Home Blog Page 153

15+ Chic and Trendy Macrame Wall Hanging DIY Ideas for Beginners!

0
macrame wall hangings

While scrolling down on Instagram, you might have seen some really interesting Macrame arts such as macrame plant hangers, macrame wall hangings, macrame curtains, and more. Some of you might have also pinned these cute bohemian art pieces on your Pinterest. After all, these designs are so eye-catching and beautiful. Each Macrame piece has some kind of charming vintage appeal to it, which gives our home an incomparable touch of cozy, neutral texture.

Back in the days, macrame was connected to the hip and happening kind of style from the ’60s and ’70s, but now this trend shifted toward boho and eclectic decors. Thanks to the innovative artisans, crafters, and designers that continue to turn a fresh eye towards this knotted and woven art. They transformed it and made its neutral palette and heavily textured patterns look even better. Great! 

So today, we have brought some creative and fun DIY macrame wall hanging ideas so that you can decorate your home for the upcoming festive season. 

15+ Cute and Creative Macrame Wall Hanging Ideas

From white and cream macrame string, cording, or roping, you can actually make so many awesome stuff like coasters, wall hangings, jar holders, and so much more. So check every DIY listed below: 

1. Dip Dyed Huge Wall Hanging

Dip Dyed Huge Wall Hanging

As soon as I saw this, I just fell in love with this gorgeous large wall macrame hanging. Aren’t these colors lively and rich? This dip-dyed large wall macrame hanging will surely bring a new depth to any wall of your home. From the foyer to the bedroom, this versatile piece will fit in any place with ease.

2. Adorable Twisted Plant Hangers

Adorable Twisted Plant Hangers

When it comes to macrame, this is the most common DIY that anyone thinks of. So if you still didn’t have a plant holder like this, it’s time to make one. You can create as many according to space and hang your plants in them. The twisted and textured pattern will surely look delightful and classy. 

3. Glowy Mason Jar Holders

Glowy Mason Jar Holders

Quite similar to the plant holder but a little bit easier, these mason jar holders will create a mesmerizing ambiance in your outdoors. You can effortlessly create them and can hang them in trees. They’ll look really awesome at night! 

4. Dreamy Art Piece

Dreamy Art Piece

Yes, they kind of look like a dream catcher. These cute macrame artworks are large and contemporary versions of dreamcatchers. To create this, all you need is some hoops and macrame. 

Lightly woven macrame around the loops in your desired pattern, and voila, your contemporary dream catcher is ready to grab some attention from your guests. Also, don’t forget to keep your woven works pristine and free of dust to retain their soft and delicate appearance.

5. Macrame Mirror Mandala

Macrame Mirror Mandala

Another circular art piece that you can DIY from macrame is these beautiful mirrors. A couple of these artworks provide the same boho flair but with a dash of contemporary flavor to your room. We all know that mirrors are a great way to create an illusion of extra space and light as well.

6. Headboard from Macrame

Headboard from Macrame

We’re pretty sure that after looking at this cute macrame DIY, you’ll fall in love with it. Yes, this is a vast macrame wall hanging, but you can use it as a headboard. It’ll look lovely! You can also add some pop of colors by dip dying the ends just like the first one. 

7. Flowing DIY Macrame Wall Hangings

Flowing DIY Macrame Wall Hangings

When it comes to macrame, your DIY will never complete without creating at least one wall hanging. There is a dizzying array of wall hangings that you can make from macrame. 

8. DIY Macrame Lamp Cord

 DIY Macrame Lamp Cord

Another really fun and unique DIY is this lamp that is entirely made from macrame. Just keep making a rope-like design, and at last, just put a bulb holder, and your lamp cord is ready. You can put this in your reading corner. 

9. Woven Macrame Hammocks

Woven Macrame Hammocks

This DIY is for my those readers who are pro in weaving macrame. Traditionally, macrame hammock is used outdoors, but there is no rule that you can’t use it indoors. It will bring a feeling of relaxation to your place.

Just hang this in your reading nook on a three-season porch where you can take in the outdoor scenery. 

10. DIY Azurite Pattern Art

 DIY Azurite Pattern Art

These types of patterns are pretty commonly seen in handmade macrame artworks. These patterns look extremely good, even without colors. You just have to make all the details carefully, and your Azurite Pattern macrame art will be ready in no time!

11. Decorative Macrame Garlands

Decorative Macrame Garlands

Do you have a boring looking hat rack? If so, then spice it up with some cool macrame garlands. It will bring a touch of hipness and happiness to your home! You can even place them above your bed or on a door. Even they look cool on a fireplace mantel, floating shelf, or window sills. 

Read our previous blog on stunning hat rack ideas and get inspired and make one for yourself. 

12. Easy Breezy Macrame Door Curtains

Easy Breezy Macrame Door Curtains

From Instagram to Pinterest, these flowy curtains are everywhere. These flowing macrame coverings will instantly add a dash of dreaminess to any doorway or window. You can even use them on your closet door because this makes access quieter, quick, and simple!

13. Flowy DIY Macrame Panels

Flowy DIY Macrame Panels

Just like the macrame door curtains, these are the window panels. Aren’t they making the whole space more cozy and welcoming?

14. DIY Rotating Macrame Chair

DIY Rotating Macrame Chair

This festive season, don’t leave any corner of your house undecorated. Put a bookshelf in a corner and fill it with your favorite books. Hang a macrame chair and some fluffy throw pillows, and this boring corner will transform into a lovely reading nook. 

