so you can both visualize and agree on the direction.

*Compromise on the little things, but make sure that you are both happy with the major features of the room, like fixtures and tile.

Installing Water Garden

2004-07-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

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Installing a Water Garden Can Be an Easy, D-I-Y Weekend Project

- Installing a water garden can seem like a monumental task for a homeowner, but it actually can be a fun, do-it-yourself project you can easily tackle on a weekend. It is especially easy if you purchase a kit that includes everything you need.

The first step in creating your water garden is to carefully select the site for your pond in a level area. If you are using a pond kit that operates on a 12-volt power supply, you can locate your pond up to 50 feet away from the system's outdoor power pack.

Outline the desired shape of your pond with a garden hose or a rope. Consult your local pond or water garden club, or a landscaper, as to the recommended size and depth for your area. Also, check for local laws that may regulate the depth of your pond. Some localities require fences around bodies of water at certain depths.

As you plan your water garden, consider the aquatic plants you may want to include in it. These plants can be grown on different levels or "shelves" within your pond. Consult your local garden center for plant varieties and their growing needs.

Using the hose or the rope as your guide, begin digging. Dig from the outside of your pond inward. Level the top edge of the pond by using a carpenter's level on a straight two-by-four placed across the pond. Repeat this process for the width and length of the pond until the perimeter is completely level.

Remove all roots, rocks or other sharp objects that could puncture the pond liner. Line the bottom of the pond with a 1 1/2-inch to 2-inch layer of sand or underlayment to provide a cushioned surface for the liner and to protect it from punctures. Lightly sprinkle the sand with water and tamp it down before installing the liner.

While digging your pond, open the liner fully and drape it across your lawn. As the sun heats it, the liner will become more flexible and will be easier to install. Once you finish digging the pond, drape the liner across the pond, making sure it overlaps equally on all sides.

Contour and smooth the liner to the inside edges and bottom of your pond. Secure the edges with bricks or other heavy objects. Begin filling the pond with water. Water pressure will allow the liner to sink into the pond cavity and contour around the inside edges and plant shelves. As the pond fills with water, pull the edges of the liner up and smooth out any creases around the inside walls of the pond. Some folds are inevitable, but the fewer the better.

Continue filling the pond while you install the remaining pond components. Fill to within 4 inches of the upper edge of the pond.

If using a low-voltage pond kit, mount the power pack near a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outdoor electric outlet. Route the low-voltage cable attached to the bottom of the power pack to your pond site. Place the low-voltage controller next to your pond site. Insert the two wires from the end of the power pack cable into the terminals on the bottom of the low-voltage controller and tighten the screws.

Set the pond pump in the pond, keeping the end of the cord out of the water. Insert the two wires from the end of the pump cord into the low-voltage controller terminals and tighten the screws.

A water garden kit should contain a fountain assembly. If you choose to have a fountain in your water garden, place the control valve from the fountain assembly onto the top outlet of the pump. Hand-tighten the telescoping extender from the assembly onto the control valve and affix the desired spray pattern head to the top of the extender.

Attach the inlet tubing to the side of the control valve that will face the site of the above-ground filter. Route the tubing to the site of the filter.

If you desire underwater lighting, make sure you select a water garden kit that includes it. Set the light in the bottom of your pond or on one of the plant shelves. If you are using a low-voltage water garden kit, insert the two wires from the end of the light cord into the controller terminals and tighten the screws. Weigh down the light base with rocks or pebbles to prevent it from tipping or floating.

Position the pond's biological filter above the edge of your pond where you placed the inlet tubing from the pump. You will need to secure tubing in various locations on the pump. Make sure water will drain completely into the pond.

Trim off the excess liner around the edge of the pond, leaving at least a 12-inch lip.

Before stocking your pond with fish and plants, you must remove the chlorine from the water and allow your biological filter to mature. Your kit should include a bottle of chlorine and chloramine remover. Follow the measurement guidelines and add the correct amount to your pond water after filling it with tap water.

Allow your biological filter to operate for three to four days after filling the pond to build up the healthy bacteria needed to purify your pond water.

