Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

On Monday, Oct. 17, the City of Florences Housing Implementation Plan (HIP) online survey will close, leaving just days for the community to offer their input on the direction of housing in Florence.

One particular part of the survey, Zoning Updates Comments or Questions, has left some survey participants scratching their heads, faced with an essay-style question concerning 60 pages of highlighted city code.

While easy to skip over, this part of the survey could be considered the most critical, as it goes over specific details on what changes are to be made, particularly to Florences housing code.

But one section, clear and objective, takes up the majority of pages in the survey, yet is the most opaque and challenging of all the subjects. The topic, which deals with the interplay of natural resources and building construction, leads to a host of questions on what the future of Florence could look like and how code can help define that future.

How do homes interact with places like wetlands and wildlife habitats? What kinds of developments will be built in these areas, if they should be at all, and what rules will they have to follow?

What kinds of things could you do? City of Florence Planning Director Wendy FarleyCampbell asked. If you're bringing all these houses into this area, could you not maybe do just avoidance, but mitigation?

From how far back houses are placed to critical areas like wetlands, to the interplay between much needed housing and the unique environment of Florence, the survey is a chance for the public to not only think about these interplays, but allows the space to offer specific suggestions.

To help guide people through the most dense part of the HIP survey, FarleyCampbell went into depth on some of the suggested changes to code, and what people could be looking at when filling out the survey.

Clear and Objective

Throughout the year, the city has been working on updating city code through HIP, and they partnered with research firm MIG/APG and Johnson Economics to do an audit of city codes that were updated in 2019, along with present possible changes.

In July, MIG/APG presented a draft of possible code changes to consider, with a host of suggestions from affordable housing regulations, transitional housing, and short term rentals.

But some of the biggest changes MIG/APG suggested comes from an audit they performed, where they found that certain portions of the 2019 code did not meet clear and objective standards for ORS 197.307(4).

Clear means that a code specifically states what a developer should do on a project, and objective tells them exactly what they should do to meet the code.

If a code is not objective, it could lead to gaps of understanding between the city and developers.

For example, the 2019 code states clearance of vegetation on the remainder of the lot area, including that portion in the setback area otherwise permitted for vegetation clearance, is minimized.

The rule is clear developers need to minimize clearing vegetation beyond the building structure itself. But the word minimized is not objective.

Nobody knows what minimum necessarily is; that's up to the developer, FarleyCampbell said. You can get one of those developers saying, We got to take all this out, I gotta get my 20-foot wide CAT in here, I need all this room. Well, not really. You could take the smaller CAT and get it in there, grab 10 feet from the building foundation and get the space that you need. Right? It's not clear.

Its also possible that a city employee could look at the 20 foot CAT idea and believe its not cleared enough, and even more vegetation has to be removed. Or they could simply turn a blind eye and leave it up to the developer to figure out.

On the same token, the city could tell the developer that CATs werent allowed at all, developers have to use hand tools, and minimum means removing a single plant and nothing else.

That's what were trying to avoid planners being too strong, or not strong enough, FarleyCampbell said.

So instead, the draft code puts in a clear set of rules. Minimized is erased and replaced with ... limited to the development footprint. Any vegetation removal must be placed on-site with native plant species. The planting replacement area must be at least 1.5 times area of the removed area of vegetation.

The process would be simplified, easy for both the developer and the city to understand and follow, saving both time and resources for both parties, and avoiding possible litigation down the road.

Current standards

In the 2019 code, there are multiple instances of clear and objective updates on a wide variety of topics, from maintaining bank stability and avoiding sedimentation of coastal waters including lakes, to quality of surface and subsurface waters, according to MIG/APG.

But clear and objective changes only affect certain overlay districts, which are areas of the citys buildable land that are subject to special conditions. Some of the overlays had minimal suggested changes, while other, more sensitive areas, did have large changes that were rarely, if ever, used. For example, Tsunami Zones.

But some, such as the Prime Wildlife Overlay District, which had a total of 17 changes, do get used.

This is not to say that the city has been leaving things up in the air. In fact, all the changes to the code are what the city is currently interpreting.

Before they drafted all of these, I said, 'Let me tell you what we're doing before you start figuring out what to change.' So I have looked, and what they're proposing is largely how we're implementing it.

If a project is on a slope, They need to meet the building codes for the slope, FarleyCampbell said. We're not just going to let them get Jimmy Bob Local Contractor out there with his backhoe and start. He needs to get an engineer to help him.

In fact, theres portions of the MIG/APGs suggested changes where FarleyCampbell didnt think it was objective enough.

In one instance, 2019 code stated that developers should Avoid disturbance of the remainder of the vegetation cover beyond a point where the disturbance would be a detriment to the wildlife community which utilizes this area.

