Archive for September 2010

Explore lighting options with roman shades
When arranging furniture in a room, homeowners often neglect to consider the impact that windows will have on the way that natural lighting enters the space, which is something that can have a significant benefit to the area's overall aesthetic.

Pleated shades can both provide privacy, let light in
Karmen Ng spent 11 years in marketing, strategic communications and management before turning to interior design, and it turns out that he may have made the right decision. San Jose Mercury News reports that Ng won the 2009 Metropolitan Home of the Year Award for his work on a multi-level contemporary home in Berkeley, California.

Bamboo woven wood shades a good choice for the eco-conscious
A conservatory in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is among the leaders in the country of eco-friendly living that extends well past its gardens and into the buildings. The Evansville Courier and Press reports that Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens can provide homeowners with a guide as to how to best implement green living in their own houses.

Tai chi found to improve sleep in older adults
For many Americans, getting a good night's sleep can be a challenge. Tossing and turning throughout the night can leave an individual feeling drained during the day and can be the cause of a number of physical maladies.

Hang solar screen shades to let soft light in
There are few things better than getting home from a long day of work and sinking into a comfortable couch. While a soft sofa can certainly be a relaxing addition to a room, it also serves a distinct decorative purpose, as it is often the focal point of a space.

Wood blinds can give room exotic update
While sliding glass closet doors have been a popular choice in home where there is limited space in a bedroom, some homeowners may begin looking to achieve a different atmosphere. The Edmonton Journal reports that removing the mirrored doors can make a big difference and allow individuals to realize their room's potential.

Window treatments shouldn't be neglected in a home
When homeowners decorate a room, they often neglect to adequately plan for window treatments, but these additions can have an enormous impact on a room, whether by making it more glamorous or energy-efficient, according to The Indianapolis Star.

Horizontal fabric shades can be versatile in a home of decorations
In New Iberia, Louisiana, accomplished traveler Gordon Doerle's two-room home, with $1.5 million in renovations, is sure to draw eyes from the foyer to the back hall, as it is as eccentric as it is eclectic, according to The Daily Comet.

Make a comfortable space for renters with roller shades
The recession has left many families looking for ways to add a little bit of revenue to supplement their incomes, and The Seattle Times reports that one family may have found a solution by renting out their basement to contract workers and other temporary residents.

Remodel a bathroom with faux wood blinds
The economic downturn may have turned families off from interior design in recent months, but The Boston Globe reports that renovations are on the upswing, as homeowners begin to focus on the theme of a room, rather than just repairs.

European trip can serve as design inspiration
When many people go on a vacation oversees, they may want to bring back a collection of souvenirs to help them remember their travels.

Kansas gallery maintains 19th century charm
The Muchnic Gallery in Atchison, Kansas, attracts a number of visitors, as both art enthusiasts and those who have an eye for interior design frequently come to take in what the stately building has to offer.

Wood blinds can be middle ground for different tastes
A couple with very different tastes have designed their home to accommodate both of their interior design preferences without a clash of their preferences according to Toronto Life.

Make a home comfortable with custom drapery
Comfort is often a top priority for many homeowners, but it can be difficult to incorporate luxurious elements into a fitting design scheme. Interior designer Wrenda Goodwyn recently wrote for The News-Press that there were some steps to take to balance comfort with class.

Recycling old items can add unique decor
They say one man's trash is another man's treasure, and when it comes to interior decorating that could not be more true. The Keene Sentinel reports that incorporating recycled items that may not otherwise be used is becoming popular.

Volunteers come together to lift spirits of sick youth
For most, having a beautifully decorated room amounts to being proud of the creativity and effort put into finishing the project. However, thanks to a collection of volunteers in Ontario, Canada, the renovation of a certain hotel room may be a bit more meaningful.

Wow guests with roller shades
The star of 60 Minute Makeover, Derek Taylor, recently told Easier.com a few effective ways that homeowners can add a wow factor to their abode, many of which are affordable and stylish.

