Side by side with the trends comes the hype. Then, the myths start to appear. It was like that with the internet, smartphones and now with the smart home concept. Wherever you go, everybody seems to have something to say about techy houses and how integrated, futuristic and automated they are. Still, plenty of consumers really dont know much about them, or if they really can improve your life at home.

Such information blur is even bigger when it comes to money and energy savings. Buyers not only want to know if smart homes are useful but also want to figure out if they will increase or reduce their electricity bills. If that sounds like you, why not jump to the facts and see what the world has been saying about it? Experts, international organizations and companies have researched connected homes for the past few years, and its time for us to finally discover whether smart homes can help you save money on your utilities.

Before we dive in, its essential to keep in mind what makes a house a smart home. The idea of home automation is part of the Internet of Things (IoT) concept, which is somewhat self-explanatory. IoT basically means giving life to objects by using an internet connection so they can have extra features. In other words, a smart house is an integrated system of intelligent devices.

From smart light bulbs to virtual assistants, a smart home provides the environment for you to monitor and model your life at home and make it more practical. The concept was quite abstract until tech brands such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, Samsung and Amazon started selling smart gadgets for the whole house, from washing machines to speakers. Such creations let consumers use their phones as remote controls and turn the house itself into a tech device.

Okay, theyre smart, practical and innovative. But can they also be energy-efficient? Lets see some examples below and learn if smart homes can also save you money on your bills.

Sensors can open doors, turn the lights on or off, and even set the temperature in a room, so there must be a reason why we use them everywhere, right? Yes, and heres a tip: Its not only because they are super-practical at home. Such devices are highly energy-efficient and can save plenty of electricity.

According to the United Kingdoms Carbon Trust, occupancy sensors, which can identify if a person is in the room, can reduce energy use by 30 percent. Daylight sensors are even more efficient and can lower your usage by up to 40 percent.

Another interesting data fact from the U.K. was presented by the Kings College London. In 2013, the university cut its lighting energy use by nearly 90 percent as a result of the installation of sensor-controlled indoor lighting. According to the projects developers, the institution will save 6,349 British pounds (around $8,037 in the U.S.) every year on electricity bills.

Smart power strips, or smart power bars, may not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about a smart home. Dont let their conventional appearance fool you, though. These gadgets can block energy to your devices while they are in standby mode, which is an overlooked yet significant energy-saving tool.

As reported by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), standby mode accounts for 10 percent of residential electricity usage. A smart power strip, then, will help you lower your bills considerably by blocking this silent, energy-consuming function at home. Imagine never again having to worry about unplugging devices.

Long, hot showers are relaxing and energizing, but also highly energy-inefficient. Thats why experts decided to create intelligent shower time limiters, which let you have the best of both worlds: the warmth of a relaxing shower with a limit to it.

Shower time limiters can boost your water savings up to 50 percent, according to some brands. As Showerguard states on its website, smart timers can save up to 20 percent on your utility bills and hundreds of dollars within a year, which is exceptional payback time.

Such devices allow you to set the time you want to spend in the shower, and it will tell you when its time to close the faucet. Whats more, they can be a helpful tool if you are looking for eco-friendly renovations at home.

Smart thermostats are perhaps the best example of what home automation means in both technological and energy-saving terms. These devices are highly integrated with phones or tablets, and let you monitor and set your homes temperature by distance.

Still, their list of features goes way beyond remote access. Smart thermostats can send you energy usage reports regularly and even create charts for you to check historical data. Over and above, all these functions will save you about 15 percent on your energy bills, according to Canadas Global News.

Even energy monitors got a makeover with the home automation trend. These gadgets can provide users with insights about their energy use and home activity. If you have a solar-powered system, for example, they can even measure solar production versus electricity consumption.

Thanks to the mobile integration, you can track everything regarding energy usage from your phone, including which devices are costing you more money and related reports. There are even open source options if youre into DIY projects. Many consumers have created their own smart energy monitors using modular Raspberry Pi computers.

Products such as the LG SmartView counter-depth refrigerator apply the IoT concept to one of the most traditional machines at home. This fridge sends you mobile notifications when the door is left open and is integrated with an app that lets you monitor, for example, if you have ice in the freezer or check the temperature. It can get even smarter if you connect it to Google Assistant.

Another good old device with an intelligent twist to it is the Samsung WW9000 washing machine. This clothes washer comes with the ecobubble technology, which allows users to cut down the amount of warm water needed to clean clothes. In other words, it can save both water and heating costs. The smart features are boosted by Wi-Fi and the mobile app and help users control major functions using their phones.

