Monday, February 9, 2009

Nautical Chart Coasters, Set of 4

Bedroom Drink Coasters

Author: Joey Pebble

Coasters are an often overlooked piece of home decor, that can really add a subtle but noticeable element to a rooms ambiance. While they are small, and mainly functional, they also come in sets, which allows you to spread them throughout a space. In this way the coaster can carry a certain color, or aspect, to every corner of a room, while still maintaining their useful nature.


The type of coaster you choose for your bedroom will have a major effect on how that room is influenced. One popular choice is to use upscale glass coasters. These coasters have a sleek modern feal, that brings to mind thoughts of corporate board rooms and towering skyscrapers.

Steal coasters are another way to add a modern touch to the space. Shining, stark, and hard, steal is a symbol of power and sophistication. While this might be appropriate for a high power corporate board room, that is not always the right choice for a relaxing or soothing bedroom.

Marble coasters are elegant and beautiful, but are less impersonal that coasters made from manufactured materials. The natural mountain born essence of the stone tends to add a personal, even primal element to the pieces.

Sandstone coasters have a gentle, soft appeal. Their sandy surface is reminiscent of a warm beach on a summer day. They of course also have the benefit of being absorbent, and thus highly functional.

Probably the most popular bedroom coastersare made from some sort of wool or cloth. These are often handmade, although you can find a variety of these in stores and online. The soft warm material just makes them feal cozier than others made from harder materials.

Whichever coaster you choose for your bedroom, it is important that it matches the personality you are trying to exude. They should also be functional and hassle free, so that they can contribute to relaxed atmosphere you are trying to create.

About the Author:

This article was written by Joey Pebble, on behalf of his design company http://coasters.pebblez.com - PebbleZ is the designer of a unique line of absorbent stone coasters, as well as avariety of imported marble and gemstone coasters, brought in from countries around the world.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/drinks-articles/bedroom-drink-coasters-762584.html

Cat Coaster Set

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?

Author: bloom media

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?


A low maintenance floor can cut down the time you spend cleaning your home and make your property more hygienic. Having a stunning floor can also update the look of your home and potentially increase the value of your property if you’re looking to sell. There are many options when it comes to replacing the flooring in the key rooms of your home so check out some popular choices below.


Laminate


Laminate floors are a popular choice as they are affordable, easy to fit and easy to clean. Just because laminate tends to be a cheaper option, it doesn’t mean it’s any less stylish as it can come in hardwood or stone designs to give the illusion of much more expensive flooring. Laminate is also very easy to maintain as spillages won’t permanently damage the surface and cleaning is easy with warm soapy water. A downside of laminate is that after extended use the whole floor has to be replaced and can’t just be retreated as natural stone or wood flooring can.


Natural stone


Any room can look super stylish and luxurious with natural stone flooring. The most popular choices are slate, granite and quartz which can all bring a room right up to date. However, natural stone flooring is expensive and it’s not particularly suitable if you find your home hard to heat as it can often be cold underfoot. In terms of investment, natural stone flooring can last for decades with very little maintenance. If chips or scratches do occur in the flooring it’s wise to get a professional in to reseal the surface to avoid any further damage.


Vinyl


Vinyl is a similar surface to laminate but offers a more cushioned feel and can bounce back into shape. As with laminate, vinyl is very easy to install and can be cut into shape from a sheet or tiles which can be installed to fit any size floor. Vinyl flooring is made up of four separate layers making it very sturdy and hard wearing, especially as the top layer is a clear film designed to protect the surface underneath. There are plenty of colours and patterns available which means this type of flooring is suitable for a wide range of kitchens.


Natural wood


Although wood effect flooring is common, you can choose to go all out and install some genuine natural wood for the floors in your home. As with natural stone, this type of flooring can be expensive and to be fitted properly everything will need to be removed from the room so it’s not a great choice if you want a quick solution for your floors. Oak and maple are a popular choice for floors and give a deep brown look which is versatile enough to complement both a traditional or contemporary home. Wood can stain easily and warp in damp conditions such as in kitchens or bathrooms so it’s important to get the surface treated properly as soon as it’s installed. Annual waxing is also recommended to keep the floors protected and looking great.


Whatever choice of flooring you go for, make sure you consult the experts before you buy so you can be sure the surface is right for your home.

About the Author:

Steven Holmes

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/which-kitchen-floor-is-right-for-your-home-758342.html

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Wicker Furniture - Beautiful, Affordable, and Durable

Are you in the market for new furniture? If you are, perhaps you may be interested in looking at some wicker furniture. Wicker furniture offers a whole new dimension to your home furnishing. Not many homeowners realize this, but there are actually many benefits that are overlooked.
Classic Wicker Furniture

Beautiful wicker furniture.

Wicker furniture has been around for ages. In our modern society, we often see wicker furniture in hotel lobbies, holiday resorts, etc. We seldom see them in home. So that perception seems to have stuck. But why do you think hotels and resorts like to use wicker furniture as their chief furnishing?

Just ask yourself, how do you feel when you walk into a setting full of wicker furniture? Chances are, you start feeling more relax. The entire mood in the room is a relaxing one. That is because wicker furniture has this natural quality - it is able to create a relaxing environment.

