How to choose contemporary Rattan weather proof Garden Furniture

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A unique incite to a new range of waterproof rattan garden furniture to be released in the UK for spring 2006


garden furniture, patio furniture, teak garden furniture, outdoor furniture

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In today’s market place there is such a wide range of contemporary garden furniture available. Here’s some advice for helping you choose the right furniture for your garden or patio area.

If you’ve decided that you want to be a the cutting edge of garden furniture design then there are 4 options available in style and materials used for the contemporary look rattan garden furniture.

Hot out this year is the plastic rattan garden furiture which is both appealing to the eye and fully weatherproof. There is no need to pack away this furniture as winter closes in, it can simply be left outside all year round. It give a very modern look and feel to your patio area whilst giving a quite a high level of comfort. Rattan furniture is available is around 30 different colour shades, but it’s worth while check on the actual guarantee on the fading of the rattan due to the UV rays of the sun. German manufactured plastic rattan has the highest non fading guarantees usually of around 5 years, whereas some of the plastic rattan manufactured in the Far East is only guaranteed for around 1 year. This is an important point worth check when making a purchase.

Most plastic rattan will have an alloy frame underneath, which is again fully weatherproof and very light weight. If you intent to store the furniture set during the winter months, remember to check whether the chairs are stackable as this will save you a considerable amount of space.

Other smaller points worth checking are that the feet have rubber or plastic mounts on to stop your timber patio deck being market. If the table has a glass top this should be made of toughened glass and also needs to be removable so that it can be cleaned easily if food or drinks are spilled.

If you intend leaving the garden furniture set outside during the winter but want to prolong the life of the set, find out whether covers are available either from you retailer or a specialist garden furniture cover retailer.

Plastic rattan is set to be one of the biggest contemporary garden furniture products of this season, available in May different colours and designs. Remember that you should first works out exactly what sized set you want before making a purchase. Two things should be taken into consideration, firstly the size of your family and likely number of guests you will be entertaining and secondly the area you will be filling with your furniture set. You should allow ample room around your garden furniture both for people to freely move around and for accessories such as parasols and patio heaters to be placed.

Also consider whether or not you will want a parasol for the centre of the table and check that the table has the necessary sized whole.

Once you’ve taken all these factors into consideration and done your homework you are in a great position to buy your ultimate dream rattan contemporary garden furniture set, getting it right first time.

How To Choose Awnings For Your Home Or Business

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Before, awnings just served as protection from the sun and rain for houses. But now, awnings are included as part of a house’s or building’s architecture not only for its primary purpose, but also to add charm and create a statement.

If you are still unconvinced about the architectural beauty of awnings, you might want to have them installed for the following reasons:

* It protects the window frames from the rain, sun and snow. Most window frames and windowpanes are mad…


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Before, awnings just served as protection from the sun and rain for houses. But now, awnings are included as part of a house’s or building’s architecture not only for its primary purpose, but also to add charm and create a statement.

If you are still unconvinced about the architectural beauty of awnings, you might want to have them installed for the following reasons:

* It protects the window frames from the rain, sun and snow. Most window frames and windowpanes are made of wood. We all know how wood responds to environmental changes. Even with sufficient wood coating and polish, wood deteriorates faster when exposed to the harshness of the weather conditions.

* Your house may have a porch or a patio and you have some furniture there, where you relax as you read a book or have a cup of coffee with your friends. Such furniture, regardless of the material, wears out faster when exposed to the sun and rain.

* When it’s raining, you normally keep your windows shut, blocking fresh air from coming in through the windows. If your house has awnings, during rain showers, you can keep your windows open and still prevent rainwater from getting in.

* When you are watching TV or using the computer, you usually have the windows shut, or the curtains or blinds down to reduce the glare. If awnings were fitted, you wouldn’t need to block natural light from the rest of the room since the awnings will reduce the glare on the monitors positioned near the windows.

* A major effect of having awnings, according to a study, is that it can reduce summer heat increase by 65% for windows facing south, and 77% for windows facing east and west.

So if you are now convinced that you would like your house or your building to have awnings, don’t just go out there and get one. There are things that you need to consider.

* Material

The most commonly used materials for awnings are outdoor fabric and aluminum. Those made of outdoor fabric come in a variety of color and shapes; however, these require more maintenance than aluminum ones.