Yes, smart homes can save you money plenty of it, actually. But it will depend on what smart products you buy. The most energy-efficient devices are the ones that come with sensors or other kinds of energy limiters. A smart TV or Bluetooth speaker wont necessarily save you money although they probably will when compared to their older peers such as tube TVs or decades-old record players.

The good news is that nowadays, most of these gadgets tend to be energy-efficient and smart at the same time, so you wont have a problem combining energy-savings with comfort, be it purchasing a fridge or a lighting kit.

Written by Caio Bersot, Content Specialist with EnergyRates.ca

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Can a Smart Home Really Help You Save Energy (And Money)? - IoT For All

BY GRANT LANCASTER

MTA officials plan to build a permanent indoor connector between the Livonia Avenue L station and the Junius Street 3 station in Brooklyn by 2024 and are extending a free transfer program between the stations in the meantime, they announced at a press conference Friday afternoon.

The plan to connect the two stations, which are less than 1,000 feet apart, is part of the MTAs 2020-2024 Capital Plan, which also includes improvements to make both elevated stations fully ADA accessible, said Sally Librera, New York City Transit senior vice president of subways. The Livonia Avenue station should be fully accessible by 2022 and the Junius Street station by 2024.

The MTA set aside $38.4 million for the project and has already spent $400,000 for pre-design activities, according to an MTA press release Friday. Construction on the accessibility improvements, such as elevators and ramps, are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2020.

The free MetroCard transfer that customers have been able to use for the past nine months during construction on the L line will continue until the construction at the stations is complete, according to the press release.

Riders have two hours to swipe their MetroCard and make the free transfer.

The transfer program allows people to use both stations without paying twice, Librera said. About 1 million customers use the Livonia Avenue station each year, with about 600,000 annually at Junius Street station, she said.

Sen. Roxanne Persaud thinks that the indoor connection will be a great improvement over the uncovered walkway between the two stations now, despite improvements in lighting on that walkway, she said.

For many years, it was considered a dangerous walkway, Persaud said.

MTA Board Member Andrew Albert, chair of the NYC Transit Riders Council, thinks the project will help tie the two stations together in a way that is convenient for citizens, he said.

This is one of the last places where lines cross, but there is no real connection, Albert said.

Assembly Member Latrice Walker thinks that, in addition to convenience, the improvement will help reduce fare evasion at stations where people are likely to evade instead of paying double the fare, she said.

For years my constituents have suffered paying two fares for stations directly across the street from each other, Walker said. A free transfer between Livonia and Junius stations will make a huge difference in their daily lives.

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Listing of the Day

Location: Taipei City, Taiwan

Price: NT197.1 million (US$6.5 million)

Built in 2013, Jade 12 is a development in Taipei City that, while positioned within the citys central business district, is also built into the side of the scenic Elephant Mountain. The propertys agent, Michael Liu, described it as "gloriously nestled between the bustling city and the breathtaking natural environment, with its magnificent exterior reminiscent of an upright bamboo branch."

Seamless integration with its surrounding environment is the driving force behind Jade 12s design, the brainchild of Taiwanese architect Lee Tianduo. Everything from the curvature of its balconies to the orientation of its windows to its exterior lighting is designed to inspire harmony with the mountain landscape.

Its name derives from the precious jade marble that covers its facade, in combination with aluminum-clad board. According to Mr. Liu, "in Eastern culture, jade symbolizes the origin of nature and signifies the pursuit of the integration between architecture and environment."

More: In Kaohsiungs Gushan District, Green Spaces Create Sought-After Addresses

This fourth-floor apartment is a blank slate (unfurnished and without interior compartment), so owners can design according to their own needs, according to Mr. Liu. With its open-plan design and windows on all sides, the unit is bright, spacious and well ventilated.

"While relaxing in the living room," Mr. Liu said, "the floor-to-ceiling windows open the connection between the room and the picturesque elephant mountain. You are constantly hugged by the endless greenery and ample sunlight, inspiring the soul with creativity and energy."

Stats

The fourth-floor, 4,660-square-foot apartment has three bedrooms and four bathrooms.

There are only 12 apartments in the 13-floor building, each occupying a full floor.

More: Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Tokyo Are the Worlds Most Expensive Cities

Amenities

Being built into Taipeis Elephant Mountain, the exterior lights of this environmentally aware building are a color temperature that wont scare off the surrounding wildlife, such as frogs, insects and birds. "They were here long before we came," Mr. Liu said.