Determining what the wildlife community is could be interpreted in a wide variety of ways, so MIG/APG attempted to limit the space, changing it to, Avoid disturbance of the remainder of the vegetation cover beyond the development footprint.

That to me is still not clear, because whats development? FarleyCampbell asked.

And thats one of the goals of the project, and what the city hopes people will think about with the survey: How strict, or unstrict, should these codes be?

As for now, when asked if the city has been having issues with the developers, or vice versa, The short answer is no, FarleyCampbell said.

She only listed a handful of small properties that have been developed in the overlays with the most changes. Many were infill lots, vacant one-offs that are not part of a new development. Around eight were in the development Shelter Cove.

The recession hit and a lot (of properties) sat there. Well, recession lifted, and all those lots started jockeying to get them gone or to build on them, FarleyCampbell said. And just about everybody pretty much sold them.

There were other properties on Rhododendron Drive that were approved, but no major developments have occurred inside an overlay with significant changes.

But there are still issues.

Other codes

Recently, questions arose about a development where the bank on the property was sloughing.

Well, there is nothing in code that we talk of that has anything to do with sloughing, FarleyCampbell said. Theres no code that says how to deal with it.

Other times, developers dont even apply for code they just start working.

Theres a lot of vegetation clearing that's happening that have been resolved after the fact. They clear it and they come in and get permits later, FarleyCampbell said.

At times, the city has had to go back.

You need to replant it. Its not homeless abatement, FarleyCampbell said.

For developments that are completed, Florence City Code currently does not have a way to check on housing afterwards.

We don't go back and see if they've added bedrooms. Look at all the houses that have been approved, and there's tons whose garages have been turned into bonus rooms, FarleyCampbell said. Well, it was supposed to be in the code for the cars. That's what it says in code. Do we run around and tell people to go get a storage unit?

Its a slippery slope. Do city inspectors inspect every piece of housing?

But there is missing code that can have an adverse effect on Florence residents.

While HIP is currently not looking at the matter, MIG/APG pointed out that City currently lacks code to define unsafe or unhealthy housing.

Campbell said the city does plan to look at these sections, and there were quite a few code sections that need updating.

For instance, we do not have a health officer and the countys health department does not regulate anything that does not need a permit, FarleyCampbell said. So most derelict housing that does not have a true structural, electrical and fire protection defect is tough to legally regulate as written. We are talking tarps, mold, broken windows, siding falling off.

The future

The process to change those codes could have large effects on the existing housing, but for the code changes HIP is currently looking at through clear and objective, Campbell states only two developments could be impacted by the changes: Three Mile Prairie as it moves into later phases, and a planned but not submitted proposal for a subdivision north of town with property owned by the Benedicks.

We all know Benedick is planning to do something they annexed, they are in the wildlife zone, WendyFarleyCampbell said.

But if Florence continues to expand northward to build more houses in these zones, the changes to code could become more relevant.

As we expand, these will apply, FarleyCampbell said.

MIG/APG did offer an option that went beyond regulating how to build.

The city may elect to prohibit all residential uses from these areas, thereby meeting the clear and objective standards by simply not allowing housing in these areas, it reported.

Farley Campbell did not give an opinion on the questions, stating, Its whatever the public wants, if thats the angle we want to take.

But she did state that codes are being looked at in a way that does provide protections.

Im going to take wildlife as an example, because it has to do with Benedick, she said. So a prime wildlife chapter has a setback in it, to where you measure the wetland is, and theres going to be a person thats going to do that. Theyre going to say, Okay, heres the edge of the wetland. And you have a setback thats established on that, whereby you cant do anything nothing, not a tree being removed, not a bush, and its pretty generous. And so how much more clear and objective do you need to be?

But ultimately, FarleyCampbell said it was for the community to decide what codes should be. And its a positive process she hopes could get people thinking about the future environment they live in.

There could be all kinds of things, she said. Weve got all these agency partners Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Forestry. And theyve got planners and scientists with degrees in ecology. Theyre the stakeholders here, and could weigh in and provide some recommendations for some of these code changes, or certainly review them to see if theres a way to strengthen some of those.

It could lead to more walking areas and parks that could find a melding of nature and buildings.

Theres not anything in code that says how you keep people from getting out there and tromping around in the wetlands, FarleyCampbell said. Theres nothing against that, but theres probably a way of knowing how people are going to do that. Could you design something that creates areas for people to know where theyre allowed, and subsequently, not allowed? I dont know.

Its for the community to figure out.

The HIP survey can be located at https://bit.ly/HIPHousingSurvey, and closes on Monday, Oct. 17.

More:
Housing survey asks questions on 'clear and objective' phrasing - Siuslaw News

Does your home need life brought back into it? A fresh coat of paint can take an old, stale-looking house and completely rejuvenate its curb appeal, making you fall in love all over again.