Those made of aluminum are sturdy and require less maintenance. These awnings, however, have limited design and color options.

* Angle

It is recommended that for windows facing east or west, the size of the drop should be 65-75% for the best efficiency. For a window facing south, the drop can just be 45-60% since less coverage is needed, as the sun has a higher angle from this direction.

* Side panels

Side panels may alter the architectural feel of the awnings. Side panels are also beneficial in adding coverage in a different direction.

* Stationary, Retractable or Freestanding

Roll-up and retractable awnings allow you to permit the sun to shine into the house during winter.

Retractable awnings are also good for patios or decks. These awnings have a mechanism that allows it to be extended as far as necessary.

Retractable awnings can also have motors and switches for ease in retraction. Some also have sun and wind sensors to automate the retraction.

Retractable awnings are not for heavy rains, high winds and snow, though. So make sure these are properly protected from such weather conditions.

Freestanding awnings may also be used for patios, decks or terraces. Business establishments, as these also double as an advertisement, usually use these.

* Size

Small awnings are used for their decorative effect. If you would like to maximize the protective function of awnings, choose the bigger ones.

* Style

The most popular styles are traditional with closed sides, traditional with open sides, dome style, double bar standard, waterfall, quarter barrel, gable walkway and semi-circular entrance.

To check the most applicable style for your house design and the direction of your windows, consult an architect.

* Color

Apart from considering what color goes well with your house or establishment, if possible, choose a light-colored awning since it does not only block direct sunlight light other awnings, but this also reflects sunlight. By doing so, it lessens the amount of heat that comes in.

Also to minimize the heat that comes into the house, make sure that there is a gap between the side of the house and the top of the awning to prevent the heat on the awning to be transferred to the house.

Keep these tips in mind when consulting your architect while designing your house or business establishment.

How To Choose A Tool Box

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You’re working on your car out in the garage. You need a wrench and a Phillips screwdriver. You start to dig through the tools lying on the counter. You browse through the tools scattered on the floor. You wish your tools were organized like a well-oiled machine, but they’re not. You add them to your shopping list of things to buy. Sound familiar?

It may be time to invest in a new tool box. Tool boxes come in such a wide variety and price range that it is best to estimate …


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You’re working on your car out in the garage. You need a wrench and a Phillips screwdriver. You start to dig through the tools lying on the counter. You browse through the tools scattered on the floor. You wish your tools were organized like a well-oiled machine, but they’re not. You add them to your shopping list of things to buy. Sound familiar?

It may be time to invest in a new tool box. Tool boxes come in such a wide variety and price range that it is best to estimate your needs before you shop around.

Using Your Tool Box

How often will you use your tool box? If you will be using it sparingly, a small plastic box may be all you need to keep your tool clean and all in one spot. If you are an amateur mechanic, however, and will be frequently using your tools, purchasing a large steel tool box or case may be necessary.

Number of Tools

How many tools will you needs to house in your tool box? For a basic set of hammer, nails and screwdrivers, you won’t need much space. On the other hand, if you have air tools, meters, timing lights, screwdrivers, sockets and wrenches, you will definitely need a tool box large enough to separate and organize all of the different tools.

By using a larger tool box with multiple roller bearing drawers and removable trays, you will be able to spend more time working on your repairs than looking for the appropriate tool for the job.

Key Locking Tool Box

What type of security measures do you require on your tool box? Whether you have small children you need to keep away from your potentially dangerous tools or worry about losing an expensive tool, you should consider how you would keep your tools safe. Older or less expensive tool boxes may require a pad lock. Most small tool boxes, however, come with a lock and key. More expensive tool boxes have self-locking drawers for maximum security.

Tool Box Storage

Where will you keep your tool box? Will it be in the basement or a safe corner of your garage? Will you need to transport it often or keep it in the bed of your truck? Answering these questions will help you decide what type of material your tool box should be mad of. Steel construction is heavy duty and long-lasting, but it is going to be exposed to hot and cold temperatures and other weather conditions, polypropylene may be a better choice because it is durable, tough and won’t rust.

Once you have answered these simple questions its time to start looking at various tool boxes to decide which would best fit your needs. Deciding factors may include what accessories you would like included with your tool box, the color and style of the tool box and the tiered designs available. Do you prefer a baked enamel finish, polished steel or a rugged tough plastic? Do you need your tool box on coaster so you can move it as needed?

