Clever solutions for compact bedrooms
In order to create a peaceful retreat, a bedroom needs to be as clutter-free as possible. Most people have a considerable amount of clothing, so first-class storage is essential. Built-in storage systems eat up less floor space than freestanding furniture. 'When planning your hanging space, measure the length of your clothes rail, then add 20 per cent,' advises Peter Friend of Hülsta.
Clever solutions
• Recoup valuable space by forgoing bedside tables. Instead, install a shelf on the wall behind the bed that can be used for bedtime reading material and an alarm clock.
• You can't compromise on the size of your bed, but you can try to make it work harder. Underbed boxes or beds with built-in drawers or shelves utilise the redundant area underneath. Flip-up beds also ensure space is put to good use. Remember, too, that low-level beds are less visually dominating than lofty princess-and-the-pea style ones.
• Fold-down beds used to be cumbersome and ugly, but now there are some really well-designed models. They can be expensive, but if you have a studio and are going to be using it every day rather than in a guest room, then it's essential to invest. A pull-down bed combined with a pull-down desk can make a small spare room a really multifunctional space.
• 'A sleeping space doesn't necessarily need to be fully enclosed,' says Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces. 'Screening a space with a partition or sliding doors can provide privacy without blocking light. Or, in an open-plan area, a mezzanine or raised platform divides things up.'
Clever solutions for hidden spaces
Hallways and staircases can take up a disproportionate amount of space, especially in older properties. Don't let precious square footage go to waste - instead reclaim every nook with some clever adaptations.
Clever solutions
• Understair cupboards can become a dumping ground for unwanted items, so clear out the clutter and transform the cubby under the stairs into an extra cloakroom.
• Taking down a wall that encloses a staircase can really open things up. If you're installing a new staircase, think about incorporating big, deep drawers with push-click catches, or even create drawers in the risers of the steps. What better place to store slippers and shoes?
• 'In stairwells, remove the balustrades and fill the gap with book shelves. You can also use landings or even half landings (where stairs turn) to house a condensed work station or mini library,' says architect Mark Dyson.
• A compact office can be hidden in a cupboard, so it's instantly tidied away at the end of the day.
• A window ledge can be widened to create a cosy seat.
• Spiral stairs can be a great space saver, as can alternate-tread ones that allow staircases to rise at a steeper angle.
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
How to Make the Most of Small Spaces in Your Home (3)
Clever solutions for compact bathrooms
'The majority of bathroom brochures show spaces the size of a ballroom,' says Robin Levien of Ideal Standard. 'In reality, the average bathroom in the UK is around the size of a king-size bed, so it's essential to make the most of every inch.' Compact ceramics ranges can be a real boon. 'Basins that are wider than they are deep can solve all kinds of problems,' continues Robin. 'And a corner toilet cistern can allow you to have a mini en-suite in the corner of a bedroom, with a shower, basin and toilet all in the space of a regular corner bath. Or choose a compact tub, which can free up room for something else.' Check out the Space and Concept ranges by Ideal Standard.
Clever solutions
• 'Built-in bathroom cabinets don't need to be any more than 4in deep,' says architect Mark Dyson. 'It's possible to dismantle a stud wall and replace it with structural MDF carcases to create storage without devouring precious floor space.'
• 'Lift units off the floor,' says Guy Morgan Harris. 'A room looks bigger if you can see the whole floor up to the walls.'
• 'Mirrors can be used to great effect, but too much can look kitsch,' says Mark Dyson. 'An L-shaped mirror [that goes round a corner] can quadruple the feeling of volume.'
• Boxed-in cisterns provide the opportunity to create extra storage, and why not reclaim the area under a built-in bath with bespoke drawers for towels or bath toys?
• 'We installed a raised walk-in shower where the floor lifts up to reveal a bath,' says architect Paul McAneary. 'It also turns into a steam cabin, so it's multifunctional and compact.'