When it comes to house painting, the professional name residents have come to know and trust is Five Star Painting.

Our residential painting company can take even the most worn-out exterior and bring it back to life with a fresh coat of high-quality outdoor paint, applied using professional tools and experienced techniques to ensure a quality finish each and every time.

Our residential painting services include:Interior house paintingExterior home paintingCabinet paintingDeck & fence paintingDrywall repairPressure washingCarpentry services

From crisp and straight lines to a clean and organized work area, our team completes projects on time and on budget with minimal disturbance to your business.

Our commercial painting company will source exactly what your business needs. Whether its applying anti-bacterial paint in a hospital or elastomeric paint on masonry walls, weve got you covered.

We begin with a free estimate to address any questions or concerns you may have. We then patch, prep, and repair every surface before painting for a long-lasting finish.

Our commercial building painting services include:

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Link:
Five Star Painting: Residential and Commercial Painting Company

SOUTH BRUNSWICK An Ohio painter is on the run after police say he stole $24,000 worth of tools from contractors remodeling a Route 1 hotel.

Staff at the Sonesta Suites on Thursday morning found a large number of tools in the room being used by Travis Mollett, 33, who works for a commercial painting contractor, according to South Brunswick police. The tools had been stored in several shipping containers.

Two vehicles had also been broken into and items were stolen. Over $24,000 in tools were reported to police as stolen earlier Thursday morning, police said.

When the contractors whose tools were missing confronted Mollett, he ran off as police arrived.

Travis Mollett

Officers set up a perimeter around the hotel and two K9 dogs tracked Mollett's scent heading south on Route 1 but lost it. The search was ended around 3:30 p.m. Mollett remained missing as of Friday morning, according to police.

Police and the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office obtained a warrant and entered the room and recovered the stolen tools and equipment. Mollett will be charged in connection with the thefts when he is found, according to police.

South Brunswick Police asked anyone with information about Mollett's location to call them at 732- 329-4646.

Dan Alexander is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dan.alexander@townsquaremedia.com

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

10 years later Sandy makes landfall in New Jersey

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On the run: Man steals $24000 worth of tools in South Brunswick, NJ - New Jersey 101.5 FM

When you decide to renovate your home, painting is a major factor to give more attention.

When you decide to renovate your home, painting is a major factor to give more attention. Because if you choose the wrong service provider, the whole point of renovation will be collapsed. So, to help you make the right choice here are a few factors you can check on while hiring an interior painter.

License

Choose painting service technicians who are licensed. A license is issued by the regulating authorities to ensure that the painting service technician abides by the rules. This permit allows an expert to offer their services legally. Therefore, if the specialist does not have a license, the project can be interrupted, which will result in the end of the contract. Make sure that the license is updated and that it comes from an accredited authority. In addition, a permit can also be proof that the painting service technician is indeed a professional in the service delivery. This is because licenses are only issued to professionals.

Insurance Coverage

When painting, many risks or dangers may happen like accidents, loss, or damage. Therefore, there is a need for the contractors to ensure the workers and the clients that the company is serving. For instance, workmens compensation is meant to protect the workers and the clients from being liable in case of a risk. Therefore, if there is any injury, an insurance company will be responsible for financing the medical bills. Any damaged property will be compensated. Make sure that you ask with company, which company is insured.It is a well-known company and a company that is known for compensating its clients.

Experience

Experience is one of the primary qualifications that you must consider when hiring a painting service technician. An experienced contractor will determine how great the project will be. Make sure that the contractor has worked with other clients before you. If you are their first client, look for another option. A qualified painting service technician will not hesitate to give you contacts of some clients they have served. This is because they know that the clients will review it positively.

In addition, you can determine whether a professional service provider is experienced or not by checking the number of years that they have been in service. If the interior painter has been in service for more than three years, they have acquired all the required skills. This is because he has overseen many projects, and hence your project will not be any different.

Service Cost

Different painting companies will charge their clients differently. The cost can be determined by the size of the project, quality of service, number of workers on-site as well as the location of the site. However, there is a standard cost for painting services. Hence you can tell when you are being overcharged. Look for more than one service provider. Once you have found several select ones based on the quality of service and the cost of service. However, do not go for lower prices without considering the quality. This is because you will incur maintenance costs in the future.

The above-mentioned points would have showered you with great ideas on how to hire the right painting service.

Press Release Distributed by The Express Wire

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On a Sunday in May, 70-year-old pastor Joe Mlaker presided over his last service. After nearly 40 years, he was retiring and moving to Florida with his wife.

But just two weeks later, he decided to start aninterior painting business.

He began taking on work in July and generated more than $7,000 in revenues andnearly $3,000in profit through the month of September, according to documents verified by Insider. With his $2,600 in start-up costs now out of the way, he says he expects to take home roughly $2,000 in monthly income from his new gig going forward.