The buildings many luxury amenities include a fitness center, a media room, air conditioning, and an infinity-edge pool, as well as an outdoor kitchen area.

The six-meter-high ground floor lobby provides six-star hotel services, according to Mr. Liu, with an infinity pool on the top floor. The property benefits from airtight windows with triple-layer glass, which can effectively isolate outdoor heat, cold air mass and noise, while the indoor tap water is automatically filtered and drinkable.

There is also a water-permeable pavement system that increases water absorbance, infiltration, and retention capabilities of the building base and surrounding landscapes.

From Penta: Future Returns: How to Invest in Global Infrastructure

Neighborhood Notes

Jade 12 is located in the center of the Xinyi District (or the Central Business District), which is on the southeast of Taipei City, and is the most valuable commercial area in Taiwan, according to Mr. Liu. One side of the building faces the busy city while the other faces the vast forested expanse of Elephant Mountain. The mountain is 183 meters high and has a hiking trail about 1.5 kilometers long, from which Taipei 101a building that was classified as the worlds tallest between 2004 and 2010can be seen. The trail also comprises The Six Giant Rocks, which are one of Taipei Citys major tourist attractions.

The property benefits from convenient transportation on the MRT, city bus, sharing bikes and expressways. In addition to the ecological scenery of Elephant Mountain, the property is also close to Taipei City Hall, the municipal library, sports centers, parks, hospitals and commercial districts.

Agent: Michael Liu, President of Jubon Taiwan, affiliate of Christies International Real Estate.

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A 4,660-Square-Foot Blank Slate Home in Taipei That Integrates Architecture and Environment - Mansion Global

This week,we saw the death of theatre director Terry Hands, acclaimed for his founding ofthe Everyman in Liverpool among various other theatrical, notablyShakespearean, endeavours. This news came within hours of the RSCsannouncement of their winter season of Shakespeares Wars of the Roses plays, nearlyforty years after Hands production of the Henry VI trilogy as artisticdirector of the RSC supplanted it firmly back into the public psyche.

Handsstyle of directing was distinctive, and often classic. His productions had acertain energetic hum that surrounded them, and in his more than 25 years asDirector Emeritus and Artistic Director of the RSC, it became difficult todisassociate his productions from his latent directorial presence. He came tothe RSC with a track-record of success, having founded the Everyman aftergraduating from RADA; he continued to wield his benevolent hands (pun notintended) over the theatre world when, after leaving the RSC, he saved Wales Theatr Clwyd fromclosure. His styles soon became trademark, as he made his way through Europestheatre circles. He had an almost unparalleled ability to pick out and persuadingtalent to his ends, mentoring the likes of Anthony Sher, Deborah Warner andAdrian Noble.

One of the most recognisable parts of hisdirectorial style, though, is his idiosyncratic use of light, casting himselfas lighting director in a number of productions. Hands made us light-sensitiveas an audience; what were the possibilities of light in Shakespeare, and howcould they enhance a performance? He seems to have tapped into usefuldirectorial opportunities, noticing and exploiting the infinite variety oflights possibility in Shakespeares plays.

Light, for anyone who has pored over an ArdenShakespeare, traipsing through theme after theme, is an image of notablesignificance. Romeo famously asks Juliet: But soft, what light through yonderwindow breaks?; if the window is the east, and Juliet really is the sun, how can a director make herso? The 2006 RSC production, directed by Nancy Meckler, has Juliet perched noton a balcony but on a precarious metal scaffold. The light that bathes her faceis not warm sunlight but the harsh whiteness of stage lights, as we are deniedaccess to the fallacy in which the two lovers find themselves in. To Romeo, hisparamour has the soft warmth of the sun, but to us, she looks harsh anddistant, lit with a clinical pale glow. In the 2010 RSC production, Juliet isoffstage when Romeos dramatic love exposition begins; the visions of grandeurin Romeos mind can be indulged by the director, or gently mocked by way ofdeliberate omission.

The relative scarcity of specific stage directionor set instruction makes a Shakespeare play a useful tabula rasa upon which adirector can build an effective, stylistically distinctive production. However,there are some specific light requirements that are vital to the narrative whilebeing difficult for a director to work with. A distinction between night andday is a recurring feature, a technique that would have been especiallydifficult in the open-air amphitheatre styles of some Elizabethan theatres. Thescript for our case study, Romeo and Juliet, includes the time markers ofmorning, twilight, noon, twilight, night and dawn. It is, obviously, at thedirectors discretion whether they choose to play to these distinctions, orwhether they will allow the play to exist in its own isolated timelessness.Time disorientation works well for the two lovers tragic story; a refusal toacknowledge the passage of time gives the story a cruelly ironic sense ofhaving time to spare, when in reality the events take place over only fourdays. If the director chooses to note these fluctuations in light, the playbecomes more urgent, more visceral and more real.

