Do you have a boring hallway? Add a chalkboard wall! The paint is available at most home improvement stores and with the popularity of dark gray walls and accents, continuity will ensue. A smooth wall is required.
Green Tips for Your Kitchen
A recycle/waste drawer has been a staple in the kitchens I have designed for over 15 years. Rev-A-Shelf has a soft close for heavy loads. The base works with 35 qt. and 50 qt. containers.
Home Resale
The following are practical options in homes that all price ranges are gravitating toward:
- Walk-in showers without a door to clean are great and without curbing even better. The snail model is not necessary if the length of the shower is adequate for water containment. (Snail refers to the entrance being a curved section to prevent overflow water.)
- A prep area adjoining the kitchen. Many kitchens have the separate areas, but to be useful it needs to meet your requirements for storage, clean up, prep, etc.
Big Green Egg
Outdoor kitchen options are increasing as companies offer more durable appliances that will withstand the temperature changes. Refrigerators and wine coolers are options to consider with the sink, the bar area and the grill. Add a pizza oven or a Big Green Egg! Either can be used alone or integrated into a kitchen. For great cooks the result may be fine dining!
Protect Your Roof So It Will Protect You
What’s up with roofing? Most people don’t think about their roof until it leaks or the home inspector tells the buyer there are problems! Properly done, a roof in Arizona (This varies greatly by climate.) can last 30 – 40 years with proper maintenance. Check for cracks or other damage every year and repair when necessary.
Office Seating Option
Do you spend long hours sitting at your computer? Stability balls have been around for some time, but computer use is making them more popular. The Technogym, Wellness Ball, Gaiam, Buoy from Turnstone, Muvman and Swopper from Aeris are some ergonomic options for increased well being.
Exercise ball vs Office chair.
Crystals Galore!
Stark Carpet manufactures this black wool carpet embedded with Swarovski crystals. This is a very popular area rug for powder rooms and is also used as borders on larger rugs. Yes, it can be vacuumed. Always use a self-adjusting vacuum as the vacuum should not drag on your carpet or it will wear the surface.
Exterior Details
Natural stone and other fireplace and exterior detailing materials are usually specified by the architect. Visit local sources for inspiration or take pictures of your preferences to local sources to check availability and cost. Plan ahead to secure products that will give your home the unique, individualized look you want. These materials affect exterior and interior colorization as does pool coping. Travertine is available in pre cut pieces. Brick. flagstone, slate, pavers and Marabella stone that is saw cut or honed are also popular. Concrete (Ancient Stone) precast pieces are also available.