Ultimately it comes down to buying the tool box that meets the majority of your needs for the least amount of money. Shop around for the best prices and you will enjoy your investment for years to come.

How To Choose A Shelving System

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Shelving provides one of the most efficient methods of maximizing storage space. Shelving systems vary, from simple, single shelves supported by fixed brackets to fully adjustable units.


Shelving System

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Shelving provides one of the most efficient methods of maximizing storage space. Shelving systems vary, from simple, single shelves supported by fixed brackets to fully adjustable units.

Shelving can be designed to blend in with the style, character, and shape of a room, or even to function as a decorative feature. Always make sure that the materials you use are strong enough to bear the load.

You can obtain shelves in a large range of woods of different thicknesses and in a variety of finishes, as well as in certain types of glass. The simplest shelf supports are non-adjustable track system.

Once you have decided on the shelving support system that you need and have chosen the most appropriate shelving material, you will need to support objects that may be heavy to the wall.

Whether you are putting up fixed brackets or an adjustable system, make sure that you secure the shelf support safely to the wall, and take care to hung the shelves so that they are perfectly level.

Always use hardware that suits the structure of the wall. A range of metal and plastic anchors, as well as bolts with spring clips, is available for securing screws or a bracket to cavity walls.

When mounting lightweight shelving on a cavity wall, use anchors made of plastic or metal. Most have wings that expand against the wall within the cavity. Select the size of bit recommended by the anchor manufacturer. Mark and drill the holes. Insert an anchor, and drive home the screws.

The most flexible type of shelving and one that is ideal for storing objects of various sizes, such as books, is a track system. Making a set of shelves entirely for display purposes gives the opportunity to design a tailor-made, highly decorative unit.

How To Choose A Set Of Sheets For Your Bed

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If you’ve been sleeping on the same ratty sheets for years, it may be time to trade them in for crisp, new sheets. While many people are hesitant to buy new sheets because of the cost of a good sheet set, they really aren’t that expensive when you realize that you will be using them 365 times each year. Besides, clean, comfortable sheets don’t just look great; they actually can help you sleep better.

When you are choosing a set of sheets for your bed, the first thing you s…


bed sheets

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If you’ve been sleeping on the same ratty sheets for years, it may be time to trade them in for crisp, new sheets. While many people are hesitant to buy new sheets because of the cost of a good sheet set, they really aren’t that expensive when you realize that you will be using them 365 times each year. Besides, clean, comfortable sheets don’t just look great; they actually can help you sleep better.

When you are choosing a set of sheets for your bed, the first thing you should do is take a look at your mattress. If you have a standard mattress, you won’t have any problem finding sheets that fit. However, if you have an extra long twin mattress or a very thick full, queen, or king size mattress (such as a pillow top), you will need to look for sheets made to fit these mattress types.

The next thing you should consider is what type of material you like to sleep on. Standard cotton, flannel, jersey, satin, and silk sheets are all readily available.

About Standard Cotton Sheets:
1. Standard cotton sheets are cool in the summer. They breathe well, which is especially important on hot nights, since this prevents you from feeling sticky and sweaty.
2. Cotton can be quite soft. Look for sheets with a high thread count. A thread count of 180 or 200 means the sheets will feel rough, while 400 count sheets feel as smooth as a baby’s skin.
3. If the sheets are pure cotton, they may shrink after several washings.

About Flannel Sheets:
1. Flannel sheets are great for winter use. You don’t have to spend an hour warming up your bed before you feel snuggly and warm.
2. Flannel sheets are rarely a good choice for warm climates. They do hold heat.
3. Flannel can pill up with extended use, so be prepared to replace your cozy sheets every few years.

About Jersey Sheets:
1. If you enjoy the comfort of a t-shirt, you will love these sheets. They are very comfortable to sleep on.
2. Jersey sheets are lightweight and may not last as long as some other sheet types.

About Satin Sheets:
1. Satin sheets are a favorite for people who want a bit of romance, but that silky smooth finish is a bit slippery. You may need to frequently tuck your top sheet back in.
2. Satin doesn’t breathe well and can be quite uncomfortable to sleep in during the warmer months.