There are over thirty stage directions inShakespeares oeuvre calling for lights to be carried on-stage. Three kinds oflights are specified: tapers, torches and lanterns. Torches are the most commonby far, and undoubtedly the easiest for an actor to use effectively on stage. However,the Elizabethan nomenclature of specific lights was inconsistent, so relativefree-reign, even then, was given to matters of lighting for the productions. Itis unreasonable to presume that a modern director will feel constricted to theconfines of Shakespeares own light specifications, but some performance spacesnecessitate a modicum of orthodoxy. The Globes primary light source issunlight, making the only significant differentiation in light that betweenLondons night and day. Even the indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, thoughartificially lit with candles, is illuminated uniformly throughout entireperformances. In such spaces, lightscarried on and off stage were not a requirement, but a superfluity to thespace: they were an exercise in aesthetics, rather than function.

Aside from the time markers mentioned previously,the use of hand-held lights in the plays are used traditionally to indicatedark, shadowy loci, where the presence of light indicates a lack it, as well asceremony and metaphor. The extinguishing of these indicates a plummet intototal darkness, in which Cassio can be ambushed and Lear can be left isolate onthe heath. As Lears Fool says: so out went the candle and we were leftdarkling. The audience is trusted to suspend disbelief as we plunge, with thecharacters, into metaphorical darkness.

How, then, has Hands legacy of light been aninfluential force on the modern Shakespeare scene? The 2014 Park AvenueTheatre, New York, staged a production of Macbeth that surpassed audienceexpectations not only of light but also of staging. The plays cavernous spacewas transformed into a barren heath, complete with open flame torches lighting theaudiences way towards the steep, stadium seating. Strange and otherworldlyshadows were cast on the faces of the (floating!) witches. The mass of candlesat the end of the traverse stage that glowed hot in Lady Macbeths fieriestmoments stood cold and dark when, hands stained with blood, she begs: Ohlight! Please take me! I deserve to die! / Nowtake me light! Now cover my darkness!. Though elements of this productioncrumble under accusations of style over substance, it is exemplary in itsmanipulation of, or abject disregard for, Shakespeares original plans forlight in his plays.

Nonconformist lightingtechniques are not specific to tragedy; Shakespeares already farcical,unrealistic comedic scenarios can be made more so with lighting that removes usentirely from reality. The recent production of A Midsummer Nights Dream atLondons Bridge Theatre explores the dark sexuality that runs throughout theplay, by keeping the in-the-round performance space mostly dark and shadowy,save select spots of bright lightness. In a play usually interpreted with thesummer-gaze of cloudless days and soft heat, the Bridges chiaroscuro is arefreshing palate cleanser for some of its more sanguine adaptations. Sequinnedand salacious, the plays purple hue in the final scene gives it permission torevel in its unabashed campness, dragging the audience literally skipping intoits midsummer fever dream.

One wonders whetherShakespeares verse benefits from these techniques; should we give in topurists, and have our open-air theatres lit exclusively by the sun and the oddtaper? Some productions, like Park Avenues, undoubtedly suffer for stylisticdiversity, sacrificing subtleties of language, style and blocking to make roomfor the enormity of these effects. However,in order to guarantee our public appreciation for these plays for years tocome, we have a duty to embrace and support attempts at stylistic innovation,rather than dismissing them as silly or superfluous. Done well, effects such aslighting can enhance audience enjoyment, and Terry Hands productionsexemplified this. He used never-before-seen lighting techniques with consistentsuccess, demonstrating how, even though Shakespeare doesnt need to bemodernised to the 21st century, wed be happy to have him.

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What Light Through Yonder Theatre Breaks? - Cherwell Online

'The Terrace - A Maiden Affair' is located in Andheri, Mumbai and has been designed by Saniya Kantawala Design

Stepping through the doors of The Terrace A Maiden Affair, a newly opened restaurant in Andheri, Mumbai, one is greeted by a neon sign, Here comes the sun, hinting at a happy, cheerful experience that awaits inside. Pastel shades, jewel-shaped lighting, comfortable seaters upholstered in rich fabrics, an outdoor space with an alluring ambience and more, make this restaurant an instant attraction. The brand, The Terrace, located in Juhu is owned by Karan and Kaushal Shah. They have franchised it to Kaplan and Nishiket Shah and the interiors of the new Andheri outlet have been envisioned by interior designer Saniya Kantawala.