Pleated shades offer homeowners rich color, texture
With an uncertain economic climate, many individuals who are looking to renovate their home are looking to get the most out of the funds they put into their living quarters. The Toronto Star reports that many Canadians who may want to get a hands-on look at possible ideas will be attending the upcoming Toronto Fall Home Show.

Santa Fe designers showcasing unique style
A group of designers in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is aiming to highlight the region's flair for interior decoration. The New Mexican reports that the event is running through October 3 and will showcase the unique style that the southwestern city has to offer.

Help sell a home with custom drapery
While it's a historically difficult time to sell a house, the proper preparation can often make or break a deal when a homeowner is trying to show off a residence to prospective buyers. For this reason, it's best to touch up every room to appeal to visitors.

Create a pet-friendly environment with cordless blinds
Americans are well-known for loving their pet, and many homeowners go through a lot of trouble to accommodate their furry companion in a residence. There are 82 percent of American households with cats and dogs living alongside their owners, and the Hartford Courant suggests some simple steps that can make things comfortable for pets and people alike.

Woven wood shades can be a quick, effective change
While many homeowners can become tired with a stale or drab decorative scheme, sometimes the price tag of a redecorating project can make them think twice about taking on the endeavor. However, the Star-News reports that there are several cost-efficient ways for individuals to give their room a fresh look

Designer gives five teacher's lounges impressive upgrades
Being a teacher can be a difficult task, so having a relaxing lounge to collect one's thoughts is essential. The New York Times reports that a nonprofit group called TeachersCount recently remade five lounges in five schools in five states in less than three months as a thank you to hard-working educators.

Modern home can benefit from aluminum mini blinds
A home in San Fransisco that was constructed with a variety of reclaimed, antique and new materials has been under renovation for the past 10 years and may still have even more to go, according to The New York Times.

Roman shades can protect valuable books
In the Upper West Side of New York City, Marcia Young Cantarella lives in an apartment that is full of important memories from the past, many of which chronicle the journey of her father, the civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr, according to The New York Times.

Wisconsin monestary named greenest in the nation
If its buildings are any indication, Wisconsin is among the leaders in the United States when it comes to going green. The Milkwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the state has been home to the greenest building in the nation two of the last three years, based on a scorecard filled out by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Fashion, interior designers team up for charity event
Fashion designers and interior designers are often thought of occupying two different realms. However, according to WABC-TV, the two disciplines came together to create attractive rooms that are currently on display in New York City.

Honeycomb cellular shades can add subtlety to room's design
The Vancouver Sun recently suggested a long list of ways that homeowners can decorate their homes without overwhelming a room, and this starts with identifying a personal style, which can be done by a glance at a home magazine which will help establish preferences for interior design.

Wood blinds can fit in with vintage fall fashion
One emerging seasonal trends is that of a sparse, but distinctive, arrangement of vintage or heirloom-quality items from flea markets or private craftsmen, according to The Daily Telegraph.

Blackout shades can complete a guest room
When the last child of a family moves out, it can leave parents with an extra room that is in need of an upgrade. Many couples choose to turn it into a guest room, and,according to the GateHouse News Service, there are several ways that homeowners can make a seamless and effective transition.

Interior shutters can complement yellow rooms
The color of a room can be of ultimate importance. If the shading of an area is incorrect, regardless of how well-decorated the rest of the space is, the scheme will likely not work. The Daily Gleaner reports that yellow, when cleverly used, can be one of the most soothing and attractive hues in an abode.

Make a private space with vertical blinds
An AARP poll conducted in 2009 found that 11 percent of people age 50 and older live with grandchildren or parents, and 11 percent of 34 to 44-year-olds reported that they were currently living with parents or in-laws. This number may increase as well, as grandparents require more care and families struggle in a tough economy.

Decorate the top of a staircase with pleated shades
An aspect of home design that is often overlooked is the staircase, but with a few creative flourishes, it can actually serve as one of the more impressive parts of a home, according to CantonRep.com.