Use a floating thermometer to ensure the pond's temperature is at a safe level before adding fish. Generally, most goldfish and koi can survive in temperatures about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but consult with your fish provider regarding acclimation procedures.

Aquatic plants perform many functions in a pond. Not only do they add to the beauty of your pond, they also help to establish the ecological balance of your pond by keeping water clear, especially if you have fish.

For more information on low-voltage pond kits and installing a water garden, contact Wayne Water Systems at (800) 237-0987 or visit www.waynepumps.com.

household microwave oven

2004-07-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

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Kitchen Innovation Proves Indispensable to 75 percent of Americans

- It has been 35 years since the first household microwave oven was introduced to families across America. Hailed as a technological breakthrough and criticized as a gimmick that would ruin the fine art of cooking, the Amana(r) Radarange(r) Microwave Oven debuted in Chicago in August 1967 as a product that would forever change how Americans eat and cook.

The microwave has come a long way since the introduction of the Amana Radarange Microwave Oven more than three decades ago. Today, more than 95 percent of American households include a microwave oven according to Appliance Magazine -- an increase of 5 percent since 1997. A recent Yankelovich Monitor study revealed that 75 percent of the people surveyed ranked the microwave oven as "almost impossible/pretty difficult" to do without. Only the automobile ranks higher.

"In just 35 years, the microwave has become a critical component of American society. We now have an entire generation that's grown up with the microwave oven and they use it daily for everything from cooking a quick lunch to reheating leftovers to popping popcorn," says Jill Means, an Amana brand home scientist.

Recent research conducted by the Amana team found that Americans use their microwaves an average of 13 times a week -- or almost twice a day. Twenty-six percent of the time is spent reheating leftovers, while 23 percent is used to cook individual meals or food items. The remainder of our microwave time is dedicated to defrosting (13 percent), heating snacks (12 percent), heating water or beverages (12 percent), cooking meals for the whole family (8 percent) and softening or melting ingredients (6 percent).

"The microwave has revolutionized the way people cook," Means explained. "It has contributed greatly to our fast-paced, dual career lifestyles. Originally, Amana engineers envisioned the microwave replacing the conventional oven. Instead, the microwave has spawned an entirely new category of food items."

Prompted by the popularity of the microwave, food companies have developed microwave versions of everything from brownies to macaroni and cheese -- not to mention the ever-popular microwave popcorn.

Among the most popular items cooked in America's microwaves, snacks such as popcorn and nachos account for 71 percent of the food items cooked in microwaves (not including reheated foods). Frozen convenience foods (frozen meals) come in second at 59 percent, closely followed by vegetables/side dishes (56 percent), soups (36 percent), non-frozen convenience foods such as boxed mixes (22 percent), casseroles (16 percent), meat/poultry/fish (14 percent) and baked goods/desserts (2 percent).

A few other interesting findings:

* 62 percent of Americans keep their microwave on the kitchen counter

* one-third of us clean our microwaves once a week

* nearly one-third of all microwaves in use today are one to three years old

"The Radarange has impacted American cooking in a different way than was expected," says Janel Dufek, brand manager for Amana. "No one in 1967 could have predicted the enormous popularity of convenience foods for the microwave. It was just too big a departure from the way Americans ate at the time."

Amana currently offers 10 countertop and over-the-range models of the Radarange microwave oven. Estimated retail prices are approximately $149 to $799. For quick and easy microwave recipes or more information on the Amana Radarange microwave oven, visit www.amana.com.

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Invest in a More Inviting Home

2004-06-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

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With the stock market's volatility, and the financial insecurities of the high-tech industry, consumers are opting to invest their money in their largest existing investment, the home. Homeowners are revamping not because their fixtures have worn out or more space is needed, but because they want to. Some of the inttriguing items on the market today are high-end sinks, stone countertops and refrigerator and dishwasher drawers for the kitchen. Detailed embellishments from crown moldings and ceiling tiles to medallions, pocket doors and windows are becoming popular. Not all improvements need to be big-ticket items: there are many do-it-yourself options that will bring your house into the 21st century that are easy, inexpensive and innovative. They will not only refresh it but also increase its value.