15. Magical Hanging Chandeliers

Magical Hanging Chandeliers

Cast a magical and mystical glow throughout your home with these really pretty macrame covered chandeliers. You can also include some artisanal woven pendants made from bamboo and rattan. They both look great together. 

16. DIY Macrame Bathroom Basket

DIY Macrame Bathroom Basket

Macrame arts doesn’t limit to the living rooms and bedrooms; you can use them anywhere. Yes, even in bathrooms. Look how cute these small baskets are being used for storing bathroom essentials. 

17. DIY Floral Triangle Macrame Hanging 

 DIY Floral Triangle Macrame Hanging 

The last macrame Diy on our list is this floral wall hanging. This flower embellishments on this triangular piece give you all the character. Yes, many people stick with the circular wall hangings, but this uniquely shaped triangle holder will surely grab some attention. Wouldn’t this be pretty in a baby nursery?

macrame wall hanging ideas

All in One! 

Confused between all these charismatic and eye-pleasing macrame wall hanging ideas? It happens!! From decorative macrame cord lamps, chairs to the macrame door curtains, each DIY I personally selected for both beginners and the experts. 

These 17 macrame wall hangings will elevate the trendiness of your space within minutes of installation. This list has covered all types of macrame arts; some are smaller, some are larger, some are filled with natural layers, and others carry colorful tones with ease. There’s a design or style woven for everyone within this list. 

The best thing about these simple projects is that they can be made in many different shapes, and there’s always a way to make them unique. I hope these ideas will inspire you enough to create a macrame art for your place.

Explore More

How to Start a Successful Coworking Space Today

0
Coworking Space

If you’ve been working entirely from home for the last 6 months because of the global pandemic and are itching to get a change of scenery to keep yourself productive, then chances are, so do many other people. Now you have this wonderful idea of starting your very own coworking space but you haven’t the slightest idea how to, especially during this time. No worries, this article will arm you with all the necessary things you have to know to start a successful coworking space today.

Finding the Right Place to Start

Finding the Right Place to Start

The first and probably most important consideration should be a perfect location. However, to be honest, this will really depend on what kind of clients you are actually pursuing. If you want to appeal to companies who want to allow their workers to already grind in an office environment (that’s not really theirs) then go look for a space in a business district. But if you want to cater to the needs of remote workers who’ve been doing okay at home but can no longer stand the sight of their own WFH setup, then try scouting locations near residential areas. 

Keep in mind though, the current setup might not be forever (since of course countries are racing for a vaccine and cure as we speak) so plan for a COVID-free future, too.

Safety and Security Consideration

There’s no denying that we are in an extraordinary situation and our goal is to capitalize on this and not become a hotbed for the deadly virus! So safety and security must be one of our top priorities for setting up a new coworking space.

Fortunately, there are lots of existing models to follow. Some have set their tables and seats a few meters apart. Others have made social distancing mandatory within their premises. And of course, they also made sanitizers and other disinfectants readily available for clients. Find out the good practices and apply what you think works best for you. 

Strong Internet Connection

A blue and white background with a globe on it

We all know that a coworking space is nothing without a good and reliable internet connection. A middle-tier connection just won’t cut it. After all, your clients are paying by the hour or sometimes even every month for them to be productive and without a good internet connection, that’s impossible. Think about the maximum capacity of your space and understand the internet requirement for each. The bigger allocation, the better.

Create a Welcoming but Productive Space

Coworking spaces are famous for having a better office environment than most offices in the area (except probably for over-the-top buildings like Google). So you must understand what it takes to have the perfect setup.

The key to this is space, comfort, and productivity. You must provide your clients with enough space to do all their necessary work and I’m not just talking about desk space! They should have enough areas to walk around and probably stretch while taking a break from their actual jobs. You should also provide ample electrical outlets to charge several devices that your clients will need. Lighting is also an important

Go the Extra Mile

A group of people sitting around a living room

This is not necessary really, but it will make you stand out and succeed. Going the extra mile will allow you to stand out against other coworking spaces and boost your income right then and there. For one, you could offer pour-over coffee services complete with fresh beans. Or if tea is more your thing then you can do that. Another suggestion is to possibly put in a small pantry of healthy items that your clients can eat out of for a quick bite while working. Or you can partner with a professional parking company that will strip away the parking worries of your clients and essentially saves them time to do more important stuff. 

Coworking spaces are innovative areas in and of itself that cater to various needs of an office worker. It redefines the boring and standard office space as something better, brighter, and bigger. So if you thought of other exciting and more creative things to implement for your coworking space, don’t be afraid to do it.

Read more:-

Tips for More Effective Home Office

0
Effective Home Office

Getting organized is an excellent means to boost your productivity. Time is money. Time spent looking for something for the tenth time is time that is wasted.

This year more than ever, many people are working from home for the first time. People are looking for office organizing tips because many are setting up their first home office.

The good news is that this means you have more control over your workspace. The bad news is you have to take responsibility for all the details. Let’s talk about where to start.

How Do I Set Home Office Space?

A laptop computer sitting on top of a wooden desk

You need to pick a space in your home that you can dedicate to work. It’s great if you can make it a separate room but not everyone can do that. A desk dedicated to nothing else can work well.

Determine how much space you need and also think about things like lighting and access to electrical outlets. If nothing obvious jumps out at you, consider cleaning out a closet. Sometimes, closets can be converted to a home office.

If it is out in the open, get a desk that can be closed up at the end of the day so it looks like a wardrobe. Then you don’t have to look at your work constantly.

Of course, people always end up with questions about good and bad places to site a home office. Let’s answer one of the most popular such questions next.

