Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Calculator.io, an online platform with a selection of calculation tools, has introduced a new calculator to support roofing projects.

This tool is designed for use across multiple sectors, including supporting homeowners and contractors in precisely estimating the materials and costs for projects.

It also helps architects during the planning and design phase of roofing systems.

The Roofing Calculator features a user-friendly interface that helps calculate the size of a roof and the amount of materials needed.

The tool offers an estimate of the total square footage and the materials needed by allowing users to input roof dimensions, including length, width, and pitch.

It removes the possibility of being defrauded to pay for more than then what is needed and saves hours of labour and gas by cutting down on trips to supply stores.

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The company noted that both overestimation and underestimation can lead to increased costs, resource wastage, and project delays.

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Calculator.io launches new calculator for roofing projects - World Construction Network

Photo: Arkengarthdale Parish Council.

A retaining wall has collapsed meaning a key road in the Dales may have to close for repair work.

The wall at Forgill Bridge, on the main road in Arkengarthdale near Arkle Town, fell down on New Years Eve.

Highways officials have inspected the site today and say the road can stay open for now.

However, they have told Arkengarthdale Parish Council they will keep monitoring it and if it becomes unsafe, the road will have to shut.

It is expected the road will have to close for several months anyway for repair work later this year.

The parish council said in a statement: In the summer, the road will then be fully closed for three to four months in order to rebuild the walls on both sides of the road.

The bridge itself is sound, but the walls retaining the road on the Reeth side need serious attention.

The side that hasnt collapsed (the west side) is bowing inwards and so it makes sense to do this whilst the road is closed.

It is expected traffic would be diverted along Bouldershaw Lane through the watersplash to Low Row when the road does have to close.

Click here for more information from the parish council.

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Retaining wall collapses in Yorkshire Dales prompting fears of road closure - Richmondshire Today

Good question!

First, a little about me: I'm not a lighting engineer, but I've tested and reviewed light bulbs for CNET for over five years now. That includes hundreds of hours in our homemade lighting lab -- a climate-controlled room equipped with aspectrometer and an integrating sphere that lets us run the most scientific and accurate light bulb tests we can possibly run. I've also visited and written features about major North American lighting manufacturers such as Cree and GE to get a better understanding of their methods and standards. This is one of numerous LED buying guides and roundups that I try to update as often as possible.

A peek inside our integrating sphere.

We load each bulb we test into the center of our integrating sphere -- a big, hollow ball with special, reflective paint coating the inside. Our spectrometer peeks in through a tiny hole in the side of the sphere, with a "baffle" that blocks it from looking directly at the light bulb. Instead, the bulb's light bounces around inside, which lets our spectrometer take reliable, calibrated measurements for things like brightness and color temperature.

We log those brightness measurements every 10 minutes for 90 minutes, then take a final reading at the end. At that point, I plug the sphere's power cord into a variety of dimmer switches, then measure for the average maximum and minimum settings across all of them while also keeping a close lookout for flicker or buzz.

Once a bulb we're testing is done in the lab, we take a close look at things like light spread, tone and color quality. Our photo and video team (Tyler Lizenby, Chris Monroe and Vanessa Salas here in Louisville) are a huge help at this point, with standardized photography that lets us take a really close look at those metrics. They're also just really damned good at taking pictures of light bulbs.

All of that said, the most important thing isn't what I think when I'm taking readings in our lighting lab -- it's what you and your family think after screwing the bulbs in and turning them on in your living room or other area. Like I said, LEDs like these are designed to be durable and waterproof and last years, so it's well worth buying ones that you'll actually like living with. You've got a lot of good options these days, so there's really no need to compromise. I'm just here to help you find those "just right" bulbs a bit faster -- or more efficiently, you might say.

This new floodlight LED from Sylvania isn't available outside of California yet, but it's efficient, putting out 93.7 lumens per watt. It'll be one of the next bulbs I review.

See the article here:
Best LED Floodlight Bulbs of 2024 - CNET

WASHNGTON TOWNSHIP, New Jersey -- What started as just casually decorating his home for Christmas, Dan Uszaki's light display at his Washington Township home quickly became a holiday tradition for his neighbors!

His mantra has always been "Glow Big, or Glow home!"

"I was getting to a point where I was transitioning away from my home, my kids were getting older," said Uszaki.

So, after 12 years he pulled the plug, but the blackout didn't last long.