This restaurant is primarily for the millennials and Gen-X; the entire theme and decor for the space includes elements that are attractive to this generation. For me, designing the restaurant and understanding the client brief and bringing it to life was instinctive, as I am a millennial myself; hence, pink has been used in a variety of ways in the space, says Kantawala. The finishes on the walls and the flooring have been kept fairly restrained. The predominant use of soft pink hues are offset by pops of blue, green andorange and the use of brass imparts a sleek finish to the furniture incorporated indoors. Theexposed ceiling is adorned with dainty, jewel-shaped lighting. The bar, positioned centrally within the 2,200-square-feet indoor space is surrounded by seating that includes high bar seating and circular booth seating. Pop art dots the walls, perking up the interiors and adding an element of quirk.

On the other side of the glass partition lies the outdoor seating area (600-square-feet) and is easily the most endearing spot in the restaurant. A centrally positioned light installation sets an ideal tone, with the space being further enhanced by the inclusion of several potted plants. Quirky bent chair plates accessorise the walls of the garden and the seating has been arranged in such a way that it makes one feel like they are amidst an art garden. A swing installed in the garden also lifts the ambience of the space and creates a visual that makes the restaurant photo-worthy, adds Kantawala.

The food is helmed by chef Rajesh Talwar, who has two more restaurants in the works in Doha and The Bahamas. The menu comprises a diverse selection. We tried the delicately spiced Tandoori Indian Machhi, the Golden Prawns, Chicken Sesame Seekh and the flavourful Tandoori stuffed Mushrooms. If you happen to be in the mood for some comfort food, the menu includes Khichdi, a dish most of us crave for every now and then. Named after Kantawala herself, Saniya ka pakaya hua khichdi can be paired with veggies and chicken (yes, you read that correctly!). Go ahead and indulge!

In this age of social media and Instagram, the fascination with posting about our wheres and whens has completely re-defined the process of conceptualising a restaurant and its design, says Kantawala. This understanding has translated effortlessly into a design that spatially renders a simple yet efficient layout, imparts a cheerful and soothing vibe, offers picture perfect backdrops and makes it an ideal spot to catch up with a group of friends. If you are wondering where to head out this weekend, we suggest you give The Terrace in Andheri a try. Who knows it might just end up becoming a regular hang-out spot for you and your friends.

Surat: The Kathiyawadi design influences in this restaurant help create an authentic Gujarati vibe

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A new hang-out has cropped up in Mumbai and we are loving its vibe - Architectural Digest India

CHICAGO, Feb. 4, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Smart Lighting Market by Offering (Hardware: Lights & Luminaires, Lighting Controls; Software, and Services), Communication Technology (Wired and Wireless), Installation Type, End-use Application, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2025", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Smart Lighting Marketis estimated to grow from USD 13.4 billion in 2020 and projected to reach USD 30.6 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 18.0%. The major factors driving the growth of the smart lighting market include the advent of integrated lighting control systems, upcoming smart city projects in developing economies, increasing adoption and decreasing cost of LEDs, integration of lighting solutions with smart devices, and growing awareness about energy savings among consumers and governments worldwide.

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"Smart lighting market for services to grow at highest CAGR between 2020 and 2025"

Services play a major role before and after the installation of smart lighting systems. The services segment comprises pre-installation and post-installation services. The market for services is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, mainly driven by the rising adoption of smart lighting solutions and the use of lighting services to reduce energy cost and achieve energy conservation and ecological safety. The growth of the market for services is also ascribed to a high demand for engineering, consulting, and analytical services pertaining to smart lighting among end users.

Europe to hold major larger share of smart lighting market for indoor-end use application during forecast period

Europe held the largest share of the smart lighting market for indoor end-use application in 2019. This large share is attributed to the growing consumer awareness about smart lighting and adoption of energy-efficient products being offered in the smart lighting market. However, the high implementation cost of these solutions is one of the major factors inhibiting the growth of the market in the residential segment.

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APAC to hold largest share of smart lighting market by 2025

The smart lighting market in APAC is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to rapid infrastructure building activities being undertaken in APAC, mainly in China and India, where smart lighting paves the way for the modernization of infrastructure. The modernization and development of infrastructure such as smart cities across the region, coupled with government policies to support energy-efficient lighting, would also drive the demand for smart street lights, thereby driving the market for smart lighting in this region.