Roman shades, decorative hooks can update a room
While many people may think that they need to give a room a complete overhaul to update it, often a subtle change can be just as effective. The Express & Star reports that one such understated way to improve the aesthetic of a room is to add decorative hooks.

Wood blinds a good way to incorporate minimalist trend
A look at some of the new homes in Richmond, Virginia, seems to indicate a growing trend toward downsizing when it comes to building houses. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that the event, called Richmond Homerama, features six moderately-sized abodes that, while smaller than in years past, are still appealing choices to prospective homebuyers.

Faux wood blinds can be an affordable home improvement
Life and Beauty Weekly reports that there are some steps that homeowners can take to refresh a home's appearance that are both effective and affordable, with very little maintenance required.

Warm up a room with the colors of roman shades
The Evansville Courier & Press reports that the cold weather can make homeowners want to change rooms to reflect a warmer environment, which can be accomplished with decorations and modest home refurbishments.

Soft sheer shades can effectively update a room
When Rebecca Propes decided it was time for her to work from home she had to make a few quick updates to her family's abode. The Arizona Republic reports that Propes, who is an interior designer, focused on adding features to benefit her two young children.

Researchers closing in on solar powered window blinds
Researchers at the University of South Florida in Tampa Bay recently unveiled an early model of what they hope will be window blinds that can produce electricity. Tampa Bay Online reports that scientists utilized solar panels to harvest energy from the sun and may be able to power a home.

New housing attains LEED certification, could benefit from bamboo woven shades
Eco Home Magazine reports that an affordable housing complex in downtown Boston is receiving a major renovation that will make it far more energy-efficient by cutting energy output by seven percent without costing the residents a penny.

Make a garden easily visible with solar screen shades
Fashion designer Mike de la Rosa recently shared an interior design tip with Philippine Daily Inquire that is sure to resonate with some homeowners - in order to create a harmonious connection between his bedroom and the outdoors, he has a door that leads directly to his garden.

Horizontal fabric shades a good autumn addition
There are many distinct differences between summer and fall. In addition to the temperature cooling off and the leaves changing color, The Kansas City Star reports that homeowners should consider changing the atmosphere in their house as well.

Top off a room update with wood blinds
While many people believe that adding an attractive update to a house can be an expensive endeavor, NorthJersey.com reports that there are several ways for homeowners renovate a room without having to break the bank.

Insulating an attic with honeycomb cellular shades
FOXNews.com reports that one of the biggest ways homeowners can reduce energy bills may be to look up into the attic. Experts say if this area is poorly insulated, it can cost homeowners 30 to 40 percent of the heating or cooling in a home, which makes energy bills skyrocket.

Decorating for fall with custom drapery
The Daily Herald reports that the fall season may bring with it a new theme into the house, and Stephanie Holdaway, an interior designer, has shared some effective and affordable steps to outfit a home with seasonal flair.

Hide unattractive landscape with roller shades
For some homeowners, the view from their windows can change pretty quickly. Whether it's new development or drab landscaping, sometimes one may want their view from the inside to be obstructed. The Edmonton Journal reports that there are several ways to subtly block an unattractive view of the outdoors.

Shake things up with a valance in the kitchen
Although the kitchen is often a centerpiece of a home, striking the right balance between elegance and comfort can be a difficult task. The Seattle Times reports that, while some people may not think it, black can be used very effectively to add a sophisticated, yet welcoming atmosphere to a kitchen.

Add color and personality to a contemporary home with pleated shades
The Manila Bulletin reports that, while contemporary homes have become popular in recent years, too much emphasis on sleek, metal surfaces, neutral colors and uncluttered floors can leave a house feeling cold and uninviting.

Vertical blinds ideal for glass walls
Nestled in the hills above Sunset Boulevard is a home which overlooks both Hollywood and Beverly Hills, and it has recently been given a creative makeover by a host of interior designers, architects and other specialists, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Faux wood blinds can create illusion of space
Those who live in a city are often tasked with finding creative ways to make the most of their limited space. The Manila Stanard Today reports there are several steps homeowners can take to make their living space appear larger than it appears.