Most people who visit hotels and resorts want to relax. Therefore, it makes good sense to place wicker furniture in such settings. But what about the home for the average homeowner? Is wicker furniture a suitable candidate?

The home is a place for relaxing. It is a sanctuary, where you can go back to after a busy day at work. Surely, you want your home to have a relaxing environment that welcomes you home each and every single day. That's why more and more homeowners are buying wicker furniture for their homes.

Affordable wicker furniture.

Contrary to popular belief, wicker furniture cost less than other furniture types such as wooden furniture. Many people think that wicker furniture is expensive because they see such furniture in 5 star hotels. Clearly, that is not the case. Some wicker furniture are indeed expensive due to their rare and complex patterns, but in most cases, wicker furniture is actually more affordable than other furniture.

The furniture is cheap because they are manufactured in Asian countries where labor and materials are cheap. When the cost of production is cheap, the retail price tend to be cheaper too. If you really want to save more money, you may even buy wicker furniture at wholesale prices. That does mean having to buy more in a single order, but you also save a lot more.

Durable wicker furniture.

Cane is well known for its toughness. After treating with heat in the manufacturing process, the cane is then allowed to cool. Once cooled, the cane quickly regains its tough qualities. You can't easily bend it, and you certainly can't easily break it. In other words, you can expect your wicker furniture to last for many years.

The furniture requires very little maintenance. Just wipe it with a wet cloth every now and then to prevent dust from accumulating in the gaps.

Three Things to Have When Decorating

People, in their own little way, want to experience how it feels like to decorate something. Others would start decorating or creating accessories. Earrings, bracelets, anklets and the likes are only a few of the pieces that they can try making. When they feel confident about it, they can try to make larger pieces like a metal wall sculpture. It is better if individuals learn first how to use metals and making the blueprint of the design.

Of course, you would creativity when you want to decorate. Everywhere you look, a person gave his all in order to create something unique and pleasant. With constant practice and determination, people come up with extraordinary designs and ideas wherein even people from abroad appreciate. The great thing about this is that once you made something, people will admire you for your willingness to make something different. Even though the world has plenty of common things, you still want to make a difference in the world. There is nothing wrong if you do not go with the flow. It is okay sometimes to be like that at least you are not a passive person.

Second thing that you must have if you want to decorate is confidence. If you always think that you cannot do it, then there is no use if you want to pursue making a metal wall sculpture. No matter what the outcome would be, you should be happy that you undergone the experience. Do not always take things negatively because it will do you no good. Sometimes, failures make way for great and better things so try to make the most out of it.

Last thing that you have to have if you want to continue on your dream to decorate is patience. Everything takes time and surely each time you wait, it is worth your time. If you try to make things faster, you might not be able to have a nice outcome. If you can make things at a much faster rate without compromising the quality, better for you. Not everyone can do that. The tendency of the individuals is to try to make more items so that they can sell them to people.

It does not matter whether you target to make metal wall sculpture or a wall hanging; the important thing here is to believe in yourself. If you know that you can do this, your family would be more than willing to support you in this endeavor. More so, it is nice to see that your loved ones try to make you be happy with this. It may be something new to them but it does not matter as long as they see you enjoying every single bit of it. Thank your loved ones for being there for you because they will surely be your biggest fans once people start noticing your potential in this desired field. It is not every day that you get to wake up in the morning and just do whatever you feel like doing.
The Home Depot: Decorating 1-2-3

Need Automated Gates for the Home?

It is important to feel safe in your home and to know that when you are away, your property is protected. This is why people opt for certain devices to help them feel that little more secure in their home such as alarm systems, secure locks and automated gates.

Devices such as these, particularly automated gates are a practical way to ensure your property is kept at a distance from others, as well as adding an extra touch of home improvement to the look of your property. They act as a guard for your privacy to ensure you feel safer in your home.

Some specialists in automated gates Bristol area provide the option of having audio and video intercom so you can always see or hear your visitors and be aware of who you are letting onto your property. With the ability to open and close your gates from the home or car, you can always be ensured that you have the control of who you want to enter your home before they reach the front door. This has endless safety and privacy factors that can make you feel that little more secure when answering the door.

Living alone or providing for your family makes you more aware of the dangers that can arise from not being able to see who is allowed in your home. With technology more advanced today than ever before, it is the perfect time to understand there are methods to keeping your lives that little more secure and private, making it easier for you to know loved ones and yourself are as safe as can be.

Looking for a quality automated gate company and installer Bristol doesn’t have to be a challenge, there are those that are available to give a quality product with a first class service, helping you choose the right gate for you and your home.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Helpful Tips in Decorating a Football-Themed Room

Helpful Tips in Decorating a Football-Themed Room

Author: John Rockwell

Every family has got that one person in their home where one family member doesn't only love football but practically worships it. It can either be your husband, your college son or even your teenage daughter. This is not unusual because Americans are well-known for their love of football. Some even collect items such as football memorabilia like new NFL helmets just for the love of the game. Therefore, if you have a spare room in the house which you have been waiting to decorate for a long time, then this is the perfect opportunity to do so. This room can serve as a family room that everyone can enjoy. Here are some tips you can follow to begin decorating your football-themed room.