"I just felt like a sense of responsibility. I had no idea that I stretched into that many people's homes," he said.

This year, he started GLOW, a brand new ultimate synchronized light experience.

What was once 350,000 lights at his home is now two million lights and counting!

Set up is happening courtesy of what he calls his team of "Silent Santas."

"I really think our display is really unique. We have various displays, pop culture things.

All of the lights are individually addressed and synced to music and all our props are not seen at any other light show because we personally design them," said Uszaki.

His family's home lighting display was featured on ABC's the Great Christmas Light Fight on December 12 where they took home a trophy.

For more information or tickets to GLOW, visit: VisitGlow.com.

Read more here:
'Glow big or glow home!': New synchronized holiday light show comes to South Jersey - WLS-TV

Lighting has the power to transform any space, particularly in today's modern interior landscape. It's the art of blending style with functionality, the secret ingredient to creating the perfect ambience in your home. We've sifted through a plethora of lighting solutions to bring you some brilliant options that will not only illuminate but also enhance your living space, that too at irresistible discounts. Join us as we delve into the details of each product, exploring what makes them stand out.

Discount: -59% | Price: 1,213 | M.R.P.: 2,990 | Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars

Elevate your space with the VRCT Modern Uva 3 Light Gold Pendant. Its adjustable cord and modern design make it a perfect fit for any room, adding a touch of sophistication, whether in the kitchen, dining room, or bedroom.

Key Features:

Discount: -71% | Price: 1,755 (Pack of 2) | M.R.P.: 5,998 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

The Desidiya Golden Yellow Hanging Pendant Lights bring a touch of modernity to your living areas with their unique capsule design, serving as both lights and eye-catching decorative pieces.

Key Features:

Discount: -40% | Price: 2,998 | M.R.P.: 4,999 | Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

The GANE-SHART Crystal Ceiling Light adds a touch of luxury to your space with its stainless steel rectangular design and six lights, striking a balance between modernity and glamour.

Key Features:

Discount: -43% | Price: 2,849 | M.R.P.: 4,999 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

The ART N CRAFT Fan Light seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern design. It's not just a light; it's a versatile decorative item with an adjustable height tripod stand and an energy-efficient LED bulb.

Key Features:

Discount: -50% | Price: 4,999 | M.R.P.: 9,999 | Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars

The Harold Electricals Chirpy Wall Light draws inspiration from nature, offering a unique and aesthetically pleasing design. Crafted with mild steel and a PVD coating, it's not only durable but also a fancy addition to various rooms.

Key Features:

Discount: -60% | Price: 799 | M.R.P.: 1,999 | Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

The PXB Glowtronix Tabletop Bonsai Tree Light introduces a DIY vibe to your space with its flexible branches and warm white LED lights. It's not just a light; it's a festive decoration, adding warmth and charm to any occasion.

Key Features:

Discount: -52% | Price: 11,999 | M.R.P.: 24,999 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

The Smartway Metal Amoeba Smart Led Wall Light seamlessly integrates technology with aesthetics. Featuring voice assist compatibility and tunable light colours, it provides a modern and energy-efficient solution for illuminating your home.

Key Features:

Discount: -37% | Price: 3,799 | M.R.P.: 5,999 | Rating: 3.9

Elevate your living space with the DRV Wall Mounted Deer Head Lamp. Crafted from high-quality resin and acrylic crystal, this lamp exudes timeless charm, providing a soft, warm glow for a welcoming atmosphere.

Key Features:

Discount: -76% | Price: 950 | M.R.P.: 3,999 | Rating: 3.6

Illuminate your outdoor spaces with the SPARC LIGHTS 12W Round LED Fixture. Fully waterproof with easy installation, this light adds both functionality and style, making it perfect for various occasions, indoors and outdoors.

Key Features:

Discount: -51% | Price: 4,949 | M.R.P.: 9,999 | Rating: 5.0

Transform your dining room or bedroom with the Solo Decor Deer Head Wall Mounted Lamp. Made of high-quality resin and acrylic crystal, it adds a touch of sophistication, featuring a general easy-to-replace E27 light source for energy efficiency and eye protection.

Key Features:

Price: 15,406 | Rating: 4.4

Experience the magic of levitation with the Levitating Moon Lamp by DTOETKD. This 3D moonlight, equipped with a remote control and rechargeable features, serves as an exquisite room decor and a unique gift for special occasions.