While Mlaker, a self-described "Type A personality," initially started the business because he was restless and looking for "something to do," he says it's become a more important source of supplemental income for him in recent months as the stock market tanks. In late September, the S&P 500 reached a new low for the year, and signs are pointing to further pain in the months ahead.

"The money really becomes important, especially when I look at what's happened with my retirement accounts how quickly we've all lost 10% to 15% in the last year," Mlaker told Insider. His estimate of his losses might even be a bit conservative. Bloomberg estimated that as of June 30, the average 401k balance was 20% lower than the year prior.

Along with being a "hedge" against the markets, he hopes his business income will help him and his wife travel the way they envisioned during their retirement.

Early retirements have been on the rise in recent years due to rising wealth values, COVID concerns, and layoffs. But high inflation and a struggling stock market are now causing some retirees to consider re-entering the workforce. A June CNBC survey, for instance, found that 68% of workers that retired during the pandemic would consider coming back to work. If they do return in high numbers, it could help ease the ongoing labor shortage, and reduce wage pressures that are among the reasons the Fed is grinding the economy to a halt.

But while the rate of retired workers returning to the workforce has returned to pre-pandemic levels roughly 3% growth has stalled in recent months. It remains to be seen whether economic conditions will eventually nudge more to do so.

Serving four different churches across Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin during his time as a pastor, Mlaker "always had a lot of things on his plate." Upon moving to a 2,500-home in a gated community in the Naples area, he says he grew restless almost immediately.

"My whole life, I've always had something to do, an office to go to," he said. "Even during COVID, I would go to the church every day, I would tape a service. Coming down to Florida, I didn't have that routine."

After Mlaker noticed that there was a lot of paint work being done in his community, he spoke with a handyman friend, who told him he could "pick up any side job" if he wanted to. Since he'd run a small painting business for nearly three years in his 20s, it seemed like a natural fit.

He jumped at the opportunity, applying for an LLC, designing business cards, and buying a pickup truck. His start-up expenses included $250 for a Sherwin Williams open contractors account, $22 for a web domain, $145 for business liability insurance, $126 for a storage locker, and $117 for magnetic truck decals, per documents provided to Insider.

Once everything was sorted, he began posting about his business on the local networking service Nextdoor, as well as community Facebook groups.

"I said, "Hey, I'm new in the community. I'm retired. If you're looking for a small paint job, here you go," Mlaker recalls.

This helped him picked up a few jobs, and then it "became word of mouth" he says.

Mlaker tries to not work more than three days per week. The typical job takes four to five hours and generates about $275 in profit, while the biggest require three 8-hour days and bring in roughly $1,400 in profit equivalent to approximately $55 in profitper hour worked.

He charges customers roughly $1 per square foot of wall painted he says $1-2 is the typical rate which translates to roughly $350 for one typical room. He reduces the cost by 75% for a second coat of paint, which he says customers typically desire.

The business' ongoing costs include tape, plastic covering, roller covers, and paint tray covers, as well as new brushes after about every four jobs. He receives a 35-40% discount when he buys paint, one he says he passes along to his customers. Operating costs include gas, insurance, storage rental, and bank fees.

There has been plenty of demand for his business right in his neighborhood. In fact, Mlaker says he hasn't left his gated community once for a job, which "fits perfectly" for his lifestyle.

In terms of business competition, he says the major painting companies typically pursue bigger assignments like a whole home but there's less competition for painting just a bedroom for instance. Given he's just a one-man team and wants to limit his hours, these smaller jobs are exactly what he's looking for.

And a small job can lead to more work. He recalls earning $2,000 to paint half of a client's home, and then was called back to paint the other half. Another client had him paint a bedroom, and then he ended up doing their kitchen as well.

Mlaker picks the days he works and loves the flexibility his business provides. He recalls running out of paint on a job one morning, going to the paint store near the beach, relaxing at the beach for two hours, then heading back and finishing up his work.

While Mlaker believes others his age can have similar success, he acknowledges that he's blessed to be in strong physical shape something that makes his active work life easier. He's an avid road cyclist that rides "thousands of miles" per year and even says he still plays ice hockey.

"Being active is a part of my life," Mlaker said. The more I can engage in different activities, the better I actually do it all with them."

Mlaker worked with many people during his time as a pastor, but says he rarely had the opportunity to see the "end results," as life pushed them in different directions. But with painting, he can step back after a hard day's work and be proud of the finished product.

For people in his generation considering starting a business or going back to work, he advises asking oneself, "What do you like to do?, "What are some of your life skills that you can maybe turn into some income?" and "What fits your physical nature?"

