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Mike Johnston

Why Should You Install Plastic Cafe Blinds?

July 8, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Modern-day architects try their best to make your home or office get ready in the best shape. Previously, you might have noticed plastic cafe blinds once in alternative cafes and offices. Those were not much easy to spot in the houses. But in today’s world, there are no such restrictions on plastic cafe blinds. These plastic blinds look good, they are easily installed and do not give you much hassle while you go comparing the price and buying them. 

If you want to recently modify your home or workplace, then going for plastic cafe blinds might be a great decision. You might be confused regarding the choices by now. Worry not, as the following article will help you clear your thoughts!

Advantages of Plastic Cafe blinds

Here are a few benefits of using plastic cafe blinds. You can check these out to enlighten your thought procedure now:

  1. Long-Lasting:

Plastic café blinds were the first outdoor bistro blinds to become the trend. Managers of every other café would install these café blinds to modify the ambiance of their cafes or restaurants. You can also opt for these plastic cafe blinds now because the primary material is plastic which is not easy to break. If you install the high-quality blinds, they will also be immune to theft or robbery, and you can also install superior quality monitors, and security cameras along with the blinds, to enhance the overall security of your home. 

cafe blinds
Photo by Max Vakhtbovych: https://www.pexels.com/photo/ceiling-lamp-above-a-table-in-a-kitchen-7614610/
  1. Protection from natural calamities:

One of the key benefits of using plastic cafe blinds in your office or home is that you would not have to install sun shades or other shields against the elements of nature. There might be times when you would have to face the adversities of Mother Nature in the form of thunderstorms or heavy rainfall. You would not have to suffer from the humidity of the weather due to closed windows; in fact, you can enjoy the slight wind bits from the spacing of the plastic cafe blinds!  

  1. Easy to maintain:

The best thing about plastic cafe blinds is that you have various options to choose from. You can easily choose from the vast array of color shades of white, off-white, brown, and more. You can go for off-beat shades to avoid the random accumulation of dust or fading away of the color. These blinds are relatively easy to maintain due to their durability factor. You can use simple liquid soap and water if you want to maintain the blinds all by yourself. 

Photo by Matt Brown on Unsplash
  1. Enhances Ambiance:

The best part of plastic cafe blinds is that their use can help you change the entire ambiance of your place. If you try these blinds in your shop or café, they will create an exciting yet gloomy atmosphere where people can talk or discuss businesses comfortably. You can also control the incoming sunlight with the help of these plastic cafe blinds. When you need some light, you can slightly open the blinds to enjoy the fresh sunshine, air, and view from inside, and when you need some darkness, you can close them accordingly.

Apart from the above points, there are many more advantages of using plastic cafe blinds. You can easily use them for advertising purposes by printing the blinds with the necessary quote to reach out. It also helps keep the pests away from your home or workplace! Now there are many online portals that offer the blinds at the best-discounted price that you can ask for. Check for a whole lot of colors, go for customization if you want. If you want to open a commercial café, then also, you can go for the installation of café blinds.     

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How Architectural Walkthroughs Sell Projects on Their Own

June 16, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Architectural walkthroughs have been something like science fiction for a long time. But in just a decade and a half, we’ve seen them become legit tools that real estate professionals can use to bring potential buyers closer and more involved in a property. 

 

Since walkthroughs are relatively new, there are a lot of impacts, influences, and features about them to discuss. However, we want to look at it from a single most crucial perspective: how do walkthroughs help lead to sales? 

 

After all, this is the most critical question skeptics have about them. The main benefit of walkthroughs is that they make it easier for potential buyers and help convince them to make purchases. 

They offer an amazing visual experience

Compared to static 3D renders, architectural walkthroughs offer a far more superior visual experience. Instead of having images, this medium is made out of 3D animation. These animations let 3D artists take viewers on a realistic and immersive visual journey. 

 

Interested parties can see all of the rooms individually and walk from one to another as if they were doing it in real life. The same applies to all the exterior, including pools, gardens, terraces, or patios. All of the elements are presented truthfully with a high level of detail. 

 

In a way, these walkthroughs are starting to look like movie CGI. Of course, there aren’t a lot of explosions going on, but the level of quality is there. On the other hand, artists constantly add new elements and special effects and rethink their approach to create a better visual experience. 

Why is the visual impression so important? 

Visual impression and presentation are highly beneficial if we look at a property like a product you intend to sell. Most consumers today choose products based on visual appeal, which is one of the key factors they consider. 

 

Creating a unique visual experience will help customers distinguish your product. In architecture, 3D walkthroughs can change perceptions of a space, make it more attractive, and give that adrenaline rush to buyers, making them visualize living in or otherwise using that space.

 

Companies like Apple have built themselves on their visual experience and branding. When you combine great animations and useful information that walkthroughs can provide about a property, it’s clear how they can impress customers and bring them closer to a purchase.  