Is It Bad to Have Your Office in Your Bedroom?

A bedroom with a bed, desk, chair and bookshelf

There is no one right answer to this question. It will depend on a variety of factors, such as: 

  • Do you sleep alone or with a partner?
  • How noisy is your work?
  • What kind of hours do you typically keep?

If you type loudly and often work while your spouse is trying to sleep, then having your workspace in the bedroom will lead to a lot of friction. You aren’t likely to be productive because you will be fighting instead of working or quitting early to let them sleep.

If you share an apartment with roommates, your bedroom may be the only space you have control over. If so, putting your office in your bedroom may be the best answer. It can also work fine if you happen to live alone. You may enjoy the convenience of having your desk conveniently near your bed. This can let you record thoughts or be ready to work at a moment’s notice when you get a phone call at odd hours, which is increasingly common these days.

How Can I Make My Home Office More Efficient?

I Make My Home Office More Efficient

When outfitting your home office, at a minimum you will need a desk, a good chair, and a computer. You will likely also need other peripherals, such as a printer and a smartphone. These can add up to a tangled mess of cords. This is not only unsightly, it’s a potential hazard and a speed bump to productivity.

Ideally, you want to get those cords under control. Go ahead and spend money on inexpensive organizers. It’s one of the best office organizing tips around. Whether you get clips to wrangle cables or a desktop file system, buying small organizers for your space can be some of the best money you will ever spend.

How Can I Decorate My Home Office Desk?

Decorate My Home Office Desk

You can decorate your home office desk any way you want, but plants are a great place to start. They do not only help calm people down, but they also improve your air quality.

You should think of home office decor as another means to enhance productivity. A calm, happy space is one where you will be more productive and that can help improve your income or free up time to do other things besides work.

Reducing clutter and choosing calming colors is a good place to start. Then move on to adding art and accessories as you see fit. Do not hesitate to adjust things as needed. If something isn’t working for you, you can change it at will at any time. A home office gives you enormous control over your space.

Conclusion

These days, a home office is often an essential part of life. Getting it organized and decorating it is time well spent and an investment in future productivity.

De-cluttering the space should be one of your top priorities. An uncluttered space means you will spend less time looking for things and more time being productive.

Once your home office is set up and organized, add a few plants and some favorite artwork to help set the mood. Personalizing it can make working from home a joy instead of just another chore to do.

In case you missed it!

Interior Design Tricks to Brighten Up a Dark Room

0
Interior Design Tricks to Brighten Up a Dark Room

A dark room does not only look dull and grimy but also affects your mood as well. A bright and well-lighted place looks more appealing and livelier. Changing the dark appearance of your room may sound a very daunting task but using some tricks and décor ideas you can do it with less budget and time.

You do not need massive changes in the décor of the room to make it brighter. Even small structural changes like changing the paint color or adding fixtures or accessories can make a huge difference and bring freshness to a dark and dull-looking room.

If you are looking for ideas to increase daylight to your room or just want to add such renovation touches that would make your room look bright and mood, then check the following easy to implement ideas and tips to light up your room’s dark interior. These ideas will not just increase the physical light but also create the illusion of a bright and light place.

Right Paint for the Room

Right Paint for the Room

Repaint the room with a white or neutral color. Light colors make the room look bright and spacious by reflecting the light. Paint the ceiling of the room with white color and see the instant result. Make sure to select a pure white-colored paint for your ceiling.

Trees and Windows

Clean all the dust and splatters on the windows and paint them with a light color. The cleaner the windows, the more light will pass through them. Also do not forget to regularly trim any trees or bushes that are blocking the daylight coming directly in the room. 

Focus on Lighting

Focus on Lighting

The use of surfaces that reflect light can make the place bright instantly without putting much effort. Make use of the walls and ceilings for reflecting the light. Use CFLs and LEDs for energy-efficient high-intensity light. For adding some warmth to the décor, try placing a salt lamp on the side table. Different kinds of light sources will add more vibrancy and liveliness to the room. A rock salt lamp is a completely natural way to add coziness while making you feel relaxed

You can visit bulk Ittefaq salt to know more about these lamps.

Hang Mirrors

Hang Mirrors

Hanging mirrors in the room is one of the easiest and effective ideas to brighten up any place. Place the mirror in the opposite direction of the window so that it can reflect the sunlight and make the room brighter. You can place one big mirror or many small mirrors for this purpose. You can choose from a variety of mirrors of different styles.

Change Dark Curtains

Change Dark Curtains

Your room can feel drab and gloomy with dark-colored curtains made of thick dark fabric. Replace them with light fabric curtains of some neutral colors. The white cotton curtains can make your room luminous and airy. For diffusing daylight, a sheer curtain will be a good option.

A Sheer curtain not only lightens the space but also gives a very coastal effect. A pro tip to make the room look light and bright is to adjust the curtains higher and pull back from the windows. Try this trick and you will see the change.

Accessories

Making your room bright and clean does not mean you do not use accessories to decorate it. Light accessories that do not take much room space would make your room visually appealing and bright. There is a huge variety of accessories available in the market.

You can also DIY simple yet attractive accessories at home as well. You can place plain or patterned cushions on the couch that complement its color. Don’t leave the floor empty, cover it with a bright-colored area rug to enhance the floor, and brighten up your room.

Furniture

Furniture

Choose the right furniture for the room. Minimalist furniture with light colors would be perfect to make the room more spacious and bright. Do not overcrowd the room with extra furniture. Just place essential furniture items in the room to keep it clean and roomy.