A casual ambiance can be updated by moving from the shabby to a more comfortable, chic look. One technique is to use surfaces that are finished to show loving wear, but are not flea market finds. As part of this look, shuttered doors and windows are still prevalent, but they are more solid and may be pocketed into the wall. Hardwood floors have a clean appearance, and can showcase furniture better than wall-to-wall carpeting. New prefinished products allow this kind of floor to be a low-ticket item. To update a room, choose a single piece of refinished reproduction furniture, such as a Shaker cupboard or a Queen Ann chair painted a soft buttery yellow or a periwinkle blue. Sand the edges and the piece will take on a worn, but gently aged patina. Hang a vintage lace tablecloth with clips from a simple wrought iron rod and draw it back with an old piece of jewelry to immediately add charm.

Hanging wallpaper, once a feared task, has been made friendlier with a product that is strippable, pre-trimmed and pre-pasted. Borders are the ultimate in do-it-yourself decorating. With a little planning, a simple side wall pattern can be chosen, such as Chesapeake Wallcoverings' Tea Towel Stripe, from their new Home and Heritage book and a border design depicting Blue Stoneware. When you're ready for a change, the old border can be easily peeled off, and a new border added, like Cheaspeake's Tin Hearts and Stars design. This is a very flexible option and an inexpensive choice for the consumer, since the whole process of hanging borders will take less than an hour.

Formality is even more evident in traditional decor. Crown moldings and ceiling medallions are being seen in model homes and shelter magazines. The easiest way to update is to mix styles of traditional furniture from different rooms. A Windsor or camelback settee could be moved from the foyer or living room and used as seating at a Regency dining table. Decorators are not opposed to mixing furniture styles and the homeowner shouldn't be either. Great style is not confined to a single era or period; it crosses many. A room should be, above all, warm and inviting and personal. It should not appear to have been lifted from a showroom floor, but built with love and use over many years. When it comes to accesorizing the room, think of a bouquet of wild flowers. Nothing matches, but each bloom blends with the next to create a harmonious effect.

Keep the background simple when combining styles by using a small print or a stripe on the wall, such as Chesapeake Wallcoverings' Apple Blossom Toss or Winterberry Spot, or use a border to unify the space. Include different textures and trims in the accessories. Implement a variety of medium and small-scale prints for the chairs, pillows, and lampshades, keeping the colors in the same shades and intensities. For instance, if using a deep green on the sofa, pick it up again in the small print on the wall. Because the print is small and diffused by the background, the color does not overwhelm. Introduce a large scaled floral on the sofa in throw pillows, with only a small amount of the same dark color, but with one or two complementing hues of the same intensity. Trim with a short bullion fringe in the main color. On a side chair, use a medium print of a fleur-de-lis or a tapestry, again using the main color from the sofa and also the secondary or tertiary color. Trim with one of the secondary colors from the sofa pillows.

Keep windows simple when using fabric patterns. If investment is the goal, install plantation or pocket shutters. These allow privacy and need little enhancement. Use only valences or cornice boards instead of heavy drapery panels. A cornice board can be easily created by upholstering Styrofoam or wooden boards, precut for this purpose. These aids are found at fabric and home improvement stores. Another simple solution is to hang a beautiful remnant of fabric over a decorative rod. These can be quickly changed for the season or when a newer look is desired; it looks expensive, but isn't. Privacy with top-only window treatments can be obtained with the addition of opaque or sheer curtains. Use the same large or medium print on the windows that was used on existing accessories to keep the area unified, but don't try to use too many colors and patterns. Some decorators do this with success; a novice should keep to three or less.

Contemporary decor calls for simplicity, unadorned lines, and either a unity or stark contrast of color. Starting with the walls, a faux finish design from Cheaspeake Walloverings' Weekends on the Water is simple to hang and does not require days of labor or fancy sponges. Using this all over pattern as a base, extract a color, such as sea foam green, to use on the floor with area rugs, and again on the windows with sheer panels embroidered with a small design. A possibility for the bedroom is to paint a pencil four-poster bed a contrasting color, such as lilac or blue, but in the same intensity as the walls and windows. Then try hanging tie-dyed fabric from each post. In the family or living room the largest piece should be a contrasting color, a blue leather sofa or a large painted bookshelf or chest. The accessories, kept to a minimum, should be a couple of shades lighter, but in the same color palette as the accent piece. Leave patterns alone for contemporary decor.