Key Features:

Discount: -18% | Price: 9,789 | M.R.P.: 11,999 | Rating: 4.2

Elevate your space with the GANE-SHART Crystal Glass Chandelier. Featuring a modern design and LED lights, it adds a luxurious touch to your living room, hall, or hotel, providing long-lasting LED effects.

Key Features:

Price: 19,890 | Rating: 4.4

Embrace smart lighting with Nanoleaf Shapes. These customisable LED panels sync with music and screen mirrors, offering endless design possibilities. Ideal for gaming or home decor, they come with a simple setup using double-sided mounting tape.

Key Features:

Elevate the vibes in your home with these carefully selected modern lighting options. Add a dash of elegance and a splash of personality to your living spaces, whether it's through elegant chandeliers or innovative wall lights. Each product brings a unique blend of style and functionality, that too at incredible discounts for a limited time only. Light up your space and make a statement with these contemporary lighting solutions. Choose the one that resonates with your style, and let your home shine bright in this modern era of illumination.

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Light Up Your Home with Stylish Finds from Amazon: Indoor Lighting At Up To 75% Off - NDTV

See at Amazon

Best dimmable smart bulb

Philips Hue White Starter Kit

Light bulbs have an enormous, everyday impact on the way our homes look and feel, and witha flood of new energy efficient LED bulbs filling the lighting aisle, you've got more LED lighting options than ever. Plus, an LED light bulb can help you save on your energy bills and electricity. But how do you pick the best LED lights for the job? The trick is to think for a long time about how you typically put light to use in the different rooms in your home. That, more than anything, will dictate your lighting needs.

For instance, you might benefit from a super bright bulb in your favorite reading lamp, but prefer a gentler, more candle-like warm glow from the lamp at your bedside.

To that end, here are some room-specific tips to help you zero in on the right LED light for your lamps and living space. Where appropriate, I've also included links to buy light bulbs from our tests. I'll keep this updated as I test new products.

If you have high ceilings, you'll want floodlights that shine nice and bright in a single direction.

If you have rooms with high ceilings or recessed lighting -- an entryway, for instance, or maybe a staircase with overhead lights or a candelabra up above -- you'll want to prioritize brightness over softness in your light bulbs. After all, the higher up your light bulbs are, the brighter they'll need to be in order to light up the room.

The most common products for overhead lighting are BR30-shaped floodlights. The "BR" stands for "bulging reflector," and it means that the light inside the bulb sits above a reflective bowl, sort of like a little satellite dish. Screw a bulb like that up into your ceiling, and that bowl will catch all of the upward cast light, then reflect it back down and out the bottom, which bulges outward to produce the widest possible pool of bright light across the room. It's the same trick your car's headlights use to produce as much light output as possible out in front of you as you drive.

You've got plenty of energy saving BR30-shaped LED options in the lighting aisle. The most common choice among them are 65-watt replacement bulbs that typically put out about 650 lumens of light each. That's a good, average number, and fine for average-height ceilings with at least a few bulbs shining overhead. Among the ones I've tested, 65-watt replacement floodlights from Cree and Philips are the two I'd recommend. They're good values and they're highly energy efficient for the money (each draws less than 10 watts). These dimmable bulbs also work well with dimmer switches and -- most important for overhead lighting -- they're both nice and bright, each putting out comfortably more than 700 lumens. As of writing this, Home Depot has those Cree bulbs on salein a two-pack for less than $6 -- they're the ones I'd go with in my own home if it were me buying.

If your ceilings are higher than average, or if you've got fewer bulbs shining overhead than you'd like, then look for 100-watt bulb replacement BR30 LEDs that bump the brightness up even further. Cree makes them, and Home Depot is selling them fora little over $10 each, which is a pretty good deal.

Watch this: Coolest alternative smart light fixtures

Some rooms serve just one or two basic functions, but other rooms get used in all sorts of ways. For instance, you might use your living room for watching TV, reading books, playing board games with the kids, or any other number of activities. Rooms like that can really benefit from quality lights that can adapt to whatever's going on.

The old-fashioned way to do it is to use a mix of different lamps and fixtures that serve different purposes -- a reading lamp beside your favorite armchair, overhead lights for board game night, everything off when you're watching a movie, and so on. That's all well and good, but it limits you to a binary, "on/off" lighting mentality.

The better approach? Give yourself a full spectrum of lighting possibilities by making sure all of those lights are dimmable.