Choose the right furniture for the room. Minimalist furniture with light colors would be perfect to make the room more spacious and bright. Do not overcrowd the room with extra furniture. Just place essential furniture items in the room to keep it clean and roomy.

Furniture can also be added as a visual addition and centerpiece. The best example of furniture being incorporated as the main feature within a room and that is the addition of a console table. There are many different ways on how to style a console table, but finding a style that compliments the decor of your home is a must.

Choose the Right Art

Choose the Right Art

Add some life and color to the room by adding some art pieces. Art adds depth as well as vibrancy to the overall décor. You can hang abstract art or some sceneries to add a hint of nature.

All these interior design tricks and ideas are very feasible and easy to implement. You just need to do some brainstorming and proper planning.

Read more:-

Why Is the Real Estate Market So Hot Right Now in Florida?

0

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that 30A real estate FL is super hot right now. Everyone always dreams of moving to Florida when they retire. For some though, Florida isn’t just a retirement option for many; it’s a place where they move too early on in life and enjoy. Those who are the luckiest are the ones who get to call Florida home from day one. Anyone fortunate enough to have been born in Florida should count their lucky stars. The weather, scenery, and fabulous people all make the state the great place it is. It’s a change of environment and living for all those who are joining in. 

If you want to go where you find absolutely safe, satisfied, and wise in your investment – Florida is calling for you. There’s nothing but new sunshine on your plate and 30A real estate is serving this HOT.  

A Quick Look at Why Real Estate Fl Is So Hot

A Quick Look at Why Real Estate Fl Is So Hot

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that people are flocking to these twon because florida is a great place to live. Every day, people visit Florida and decide that this is where they want to spend the rest of their lives. Why is that? It’s all about the beach; a place where every day you get to wake up in the sound of the ocean and the warm graze of the sun. If the truth were to be told, that’s the reason why so many people are visiting Florida and never going back. 

Want to know their secret? Once they see Florida in all its beauty, the people, and the houses, it’s like staying in a new world. It’s such a new place that visitors marvel at how beautiful, warm, and fresh this place is! 

Get the Most Out of Life by Enjoying Every Day

Anyone who has spent any time in the 30A already knows how much better life is when you enjoy where you’re at. Every day of your life should be as enjoyable as it can be especially if you’re planning to retire. Many people lose sight of the fact that every day is precious. Any day that you’re not enjoying yourself is a day that’s lost for eternity.

If you’re on the fence about moving, don’t be. Take another look around and see for yourself why so many enjoy the coastal region. Something changes in people when they get a healthy dose of sunlight and a whiff of fresh ocean breezes. Stress has a way of melting, and people begin to smile again. Living in this region of Florida is about taking control of the passion you have for life and making sure that you wake up every day knowing that this is as good as it gets.

If you want to experience that kind of life, here is what you should need right now; FLORIDA. 

Talk About the Dream Property 

Talk About the Dream Property 

The properties in Florida brought to you by 30A are the dream you’ve always been looking to fulfill. “Beautiful’ doesn’t describe this enough – as the properties here are absolutely breathtaking and somewhere you can really call your home.

If you want to settle, relax, and spend your days in a property that’s giving everything you ever need, this one’s for you. Stunning beach houses are ready to make every day living warm in the morning, and cozy at night. Just imagine going to sleep and waking up to the fresh breeze of the beach. 

This is one of the reasons why people can’t stop coming in and investing in houses around the place. It’s to die for! Like a movie that’s waiting to happen by you. 

Buying a Home in 30A Is a Wise Investment

Buying a Home in 30A Is a Wise Investment

A home, for many people, isn’t thought of as an investment like stocks or bonds. However, those who understand how investing works know that a home is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. It doesn’t matter if you call the house home for the entire year or only when you’re on vacation, investing your money in real estate in Florida is a wise choice.

Before you become a real estate investor or a landlord in Florida, however, make sure to use the right lease agreement forms for Florida.

As the home market continues to dwindle, and more customers seek houses to buy, it becomes a seller’s market. Your investment will steadily increase in value over the years, and when it comes time to buy, you’ll be able to flip your home for a handsome profit.

Just remember – your home is a shared investment. It’s where your heart, your mind, and your money go. At 30A real estate FL, you get all three! 

Keep reading:-

9 Tips For Building The Perfect Home Theater Room

0
Building The Perfect Home Theater Room

Like every other field, interior design has also revolutionized in the last few decades. House remodeling is a vast field. Modern interior design has a lot of ideas for transforming your ordinary house into a lavish residence.

No doubt, the big screen has a big charm. Building a home theater room can be an excellent addition to your house for experiencing a memorable entertaining time. Designing a home theater room is much more than adding a couch and a screen in a regular room.

You can transform your ordinary room into a perfect home theater room by employing the following tips. Let’s get started.

1. Locate A Dedicated Space For Home Theater Room

Locate A Dedicated Space For Home Theater Room

For enjoying the big screen, the location of the home theater room becomes very important. The home theater room must be solely dedicated to screen-related activities. A separate room away from the other rooms can serve as the best entertainment place.

External interruptions can disturb you while watching a movie or video gaming and lessen the cinematic experience. So, it is necessary to locate it somewhere away from the noise and other household sounds.

Another important thing that one should notice is the space of the room. Your dedicated space must be spacious enough so the viewers could maintain a proper distance from the screen.

Don’t forget the natural light in the room while locating your home theater. Your dedicated space must have the least light coming in, so you don’t have to spend on minimizing it.