Moving forward, Mlaker intends to continue working on his business only part-time but is considering taking on some additional work outside of his community. He lives approximately eight miles from the ocean and suffered wind damage and temporary loss of power and water during Hurricane Ian, though he was not in an evacuation zone.

In Fort Meyers, however, a few miles west, there is "major damage." As the area rebuilds, he expects there to be plenty of job opportunities if he chooses to pursue them.

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How a 70-year-old unretired to start painting business as stock hedge - Business Insider

NEWBURY Starting next week, contractors will begin extending the Clipper City Rail Trail from the Parker Street trailhead to the Route 1 rotary, the town announced.

On Thursday, J.J Phelan & Son Co. Inc. workers were spotted prepping the worksite by installing a temporary crosswalk and removing a fence that separates Parker Street from Oak Hill Cemetery.

Newbury Town Planner Martha Taylor said work is expected to begin Monday and be completed by the first week of November.

If all goes well, she said. Its exciting to be at this stage.

The project is being paid for with a $252,500 Shared Streets and Spaces grant awarded to the town over the summer.

Ever since the new trailhead opened on Parker Street, pedestrians, bicyclists and others have been forced to travel alongside the busy connecting road between Newbury and Newburyport toward the rotary. During construction, the trail will remain open but trail users will need to cross to the south side of Parker Street and then re-cross the street past the cemetery.

The towns portion will link with another section underway by the developer of an adjacent multifamily complex off Parker Street, she added.

The Clipper City Rail Trail is roughly 3.3 miles long and wends it way through several areas of the city, including the South End, Cashman Park and Marchs Hill. Visitors taking the train to the city can walk the trail from the Newburyport MBTA commuter rail to downtown and beyond. There is, however, a sizable gap at the Route 1 rotary preventing it from becoming a continuous loop.

That portion, according to Taylor, is under the purview of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

Newburyport Planning Departments Geordie Vining called the section a vital link to the rest of the rail trail and said he was pleased that another piece of the puzzle was being completed.

We did impress on the contractor they need to route people around the parking area which will be occupied (by the contractors), Vining added.

For years, Vining has been championing the Clipper City Rail Trail and is hopeful that once the state completes planned work on the Route 1 rotary and the surrounding area, the citys dream of having a looped rail trail, a public space used and enjoyed by thousands of people, will come to fruition.

On Thursday morning, Newburyport resident Andrew Morris was rollerblading on the trail when he spotted the contractors painting lines and removing the fence.

Im so glad theyre doing this, Morris said, adding it only takes one distracted driver to cause a tragedy along Parker Street.

Dave Rogers is the editor of the Daily News of Newburyport. Email him at: drogers@newburyportnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @drogers41008.

We are making critical coverage of the coronavirus available for free. Please consider subscribing so we can continue to bring you the latest news and information on this developing story.

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Clipper City Rail Trail work on Parker St. to begin soon - The Daily News of Newburyport

Building Trade

Chicopee Mayor John Vieau joins, from left, Revitalize CDC Executive Director Colleen Loveless; Director of Programs Ethel Griffin; and Moyah Smith, board clerk.

On Sept. 29, Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) brought its #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild to Chicopee. About 100 volunteers worked on four homes on one block, all in one day. Two of the four homes are owned by U.S. Air Force military veteran families.

We are so grateful to the city of Chicopee for welcoming us with open arms and supporting our initiative to help make homes safe and healthy for those in need, said Colleen Loveless, president and CEO of Revitalize CDC, noting that the work the volunteers and building contractors tackled included replacing rotted porches and steps; repairing accessible ramps, roofs, and decks; installing a new shed, windows, storm doors, and gutters; power washing; painting; and yardwork.

Contractors and volunteers get to work.

The work was supported financially and with volunteers from American Red Cross and the Chicopee Fire Department, the city of Chicopee, Baystate Health, Berkshire Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, the Center for Human Development, Country Bank, Go Graphix, the MassMutual Foundation, M&T Bank, Ondrick Natural Earth, PeoplesBank, Rockys Ace Hardware, TD Bank, and Westfield Bank.

Our #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild goal is to work on hundreds of homes in targeted neighborhoods, clean up vacant lots, improve playgrounds, and create community gardens, Loveless said. Revitalize CDC focuses on making meaningful improvements on homes to help reduce energy use, save money, and create a safe, healthy, and sustainable living environment for our residents and the community.

Improvements have included installing or retrofitting HVAC systems to allow for oil-to-natural-gas heat and solar conversions; new roofs; energy-efficient windows, doors, and appliances; water-saving plumbing fixtures; electrical upgrades; mold remediation, lead abatement, and pest control; interior and exterior painting; and modifying homes for aging or disabled homeowners, such as building exterior access ramps.