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
'The majority of bathroom brochures show spaces the size of a ballroom,' says Robin Levien of Ideal Standard. 'In reality, the average bathroom in the UK is around the size of a king-size bed, so it's essential to make the most of every inch.' Compact ceramics ranges can be a real boon. 'Basins that are wider than they are deep can solve all kinds of problems,' continues Robin. 'And a corner toilet cistern can allow you to have a mini en-suite in the corner of a bedroom, with a shower, basin and toilet all in the space of a regular corner bath. Or choose a compact tub, which can free up room for something else.' Check out the Space and Concept ranges by Ideal Standard.
Clever solutions
• 'Built-in bathroom cabinets don't need to be any more than 4in deep,' says architect Mark Dyson. 'It's possible to dismantle a stud wall and replace it with structural MDF carcases to create storage without devouring precious floor space.'
• 'Lift units off the floor,' says Guy Morgan Harris. 'A room looks bigger if you can see the whole floor up to the walls.'
• 'Mirrors can be used to great effect, but too much can look kitsch,' says Mark Dyson. 'An L-shaped mirror [that goes round a corner] can quadruple the feeling of volume.'
• Boxed-in cisterns provide the opportunity to create extra storage, and why not reclaim the area under a built-in bath with bespoke drawers for towels or bath toys?
• 'We installed a raised walk-in shower where the floor lifts up to reveal a bath,' says architect Paul McAneary. 'It also turns into a steam cabin, so it's multifunctional and compact.'
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
How to make the Most of Small Spaces in Your Home (2)
Clever solutions for compact kitchens
With so much emphasis these days on huge kitchen/living areas, it's easy to feel hard done by if your home is small. But, as Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces, points out, 'Professional cooks prefer a more compact kitchen as they are easier to work in.' If in doubt, get some professional design input and keep things streamlined; a smaller space will benefit from being as fuss-free as possible. Choose fitted units, which are the best option for making a small space work efficiently.
Clever solutions
Many units finish short of the ceiling, which is a waste of valuable inches. Choose full-height storage and keep lesser-used items in the higher cupboards. Alternatively, install wine racks into any spare space.
• If necessary, compress the kitchen along one wall. '2.8m is the minimum width you can fit a compact but very useable kitchen in to,' says architect Mark Dyson. 'This will accommodate an under-counter fridge, oven, hob, sink with a concealed bin, a slimline dishwasher and storage while still providing the minimum distance requirement between the sink and hob.'
• No utility room? 'House your washing machine and a dryer in a deep cupboard,' says architect Paul McAneary. 'Hide the appliances behind a folding door.'
• Keep cleaning materials, chopping boards and spices to hand with some custom-made splashback storage. All you need is 15cm at the back of the work surface to create super-slim storage for these everyday essentials.
• Mechanisms such as drawer dividers and magic corners keep things neat and utilise awkward spaces. 'Don't forget low-level storage,' says Graeme MacLaren of Dinwiddie MacLaren Architects. 'Plinth drawers are perfect for storing flat items such as baking trays or tea towels.'
• Max the feeling of light in a space-starved kitchen with reflective surfaces, such as high-gloss lacquer, a glass worktop, chrome or even a mirrored splashback.
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
With so much emphasis these days on huge kitchen/living areas, it's easy to feel hard done by if your home is small. But, as Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces, points out, 'Professional cooks prefer a more compact kitchen as they are easier to work in.' If in doubt, get some professional design input and keep things streamlined; a smaller space will benefit from being as fuss-free as possible. Choose fitted units, which are the best option for making a small space work efficiently.
Clever solutions
Many units finish short of the ceiling, which is a waste of valuable inches. Choose full-height storage and keep lesser-used items in the higher cupboards. Alternatively, install wine racks into any spare space.
• If necessary, compress the kitchen along one wall. '2.8m is the minimum width you can fit a compact but very useable kitchen in to,' says architect Mark Dyson. 'This will accommodate an under-counter fridge, oven, hob, sink with a concealed bin, a slimline dishwasher and storage while still providing the minimum distance requirement between the sink and hob.'
• No utility room? 'House your washing machine and a dryer in a deep cupboard,' says architect Paul McAneary. 'Hide the appliances behind a folding door.'
• Keep cleaning materials, chopping boards and spices to hand with some custom-made splashback storage. All you need is 15cm at the back of the work surface to create super-slim storage for these everyday essentials.