About Silk Sheets:
1. Silk is just as romantic as satin. These sheets can also be a bit slippery.
2. Silk is a natural material and breathes well. Silk sheets are comfortable to sleep on year round.
3. Silk is fragile and needs special care to keep it from shattering.

Once you decide on the material you prefer, you are ready to shop for a sheet set. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color and pattern. After all, no one has to know that you have sheets with a wild design underneath that sophisticated navy blue bedspread.

How To Choose A Pot Rack For Your Kitchen

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The stylishly decorative and practical hanging or wall mounted pot rack might just be the storage space solution and energy saving kitchen device for you. This article provides 8 great tips on how to choose the pot rack that is right for your kitchen.


pot rack, hanging pot rack, kitchen pot rack

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Do you want to free up some kitchen cabinet space and have your pots and pans hanging from a pot rack within easy reach? And do you want to have your cookbooks, cooking oils, and your basil and thyme herbs displayed neatly on a wall mounted pot rack as well?

Then the stylishly decorative and practical hanging or wall mounted pot rack might just be the storage space solution and energy saving kitchen device for you.

Possible origins of pot racks

The idea of hanging cookery pots in the kitchen may have originated from the 17th century practice of using an arrangement of links and hooks or trammels to suspend, raise or lower cooking pots in a fireplace to control cooking temperatures.

Up to the 15th century, most wealthy European homes had spacious kitchens with several adjacent anterooms, including whole rooms just for storing pots and pans and other utensils. However, it would not be surprising if poorer families with less spacious kitchens used pot racks, either in the form of tripods standing on the kitchen dirt floor or hooks hanging from the ceiling or wall, to store their pots and pans and other utensils.

How to choose a pot rack for your kitchen

1. The first question to ask is “Where do I want to put my pot rack?”. If you are going to put it on top of a kitchen island, for example, then you will probably need a pot rack hanging from the ceiling. If you are going to put it against the kitchen wall, then you may need to have the wall-mounted shelf type variety with a grid.

2. If you are going for a hanging pot rack you have to know how tall your ceiling is. Most pot racks are designed to fit 8 or 9-foot ceilings for easy access to cooks of average height. However, households with shorter cooks or taller ceilings need not despair. Most pot rack stores, whether online or down the road, carry a wide range of chains or extension hooks to solve the situation.

3. The next question is: “Do you want to match your pot rack to your kitchen’s decor?” For example, if you are going to hang your pot rack in a modern kitchen above a built-in kitchen island with stainless steel countertops, cooktops, ovens and dishwashers, then a stainless steel pot rack might be best for you.

However, if you are you are going to hang your pot rack in country cottage style kitchen next to oak timber cabinets and coffee black kitchen appliances, then a black hammered steel pot rack might be a good match.

4. And equally important is “How do you want the pot rack to look?” If you want a more modern look, then the clean lines of glistening stainless steel may be your best bet. If you are going for the antique look, then the decorative swirls of brassy copper may do the job.

5. What type of material do you want your pot rack to be made of? Do you want the country elegance of oak or natural cherry? The practicality and durability of painted or powder coated hammered steel? Or the sleekness and strength of stainless steel?

6. What size and shape do you want your pot rack to be – rectangular, round, oval or square? This may be dictated by the number of pots, pans and other cooking utensils that you want to fit in as well as the kitchen space that you have available.

7. Do you need additional light? If the pot rack is above a cooking and food preparation area, then you may need pot racks that come with downlights to illluminate as well as add ambience to your working space.

8. And last but not least, how much do you want to spend for your pot rack? A quick comparative shopping on the internet will reveal that sales abound and that:

– For a budget of $50 you can get a lovely powder-coated wall-mounted pot rack in bookshelf style to put your pots and pans as well as your favorite plant and recipe book side by side.

– A budget of $150 can get you a hanging stainless steel oval kitchen pot rack with grid.

– For $359.97 you can get a modern styled Oneida lighted pot rack with center grid and two downlights.

– And if you have $2000 to spare you can get a pot rack used by professional chefs in high tech stainless steel and with two rack levels that provide more storage and hanging space.

But if you are someone who does not own a lot of pots, loves the hunt and a good bargain and have $4.95, you can go to Ebay and get a pre-loved black wrought iron pot rack that attaches to the wall and holds 5 pots. That’s a start.