Some of the major players in the smart lighting market are Signify (Philips Lighting) (Netherlands), Legrand S.A. (France), Acuity Brands, Inc. (US), Eaton Corporation (Ireland), General Electric Company (US), and OSRAM Licht (Germany), Lutron Electronics (US), Zumtobel Group (Austria), Honeywell International Inc. (US), Hubbell Incorporated (US), and Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc. (US). Other players operating in the smart lighting market include Dialight PLC (UK), Helvar (Finland), Ideal Industries, Inc. (Cree Lighting) (US), Adesto Technologies (Echelon Corporation) (US), Panasonic (Japan), LightwaveRF PLC (UK), RAB Lighting (US), Synapse Wireless (US), Syska LED (India), Wipro Enterprise Ltd (India), LG Electronics (South Korea), ABB (Switzerland), and Enlighted Inc (a Siemens company) (US).

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Light therapy is one of the go-to treatments for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of seasonal depression that commonly strikes during the cold, darkish wintry weather months.

Studies suggest that exposure to bright mild from a unique lamp or lightbox can help make up for the sunlight you're not getting obviously when the days are shorter.

These devices are brighter than your common lamp; they must deliver light at 10,000 lux (about 20 instances extra than ordinary indoor lighting), in keeping with the National Institute for Mental Health. Soaking up these synthetic rays for approximately 20 to 60 minutes may help ease signs of SAD.

Considering making an investment in a light field? Here are some you could buy on Amazon that earned five-star critiques from at least half of the shoppers.

READ ALSO:Celebrating Valentine's Day 2020: Playing Videos and a Pizza! Check Out Best Games on Amazon

The therapy lamp can create a mild intensity of 10,000 lux to imitate a sunny day. It uses natural light to keep you in a fantastic mood with three brightness levels and can be adjusted with a touch. This lamp comes in a transportable design to match anywhere.

Get it here.

Compact sufficient to healthy comfortably on a bedside desk or at your desk, Verilux's full-size tool is also customizable, with both excessive and low light depth settings.

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This lamp is very useful for every day dose of mild remedy by adjusting the perspective of the stand. Another option: tuck it away so that you can mount the tool on a wall instead.

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It is a bit pricier than other top-quality picks, but this tool ensures 10,000 lux at two feet away, so you don't must sit quite so close to the field to gain its benefits.

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The flexible hinge in this lamp makes angling your mild supply a breeze, even as the thin base means you could easily install the item anywhere.

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A SAD floor lamp is also something to consider, and it's a perfect solution if you don't have any available table space, or if you want to apply the lamp while sitting on a chair. It stands four tall once fully assembled, so you could even do double duty and use it at the same time as you're on a treadmill or a stationary bike.

The flexible hinge in this lamp makes angling your mild supply a breeze, even as the thin base means you could easily install the item anywhere.

Get it here.

This lamp by Carex, a company frequently used in studies trials, has a massive display with masses of floor area. It would not win any display awards, but it's rated 10,000 lux at 14 inches, which means that you get 10,000 lux when you are 14 inches away from the light. This version is positioned at a downward angle.

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READ ALSO:Top 5 Best Housewarming Gifts That Cost Less Than Usual on Amazon

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Here Are the 7 Top-Rated Light Therapy Boxes to Ease Short-term Seasonal Depression on Amazon - Tech Times

While sipping suds with friends at one of Athens local breweries, beer fans can know theyre supporting a company thats committed to environmental sustainability.

Terrapin Beer Co. has taken steps to minimize its impact on the environment, referred to as terraprint by the brewery. Some of the practices the brewery implements in its day-to-day work include recycling, composting and a wastewater pre-treatment facility. Through the multiple terraprint projects, people are starting to think differently and our behavior is starting to change, says company president Dustin Watts.

Last year, the Georgia Water Coalition recognized Terrapin in its Clean 13 report, recognizing individuals, businesses, industries, non-profit organizations and governmental agencies whose extraordinary efforts have led to cleaner rivers, stronger communities and a more sustainable future for Georgians. Breweries use more water than most businesses, but Terrapin has reduced its water usage by 20%.

Its also working with Atlanta-based Cherry Street Energychosen in consultation with the UGA Office of Sustainability and Athens-Clarke County Sustainability Officer Andrew Saundersto install solar panels on the roof of its Newton Bridge Road building and solar panel sunshades in the parking lot. In contrast to something like pre-treating wastewater, solar is kind of a sexy thing, Watts says. Its easy to understand what it does.