2. Building An A/V Component Rack

Building an A/V component rack is an essential thing that your cinema space must have. You can keep all your source components,  like a DVD player, speakers, cable box, and network media box, etc. in one place, manages your source components, and also prevents mess due to the intermingling of wires.

Your A/V component rack should be strong enough to hold all the source components. A metal one would be a better option for keeping heavy equipment.

Don’t forget to make your A/V component rack well-ventilated. Your source components produce heat that could damage them. Ventilation keeps them cool and prevents thermal damage. You can also purchase a well-ventilated A/V component rack, instead of building one.

3. Lighting

A large empty room with a projector screen

The Theater lighting system has to be perfect for having an enjoyable experience. The lighting system should have brightness control for adjusting the light.

You can use soffits, rope lights, or recessed lights in your cinema space. Soffits are extensions around the perimeter of the room. They can be decorated with rope lights for illuminating a home theater.

Recessed lights can be installed in the soffits or ceiling of the room for illuminating the space. The lighting must be behind the viewer, so the lights could not disturb your screen experience.

4. Limiting The Reflecting Objects

Everything with a reflective surface except, your screen should be avoided. Reflecting objects reflects light on your screen and interrupts the image. Shiny paints should be replaced by matte paint to minimize the reflecting effect. Shiny doorknobs, fixtures, and countertops should also be avoided. If you have something reflecting, paint it with dark-colored matte paint. Limiting the reflecting objects will prevent reflecting light at the viewer.

5. Seating Arrangement

A home theater with leather recliners and a projector screen

The proper seating arrangement is a notable factor while building a perfect theater space. The seating arrangement should be such that all the viewers could watch the screen conveniently. Tiered seating can give your cinema space a luxurious outlook. Raise the rear seats on a platform, so the viewers on the back could view the screen without blockage.

When it comes to seats, they should be comfortable. You can place full-back lounge chairs or cushioned chairs. Placing sofas could be a better option as they are more comfortable and also give a luxurious outlook.

Remember to keep a proper distance between the screen and the seats. The seats should not be too close or too far from the screen.

6. Sound Controlling

Ambient sound, as well as unwanted sound from the inner sources both, can disturb our theater audio.

Ambient sound is the sound from an external source, like dishwashing, kids playing in other rooms, household machinery sound, and all such other noises. In addition to locating your home theater room away from the other rooms, you need some more steps.

  • Soundproofing the walls can contribute a lot to reducing the ambient sound. For soundproofing, you can add a drywall layer. Sound-reducing wallboard can also assist in limiting the ambient sound.
  • Installing solid doors, instead of hollow-core doors can also assist in reducing the outside sounds.
  • Putting curtains on the window absorbs both ambient light and sound.

Audio from the theater room is also reflected from the walls and has to be reduced.

  • The best way to control it is to add draperies on the walls of the theater room.
  • Adding sound-absorbing objects, like rugs, and cushions also help in absorbing unwanted sound in the room.

7. Building Surround Sound System

A red room with a row of black chairs

After cutting the unwanted noise, comes the step of building a perfect surround sound system. Surround sound is a technique to enhance the depth of sound produced by using numerous audio channels from the speakers that surround the listeners.

Surround sound can be created in two ways:

The easiest way to create a surround sound is by correctly positioning the speakers.

If your room is too spacious, you may need to purchase the best high-end center channel speaker.

You need to consider the following steps while buying speakers for your home theater:

  • The frequency range of your speaker should be high.
  • The speaker should have a high sensitivity to make them sound sharper.
  • Buy a speaker with low wattage as it would be more efficient with other equipment than the one with high wattage.

8. Selecting An AV Reciever

A stereo sitting on top of a wooden shelf

Another necessary piece of equipment for your home theater is the AV receiver. It receives the audio and video signals, amplifies them, and sends them to speakers or displays.

You can purchase a Wifi or Bluetooth-enabled receiver for preventing wiring mess. But wireless features can be added by Chromecast. Choose a reliable receiver for your theater space. Consider the following things while choosing a receiver:

  • Choose the one that has more channels for connecting more devices.
  • The range of connectivity is also a considerable factor when selecting an AV receiver. Your receiver should be able to connect all your media sources.
  • Another spec to consider is the compatibility of the receiver. Your receiver should be compatible with DV, HDR10, and HLG video formats.

9. Screen

A home theater with black leather seats and a projector screen

A nice TV or a projector is the primary thing your theater space must-have. Both the projector and smart TV have some advantages and limitations.

You can choose a projector as they can be conveniently tucked, after watching. You can raise or lower the screen of the projector according to your need.

A smart TV prevents the hassle of wiring. You only need a fast internet connection for streaming.

You can choose a projector as they can be conveniently tucked, after watching. If you get a motorized projector screen, you can raise or lower the screen of the projector according to your need.

If you are on the way to designing the home theater room, don’t forget the above tips. They will surely be helpful in your journey to the perfect home theater room.

Keep reading:-

Choosing The Right Interior Designer For Your Next Project – 5 Easy Steps

0
Interior Designers

Has your house looked the same since the early 2000s?

Do you have upholstery that doesn’t complement anything else in your home?

Are multiple schools of thought and design clashing in your house? 

First up, take a deep breath. You are not alone. Countless people are in the same boat as you. All you need to do is find an interior designer who will transform your home and give it a new lease on life! 

The only challenge that remains is zeroing in on the best interior designer for your house. Here are 5 steps to follow before choosing your next interior designer.