Upgrading your light switches to dimmer switches is one way to do it (and not nearly as intimidating as you might be thinking if you've never switched one out before). There are also smart plugs from brands like Lutron that'll let you dim your fixtures and lamps up and down. The easiest way, however, is simply to replace your bulbs with dimmablesmart bulbs. It'sa great time to do it -- costs have come way down in recent years, and the advent of voice controls has given people a quick, easy way to jump to whatever dimmer setting they like, whenever they like.

Best of all, just about every smart bulb on the market is dimmable without flickering or buzzing, eliminating a common headache that comes with an in-wall dimmer switch. That also makes smart bulbs quality picks for bedrooms, where strong dimming performance and things likeprescheduled wake-up fadescan do wonders for your mood in the morning.

Philips Hue has an expensive reputation, but its dimmable white light LED smart bulbs only cost $15 each, and you can get a starter kit with three bulbs and the Philips Hue Bridge that acts as the brain of the system for just $60. From there, you can pick up an additional bulb whenever they go on sale, gradually building out your network of connected bulbs.

We like the Philips Hue smart light bulb because of the well-developed app, the strong variety of bulbs, fixtures and accessories you can add to your setup, and the good track record of support. With the Hue Bridge calling the shots, your bulbs will work with Siri, Alexa and the Google Assistant for quick, voice-activated lighting changes. Next time you're watching a movie and want the lights dimmed down low, but not totally off, you can just tell your assistant of choice to "dim the living room lights to 5%."

On the left, a bowl of M&Ms lit by a standard GE LED. On the right, the same bowl lit by a GE Reveal LED, which does a much better job at making colors look vivid and true.

I'm not talking about color-changing smart lights (though if you want to jazz your home up with them, don't let me stop you). No, I'm talking about the colors that are already in your home -- artwork, furniture, the clothes in your closet, the fruits and veggies in your kitchen, you name it.

Whatever it is, if it's colorful, then it'll benefit from light bulbs with high color rendering scores -- bulbs that boost the color temperature and help colors look their best. This isn't always the easiest thing to shop for, as manufacturers aren't required to list their color rendering scores on the packaging, like they are with brightness and efficiency specs. Some bulbs that do claim to emit great colors are actually just so-so.

My LED lighting tip: Just stick with GE Reveal bulbs, because after about six years of reviewing light bulbs for CNET, I've yet to test one that hasn't delivered on its promise of better-looking colors. That includes standard 60-watt replacement LEDs, floodlights, weird-looking stick-shaped LEDs, dimmable LED bulbs and more. A 4-pack of regular, A-shaped Reveal bulbs (linked below) currently goes for $17 at Lowe's.

They tend to cost slightly more per bulb, and most are a little less bright than the average LED light because they filter out some of excess yellow light for a better color temperature -- but those compromises are worth it if you're using them for accent lighting or to light up the spots in your home where you'll appreciate accurate, better-looking colors day in and day out.

And that's really the point -- despite regularly taking them for granted, we use light bulbs more than just about anything else in our homes. They're often the first things we turn on in the morning and the last things we turn off before going to bed. So don't let the lighting aisle overwhelm you -- whether you choose an energy saving light bulb, a CFL bulb, asmart LED bulbor even a regular incandescent light bulb, finding the right light for each room in your house is well worth it, and much easier than you might think.

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Best LED Light Bulb for Every Room in Your House in 2024 - CNET

Leaving London and upping sticks for Jersey wasnt something that interior designer Bryony Richardson and her husband Laurence had planned, but they sought a more rural life after having their first baby. Jersey is a bit like living in an Enid Blyton novel, says Bryony. Its a really magical place to bring up children.

After months of house hunting, they came across an unusual property: a granite 1840s townhouse replete with its original mottled glass windows, surrounded by cedar trees and coastal views. As we headed down the sweeping hill, we got more and more excited, Bryony recalls. Although impressive, the house Le Rocher suffered from neglect after being rented out for nearly 40 years, and it had been on the market for a while.

No one wanted it, Bryony adds. But as soon as they walked in, she was captivated by the Georgian proportions and potential of the house design, so she decided to take on the mammoth task of rekindling it into a rich and cocooning home.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

Following an initial period of sinking funds into essential structural and electrical work, the entrance porch a decaying plastic lean-to was one of the first things Bryony focused on, replacing it with an elegant black metal frame. Its a fairly decadent use of the space, because theres just a seat with baskets underneath for shoes. But visually it really sets the tone for the interior and creates an instant atmosphere upon stepping inside.