Once installed, the panels will provide Terrapin with 30% of its total energy. Its solar brewed beer now. Watts says. That means up to 339 tons of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide wont be released into the atmospherethe equivalent of saving 362 acres of forest or taking 65 cars off the road.

Terrapins solar array will be the largest of any craft brewery in Georgia, as well as the largest of any business in Athens, according to Watts. We want to be bigger than beer, he says. Beer is a huge part of who we are, and beer is great because it brings people together. With this terraprint project, its showing how we are bigger than beer.

And, says Cherry Street founder Michael Chanin, its the first installation in Georgia where a company is buying solar energy directly. Cherry Street was founded to take advantage of a 2015 state law that allowed third-party vendors to sell solar energy, and has installed solar arrays for the cities of Atlanta and Macon. In Terrapins case, Cherry Street is installing solar panels at no charge to Terrapin and selling the power they generate to the company at a rate less than what Georgia Power charges, Chanin says. In the future, Cherry Street will expand the array and add batteries.

Terrapin isnt the only brewery in Athens taking steps to create a greener environment. Creature Comforts has made steps to run on more sustainable business, as well.

According to head brewmaster Adam Beauchamp, Creature Comforts is committed to sustainable practices by complying with all applicable environmental regulations, preventing pollution whenever possible, educating staff and empowering them to contribute to its sustainability program, and to continually improving over time by striving to measure environmental impacts and settings.

Because Creature Comforts is located in two historic buildingsthe old Snow Tire facility downtown and Southern Mill in Boulevardthere was no need to use all-new materials to construct a new building. The design of the brewery itself also has tons of natural light, which cuts down on the usage of indoor lighting. And when they do use lights inside, theyre all LED. Creature Comforts also has an internship through the UGA Office of Sustainability, which brings in students to brainstorm new and better sustainability practices for the company. One of their recent projects was cutting down on the usage of hot water. The company has invested in more energy-efficient equipment, such as a natural gas-burning boiler that burns 1040% less natural gas than a standard boiler.

A typical brewing system may be 80% efficient in terms of how much sugar is able to be extracted from the barley. This system is 95% efficient, Beachamp says. It actually saves about 1,000 pounds of barley for every 85-barrel batch of [flagship IPA] Tropicalia we brew over our old system.

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Terrapin Is Using the Sun to Brew Beer - Flagpole Magazine

Before VSCO X, the companys membership program, users got a certain selection of presets free, and then you could pay for individual series. Now people get 10 free presets, called classic presets, and the rest are included in VSCO X.

Last year I put together a list of all the Film X presets and what kind of subject matter they improve. With this article Ill do the same for the classic presets, because its not immediately obvious what theyre good at, other than, This looks good or This doesnt look good. Ive also created public Google Docs, one for Film X presets and another for classic presets.

All of this information has been collected from the VSCO website over the past couple years.

This preset pack softens or boosts the effects of LED, fluorescent, and mixed lighting scenarios. Ideal for indoor, food, and night photography, use AL1-AL6 to transform artificial light within your image.

Turn to this preset pack to amplify the essence of each person in front of your camera.

Designed for different lighting scenarios, these are six presets crafted to enhance images of city life.

The Landscape Series was designed to re-inject images of natural beauty with life. Each preset is intended for use with specific scenery.

Walk In The Sun is a three-part preset collection designedfor photos taken in strong sunlit conditions and low-angled light.

The Street Style series is perfect for urban environments to capture everything from vibrant accents to muted moments.

With natural tones, subtle color shifts, and slight fading, Analog / Aesthetic is inspired by classic analog film. Well-suited for interiors, portraits and food photography.

Inspired by the aesthetic of early color photography, The Chromatic Collection embodies the bright and bold look of mid-century analog film. Strong primary colors mix with muted neutral tones, perfect for portraits, environments, and stylized editorial.

Essence embellishes golden highlights and deep shadows, harkening back to the gilded age of consumer film stock.

Desaturated and understated, the F Series: Mellow / Fade presets yield elegant results. An all-purpose pack with analogue film qualities, F1, F2, and F3 excel at beautiful skin tones and quiet everyday moments.

An ideal all-purpose pack, Presets H1, H2 and H3 excel in fashion, lifestyle and still object photography. Subtle pink, yellow and purple hues evoke the best memories of summertime.