Rural New York gristmill transformed into beautiful home
When Jan Green bought at 19th century gristmill in Harpersfield, New York, in 1999 it was hardly the place of refuge it is now. The New York Times reports that she has spent much of the last decade years turning the once-decripit mill into the home of her dreams.

Plan for next spring's garden with roller shades
While the prime growing months of the year are over, The Repository recommends that homeowners start refreshing tired gardens now, so they can be all the more remarkable when next spring comes around.

Dark-walled rooms can be accented with solar screen shades
According to The Kansas City Star, a new trend in home design is painting the walls of a room black, navy or aubergine, because these colors don't actually make the area appear confined - on the contrary, they can add a limitless feeling to the space's boundaries.

Woven bamboo shades a staple of earthy decor
Baltimore residents Noreen and Eric Victor knew they had a bit too much space for just the two of them. The Baltimore Sun reports that the couple, who was still living in their five-bedroom Virginia home after their children moved out, decided that it was time for a new place in the city.

Wood blinds the best choice for light control
Although the summer may be nearing a close, and the temperatures are not nearly as oppressive as they were just a few weeks ago, the importance of having stylish and functional window shades cannot be overlooked. While the correct window treatment is an important decision, many people may be unsure of what direction to take, however The Patriot Ledger reports there are several ways to make the choice easier.

Complement wallpaper with horizontal fabric shades
Metro Canada recently reported that wallpaper can add a dazzle to any room, wherever it is applied, and listed the most effective ways to use this colorful material so that a room can feel refreshed and attractive.

Top Down Bottom Up shades can cure a room with too much light
While some natural light can be a beautiful addition to any room, too much can have an oppressive effect that can leave the space feeling hot and uncomfortable. Too much sunlight can make it hard to stay asleep or look at a TV screen, and it can also cause fading on furniture or artwork.

Solar screen shades a perfect addition to a bedroom
A cozy 87-year-old home in suburban Maryland offers prospective homebuyers with an attractive outward appearance that opens up into a warming interior. The Gazette reports that, while the home has undergone several renovations since it was built in 1923, it still maintains a unique charm that makes it an understated addition to its neighborhood.

Woven wood shades can protect history-inspired decor
They say that being familiar with history is important because it can help people from preventing the mistakes of the past. The New Zealand Herald reports that, when it comes to interior design, being aware of the different historical elements in a room or piece of furniture can help add an elegant atmosphere to any abode.

Make big rooms cozy with custom drapes
The Orlando Sentinel reports that some of the biggest interior design challenges that homeowners can face is having one room that seems so large that it becomes unfriendly or uninviting, and some designers have made a few suggestions to those who want to make the space as intimate as possible.

Aluminum mini-blinds offer protection from fall allergies
WebMD.com reports that, while many plants pollinate primarily during the spring and summer, these allergens can last well into the cooler months of the year. Some, such as ragweed, have the ability to travel hundreds of miles on a strong breeze.

Many homeowners overlooking importance of window shades
For those looking to decorate their home, sometimes it can be easy to overlook several areas. According to the Calgary Herald, one of the most commonly forgotten places is window coverings, but how one decorates their windows is an important choice to make.

Soft sheer shades can add fashionable atmosphere to a room
A group of fashion designers has paired with a team of interior decorators to transform five apartments overlooking the Hudson River into a beautiful living space. The Wall Street Journal reports that the project was organized by the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and is aimed at benefiting both HIV/AIDS organizations, as well as breast cancer research.

Complete an intimate cottage with interior shutters
The Journal Gazette reports that Dennis Spidel and his son, Scott Zeeb, recently worked on making a cottage that was as personal and cozy as possible, with creative touches that could made it feel like home.

New interior design trends complemented by wood blinds
The Philippine School of Interior Design recently released a list of interior design trends that are more than just a passing fad and can be improvements that any homeowner can add to a room, according to MB.com.