1. Researching And Identifying Your Exact Requirements And Style

Researching And Identifying Your Exact Requirements And Style

Step one sounds easy, but sometimes, figuring out what you truly want can be difficult. Identifying the right style that complements your aesthetic and your preferences are crucial. Research always aids in this process. Look at references online and in interior design magazines. Look up ‘interior designer near me’ on Google and browse through as many results as you can. Seek advice, perspectives, and recommendations from friends and family.

Make sure you have a relatively long list of references that speak to you, ready to be shared with the chosen designer. Try and keep this list as specific as possible. Be sure to think and dream big during this process. Remember, you’re only ideating and not executing yet. Let the ideas be grand but specific. They could be opulent, but they must be exactly what you like. Let them seem impossible to execute, but you must love them intrinsically. Identify your favorite style or at least identify your top 3 style aesthetics.  

2. Study The Quality Of Their Work

Study The Quality Of Their Work

Once you’ve identified your top styles or schools of thought, you must begin browsing through portfolios. Now, you need the right designers who match your sensibilities, speak your language, relate to you, and can truly put themselves in your shoes. Study the portfolios in great detail. Analyze the designers’ past work. Don’t hesitate in asking questions – even the silliest ones. Synergy and a shared vision are hallmarks of great interior design. The best interior designer in India will get instantly acclimatized to your aesthetic and take it to the next level.

3. State Your Budget

State Your Budget

It might be a slightly lengthy process, but you will zero in on one designer at some point. Once you’ve identified the right one, make sure you meet them. Make sure you have a lengthy conversation with them and explain your vision. Keep asking questions throughout this stage as well. The more you know, and the more you share, the more aligned your vision will be.

If you want a good working relationship with the best interior designers in Mumbai, you need to communicate your limits to them. Clarity on the budget at the start is crucial. If both parties are on the same page, it’ll reduce the instances of friction due to disagreement, and your designer won’t go overboard. You’ll also be able to avoid a lot of back and forth.

4. Collaborate While Working With them

Collaborate While Working With them

You don’t have to take the back seat once your interior designer is on board. Even though they’ve taken the reins, it’s important to keep speaking to them, inspiring them, and collaborating with them throughout the process. Visions can alter over a period of time.

Perhaps, there are problems with the sourcing of a particular fabric. Such problems can be resolved only through sharing. Encourage your designer to keep updating you on all fronts. Keep the ideating process ongoing. Keep feeding yourself and your designer with inspiration throughout the process. Remember, your home refurbishment project is a journey. Enjoy it as much as you can. If you and the designer are having fun, even challenges will become sparser, and problem-solving will become easier.

5. Keep an Open Mind and Keep Communicating 

Keep an Open Mind and Keep Communicating 

In addition to keeping all communication channels between you and the designer open, it’s equally important for you to keep an open mind. Yes, you must stand your ground. Sometimes, you might have to put your foot down. But overall, you need to keep the faith and have an open mind. 

Conclusion

At some point, the interior designer could elevate your idea and create something truly inspired and incredible. The designer will need the leeway to be able to pull that off. You need to be able to distinguish between when to step in and when to let them be and do their thing. Remember that there’s a reason why you’ve hired them. So trust your instincts and keep an open mind. Most importantly, keep the dialogue flowing. 

Follow these crucial steps to watch your interior designer create absolute magic for you. You will be able to live in your dream house, every single day.

Explore More:-

Essential Considerations Before Moving to a Luxury Apartment

0
Considerations Before Moving to a Luxury Apartment

People are continuously looking for new stuff and the hotel industry is not exempted. In fact, to date, luxury apartments continue to trend across the United States, especially in California.

Luxury apartments are heaven-sent for people who want to unwind and live in a luxurious place without needing to pay for a down payment. These apartments are treated as a far spacious alternative to hotels where the interiors, furniture, fixture, and appliances remain high class and luxurious and the great amenities are still being offered. The amenities that hotels offer like swimming pools, highly equipped fitness centers, and more are present.

On the upside, what sets luxury apartments such as the Athena Apartments apart from the traditional hotels is the larger space they offer with each having a dedicated kitchen room, living room, and dining room.

Most luxury apartments design have two to three rooms which make them ideal for a staycation or even for a long, permanent stay.

Here Are a Few Essential Factors to Take into Account Before Moving to a Luxury Apartment in California:

1. Location

If you are depending on public transport, you will want to assess how convenient the apartment location is. It should be one of your topmost priorities unless accessibility is not a problem for you. Although some apartments are far from the downtime, some apartment companies compensate for it by providing a shuttle bus for its occupants to the subway line. Do not forget to inquire about this before sealing any deal.

2. The Storage Space

The interior details of the luxury apartment are a given but behind that, one thing you should look into is the apartment’s complimentary storage space. Does it have enough for your things? This is extremely important to retain the luxurious feel and aesthetics of the unit.

3. The Parking Area

A parking garage with several cars parked in it

If you are a car owner, the parking area or the garage spot should be another vital concern. There is no point living in a luxury apartment if the parking you have to do on a regular basis would be a hassle on your part, i.e. if you need to move your vehicle accordingly so that others can pass through.

4. The Payment Term

Supposedly, tenants need to pay the actual rent every month. However, a month or two may be offered free in exchange for choosing the higher-priced units. If this is your case, do not hesitate to check the contract you will be signing. Also, do note of how the net effective rent should be calculated, i.e. dividing the total concession amount by the lease term then deducting whatever was told will be free. In most cases, it could be that the amount is reduced by the discounts or the first and last months of the term are given free.

Although it is not that much, it also would be a big plus if the luxury apartment accepts credit cards with minimal to zero convenience fee.