Its perhaps not surprising to learn that Bryony grew up in an artistic household. My mum was an interior decorator and my dad was a keen antiques collector, so our home was filled with extraordinary and wonderful objects, she says. As a designer, she always aims to create spaces that inspire and delight.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

However, its the use of grounding color, inspired by the surrounding nature, that really sets her home apart. Sobek, an earthy green by Paint & Paper Library, is Bryonys go-to shade. Its got this ethereal quality, she explains. This whole house, with its huge windows pulling in so much natural light, really wanted color. In the living room, I was trying to capture the color of lichen, reminiscent of walks along Jerseys coast.

While there were few original features remaining, the beautiful concave plaster coving presented a natural opportunity to continue the color up the wall and onto the ceiling. Bryony has contrasted the lichen tone with soft shearling wool cushions in an autumnal bracken hue.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

She also set about increasing the usable space in the kitchen. The rental kitchen layout was nonsensical. Closing up a secondary doorway and recessing a range cooker into the chimney breast unlocked the rooms potential, she says. Bryony also enlisted the talents of local friend and cabinetmaker Christian Delafield to create bespoke kitchen cabinetry that honors the propertys wonky bones.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

The kitchen island is reclaimed, painted in an earthy shade, and Bryony turned the original cupboard shelves into deep drawers. The walls are a plaster pink with a brown base that stops it from feeling too sweet, especially when clashing against the green on the cabinetry, mirroring the rooms focal point painting of a ruby chard.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

Upstairs, Bryony used a deep glossy green in the boys bathroom, a pale neutral and earthy red in the main bedroom, and a warm brown hue in the en suite. Using natural colors boosts the feeling of wellness within a space. My mood improves when using tones inspired by nature, she says. Its amazing how bold you can go, and how much colour a house can take, as long as there are natural elements to ground it all.

(Image credit: Richard Gadsby)

Bryony has managed to reinvigorate the property and fulfill its potential with a varied palette of rich colors, bringing warmth and visual stimulation to this joyful family home.

Bryony Richardson shares her style inspiration

SMALL CHANGE, BIG IMPACT Panelling. Introducing wall texture immediately creates atmosphere and interest and can be achieved easily with a variety of styles evoking different feels.

GO-TO COLOR Paint & Paper Librarys Sobek an ethereal color that flits between blue and silvery green depending on the light.

FAVORITE DESIGN DETAIL Bronze curtain rails I love their slender elegance.

DESIGN HERO Piero Portaluppi the renowned interwar Italian architect who designed Villa Necchi Campiglio in Milan.

YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS Atmospheric, authentic, expressive.

I KNOW IM A CREATIVE BECAUSE When it comes to films and TV programs, I could be accused of taking more interest in the backdrop than in the plight of the characters.

HOME MAKES ME FEEL In my element.

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This neglected 1840s townhouse had been a run-down rental for over 40 years | - Homes & Gardens

There are some homes that you see that you instantly feel aren't going to be "life-proof". They're filled with finishes that probably need constant cleaning, for example, or fabrics that aren't going to hold up to the rigours of everyday life, especially if you have children or pets.

At a first glance, interior designer Nicholas Kaiko's own apartment feels like this kind of space. Though it might be a colorful space with a great sense of fun about it, it also feels undeniably grown-up, with soft and sumptuous textures. However, Nicholas' experience and expertise in design extends not only to making a space look good, but making it function practically, too. ' I have deep appreciation for textiles, and I understand the importance of choosing fabrics that not only look good but also practical and durable,' the designer tells us.

The designer's modern home is a masterclass in how to strike the balance between good looks and practicality these are the lessons to take away.

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

When it comes to an interior designer's own home, you'll often find it's a personal design manifesto, and when it came to decorating the apartment, this space was no exception. 'The design brief for my own home is a true reflection of my design ethos - a strong emphasis on color and texture,' Nicholas tells us. 'My personal aesthetic leans towards a mix of contemporary and vintage elements, underlined by a keen understanding and appreciation of textile construction. This approach was crucial in transforming my home into a space that resonates with my style and professional philosophy.'