Pleated shades can be perfect choice for formal update
Sometimes a room is begging for a classy update. Whether it is a dining room that is long past its prime, or a space that has no personality, adding a formal, elegant atmosphere can have a significant impact on the aesthetic of a house. The Evansville Courier & Press reports that there are several easy steps one can take to achieve this end.

Roller shades a good way to complete a child's room
Designing a child's room can be an important process. They will likely spend a significant amount of time in their bedroom, so it should be up to their liking, and The Canadian Press reports that there are several ways that parents can ensure that their child's room is.

Roman shades can help prevent squeaky hardwood floors
Peter Hotton, a handyman writing for The Boston Globe, recently shared some methods of keeping hardwood floors from squeaking. He claims that these noises often occur when the surfaces have dried out, and repairing them is a matter of tightening the boards against the beams of the floor.

Honeycomb shades can fix a drafty windowsill
The Boston Globe's handyman, Peter Hotton, recently addressed the problem of a draft that seemed to circulate around windows which didn't appear to be leaking any air from the outdoors.

Showcase in Colorado features homes with green design
Those in Summit County, Colorado, who are looking for ideas for their new home will have a chance to be inspired by some of the areas most beautiful abodes in the coming weeks as the Summit County Parade of Homes kicks off September 18. The Summit Daily News reports that event will features 23 houses and place an emphasis on green design.

Custom drapery can add effective fall atmosphere
As unwelcome as it may be, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of fall. Now that the holiday has come and gone, many people may be looking for a way to update their décor to be more fitting to the season. IfPress.com reports that the process of redesigning a room is similar to retooling one’s wardrobe.

Designing a kitchen study area with vertical blinds
With kids getting back on the school bus and back in the classroom, parents everywhere may want to think about ways to encourage the timely completion of homework without constantly reminding their children to do it.

Room darkening shades may help diet
A recent study published in the journal Sleep has found that teenagers who sleep less than eight hours a night are more likely to indulge in unhealthy snacks that are high in fat and calories, according to CNN. The bad dietary habits that are triggered by too little sleep can end up affecting weight.

Making a room more accessible with motorized blinds
NorthJersey.com reports that Makeover & Move, an interior design company, has recently taken steps to redesign a home for Taylor, a nine-year-old boy with cerebral palsy who is in a wheelchair due to the condition.

Building a better tomorrow with bamboo woven shades
Yoshida Manufacturing, which is one of the first zipper companies to focus on the environmental impact of its products, recently announced a contest in the United States called Builing A Better Tomorrow, Today, according to Reuters.

Include a valance with beautiful bay windows
A beautiful five bedroom home in suburban Maryland features a number of attractive furnishings that make it exceptionally appealing to prospective hombuyers. The Gazette reports that this 10-year-old colonial boasts an impressive interior and an ideal location.

Walks, solar screen shades can help with mood and self-esteem
Psychology Today reports that people who go on nature walks can experience significant boosts to self-esteem and mood levels, in addition to the benefits of being in the sunlight and absorbing Vitamin D.

Pleated shades can complement Pantone autumn colors
A few times a year, Pantone, a printing company, releases an updated list of colors that will best complement the natural shades of the season. This year, some of the colors selected were golden glow, living coral, lipstick red, chocolate truffle, lagoon, woodbine, according to TheStir.com.

Oval Office gets fresh look with understated tones
The Oval Office is one of the most iconic rooms in America. It has been the backdrop of the most important presidential addresses and some of the most powerful men in United States history have sat at its famous Resolute Desk. Even so, the room can always use a fresh look and, according to The Washington Post, it just received an update.

Vermont a leader in green living
With an expanse of idyllic forests throughout much of the state, it's no surprise that Vermont is one of the leading states in environmentally-friendly practices. The Louisville Courier-Journal reports that they continued that tradition earlier this year when they became the first state in the country to declare their hydroelectric facilities as a renewable source of energy.