Wallpaper, wood flooring and detailed moldings are taking us back to what is familiar and comfortable and forward into a future that needs to be flexible and adaptable to the times. For all styles, the anchors of a large piece of furniture, simple sidewalls and a wood floor don't need to change, only the accessories. Updating is costly when new additions are built or expensive appliances are purchased; but updated wallpaper, flooring, or detailed carpentry embellishments are within everyone's budget and can be enjoyed immediately.

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2004-06-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

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decorating your home

2004-06-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

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When decorating your home, keep in mind that your choices are not isolated pieces. Rooms open into each other. The colors, textures, and patterns you use can contribute to a harmonious environment or they can make your interior look jumbled. Consider the walls, floor coverings, window treatments, lighting fixtures and furniture when decorating. Everything needs to fit together well to create an attractive interior. An interior decorator may be helpful when making decorating decisions.

Color and Geometry Can Change Size of Room

Light colors make a room feel larger and darker colors make a room feel smaller. Horizontal stripes on

wallpaper make the room feel wider. Vertical stripes make a room feel taller. Large patterns make a room feel smaller and smaller patterns make a room feel larger.

Color Affects Lighting

Color can also help offset the affects of light in a room. For example, using warm colors such as orange, yellow or red can help brighten a room that doesn't get much sunlight. Cooler colors such as blues and greens can help offset the effects of a room that gets too much sunlight.

Lighting Affects Color

If possible, take samples of the carpeting, wall paper, and window coverings to your home and see how they look in the rooms during different times of the day and at night time with your lamps on. The color is greatly affected by the amount of light, type of light, and direction of light. Stores often use florescent lighting and it will be difficult to determine the actual color of the items unless you put them in the setting that the items will be used in. Gather all your decorating materials together and compare how the colors match and look together.

Color Affects Mood

Having too much dark coloring in a room can make it feel more depressing. Use lighter colors when possible and use darker colors mainly for accents.

Color Affects Temperature Perceptions

Color also has a psychological effect on how people perceive the temperature of a room. Rooms that have warm colors will feel warmer and rooms that use cooler colors will feel colder.

Matching Color Combinations

Some paint manufactures have created literature for their various colors showing what other colors will match well. A paint store may have these materials on hand to help you determine what colors combinations to use in a room. Interior decorators or Architects can also assist in choosing matching color combinations.

Color combinations can sometimes appear to match under one type of light but when the light changes then the color match also changes. For example, two different paints may appear to be identical in color but under different light conditions their colors may look much different (this principle is known as Metamerism). This mismatching occurs when materials are made using different types of dyes or pigments that have different reflective properties.

To reduce the effects of metamerism you may want to use materials that come from the same manufacturer. For example, choosing different tints of paints from the same paint manufacturer is less likely to have mismatching colors under different lighting conditions.

Variety and Balance

Having variety and balance helps make a room inviting. When decorating, consider textures as well as colors. If you use too much of the same colors, patterns, and textures in a room it can get overbearing. Consider having variety. Put different colors near each other and vary the detail. For example, if your couch has vibrant patterns and details it may be more attractive to have it by a plain white wall. This helps the couch stand out more from the room. Contrast can be good. Having

contrasts keeps a room from looking bland. However, avoid having too much pattern and contrast in the room. You need a balance of bland and contrast to make your eyes comfortable. Too much contrast and pattern in a room can tire your eyes.

Repetition Helps Create Balance

Avoid using a color just once or in one small area of a room. Repeating a color throughout different parts of a room makes the color fit in better.

Vary the Size of Contrasting Colors

Avoid having contrasting colors take up the same amount of space in a room. It looks better if you vary the space used by different colors. For example, use neutral colors for large areas and use brighter or darker colors for accents.