How To Choose A Fireplace or Heating Stove For Your Home

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Before deciding the type of fireplace that would be best for you and the model that you would like to own, keep in mind some of the following points:


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A fireplace is an added bonus to your home and in some areas a necessity, especially if you live in colder northern climates. Perhaps you do not have a fireplace, but it sounds like it would be a great improvement you would like to have in your home.

THE RIGHT KIND OF FIREPLACE FOR YOUR HOME

If you are considering the addition of a fireplace to your home, then the first thing you need to decide is which kind of fireplace would best suit your home.

Natural gas inserts and freestanding stoves help to not only keep your home warm, but also burn cleaner and help maintain indoor air quality. Despite today’s high natural gas prices, these sell better than wood burning fireplaces and create less outdoor pollution problems.

Gas fireplaces, gas inserts, and pellet stoves are popular among today’s consumers in providing efficient zone heating. When you think about these types of fireplaces as a supplemental heat source, you will see utility bills drop, due to the fact you do not have to keep the thermostat set as high as you would without it. A natural gas fireplace can efficiently heat up to 1,000 square feet of living space in your home.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR FIREPLACE CHOICES

Before deciding the type of fireplace that would be best for you and the model that you would like to own, keep in mind some of the following points:

* Masonry wood burning fireplaces can lose up to 85% of their heat through the chimney. They are also considered to be high polluters of the outside air and create problems with air quality and cleanliness in the home. Gas fireplace inserts can be installed in almost any existing masonry fireplace. Masonry fireplaces also come in a wide variety of styles and designs.

* Other factors that should be considered are the climate you live in, the location of your home, and the age of your home. Also consider the construction of your home, as well as the amount of heat that is required to keep it warm.

* If you are thinking of purchasing a fireplace for zone heating, consider gas fireplaces, gas inserts and pellet appliances. It is recommended to purchase gas fireplace units with an A.F.U.E. (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating.

* Direct vent gas fireplaces are required to be kept close to an outside wall. They require air from the outside to feed the flame, while relatively cool gases are exhausted through a wall mounted or roof vent.

* Vent free fireplaces do not require outside venting. This kind of fireplace is not recommended in newer homes, because they can produce condensation within the home over time. These are also open fireplaces that do not have doors on them.

* Class B vents are required for conventional gas fireplaces. The Class B roof vent flue helps carry away hot combustible gases and most have operable doors.

* Pellet appliances are free standing stoves or fireplace inserts that burn wood based pellets made mostly from compressed sawdust. These are mostly used for zone heating and were designed to use waste wood produced by manufacturing companies. They are a highly efficient way to burn these waste wood products that can be purchased in 40 lb. bags. These pellet appliances can be designed to burn alternative fuels including corn and grains. One benefit of pellet fuel is the ability to lock in fuel costs at the beginning of the fall and winter seasons.

IN CONCLUSION…

So if a fireplace sounds good to you and you are looking to save money on high energy costs, a fireplace or stove could be a good investment. Just remember to take into consideration your location, preference and lifestyle. If you make the right decisions now, you will enjoy your new fireplace or stove for many years to come, without the regrets that many people face after they have made a ill-informed decision.

How To Choose A Dishwasher

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Basically dishwashers all perform the same function, they wash dishes. Some do it more expensively and with more bells and whistles than others do. A basic dishwasher will cost less than $300.00. If you’re into higher quality appliances for you home you can spend $600.00 or more.

A basic dishwasher will come without any frills. A basic dishwasher will tend to be louder than the more expensive models and have plastic tubs. Your dishes will get a good wash with a basic dish…

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Basically dishwashers all perform the same function, they wash dishes. Some do it more expensively and with more bells and whistles than others do. A basic dishwasher will cost less than $300.00. If you’re into higher quality appliances for you home you can spend $600.00 or more.

A basic dishwasher will come without any frills. A basic dishwasher will tend to be louder than the more expensive models and have plastic tubs. Your dishes will get a good wash with a basic dishwasher.

A mid-priced dishwasher will give you a few more frills. These dishwashers are more stylish in design than cheaper ones. They’ll run quieter and have more flexibility in loading. In the lower end you’ll still find plastic tubs.

A high end dishwasher will sometimes have the electronic touch panel hidden which keeps the dishwasher looking sleek. It will have removable top racks and generally will have stainless steel tubs. The wash your dishes will receive from a high end dishwasher will be excellent. Newer models allow you to load a month’s worth of dishwasher detergent at one time.