The home itself served Nicholas well an award-winning collaboration from BKH & SJB, which provided both inspiration and framework for his design. 'With its well-considered layout, the apartment's existing plan perfectly catered to our lifestyle needs, separating private spaces to the East and communal areas like the kitchen, living, and dining to the West,' he says. 'This spatial arrangement allowed for a seamless integration of the indoor spaces with the large outdoor terrace, fostering an environment ideal for both living and entertaining.'

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

The home was the perfect canvas for the interior designer to put his stamp on, without requiring major renovations. 'Retaining most of the hard finishes, which have stood the test of time both in quality and aesthetics, I focused on enhancing these spaces through the application of color and material mix,' Nicholas says. 'The quality finishes are a testament to the value of getting it right from the start, and my design layer sought to complement these elements.'

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

Nicholas' approach to color feels clean, modern and still surprisingly minimalist, in spite of the bolder palettes that make up the rooms. 'I have a fascination with color, so a key theme in both my home and professional portfolio is color blocking,' Nicholas says. 'My home is a curation of objects and elements amassed over time and from travels, alongside new pieces chosen specifically for this space.'

For a starting point for the open plan living room and kitchen, he looked to an artwork that now hangs on the walls it's one of the defining design "moments" of the space. 'The color palette was inspired by an oversized artwork by Andy Harwood, one of my favourite Australian contemporary artists,' Nicholas tells us.

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

'His work, rich in cobalt and magenta, set the tone for the room. These colors are echoed throughout the space, notably in the saturated burgundy chenille fabric of the sofa and the burgundy hues in the Calacatta Viola marble of the coffee table. I am obsessed with cobalt and I think using it, sparingly, is incredibly luxurious.'

'The artwork anchors the space, providing a backdrop that enhances the deep tones of the furniture and accessories,' Nicholas adds. 'With its fluid transition of color, adds depth and dimension to the room, contributing to the overall sense of luxury and design coherence.'

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

His home is full of spaces that have that sense of luxuriousness to them that don't often go hand in hand with hardiness and practicality, but with one of the residents of his apartment also a miniature schnauzer called Harvey, this was a key consideration of the design.

'The luxuriousness of the apartment living room is a result of careful selection and blending of materials, colors, and design elements,' Nicholas says. 'Central to this luxurious feel is the deliberate mixing of textiles - velvet, chenille, silk-like fabrics, and felt.'

'In adapting our home to be more functional for our lifestyle, which includes living with our mini schnauzer Harvey, a key focus was on selecting the right textiles.'

(Image credit: Kaiko Design)

One of Harvey's favorite pastimes is digging, so it meant choosing upholstery fabrics that were robust. 'I chose materials with a high polyester content and low viscose, coupled with high rub counts,' the designer says. 'These fabrics are resilient enough to withstand Harvey's activities without sacrificing style or comfort. It was essential for me to create a home where we didn't have to be overly cautious about the furniture, ensuring that Harvey is as much a part of our family space as anyone else.'

The large comfortable living room sofa was a must, given Nicholas' penchant for entertaining. He opted for a custom version of the Miles sofa from the Australian manufacturer Arthur G. 'Given the challenges of apartment living, especially in terms of access, the sofa was designed in two pieces to facilitate easy transportation via the elevator,' he explains.

The apartment kitchen, while retaining its original layout, needed a little refresh. 'The key change was the shift to black, accompanied by the removal of handles, which has given the kitchen a sleeker, more contemporary look,' Nicholas says. 'This modest update highlights the excellence of the original architectural design. Good planning stands the test of time.'

(Image credit: Fiona Susanto. Design: Kaiko Design)

His bathroom is also a good example of how he embraced the existing space. 'I kept the original tiles because they were still in great shape and had a lot of character,' Nicholas says. 'The update was more about bringing in new fixtures, lighting, and accessories to freshen things up. The green and brown color scheme is something you might not expect for a bathroom, and that's exactly why I love it. These colors make the space feel warm and earthy. Its a little oasis.'

Apple Marble and Crystal Bonbonniere

Price: $590 Brand: Reflections Copenhagen

Stone Street Coffee Table

Price: $995 Brand: Cobble Hill

Link:
This Interior Designer's Own Apartment is Elegant and Luxurious Yet Surprisingly "Life-Proof" Too - LivingEtc

New year, new you, so they say. Well, I say that the current you is great, so dont buy it. Kitchens, on the other hand, may benefit from an update. So whats on the horizon for kitchen design trends, and whats getting left behind in the new year? To find out which kitchen trends we can safely part ways with(and get a peek at whats coming next year), we checked in with some top interior designers and kitchen experts. Heres what they spilled.