• Mechanisms such as drawer dividers and magic corners keep things neat and utilise awkward spaces. 'Don't forget low-level storage,' says Graeme MacLaren of Dinwiddie MacLaren Architects. 'Plinth drawers are perfect for storing flat items such as baking trays or tea towels.'
• Max the feeling of light in a space-starved kitchen with reflective surfaces, such as high-gloss lacquer, a glass worktop, chrome or even a mirrored splashback.
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
How to Make the Most of Small Spaces in Your Home (1)
Stylish solutions for small spaces
They say size isn't everything. When it comes to your home, though, none of us would say no to a little bit extra. Here in the UK, we have the smallest living spaces in Europe by quite a considerable margin. There are, however, many advantages to living in a more compact home.
'Small spaces are more economical to run,' points out Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces. 'And because the surface areas you are dealing with are more limited, you can choose more luxurious materials and high-end details. Small-space living also concentrates the mind as, with less room to play with, you need to be quite focused and selective - which is no bad thing.'
'Start by thinking about the house as a whole and assess the areas where things are tight,' suggests architect Mark Dyson. 'Think about your priorities and how you need to use the space, then you can plan multifunctional zones.'
Living in a restricted space means your home has to work much harder, but clever design, careful planning and a considered approach will allow it to run smoothly without compromising an inch of your own personal style.
Clever solutions for compact living spaces
Clever planning can often compensate for a shortage of square footage. Knocking two rooms into one can provide a multifunctional area that will instantly feel bigger. You can then define zones with flooring or furniture. And bringing in more light wherever possible will also open up a room.
Clever solutions
• Good storage is key to keeping things uncluttered, and a wall of floor-to-ceiling cupboards will provide lots of space while requiring a relatively small footprint.
• 'Built-in benches can be crafted to include a surprising amount of hidden storage,' says Guy Morgan Harris.
• Make the most of hidden space by removing the partition wall between studs to create display storage, building shelving in the eaves, or even by using the void under your floorboards. 'Install a ring-pull latch and make ply boxes to store stuff in,' says Guy. Great for wine or toys.
• 'In double-height properties, a mezzanine or platform can be a good way to separate living and sleeping areas,' says Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces. (Consult building regs first.)
• Wall-mount your TV and conceal your DVD and hi-fi.
• Use a chest instead of a coffee table for extra storage.
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
They say size isn't everything. When it comes to your home, though, none of us would say no to a little bit extra. Here in the UK, we have the smallest living spaces in Europe by quite a considerable margin. There are, however, many advantages to living in a more compact home.
'Small spaces are more economical to run,' points out Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces. 'And because the surface areas you are dealing with are more limited, you can choose more luxurious materials and high-end details. Small-space living also concentrates the mind as, with less room to play with, you need to be quite focused and selective - which is no bad thing.'
'Start by thinking about the house as a whole and assess the areas where things are tight,' suggests architect Mark Dyson. 'Think about your priorities and how you need to use the space, then you can plan multifunctional zones.'
Living in a restricted space means your home has to work much harder, but clever design, careful planning and a considered approach will allow it to run smoothly without compromising an inch of your own personal style.
Clever solutions for compact living spaces
Clever planning can often compensate for a shortage of square footage. Knocking two rooms into one can provide a multifunctional area that will instantly feel bigger. You can then define zones with flooring or furniture. And bringing in more light wherever possible will also open up a room.
Clever solutions
• Good storage is key to keeping things uncluttered, and a wall of floor-to-ceiling cupboards will provide lots of space while requiring a relatively small footprint.
• 'Built-in benches can be crafted to include a surprising amount of hidden storage,' says Guy Morgan Harris.
• Make the most of hidden space by removing the partition wall between studs to create display storage, building shelving in the eaves, or even by using the void under your floorboards. 'Install a ring-pull latch and make ply boxes to store stuff in,' says Guy. Great for wine or toys.
• 'In double-height properties, a mezzanine or platform can be a good way to separate living and sleeping areas,' says Elizabeth Wilhide, author of Small Spaces. (Consult building regs first.)
• Wall-mount your TV and conceal your DVD and hi-fi.