Most dishwashers have at least three wash cycles, light, normal and heavy. This is generally more than enough for most consumers. With higher end dishwashers you’ll have a larger selection of wash cycles available. Some include pot scrubber, soak/scrub and china/crystal. Some allow for drying with or without heat.

Some dishwashers are now self-cleaning. Any food that is lifted from dishes is washed into a filter to keep it from being re deposited on dishes. Rinse options can include a sanitizing wash. This does not have any affect on cleaning of the dishes. It raises the water temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are several things you’ll want to consider before you make your dishwasher purchase. One, is the money you’ll want to spend. As discussed above, a lower end dishwasher will run around $300.00 and a higher end $600.00 or more.

Will your dishwasher be going under your cabinets? That’s where most are placed today. Perhaps you’ll need a compact model which will fit into a smaller kitchen, or even a portable unit that can be rolled over to the sink and connected to the faucet.

What is the cost to use the dishwasher? Check the manufacturers specifications. Water usage can run between three and a half gallons up to twelve gallons a load depending on the manufacturer. An energy efficient dishwasher will save you a lot of money during it’s years of service.

Also, depending on the type and amount of dishes you routinely wash you may need a more flexible dishwasher. If you are washing platters, large bowls and pans on a daily basis you will want to make sure your dishwasher has flexible loading ability.

The most common dishwasher found in most homes is a built-in that sits under a countertop, near the sink. …

How To Choose A Curio Cabinet

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Curio cabinets have become a delight in themselves as they showcase your favorite things and mementos to friends and family, keep all your dear treasures in one place to admire them in wonderment everyday, or protect your growing collection of porcelain dolls from your 5-year old.

Curio cabinets started as places to keep curios – defined in the dictionary as curious or unusual objects of art or knickknacks and whatnots that are perhaps worthy of collecting because of their…


curio cabinets, display cabinets, corner curio cabinets

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Curio cabinets have become a delight in themselves as they showcase your favorite things and mementos to friends and family, keep all your dear treasures in one place to admire them in wonderment everyday, or protect your growing collection of porcelain dolls from your 5-year old.

Curio cabinets started as places to keep curios – defined in the dictionary as curious or unusual objects of art or knickknacks and whatnots that are perhaps worthy of collecting because of their oddity. This definition could, of course, include silver spoons from Alaska, all assortments of wedding and christening favors, crystals, face masks from Africa and possibly even shrunken heads from the Amazons of Ecuador and Peru.

Nowadays, however, you can use curio cabinets for anything:

– Show off your family’s sporting interests by displaying your son’s bowling trophies next to your husbands autographed baseballs.

– House your priceless family heirlooms – such as, great grandma’s turqoise and silver comb, grandpa’s golden pen, mum’s old sapphire brooch which you wore on your wedding day and your son’s first baby photo.

– Or perhaps, protect from dust and grime the brass alto saxophone that you know you’ll learn to play one day in your retirement years.

But how do you choose the curio cabinet that’s just right for you? Ask yourself the following questions below and find out how.

Tips on how to choose a curio cabinet

1. The first question you should ask when buying a curio cabinet is: What kind of curios will I put in it? If it is a tall brass alto saxophone, then you need to get a tall, traditional curio cabinet with fitted glass doors to keep the dust out and with removable glass shelves to make room for your favorite musical instrument.

2. How much light is there at the spot where you are going to put your curio cabinet? Is it in the sunroom with plenty of natural light or is it in a dark corner of the house? If the latter then you need an illuminated cabinet to brighten the corner as well as provide accent lighting to your displays.

3. How big a space do you have for your curio cabinet?

– Is the space amply high and wide? Then you might want to get a traditional, dark cherry curio cabinet with generous measurements of 44W x 17D x 79H inches.

– If narrower, then a more contemporary curio cabinet with practical urban living measurements of 24W x 12D x 76H inches may be better.

– If low and wide such as in a family room or den, then a golden oak console curio cabinet measuring 56W x 13D x 30H inches is probably what you need.

– And if angled in a corner, you may want a curio cabinet that can be snugly placed in a corner and probably measuring around 28W x 16D x 72H inches.

4. The other question to ask is – Do you want to match the look of your curio cabinet with the other furniture in the room?