Are you tired of trying to make your kitchen look like the seen-one-seen-them-all, picture-perfect kitchens online? You dont have to! Instead of feeling like we need the same perfect showcase kitchen we see on Instagram or a home renovation TV show, the zeitgeist is moving into an era of personal, idiosyncratic design, says Eva Jorgensen, an artist, designer, author, and travel expert. When we create a kitchen that fits our own authentic needs, tastes, backgrounds, budgets, etc., the result ends up being so much more interesting and original.

Eva bucked then-current trends a few years ago when it was time to replace some damaged butcher block counters. She opted for stainless steel on a hunch because the price was right and I had a feeling it could turn out looking great. And it did! The stainless steel gives a bit of a mid-century and industrial vibe, which creates a nice tension with the more country-feeling blue and white tiles and wooden open shelves.

The moral of the story: If you choose something because you love it and it works for you, even if it comes in and out of style over the years, youll keep loving it because its so true to you.

Rotem Eylor, CEO of Republic Floor, seconded this idea of you being you in your kitchen. The desire for kitchens with more personality will lead to more maximalist designs, he says. So kitchen layouts will start to lean away from simple looks and more towards looks with personalized expressions.

Remember when everybody painted their upper and lower cabinets different colors? Well, its time to forget it. Grab a brush, because a trend that is definitely on the way out is high-contrast kitchens, says designer Sarah Tract of Sarah Tract Interiors. I expect this trend to evolve in 2024 to kitchens having a more cohesive color palette. Even if the kitchen is all one color, it should be continuous with the stone and hardware to create a monotone look.

Ashley Stark, co-founder of Ashley Stark Home and creative director of STARK, agreed. Colorful kitchens had a moment in 2023, but I love a neutral kitchen space with subtle variations of creams and grays. Benjamin Moores Decorators White is one of my favorite hues for kitchens. It adds both brightness and calm to a space, allowing for other fixtures, appliances, and dcor to make a statement.

Not everyone believes white is a timeless selection for kitchens. White kitchens are losing their popularity in households, Rotem says. Homeowners are now seeking livelier color palettes to show more personality within living spaces.

The biggest trend leaving is the all-encompassing white kitchen, McGarity says. Color is coming back in a strong way. Clients are either choosing cabinets that are a rich dark wood tone again (think: walnut or mahogany, but not cherry wood tones of the 90s and early 2000s), or theyre painting walls a saturated color to contrast with lighter cabinetry. A lot of wood cabinets have been painted over in the last few years so homeowners will be finding ways to reinvent this look again by painting the walls.

Is it even a kitchen without a honking big island light or other massive fixture? Maybe not for long! Over the last year, we found that many designers and homeowners with low kitchen ceilings have opted for either sprawling, multi-arm semi-flush mounts to provide the ambiance of a chandelier or petite, decorative spotlights for more task-oriented lighting, says Sarah Speck, director of product strategy for Hudson Valley Lighting Group.

Looking ahead, she says, designers will find new and exciting ways to use mini flush mounts in kitchens. Gone are the days of trying to make your ugly recessed lighting recede into the background. Today, people are celebrating their petite ceiling and wall-mounted lighting by sourcing those with simple yet attractive designs in beautiful finishes and placing them in artful, yet practical, arrangements.

Honestly, choosing fixtures is so overwhelming I just skipped out entirely on cabinet hardware in my new kitchen. Luckily, McGarity provides some guidance.

Hardware is also pivoting, she says. Over the last few decades weve seen brass become dated and stainless or chrome surge. And now brass is on-trend again. Other finishes such as champagne gold will fall out of favor in 2024. There is a lot more freedom to mix metals. Its very common to see multiple metal finishes in a kitchen now. This will continue.

Pantries are essential in a kitchen, no? Well, maybe actually just no. In 2024, I anticipate people moving away from a large kitchen pantry, says interior designer Hilary Matt of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove. In its place? She says people are opting for a secondary back kitchen, built-out butlers pantry, or wet bar.