Since Revitalize CDCs inception in 1992, the organization has repaired and rehabilitated more than 1,100 homes with the help of 10,000 volunteers, investing $42 million into Western Mass. In the past year, Revitalize CDC completed 72 home-repair projects on the homes of low-income families with children, elderly citizens, military veterans, and people with disabilities.

The organiations JoinedForces, in partnership with businesses, civic organizations, and other nonprofit agencies, provides veterans and their families with critical repairs and modifications on their homes.

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Improving Homes and Lives in Chicopee - Business West

Milans modernist Villa Borsani is a hive of activity. A photoshoot is in full swing as elegantly etched champagne coupes and vintage decanters are arranged on a gilded bar, and mismatched patterned plates and embroidered napkins are laid on a marble table. At the centre of the maelstrom is entrepreneur Tom Chapman, who is excitedly bringing to life his much-anticipated new design venture.

In 2015, Brooklyn-based Sean McNanney created his first line of blankets, working with artisans in Mongolia. Now the Saved New York brand encompasses cashmere throws and cushions whose vibrant illustrative patterns are created in collaboration with different designers and artists.

Chapman is best known as the co-founder with his wife Ruth of the MatchesFashion empire, which was born in 1987 as a multibrand boutique in Wimbledon and grew into a pioneering ecommerce business. It was valued at about $1bn when the Chapmans sold their majority share in 2017. Now, alongside co-founder Nicolas Pickaerts, Chapman is moving into interiors with Abask: a new ecommerce platform conceived to shine a light [hence the name] on the most exceptional craftsmanship and design objects in the world. It is a curation of Chapmans obsessions, ranging from Connolly leather trays to blankets by Rose Uniacke, by way of polished-brass fireplace tools handcrafted in the fifth-generation Vienna workshop of Carl Aubck, and an intricate marquetry backgammon board by Alexandra Llewellyn, its inlaid motifs inspired by the designs of Gio Ponti.

Theres been a buzz about this project from day one, says Chapman, 59, as he shows me around the rationalist-style residence completed in 1945, pointing out pieces sourced from designer-makers, craft-focused brands andspecialist vintage dealers. From cardboard boxes risepiles of plates, stacks of glasses and rows ofcushions.Upstairs in the book-lined study, desk accessories and stationery include a superlative pencil sharpener and pretty patterned notebooks. Elsewhere, there are leather baskets and embroidered tablecloths, ceramic candlesticks and agiant globe.

Chapman is wary that this new project will becompared too closely with MatchesFashion. Im incredibly proud of what Ruth and I and all the teamachieved, he says, but this is a whole new journey. He does acknowledge that there are similarities between the businesses. At Matches, we were known for celebrating interesting designers and emerging talent, hesays of the synergy. Pickaerts, formerly the ecommerce director at matchesfashion.com, is another link. At Matches, he was instrumental in building the sites traffic to an annual 120 million visits.

The move into homewares was inspired by Chapmans own experience of decorating his Los Angeles home with the interior designer Pamela Shamshiri. We were finishing the house last summer and Pam was suggesting what they call the smalls, he says of those final details that range from table lamps to drinking glasses. I wanted to get involved in the process because I really believe in the impact that specific things can have on the way you feel. But it was so difficult to find pieces I felt were interesting.

Based near London, Ray Walters is anavid pen collector and dealer. Weve bought antique and vintage pens from him, says Sheridan, pointing out a 20s yellow Parker set. Hes also developed the perfect pen of his own, she adds of an exclusive design with a special nib that comes in a range of bright colours.

To this end, Chapman and Pickaerts have brought on board Bryony Sheridan, the former buying manager of home and interiors at Liberty London, as well as interior designer Hubert Zandberg as style director, and the Abask idea has gone from inception to launch in just 10 months. In this time, the team has pulled together an offering that includes well-known heritage names and small artisan makers, as well as a selection of vintage finds. In some cases, the products are being produced exclusively for Abask. Were launching with 2,000 products, says Chapman. We have 105 brands. Well have 150 by December and will keep building.

The initial selection will be divided into four sections by room: the study, the bar, the dining room and the games room. I love the idea that everything is useful as well as beautiful, and I think the selection is very interesting, says Osanna Visconti di Modrone, a Milanese creator whose sculptural brass objects will be part of the Abask line-up, including pomegranate paper weights and textural candle holders cast to resemble molten wax.

A lot of the time, we are exploring the brands archives to offer something unique

Chapman does not want to be a Harrods or a Saks. We want to share the great makers out there that people havent heard of, he says. Touring the villa, I make several new personal discoveries: Nick Plant, a British maker of contemporary backgammon sets; Perla Valtierra ceramics from Mexico, whose heavy, matte-black plates have tactile pinched edges; and Los Vasos de Agua Clara, a Barcelona-based female duo whostarted producing playfully painted drinking glassesjust four years ago.