– If you want to maintain a traditional look, then you might want to choose from grand old fashioned designs with bevelling, hand-carved details and dark timber finishes.

– If the room is contemporary, then you might want the clean lines and lighter timber finishes of a more urbanized curio cabinet with lots of mirror and glass.

5. What type of wood or non-wood appeals to you?

– If affordability is a consideration and you do not mind the look of MDF or engineered wood, then you might choose a curio cabinet made of strenghtened pressed particle board and topped with timber veneer or laminate.

– If you feel that a solid wood curio cabinet sounds like a good investment, then you should get a curio cabinet made from the more popular oak or maple – hardwoods that can only gain character and charm as they age.

6. And last but not least, what is your budget?

– Are you prepared to splurge on a Louis XV-inspired Pulaski curio cabinet selling for $2000 so that you can have a spectacular accent piece that can transform your entire living room experience?

– Or do you just want a simple wall curio cabinet – one that you can get for $20 at ebay to put your dog figurine collection?

How to Choose a Color When Painting Your Rooms

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Oyster White, Navajo White, Cielo Blanco, Off White are but a few variations that builders use when painting the interior of most homes. That while these colors look clean and crisp when we first move in, it doesn’t take long before we tire of the look and want something with a bit more pizazz.


home improvement, home remodeling, painting, paint, home makeover, house remodeling

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Are you still thinking about a color for those walls you’ve been putting off painting?

Oyster White, Navajo White, Cielo Blanco, Off White are but a few variations that builders use when painting the interior of most homes. That while these colors look clean and crisp when we first move in, it doesn’t take long before we tire of the look and want something with a bit more pizazz. Having said that, most people are a little afraid to step out of the standard for fear of not liking their color choice and having to re-do the process back to its original, boring Off White.

After 25 plus years in the Paint Trade, It still amazes me when a room gets a facelift with color. For around $50.00 you can create a look that has a designer flare. Your old furniture can even look new again. So don’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about the work involved. The pay off is far greater. So where do you start? How do you go about picking the right color?

My first suggestion would be to go with a tinted neutral color. Such as something in the gray or creme colors. Stay away from choosing colors that are deep or rich. You don’t want a startling effect nor do you want to date the room. I’m sure they won’t create the look your trying to achieve and you’ll become tired of it quickly. These deep colors will also create additional work for you. It’s been my experience that the darker colors will require a minimum of two coats, sometimes more.

However, when you go to your local home improvement store you will be faced with a sea of color swatches – hundreds of versions of basic beige and gray to choose from. So before you go, consider these steps to choosing the right color for you.

Now when you head on over to your local paint store or home improvement center you can become overwhelmed with all the variations of creme and gray. There can be hundreds of each. So before you go, take a good look around the room your going to repaint. See if you can’t find a light color somewhere in the room that you can take with you. Such as a color in the background of a piece of fabric on say a couch cushion or lampshade. If you like the feel of a warm and cozy room – think of fireplaces, brown leather and sunsets – then you’ll want to start with a beige tone.

Now, consider your furniture and accessories. What colors do you see? If you have a lot of black or navy you may wish to choose a beige with orange or pink undertones to keep the look warm. If you have browns or reds in your furniture, select a cooler beige with ashy tones to avoid ‘overheating’ your room.

If you prefer a cooler, airy look – chrome, glass and shades of icy blue – then select gray tones. Some stores will have a ‘true gray’ color swatch which you can use to compare with their designer selections. On comparison you will notice that each gray has undertones. Some will have blue or lavender tones, others may have green or even a hint of pink.

Using the same guide as stated above, identify the main colors of furniture and accessories in the room. Use green or pink toned greys with cool toned furnishings to avoid it from feeling like an ice box. Use blue or lavender undertones in rooms with warmer colored furnishings.

If you are really torn between beige or gray, than the easiest color to work with is green. Keeping it in a muted tone will make it very easy to live with, and will work with most color palates.

Now, If all of the above guidelines only further confuse you, you can simply go to the paint store and pick up as many different color chips as you like, bring them home and make your decision there. I know it’s an added trip you’ll have to make but what better location to make your decision than from the comfort of home?

Picking and painting your rooms with your choice of color will bring you the results your looking for and a sense of accomplishment when you see the finished product. Remembering that you’ll get this makeover for less than the cost of a good meal at your favorite eating place.