While a simple kitchen pantry was once a popular trend, people are looking to create larger spaces that better serve their lifestyle needs, Matt says. These back rooms will be fully functional with everything from additional refrigeration and warming drawers to built-in coffee systems, wine storage, and dishwashers. Not only do these spaces add greater convenience when it comes to storage and preparation, but they also provide a great opportunity to have a bit more fun when it comes to design decisions.

File this one under TBD, as not everyone is convinced. In luxury homes there is a big movement to have one kitchen for show and an additional kitchen for prep and making messes, says Laura B. McGarity, certified interior designer and design manager at ID&A. This leads to a very spread-out work area. The same can be said for a pantry that is large enough to park a car. While seemingly desirable, this wreaks havoc on efficiency if you actually cook in your kitchen. I predict this trend will fade away after clients experience how the space functions.

Farmhouse kitchens are now basic, says Rotem. Again, homeowners are starting to incorporate personality within kitchens.

With the improvements to induction cooktops, I think the focal point of kitchen hoods will become less dominant in kitchen design, says McGarity. Induction is here to stay and as clients move away from gas, this will influence the dominant feature in kitchen design.

Darker tones will fade, says Rotem. Modern kitchens with matte finishes and sleek looks are not as desired as they once were; instead splashes of color are being brought back.

Read more here:
9 Kitchen Design Trends to Leave Behind in 2023, According to Interior Designers - Yahoo Life

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The best advice on router placement is advice we all ignore: Place your router in the middle of the room for the best possible wifi. Dont hide the router away or place it near a wall. This isn't practical, though, because the walls are where outlets live, and as people have moved to mesh, that means more routers littered throughout the home and more devices to hide. Ive tried to treat these wifi pucks (what I call my Nest routers) as sculpture, worthy of shelf space, but I dont love it. Once I started adding hubs to each room in the form of Google Minis, things became chaotic, with wires snaking off shelves in each room and these two tiny pieces of tech generally getting in the way.

To solve that problem, Ive started mounting my hubs and routers to the ceiling, and it works fantastically. Given the amount of accessories that exist to support the idea, Im clearly not the only one. Ceiling placement solves a lot of problems: It can put the routers in the middle of the room, away from the wall, without the cord issues, and it doesnt take up counter or shelf space. I hardly notice them there, which makes senseafter all, how often do you notice your smoke detector? Its such a good idea that some brands, like Eero, that previously required the router by upright, are now designing wall and ceiling-mount routers.

Cord cover to keep cords tidy and hidden ($9.99)

Ceiling mount for older Google wifi routers ($12.99)

A three-pack of cord winding ceiling mounts for newer Google wifi routers ($23.99)

Ceiling-mountable Eero mesh router ($299.99)

TP Link ceiling-mountable mesh router ($136.78)

Three-pack of TP Link mesh wifi routers ($299.99)

Youll need a few items to make this work. First, youre going to need to find a ceiling mount for your routers or hubs if it doesnt mount on its own, like the Eero, and there are two places to look. Amazon has a surprising number of options for Google brands, and TP Link, and is the best place to look first by just typing [router name] ceiling mount. A lot of wall mounts will also work for the ceiling. The surprising place I first found a mount some years back was on Etsy, where a lot of people are 3D printing them, so thats worth checking out. (Router and hub mounts should be plastic, not metal, so 3D printing makes a lot of sense.) Youll need a drill, and youll want to buy some cord cover, which is usually paintable. Most routers and hubs have six- to eight-foot cords, so you might need to buy a longer cord to reach as far as you need; usually this is just a USB-C cord.

Decide where your equipment is going to go in the room. It doesnt need to be in the centerthe farther away you get from the wall, the better for reception. I recommend attaching your mounts with screws instead of using adhesive: Ive never found the adhesive to be effective, even on the wall, and you dont need your router or hub falling to the floor. Orient both your hub and router with the USB input facing the wall. Embed the cords in the cord cover, and then stick it to the ceiling. Lots of cord cover comes with connectors to make turns, but if it doesnt, just cut the cord cover with an box cutter at a forty five degree angle and put both pieces together to form a corner.

Reception improved at my home, and responsiveness on my Google Minis improved, as well, by simply mounting my devices to the ceiling. It keeps my shelves looking a little neater, and the project cost about fifteen dollars per room. In fact, it's working so well that if I moved, I'd go to the extra step of installing devices when I install ceiling lights, and hide the cords entirely in the crawlspace.

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Why You Should Mount Your Wifi Router on the Ceiling (and How to Do It) - Lifehacker