Area Affects Intensity of Color

The more you use a color in a room the more intense the color will feel. If you are going to use a color over large areas then you may want to choose a color that is lighter than what you think you like. Colors also reflect on each other and this causes colors to feel more intense. For example, the colors of painted walls can reflect the colors from other walls and make the colors more intense.

Resale Value

When decorating your home, consider the effect your decor will have on its resale value. If you like unusual colors or designs then try to incorporate your preferences in a way that can easily be changed if a future home buyer has different decorating tastes. For example, it is fairly easy to repaint walls or change wallpaper. It is harder and more expensive to change a home's carpeting, countertops, sinks, tubs, etc. You may want to use neutral colors on things that are harder to change.

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More Options for Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

2004-06-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

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Beyond style, today's projects focus on practicalities, including consideration of what's behind the walls

- According to figures released by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Americans spent more than $4.8 billion on kitchen remodeling projects in 1999 (the last year statistics were available). During that same year, nearly another $2.5 billion was spent on bathroom remodeling. With numbers like these, it's little wonder that kitchen and bathroom projects topped the list of most common remodeling jobs in 2000.
Studies show expenditures on kitchen and bath projects may add more to a home's value than improvements to any other rooms. Considering the fact that the average house has nearly twice as many bathrooms as a few decades ago, it makes sense that the dollars spent on bathroom additions have increased. In fact, according to the NAHB, in 2000, 56 percent of all new homes were built with 2-1/2 baths or more, compared to only 1 percent of new homes built in 1950 and 16 percent built in 1970.

So exactly what are homeowners putting in all these new and improved baths and kitchens? Definitely not the same old products used by previous generations.
First there are all those new bathroom amenities to keep us comfortable in and out of the shower. Vertical spas, as well as in-home steam units and even towel warmers are now available. And in the kitchen there are "smart" appliances that turn themselves on and off automatically.

For conservation purposes, we now have low-flow toilets with improved flushing power. And floors can be heated from beneath with either hot water or electric heating elements.
Yet, not all of the upgrades to today's kitchens and baths are quite so noticeable. Looking behind the walls, for instance, you may well find plumbing in need of repair.
Outdated copper and galvanized plumbing systems may require repair or replacement as a result of the damaging effects of corrosion, pitting and scaling, which are inherent problems with all metallic systems. Pinhole leaks, caused by corrosion, can eventually result in premature failure of the system, while scale buildup inside metallic pipes can significantly reduce water pressure and flow.

To eliminate these problems, while also reducing the noise and condensation associated with metal, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) plumbing systems are being installed. This high-performance resin has more than 40 years of field-tested experience in a wide variety of demanding residential, commercial and industrial applications.
Homeowners and plumbing professionals often choose CPVC products, like FlowGuard Gold pipe and fittings, over metal because they will never pit, corrode or scale, regardless of water quality. Independent laboratory testing further confirms that FlowGuard Gold CPVC systems are four times quieter than copper.

For remodeling projects, FlowGuard Gold systems can be easily transitioned to existing copper pipe. Even better, whether for complete repipe projects or partial replacements, is the fact that FlowGuard Gold systems are installed using solvent cement (as opposed to soldering with torches) that forms a permanent bond within minutes. This eliminates the risk of fire damage during installation by removing the torch from the worksite.
Homeowners have a lot more choices when it comes to kitchen and bath remodeling projects. It's easy to become overwhelmed with choices relative to color, style and comfort. But it's important to consider the maintenance and service life of the finished project. This means also focusing on what's behind the walls before a problem develops. Otherwise, you might just find yourself ripping out those beautiful new appliances and fixtures to repair corroded, leaking pipes down the road.

For more information about the benefits of including FlowGuard Gold CPVC plumbing systems in your next remodeling project, call (888) 234-2436 Ext. 7393, or visit www.flowguardgold.com.