• Use a chest instead of a coffee table for extra storage.
By Penny Day
You can find more information on interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Day
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Pantry Shelving - The Best Way To Organize Your Kitchen
Every home, whether it is a studio apartment, a mansion, or any size in between, will benefit greatly from an organized pantry. Shelving is available in solid wood, stainless steel or wire components. Use every inch of space possible for efficient pantry storage.
Trying to organize small bottles, such as spices, to gallon sized juices and canned items, and every size item in between can prove to be a real challenge. However, with the proper shelving in your pantry, organization can be a breeze.
Here are a few ideas for an organized pantry.
1) Door and wall racks - these are perfect for small items such as spices, envelope mixes, or smaller baking items like muffin cups, etc. These will work on a door that swings out, but not sliding doors.
2) Undershelf baskets - these sturdy baskets slide onto a shelf and hang underneath to house kitchen linens or china.
3) Stacking shelves - these wire shelves come in varying heights and lengths, and stack one on top of the other, to help you make the most of your space.
4) A portable wine rack - if you purchase wine or other bottled items consistently, this might be a good option for storage, as long as you have the space on a shelf or under a shelving unit.
5) D-shaped shelves - these shelves are often used in an odd-shaped space for canned goods, boxed goods, or items in tins and will turn independently of one another inside a cabinet.
6) Gravity feed can rack - this is perfect for storing several canned goods. It stands upright with the highest point toward the back of the shelf. Place your most recently purchased items in the back (top) so the oldest items are used first.
7) Tier organizers - small items fit well on these organizers and enable you to see at a glance what you have on hand. They're especially handy for storing spices.
8) Pull-out shelves - these are very popular and can be installed into a cabinet, hutch, or an existing shelving unit. This style of shelving is a fantastic space saver since it pulls out when you need an item toward the back of the shelf, but pushes back in for storage.
9) Turntables - these fit perfectly in several spaces and turn full circle to enable you to store items while utilizing every bit of space on the shelf.
Shelving in your pantry can be both functional and attractive. If you have an open pantry setup, use coated wire baskets for items such as vegetables, fruits and potatoes. Store paper items in attractive baskets that compliment your home's décor. A unique crock, tins, crates, and large glass jars are all great ways to maximize your pantry space and still be attractive.
Get creative when choosing pantry shelving. Use what works best for you and your family and you'll get the most from your investment.
To learn more about pantry shelving visit http://www.shelving-resource.com/, a popular website designed to help you organize your life. You'll find information on all kinds of shelving for the home as well as industrial shelving for larger storage spaces.
By Ned D'Agostino
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ned_D%27Agostino
Image from: http://flickrcc.bluemountains.net/index.php?terms=kitchen%20shelves&page=2&edit=yes&com=no
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Some Space Saving Decorating Ideas For A Studio Apartment
No bedrooms? No problem.Decorating a studio apartment is easy! The key is to always be thinking of ways to maximize your space. Efficiency is where it's at...no pun intended.
Try these quick space saving ideas when decorating your studio:
Futon- Getting a Futon is a great way to maximize space. During the day...if you aren't a vampire...you can have it folded up as a couch, but at night..when its time to sleep or pass out...easily unfold it into a bed. There are actually some very comfy and affordable futons out there. I slept on one as my bed for two years and slept like a baby.
Entertainment Center/Dresser- You might also look into finding a dresser that has enough top space to house your TV, X-Box, and Stereo. This will help save the space you would need on having two separate pieces of furniture. The biggest bonus is that it is really easy to watch your Soaps while you fold and put away your clothes. How sweet is that?
Storage- Find creative ways to store things like tupperware under the couch or a shoe rack by the door. Go beyond just shoving the ironing board in the hall closet. There's usually space underneath the dresser or on top of the kitchen cabinets.
Get Fun With The Trash Can- You may think I'm joking, but a great way to decorate in a small space is with something that you have to have. Instead of using the traditional waste basket...get a used over-sized football toybox. Usually has a lid and works great. If thats not your thing...always use a little waste basket under the sink.