5. Are Guarantors Accepted?

From the name itself, of course, luxury apartments are luxurious, thus expensive. This will not be a problem unless an issue came up with your job, causing your monthly income to decrease. When such cases happen, guarantors can help.

Some landlords in California allow guarantors but that is only if they make 80 times the monthly rent at the least. These guarantors may be relatives or those from the institutional lease guarantor association.

6. The Additional or Hidden Amenity Fees

The common amenities in luxury apartment communities include the state-of-the-art wellness and fitness center and a lot more. Of course, your agent or the ads you see on the internet will brag about their awesome amenities. While this might be exciting, you also have to ensure whether accessing them come free or are with additional costs. Do not hesitate to inquire to the right people.

However, just because you will be required to pay extra for the gym and other amenities, it does not mean you should be discouraged right away. Other factors should also be considered, e.g. the savings you might be able to enjoy from just accessing the fitness center that is just meters away from your place.

7. The Availability and Stability of Cellphone Signals

In this digital age where mobile phones have become one of the major mediums of communication, it is highly important that the apartment you will be staying in has a stable cellphone signal despite having several dozen stories. You should check this part physically. If there seems to be none, ask the landlord if he can offer a workaround and if it is free or with an extra charge.

8. Pets

A man is playing with his dogs in the living room

Ironically, the typical apartments have stricter rules when it comes to pets. Luxury apartments, on the other hand, are kind of lenient and accommodating. But, before signing any deal, you have to inquire about this too. In most cases, pets are allowed but exotic and larger ones are not. There are certain rules that must be followed and at times, you may also be required to pay a pet deposit.

Your pet would thank you surely if you lived in an apartment with a pet-centric amenity that is already existent in some apartments these days.

9. Temporary Wall Policy

Although temporary walls sound like a great idea for bookshelves or other purposes, most of the luxury apartments have prohibited them for safety concerns.

10. The Security System in place

A living room filled with furniture and a flat screen tv

Since living in a luxury apartment is going to be hefty and heavy in the pocket, it pays to make sure you are safe. This will depend on the security system in place. Fortunately, most of the luxurious homes maintain high-security standards in the form of security cameras, strong gates, and more than enough security team. Ideally, the apartment should have digital systems and trained personnel that can help implement top-class security.

It can be very challenging to find an apartment that suits your needs and preferences. Generally, luxury apartments design vary in terms of interior details, infrastructure, and the touch of luxury. The abovementioned factors must be properly taken into consideration. After all, they are pricey.

Explore further:

Where to Place the Sofa? 5 Living Room Layout Tips

0
Where to Place the Sofa

Developing a floor plan is one of the natural first steps to furnishing any space, to ensure that you know exactly what you’ll need to make your space feel beautiful and functional. But as the starting point, it’s not surprising that nailing the perfect living room layout – from the sofa to the storage – can be daunting, particularly if you don’t know where to start.

Whether you’re starting from scratch in your design process, or simply looking to give your existing living room layout a fresh facelift, we’re here to help with a step-by-step guide. These interior designer-approved tips will give you the guidance you need to create a furniture arrangement you love while making the most of the living area.

Step 1: Create a floor plan

Create a floor plan

And no, you don’t need a fancy computer program or a background in architecture to draw up a helpful layout! All you need is a blank piece of paper and a tape measure. First, start by measuring all walls of the room, including any little nooks. The most important part of this exercise is that you develop a drawing that shows everything in the proper scale. One trick: convert all your measurements in “feet” to “inches” or “centimeters” when you plot them on your paper.

For example, if your room is 18.5 feet in length and 12 feet in width, you can draw an outline of your room to-scale using 18.5 inches/centimeters by 12 inches/centimeters. Also, don’t forget to add any immoveable elements such as doors, windows, or built-in bookcases, as those will be important considerations when laying out your living room design.

Step 2: Establish a Focal Point

Establish a Focal Point

The focal point will be the center of gravity for your entire living-room layout. Every living room is different, so it’s important to consider the functionality of your individual space to determine where the center of the room should lie. If your space is primarily used for watching television, then establishing the seating arrangement around the TV is an easy choice (same goes for sitting around a fireplace!).

If you’re a frequent host and it’s important that you build a natural conversational area for guests (or, if you have no television or fireplace to use as a natural anchor), designing a seating area that facilitates easy interaction in a central location is your best bet.

Step 3: Start With the Sofa

Start With the Sofa

As far as living room furniture goes, the sofa is undoubtedly the centerpiece. To avoid being overwhelmed by the many different sizes and styles to choose from, start by revisiting your focal point, and determining what sort of sofa will fit best into space and serve your needs. For instance, if you love a cozy movie night, consider a sectional sofa. But if you’re working with a small living room, consider a two- or three-seater.

As a general rule of thumb, the sofa should be facing the focal point wall. If the wall is not your focal point, float a sofa (or dual sofas that face one another) in the center of the room. When choosing the specific style of sofa, it’s best to consider both your usage and design aesthetic. This helpful sofa fabric guide will help you land on the perfect custom sofa.

Step 4: Layer in the Accents

Layer in the Accents

The accents will make your space feel whole. If you’re working around a television or fireplace, start by placing accent chairs on either side of the sofa in a semi-circle arrangement, not more than eight feet from each other. The coffee table should go in the middle, roughly 1.5 feet from the sofa (tip: consider a plush, upholstered cocktail ottoman if you love to put your feet up).