Theres a lot of glass, says Sheridan, highlightingpieces made by the over-200-year-old Austrian glassmaker Lobmeyr from a modernist, monochrome cocktail set by turn-of-the-century Viennese designer Josef Hoffmann to the contemporary colour-pop tumblers created by Martino Gamper. Murano makers also feature heavily: glasses by Nason Moretti are a revived archive design from 1988, while the undulating Venini Fazzoletto (handkerchief) vase is offered in exclusive transparent shades and stripes, rather than the usual opaque finish. A lot of the time, we are exploring the brands archives to offer something unique, says Sheridan of a number of exclusive reissues.

The London-based designer launched her brand of artistic backgammon boards in 2010. For Abask, shes created poker and backgammon sets inspired by Gio Ponti and Hilma af Klint, and the marquetry is just amazing, says Sheridan. Its very cool.

For Leonid Rath, managing partner of Lobmeyr, and the sixth generation to helm the family firm, the common factor among the Abask selection is authenticity. Theyre all brands who stay true to their mission with passion, he suggests. And preserving traditional craftsmanship is a key objective in Abasks mission statement. Another is to celebrate the incredible stories behind each piece, person and place something that will be achieved onthe website, says Pickaerts, via meetthe maker sections featuring interviews, video and photography. Digital allows us to really explain about the craftsmanship, says Chapman, picking up a brass foot by Carl Aubck. We cant tell you how a piece feels online, of course. But we can show you Carl Aubck in his workshop, and he can tell you abouthis design process.

The ZdG floral Camaeu range is handmade in Provence in an exclusive colourway for Abask. Being part of the launch is a natural progression of my friendship with Tom, says de Givenchy.

The website will also provide inspiration as to how people can use the pieces in their own home, says Zandberg. We want to give people the tools and the confidence to mix and juxtapose different styles, and to have fun with it, he says giving the example of pairingthevery classic, floral-adorned Zo de Givenchy tableware with the more graphic, snake-illustrated plates by Laboratorio Paravicini.

Its very important for us to be global, adds Chapman, citing brands from Japan (Edo Glass) to Ghana (The Baba Tree Basket Company). In terms of the size of their offering, theyve plotted out a rapid expansion plan. Every eight weeks well launch another room, says Chapman. The next one will probably be the kitchen, which is going to be fun. The bedroom is a big one: think linens and international bed sizes. Other rooms will be less literal, including a candle cabinet, a rug basket and a space dedicated to ceramics. We wont do furniture, though, concludes Chapman. Never, I ask? Well, never say never about anything, he laughs.

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If you are wondering what are the worst colors to paint a room, then wouldn't be the first person to ask about this common decorating dilemma. Getting the color right in a room can be a tricky business. Even with all their experience, it can take time for professionals to make a decision. There is a lot to consider the size and shape of the space, the available natural light and its direction, who it is for, how the color makes you feel, etc.

Here interior designers, decorators, and color psychologists reveal what the worst colors to paint a room are, and how to approach choosing paint ideas for room color schemes that truly sing, from using the color wheel to help you avoid making disastrous color mistakes to finding paint colors that will make you feel happier at home.

'Choosing a paint color is one of the hardest parts of decorating because we only actually know the true color of something because its sitting next to another color,' says Rachel Chudley (opens in new tab), an interior designer renowned for her use of strong color.

'When youre thinking about paint color and paint tricks for your home, you have to first start by standing in the middle of the room, and explore what will be around the color where the light is coming in, the architectural qualities of the room, and even what is outside the window. If you have foliage outside which the light has to filter through, that green is going to be cast throughout that room. These considerations will help you understand what the color will read as in the space.'

Here are some of the worst colors to paint a room, along with the best tips to help you choose the right ones for your home.

(Image credit: Future)

Red room ideas can be too intense for most people and red is considered to be the most stressful color in history. This harsh paint color often reminds us of danger and disaster. It is strong, boisterous, and stimulating, which is why it is often used in warning signs and traffic signals.

'Physically, red can induce reactions in the body that are similar to stress responses, such as increased heart rate, higher body temperature, and heightened senses,' says Karen Haller, color psychology specialist, and best-selling author of The Little Book of Color (opens in new tab).

However, red isn't all bad. 'The most stressful color for you is entirely personal,' she says. 'It could be a color that conjures up a personal memory that has negative or unpleasant feelings. This might not necessarily be carmine.'

Chad Dorsey, interior designer, and founder, of Chad Dorsey Design (opens in new tab) loves using red in the home: 'Many people think red is harsh, but used in a monochromatic way I find it to be very soothing. Deep earthy red tones such as this are great for hard-working spaces that you don't frequent too often. They are also very forgiving of a scuff or scratch.'

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti / Future)

Decorating with orange might be a fun way to add playful color to a room, but it should certainly be used with caution. Much like red, orange is considered to be an overstimulating color, making it a bad choice for restful spaces, such as the main bedroom and children's rooms.