Go Wireless- Make sure and set up your internet with wireless. You don't want to be tied down anywhere in a small space. Set up a wireless router and get a laptop so you can use anywhere in your apartment. A small stool in the kitchen area turns the kitchen counter quickly into a computer desk. Just make sure and not get too close to the sink. Water ruins computers.
Best of luck in your new apartment! Have any great decorating ideas for a studio apartment? Drop by ApartmentHomeLiving.com and share it. Stop by if you are looking for an apartment too!
Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle.
As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living, Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget.
At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!
By Trey Huguley
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trey_Huguley
Image from: http://www.bedstar.co.uk/shop/files/images/thumbs/t_22315.jpg
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Space Saving Fans - What to Look For
Fans are an economical answer to your cooling needs. They are easy to install, easy to operate and most importantly they result in energy savings. They can be either used by themselves in mild weather or they can be used to complement the air conditioning during the hot summers. Fans will give you the advantage of setting your air conditioning at a higher temperature resulting in saving energy and lowering your electricity bills.Before you buy a fan you have to decide what you want. The market is flooded with different types, brands and sizes of fans. Here I will try to list out the various features that are available. You can decide what you want and then select your fan based on this. I am sure one of the most important requirement would be that this piece of equipment doesn't take up much space and isn't a sore eye to your decor.
You have ceiling fans, pedestal fans, tower fans and wall mount fans just to name a few. Considering the space element, the ceiling fans will most probably save you the most space because they are right up on the ceiling not taking up any of your floor space. Next would probably be the wall mount fans that will sit neatly on your wall. The pedestal and the tower fans will take up some floor space, but they come in so many kinds of designs that you could choose one to go with your decor. The tower fans are lesser in width than the pedestal fan but taller.
You will need to zero in on the features that you want your fan to have. Some of the features that you should look into are:
* Size: The fans come in different sizes. The diameter of the pedestal fan could vary from 16 inches to 30 inches. The wall mount fan could be as small as 10 inches and you could have varying heights for the tower fan. Choose a size that best fits your room.
* Material: Your entire fan could be made of plastic. Check to see if it is too flimsy. If it is completely made of metal it will be sturdier but of course also heavier. Sometimes the legs may be made of plastic and not strong enough to withstand the weight.
* Installation: Most of the fans are easy to install. But be prepared for missing screws and parts than have bent in transit. You should be able to get a replacement from the company. For wall mount fans take special note of where the switches are. If they are on top of the fan it could be inconvenient. The cord that comes with the fan might not be long enough to hang the fan high on the wall. You might need to add a short extension cord in such cases.
* Noise: Look for a quiet motor to have a sound sleep at night. There are fans than might seem very silent when running at low speed, but at higher speed the noise level might be unacceptable.
* Oscillation: Some fans have up to 3 oscillation functions - the standard horizontal oscillation, the vertical oscillation and a combination of both horizontal and vertical oscillation. This is called the dual axis oscillation and ensures movement of air throughout the room. There are some wall mount fans where only the grill oscillates, rather than the entire fan.
* Timer: Look out for the timer. Many fans have them, but see at what intervals they can be set. There are fans that have timers go up at 30 minute intervals up to 7.5 hours. There are others that have only hourly or sometimes only every 2 hour settings.
* Ionizer: This is an added benefit available on some fans. It will take care of any smell that carries into the room. Also check if the ionizer can be switched off if you don't need to use it.
* Remote: Some of the fans come with a remote that will help you control the speed, oscillation, mode of operation and set the timer as well. Nice to have if you don't want to keep getting up from where you are sitting or at night in your sleep.
* Appearance: The fans come in various designs and colours. You could get one with a wood panelling if you have wooden walls or floors or a nice stylish looking black tower fan to match your decor.
* Customer Service: Last but not the least the after sales customer service of the company whose fan you choose to buy should also be a factor to consider just in case you were unlucky to get a defective piece or if one of the parts came damaged or you have a problem with the installation.
Having said all this, there is one big criterion that will influence your purchase - the cost of the fan. Again you have a wide cost range available depending on the amount of features on the fan.
by Tameka Norris
Learn how to decorate Small Spaces. Also enjoy, furnishing tips, photos of small spaces and projects for the DIYer.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tameka_Norris
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