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From Home Pages to Home Improvement

2004-06-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

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Home products manufacturers' Web sites now let your fingers do the kitchen remodeling ... and much more!- You can't stand the look of your "old" kitchen, but dread the thought of going from store to store, looking through samples of color chips, wood grains and faucet finishes. Wouldn't it just be easier to simply click and print your choices to create the kitchen (or other home improvement project) of your dreams?According to Allison Beatty, RenovatorsPlace.com founder and regular real estate contributor to the Chicago Tribune, many consumers now prefer to do their shopping or research on the Internet because they can shop at their convenience without feeling pressure from a salesperson. "Consumers can pull together a vast amount of research online, sort through it, save it, or print it for future reference," says Beatty. "Then, when they do go into a store, they are better prepared to make decisions. In essence, it gives them greater control over the decision-making process.""The Internet also saves time," she says. "People lead busy lives -- the last thing they want to do is drive around to five stores to comparison shop. Instead, they can do their research online, and then narrow down their selections before driving to a store."Beatty says consumers will continue to spend money to improve their homes. They want to make their space more personalized, even if that means taking a 5-year-old kitchen and remodeling it to match their lifestyle. "I think we will see the slowing economy shifting more people toward fixing up their existing homes rather than buying newer, more expensive residences," she says.

So if a kitchen or other room remodel is in your future (or at least in your dreams), what are some of the best manufacturer sites to check out? Here are a few:Moen recently launched its latest Web site module, "Design Your Own Kitchen," which allows users to create different design and color schemes for the kitchen. This module complements existing sections for consumers to "Design Your Own Bathroom," "Design Your Own Vertical Spa," "Design Your Own Faucet," as well as view other tips and trends in remodeling.

This latest addition to www.moen.com allows users to choose from more than 60 Moen faucets and seven different colors of MoenStone sinks to see what each would look like in their kitchen. The faucets include all of the company's most popular models, including PureTouch filtering faucets. In addition, users can choose their faucet finish, including new copper and stainless steel, to create a host of different looks -- from traditional to modern to country. Users also can see different combinations of kitchen cabinets, countertop and wall colors with their faucet selection with this unique visualization tool.

"We are continually expanding the user experience and moving beyond the typical manufacturing site to provide more interactive and design flexibility," says Ginny Long, Moen director of Public Affairs. "With the new functionality of our site, consumers and trade professionals can now actually see what the products will look like before they are installed."And what's a new kitchen faucet and sink without some new cabinets as well? Check out www.schrock.com to evaluate and plan a kitchen remodel. Schrock.com shows consumers various cabinet styles and colors, shows them how to measure their kitchen and even sets up the design process. Homeowners can then take these measurements and selections into a designated dealer for a free kitchen design.

"Our site starts with an area called 'Your Master Plan' that includes a variety of worksheets to help consumers design their kitchen while at home, says Stacie Gilles, Schrock marketing-communications manager. "The site also includes important planning and starting points, like budgeting, selecting your layout and design, and making your kitchen more functional with storage accessories."Another helpful site for consumers is www.GELighting.com/virtualhouse. As visitors navigate through each room of the Virtual House, they can stop on special "hot spots" that highlight featured products or lighting techniques. The "Designer Notes" section offers a detailed account of the design process, tips and an overview of the final lighting effect. For those who'd like to try different techniques for themselves, visitors can click on the "Virtual Lighting Designer" option to compare lighting options through online, interactive product demos.

"The Virtual Lighting Designer was developed with exact configurations for each room -- particularly the kitchen -- of the Virtual House, so the comparative lighting techniques are rendered as they would appear in real life," says Joel Hutt, GE Lighting's general manager - marketing and communications.

And since we've covered the kitchen from top to bottom, how about the flooring? A good Web source to "walk on" is www.armstrong.com. It has a colorful "step-by-step" tour of the floor purchasing process including choices in vinyl, laminate or hardwood. Your choice is then put into a realistic residential kitchen setting.

The site's "Room Viewer," for example, lets you pull up a sample kitchen setting, choose wall and cabinet colors, browse flooring by color and pattern families, then select your choice of complementary or contrasting floor products.

"Our site's Room Viewer is designed to take the guesswork out of the purchase decision by letting consumers see an entire floor pattern as it would appear in a real room, rather than just one small sample piece," said Thomas A. Cook, Armstrong corporate design manager.