If you’re not facing a wall, then place the accent chairs either directly across from the sofa, or flank the sofa on either side. Then, consider your smaller pieces. Ottomans and x-benches are wonderfully multi-purpose solutions for sneaky storage and extra seating in a pinch. Side tables should be placed on the side of the sofa. An area rug should be centered within the main seating arrangement to make the space feel grounded and layered.

Step 5: Play With Different Arrangements

Play With Different Arrangements

While you have your craft supplies handy, follow the same process as you did in step one to create little paper cutouts that represent any existing living room furniture in your space. We love the cutout method because it allows you to move the furniture around and play with different layouts, rather than having to erase and start over.

Once you’ve created these, you can do the same for any new furniture you’re considering, to see how the pieces will work together and ensure you’re not over- or under-estimating the size of the furniture. Still, stuck on where to go next? Get inspired by sample floorplans to see what brings you the most joy.

Most Importantly: Create a Space That Makes You Joyful

Remember that this entire process is intended to help you create a space that makes you happy – a space you want to be. While these steps should help get you started on a path to the perfect living room layout, there are certainly no right or wrong answers, so long as your space suits your lifestyle and feels beautiful.

Find out more:-

6 Tips to Help You Choose the Best Water Filtration System

0
water filtration systems

A five-year study conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) between 2004 and 2009 found that most of the municipal water in the US contains 316 potentially harmful chemicals and microbial contaminants including, among others, heavy metals, pesticides, industrial chemicals such as perfluorochemicals (PFCs), and pharmaceutical residues. Out of these 316 contaminants, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) only regulates 114 of them, meaning your municipal water likely contains unhealthy doses of the remaining contaminants. 

In fact, in addition to the regulated chemicals, most municipal water contains up to 30 unregulated contaminants, according to the aforementioned report. This essentially means that government bodies such as the EPA need to do much more to ensure your municipal water is clean and safe. So to ensure that your water is clean and safe you will need a softener.

In the meantime, you should invest in the best water filtration system in the market, visit Qualitywaterlab for in-depth buying guides. So let’s get started.

Water Filtration — An Overview

water filtration system

Put simply, water filtration is any process that aims to reduce or remove particulate and microbial contaminants from water in order to make water safe for an intended purpose, such as human consumption. Examples of such contaminants include, among others, fungi, algae, bacteria, biological contaminants, heavy metals, and potentially harmful chemicals such as pesticides. If this process contains any sort of a filter, then it is a water filtration system.

The Different Types of Water Filters

Coming in different shapes and sizes, most water filters use both chemical and physical filtration to eliminate impurities from water. Physical filtration uses a physical barrier to eliminate larger particulate impurities from water, whereas chemical filtration employs chemical reactions, such as passing water through activated carbon, to remove microscopic contaminants. With this in mind, the four common types of water filters available today include ion exchange, reverse osmosis, steam distillation, and activated carbon filters, which is the most popular.

Tips to Help You Choose the Best Water Filtration System

Tips to Help You Choose the Best Water Filtration System

Because not all home-based water filtration are created equal, you should choose a filter that meets your water filtration needs. To ensure you get the best water filtration system, you need to consider various factors. These main factors to consider include:

Your Water Needs

Different water filtration systems eliminate different contaminants, meaning there’s no one-size-fits-all water filtration system. For this reason, you should first be aware of the contaminants in your municipal water supply, and then purchase a filter that would be able to eliminate them. Typically, water filter manufacturers include this information in their product labels, so you should have no problem choosing the best water filter system for your needs.

NSF Ratings

Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, NSF International is essentially an independent organization that inspects, tests, and certifies consumer products, including water treatment systems. Keeping this in mind, one way to find out what a particular water filtration does is to look for its NSF certification either on its label or in the NSF online database. It is worth noting that the NSF has various standards applicable to water filtration. These standards include, among others, standard 41 (taste and odor), standard 58 (reverse osmosis), and standard 62 (distillation). To be on the safe side, avoid water treatment systems that have no NSF certification.

Capacity

Water filtration systems come in different capacities, ranging from under-sink filtration systems to point-of-entry stems. To get the best water filter system, determine how much water you use on a daily basis for purposes such as cooking, bathing, washing, and drinking. For example, if you need a system that will purify all incoming water, then you should go for a point-of-entry water filtration system. On the other hand, if your water to purify only a relatively small volume of water, such as water for drinking purposes, then you should go for a low capacity system, such as a countertop water filter or an under-sink filter.

Filtration Rate

A system’s filtration rate is another important factor to consider. Simply put, the filtration rate is the volume of water a particular water purification system is able to purify on a daily basis. Every water treatment system has a filtration rate. Similar to capacity, to choose the best water treatment system for your needs based on filtration rate, you have to analyze your daily water usage.

Installation and Operating Costs

Installation and Operating Costs

The actual cost of installing and operating a water purification system varies from one system to another depending on factors such as efficiency, features, technology, and build quality. In general, basic water treatment systems cost under $20 while complex systems cost hundreds of dollars, and typically require professional installation. In addition to installing costs, you should also consider electricity and repair/maintenance costs, such as the cost of replacing filters or cartridges. Irrespective of your budget, you should be able to find the best water filter system for your needs, especially if you do your research.

Compatibility

To get the best results and save money, choose a water treatment system that compatible with your plumbing system and fixtures, including sinks and faucets. 

Conclusion 

Most municipal water in the US contains unhealthy levels of contaminants. To ensure your water is clean and safe, you should invest in a home-based water treatment system. To choose the best water treatment system for your needs, consider the six factors discussed in this article.

Explore More