A bold, fiery color tinged with hints of red and brown, orange in all its variations should be approached with consideration. Many color psychologists believe that orange can even change your physiology and balance of hormones.

'It helps to be mindful of the visceral impact color can have on our mindset. For this reason, I would avoid orange for a childs bedroom,' says Karen Haller, color psychologist. 'You want them to go to sleep straight away, and the color orange is saying "stay awake" its bursting with energy, and can cause an overactive imagination.' If you are looking for a color to reduce stress, orange should not be on your list.

(Image credit: Future Plc)

Often noted by designers and color psychologists as a depressive and lonely color, grey paint can harmonize well with almost every other hue, making it one of the most adaptable neutrals and giving good reason for its popularity, says Helen Shaw, UK director at Benjamin Moore (opens in new tab).

Within color psychology, grey is said to cause feelings of self-doubt, insecurity, and instability. It is believed to evoke a mind-numbing response that can leave many feeling impassive. However, that is not to say that you should never use grey, especially if it is a color that resonates with you or your family. According to some of the world's best interior designers, it pays to be mindful of tone, placement, and lighting.

Grey tones can make a lovely palette for a bedroom as they exude a sense of calm, believes Charu Gandhi, founder, and director of Elicyon (opens in new tab). Grey shouldnt be considered boring or cold; there are ways to make it feel warm and a focal point, either in wallcoverings or within fabrics and finishings. While in previous years cool greys alongside silver and high gloss tones were fashionable, we are using deeper, darker greys or even near-blacks in some of our bedrooms. These richer tones envelop you as you enter the room and add coziness. To avoid the room feeling somber, its important to pair grey with pops of color and texture in accessories such as pillows or throws, or artwork.'

(Image credit: Polly Wreford)

When it comes to decorating, not choosing a paint color scheme that makes your heart sing is a tremendous yet easy mistake to make. While you may love the room you've seen in your favorite glossy magazine, you would be wise to pick a paint color that evokes positive or pleasant feelings for you. Your home should bring you joy and paint color is a vital and cost-effective way to revitalize any space, and should be given as much consideration as any other element in your home.

Happy room ideas have never been more needed. With all the uncertainty in the outside world, our homes have become havens, with every room's design able to contribute positively to our mental well-being.

If you are at a loss for when to begin, start with a moodboard. Collect images from magazines or online to help determine your palette. They dont have to be interior images scenes from nature, fashion magazines, and travel can all inspire your interior design scheme. Once you've collected your images, learn how to make a moodboard to get your design underway.

Designers also talk about another element when using color: contrast. As a result, dont be tempted to lean on analogous colors those that sit side-by-side on the color wheel the result will be harmonious but might lack in vitality. Equally, a scheme based on complementary colors will result in maximum contrast but will need to be softened by neutrals.

(Image credit: Paul Raeside)

Another key factor is light, and the best way to address this is by considering the aspect of the room as well as the undertone of the paint.

As a general rule, to lighten up a north-facing room, avoid anything with a green or grey base or dont fight it and paint it dark which creates a cozy and cocooning feel, says Patrick.

Meanwhile, using soft, pale tones is a great way to maximize the feeling of light and space in a south-facing room. Light in west-facing spaces is cooler in the morning and brighter in the afternoon so warm tones will work well, while light blues and greens can have a calming effect on east-facing rooms.

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What are the worst colors to paint a room? The shades experts say you should never use - Homes & Gardens

As technology is rising, so are the ways of celebrating the festivities. From sweets to getting decorations, we get everything online in today's time. But when we speak of getting the house interiors done it seldom feels like a herculean task as we need to do a lot of manual work. Finding a goodinterior designer in today's time is like finding a needle in a haystack. To make lives easy in today's time, MapMyHouse (MMH) has come up with a new website which will help people to connect with top architects, interior designers and landscape artists across the country on a single platform.

Harkaran Boparai,CEO of MapMyHousesaid, We will help people in connecting with interior designers, landscape artists and architects. The app will help in finding professionals in their preferred city and will facilitate the professionals in getting Pan India projects.

MapMyHouse claims to be one of the best architectural firms on board which works on making the life of people easy by helping them to select suitable interior designers, architectsand landscape artists. Moreover, MMH also has experienced interior designers in addition to start-ups in the field to facilitate the clients.

Other such platforms include Homelane and Architizer. Technology is transforming architecture each day. From 3D printing to touch-screen drafting boards, innovative ideas have always grabbed the spotlight in recent years. Dont forget to have fun while experimenting with your home quarters. The idea is to marry your lifestyle and personality to create an authentic experience.

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MapMyHouse app launched to connect interior designers, landscape artists and architects together - India TV News