Gertie Hurlie Football by Small World Toys

• The first thing you need to do is to determine what colors you have in mind that will work best for your new room. It is suggested that you find out the team colors of your family's favorite team as basis for your room's wall colors and everything placed on it. In this way, it will be extra easy to match every piece inside the room.



• You should then determine the materials that are necessary for your new project. If you plan to show off one of your husband's football mini helmet collection, then purchase a display case for its protection. There is also a line of paint available in Home Depot where they offer exact colors of every NFL team.



• When planning for your room design, you don't have to be traditional and paint the walls with one color. You can opt to paint it with alternating colors of the team. Another suggestion is to use a signature color of the team and accenting it with dramatic shade such as silver at the top to create a border. You can also be playful by doing more than just an ordinary paint job like creating a football field right inside your room. This will definitely make the room more fun and creative.



• You can also decorate the room with large pieces of furniture such as football-shaped chairs. If you are not particularly keen on this idea, then you can also spruce up your couch or chairs by adding football throw pillows.



• Accessories are an important part in decorating the whole room. It does not have to be daunting. Look for rugs or lamps with football logos that can match the décor of the whole room. Add a little bit of flair by putting on drapes and curtains with football designs on them.



• It is also a good idea to make the shelves permanent. If your son has a collection of the new NFL helmets, buy appropriate shelves, display cabinets or racks. In this way, your son's collection will make the room have a more personalized feel to it.



Decorating your new football-themed room can be quite a challenging task at first. But if you are creative enough and determined to make this family room fun for your family, then everything will be much easier. Once you have finished the room, your family will definitely thank you for it.

About the Author:
Coach John Rockwell is a huge football fan. He has written many articles related to New NFL Helmets. Other articles Coach John has written are related to sports equipment and collectibles such as NFL Helmets. Coach John resides in Texas with this wife and three children.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/helpful-tips-in-decorating-a-footballthemed-room-749192.html

Energize Your Tired Dining Room in a Flash

Energize Your Tired Dining Room in a Flash

Author: Cathy Robertson

You know the kitchen is the natural gathering place for family and friends, and often that includes the dining area as well. Fast, simple and inexpensive pick me ups for your dining room are easy as pie.



Breathe new life into your chairs! If you have chairs with padded seats you have a couple of options. Cover the chair pads with a fresh new fabric or slip cover the whole chair. Did you know that 24”x24” piece of fabric will easily cover most chair pads? For unpadded chairs consider adding tie back cushions for comfort and a splash of color. You may prefer to simply clean them up and apply a good furniture polish. If your chairs a very sad and warn looking don’t be afraid to slap a fresh coat of stain or paint on them.



Let your center piece take center stage! A centerpiece for your table need not be expensive or complicated. Even the simplest of them add tons of charm. Try these: Fill a tray with river rock & candles. Use a teapot, various sized bottles or coffee pot as a flower vase. Fill a large bowl or tray with fresh fruit. Create a runner with place mats set end to end. Use an old mirror as a tray to hold several pillar candles. Place a potted plant in a basket. The possibilities are endless. Best of all you can change them out to fit the occasion at hand.



You don’t have to buy new curtains to get a whole new look! Simple changes with an attention to detail will do the trick. Drape pretty cloth napkins on the diagonal across the top of your curtain rod. Update the finials. Add a decorative trim to your curtains. Adorn your tab tops with buttons, old chandelier crystals or beads. Add new tiebacks either store bought or homemade. Old belts, scarves or strings of costume pearls as tiebacks can make your curtains feel fun and new again.



Don’t forget the walls! You don’t have to paint, although you could. Just mix things up a bit. Switch out your pictures with some from another room. Put fresh mats in your frames. If you haven’t any wall art, add some. It can be anything from traditional art to mirrors, candle sconces or decorative shelving. Add a wall mounted plant hanger or display Great granny’s quilt. Anything, just don’t let your walls go naked!



Look up. Do you enjoy your light fixture? You could change it out all together or you can dress up the one you have. Consider just replacing the globe. Don’t like the color of the metal? Paint it. For chandelier types, add sparkle with beads or crystal. Add new mini shades or decorative bulbs. Or you can keep it simple and just clean it up. You might find it’s not such a bad looking light after all!



Simple inexpensive changes in your dining room bring on a whole new appreciation for your space. It creates feelings of contentment and family and home. That’s what it’s really all about anyway! Bringing people together in a comfortable space that you have fashioned is fun and fosters memories. So what are you waiting for? Do it for your family. Do it for yourself!


About the Author:

Cathy Robertson is an Artist and writer for Fine Art Castle. Have fun, informative decorating & design articles delivered to you! Sign up for our monthly Newsletter today at New Dining Room Design
href="http://www.fineartcastle.com/decoratingtipsanddesign.aspx">http://www.fineartcastle.com/decoratingtipsanddesign.aspx . Or stop by and take a peek at our Fine Art Prints for your Canvas Art decorating needs at http://www.fineartcastle.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/energize-your-tired-dining-room-in-a-flash-750053.html