And finally, Beatty recommends consumers visit her site, www.RenovatorsPlace.com. It is filled with information on topics from financing and budget issues to advice on selecting kitchen cabinetry and making product and design decisions. There also are graphic images of room designs and household products. This allows visitors to go from A to Z in planning a remodeling project.

The site also has project cost analysis and planning tools, such as the Renovators Portfolio. Visitors can save pertinent information in a personalized portfolio for easy reference later or to print out and give to a contractor and architect.

Backgrounds By Marie

2004-05-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

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Backgrounds By Marie

Bordered background sets, backgrounds, sets, notecards, textured sets for your webpage!

Stowing It Away: Where to Put It vis comfortex cellular shades

2004-05-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

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Stowing It Away: Where to Put It

The longer we live in a home, the more belongings we accumulate. Day by day, our house seems to shrink. Stuffed closets, crammed cabinets, and a basement jammed full of who-knows-what - but there is still more we want to stow!

All those piles can be pretty daunting. Of course, if we?ve got money to burn, we can always buy a larger house or build an addition, but most of us are looking for a less expensive solution. Fortunately, the problem of clutter can be tackled. The key is to take it one step at a time.

The first step is to ask yourself a very broad question: "Do I have more things than I really want to have?" Another way of asking the same question is, "Do I own all these things, or are they starting to own me?"

Most of us feel saddled with too much stuff, but feel overwhelmed by the challenge of having to make all those tough decisions that go along with paring back. You can simplify the task by mentally separating your things into categories. Use broad categories so that you end up with no more than ten groups of things. Your list might go something like this: Keepsakes, books, magazines, clothes, construction materials, files, toys, and furniture. To start, pick the category that is least threatening. Let's say you choose clothes.

Next, decide if, overall, you really need all the clothes you have. Try to come up with a general number. Let's say you decide that you need about 50 percent of the clothes you have. After all, everyone has things they haven't worn in years.

Armed with that number, dive tight in and start making decisions, one garment at a time.

Bringing the Outdoors In vis comfortex cellular shades

2004-05-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

by Patty Lee

At this time of the year, one of my greatest pleasures is taking a brief pause from my work to sit outside on the patio in the sunshine. The temperature of the air is just right. The sky is blue with not a cloud in sight. There's even perfect background music -- the sound of water falling over rocks into the fishpond, and the songs of birds as they build their nests and raise their families. As I write this, Mrs. Robin is taking a bath in the rainwater that has collected in the pool cover and the goldfish are swimming around among the rocks in the fishpond. What an idyllic setting!

And so I am thinking, "Wouldn't it be nice to have this pleasant setting all year?" I feel the start of a new mission coming on. I will call it 'Bring the Outdoors In'.

First, I will have to find a room or area of the house that gets lots of natural light. The room just off the patio will work nicely. It has large windows. I'll take down the curtains. That will open up the room and make it appear larger, more airy, like the big outdoors.

Next, I will change that worn-out carpet to cushion floor in a rock design. If I had the money, I probably would go for the real thing, but this should work. Any floor covering in a wood grain, stone, or other natural material would work, and of course, I want something that is easy to keep clean.

I love anything wood and so the furniture pieces will be a warm pine. I think the new twig furniture would look very nice, too, maybe even better than my beloved pine, due to its airy quality.

In one corner of the room, I will place a self-contained fountain. The small ones take only a couple gallons of water. Then I will have the sound of water indoors. I would love to get a larger model and put a couple of fish in there, but this will do. After all, I am on a budget.

For accents, I will make a grapevine wreath and decorate it with silk flowers. I will place a eucalyptus swag over the windows. Here and there I will position a little fake bird. Or perhaps I will go out and buy a canary. I used to have canaries and it is lovely to hear them singing. Where are those starfish that I collected on a beach in Nova Scotia? And the clam shells that my daughter sent me from British Columbia? They will add nostalgic touches.

There will be fresh flowers everywhere intermingled with silk ones. These days, when you buy good quality silk flowers, it is hard to tell them from the real thing. I just adore flowers of all kinds.

There now, I will have finished my mission without breaking the bank. And I will have the pleasures of the outdoors that I am enjoying now all year round.

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