An ideal all-purpose pack, Polychrome Winter excels in fashion, lifestyle, and still object photography. H4, H5, and H6 are understated and cool, delivering dreamlike hues inspired by the winter season.

The J series (J1-J6) all mute colors by making brighter colors lighter (more of a tint) while making darker colors darker (more of a shade), which basically retains the original contrast.

Based on classic Kodachrome film, the new K Series: Analog Classic pack emulates the bright and poppy look of its analog forefather. These presets are classic, bold, and recommended for a variety of scenarios.

The M Series: Mood: Underexposed pack issues a subtle mood. Slightly faded and underexposed looks define M1, M2, and M3. Exaggerated browns and greens make this pack preferable with nature, still life, and expansive environments.

Tailor-made for bright lights and colors, this N Series works well with photographs shot with the flash or direct sunlight. N1, N2, and N3 have a modern and bold aesthetic.

The Instant + Warm pack emulates the warm, creamy overtones and pop qualities of quintessential instant film and are best suited for images of food, fashion, and everyday life.

An experimental technique in which films are developed in an alternative chemical solution, Cross Processing often creates dramatic color shifts and high contrast. The Alchemy Collection emulates this technique and features rich vibrancies balanced by refined tones, making this pack ideal for lifestyle photography, stylized portraiture, and strong statement images.

The S Series: Bright + Clean pack offers gorgeous results. Flourishing with brightness, S1, S2 and S3 generate splendid skin tones and achieve optimal results when paired with portraits or scenes with lighter backgrounds.

The Low-Contrast V Series is well-suited for scenes of still-life, portraits, and urban settings, expanding your images natural tonal range while simultaneously generating beautiful and gently muted looks.

[VSCO X Review, Bringing Analog Film Presets to Digital Photographers]

[VSCO Acquires Rylo, a Company Founded by Former iPhoto Engineers]

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Every VSCO Preset and What Photography They're Best For - The Mac Observer

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., Feb. 4, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --After getting a "Jump-Start", Violet Gro is officially ready to open its new headquarters in Grand Junction.The company will have its grand opening on Thursday, February 20, 4:00-6:00 p.m. MT, at 2764 Compass Drive, Suite 101.

Violet Gro, an agricultural lighting company, has been actively collaborating with local growers and businesses for the last couple of yearsbut will now take the next step in officially growing its business in Colorado.

As a result of being accepted in 2019 into the Colorado Rural Jump-Start Tax Credit program, a statewide economic development initiative created to attract primary jobs to rural areas to spur diversification, the company will now officially establish its operations in Mesa County with plans to add 4-5 employees to its initial team over the next 12 months.

Through the Jump-Start program, Violet Gro will receive performance-driven tax incentives for bringing its business to the state and making a commitment to job creation, academic engagement, and meaningfully adding to the economic base of rural Colorado.

"We are thrilled to officially welcome the Violet Gro headquarters to Grand Junction.It's another testament to the Grand Valley and our ability to support tech companies like Violet Gro with the infrastructure and workforce they need to be successful," said Robin Brown, Executive Director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership.

Violet Gro's patented technology enables its highly efficient LED grow lights to provide plants with more light and significantly less heat than traditional lighting.From supplemental to dedicated lighting, Violet Gro has solutions that will grow healthy, vibrant plants while simultaneously reducing energy costs.

"We are excited to be surrounded by the caliber of partners that exist here and can help us continue to advance our lighting solutions and grow our business.This is exactly why we chose Colorado for our new headquarters.We look forward to capturing the opportunities that lie ahead of us, and doing so from right here in the Grand Valley," said Kurt Kucera, President and Global Head of Business Development for Violet Gro.

For more information about the grand opening or Violet Gro's LED grow lights, contact Violet Gro at info@violetgro.comor 970-880-9476.

About Violet GroViolet Gro's LED grow lights combine cutting-edge design with the patented technology to create cost-effective, long-term solutions to indoor growing, providing plants more light with less heat, leading to substantial energy savings.Violet Gro is uniquely capable of incorporating UV light into grow environments to protect against harmful mold, mildew, and pests, as well as drive increases in medical substances produced by plants.For more information, visit http://www.violetgro.comor follow us on Facebook (@violetgro) or Instagram (@violet_gro).

Media Contact for Violet Gro:Jessica Jones, Vice President of Marketing407.433.1104, x1002jjones@violetdefense.com

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violet-gro-ag-lights.jpg Violet Gro Ag Lights

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https://www.violetgro.com

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Violet Gro: Ready to Get Growing in Grand Junction - PRNewswire