Viewers can learn about space, proportions, and dimensions 

We just mentioned that walkthroughs deliver “useful” information. They’re not just about dazzling viewers for a short time without any long-term usefulness. These visuals have the power to give viewers all of the required information they need about a property. 

 

They can learn about the layout of a property, how many rooms there are, which materials there will be, proportions between different elements, dimensions, how they can furnish the space, and so much more. In other words, potential customers can get a complete picture of the space without missing anything important. 

 

What worries most clients when it comes to walkthroughs is that they won’t get important information that can affect their future decisions. But there’s no need to worry about this, especially if the real estate agent can give additional information about the space and help interested parties understand all of the essentials.  

 

For example, if someone wants to move into a property, they might want to know if there’s room for all their furniture. Walkthroughs can give them accurate information about how big or small a particular space is. 

They tell a great story 

Experienced real estate agents are often great storytellers. The better storytellers they are, the better they are at their jobs. Why? The reason is quite simple. Selling residential real estate isn’t that much about being technical and delivering the right features customers are looking for. 

 

It’s about selling a story about what new owners’ lives will look like after they’ve moved in. 3D animation can also tell a fantastic story while showcasing the design to potential clients. Combining a story, amazing visuals, and technical information can make viewers fall in love with the presentation. 

 

CGI offers a lot of variety when it comes to storytelling. It’s possible to include many camera movements, music, text, voiceovers, special effects, and so much more. In other words, apart from telling a story with the design, the walkthrough itself further gives context to viewers. 

 

Here’s a simple example of how this works. If you want to emphasize the light fixtures or the amount of natural light the space has, 3D artists can easily zoom in on those essential details. When it comes to concepts, people sometimes like to see the step-by-step process of designing. 

 

On the other hand, if it’s vital to showcase the size of a property, you can do it with a flyover walkthrough 360-degree video. That can also let viewers compare the size of the property to the surroundings. These ideas help sell projects more quickly and tell an engaging story. 

They present a property in different/dynamic settings 

Modern customers want only the best. We are long past impulsive purchases when people don’t care much about a particular product’s details. Customers are more informed today, and they have specific needs that showcase their personalities. 

 

A part of 3D visualization, in general, is to give all of the information possible to buyers. Help them understand every single detail of space, potential solutions, different variations, and different settings. That is what walkthroughs can also do effectively.

 

For example, CGI animation walkthroughs can easily show how a space looks when it’s snowing, during the day or night, or in any other situation. 3D artists can even create a quick time-lapse to showcase a property’s transition in a single day cycle. 

 

In other words, this type of content gives you the ability to present to your customers all the details they want to know. Additionally, you can create different walkthroughs for properties that haven’t been built yet. 

 

It’s possible to present different design solutions and ask the clients what they like better. That will help engage them even further and get them involved in the property they’re interested in buying. 

Viewers can understand how the property will fit in with its surroundings 

In most cases, static renders are all about a property’s interior and exterior. There’s no real focus on what’s surrounding that object, how it fits in, and where it stands compared to other buildings. That might matter to some people, and they might like to get to know their street at least before moving in. 

 

That is why virtual tours are a perfect option. It’s easy to take the whole 3D walkthrough around the property and the neighborhood. That gives clients more context about living there and what they will actually see every day. 

 

On top of that, it’s possible to get aerial footage of the surrounding area to give a better perspective. Some 3D artists will also use drone footage to include the actual property within the 3D presentation and provide a highly realistic image of the whole property. 

 

All of this can be genuinely appealing to customers, help them understand where the place is, what surrounds them, how they will function on a day-to-day basis, and more. 

No need for customers to actually see the property 

The main idea behind architectural walkthroughs is to create a medium through which interested parties can learn about a property and buy without physically visiting it. Even though this was initially the goal, it wasn’t quite possible at first. 

The whole industry quickly rejected this idea because it failed initially. But after years of improvement both in technical and creative terms, we can finally say that this is entirely possible today. Customers can buy a property without even visiting thanks to various camera angles, unique details, materials, 360-degree videos, and other superior visuals. 

 

Not only can they buy, but they can make the right buying decision. That is one of the most impactful ways walkthroughs lead to sales. Lots of people are busy and don’t have the time to travel across the country to check out a place. 

 

Instead, they often hire real estate agents that purchase on their behalf. Unfortunately, that isn’t enough. Buyers need to see the property themselves to determine if it has everything they need. 3D walkthroughs let them do this easily from the comforts of their home and spend only about 20 minutes before they can make a decision. 

Easy to showcase all of the essential details 

Before architectural walkthroughs, customers looking to buy a property that hadn’t been built yet had their work cut out for them. The same goes for people who planned on building something from scratch. Here’s why walkthroughs are better presentations.

They’re easier to understand 

As we mentioned, it was all about reading architectural plans or sketches in the past. That might be good enough for architects and people who have experience and knowledge with such documents. But for an average client, that barely means anything. 

 

Of course, they can try and understand the plan, but they won’t be able to get the whole picture. On the other hand, everyone understands videos. There’s no particular skill or knowledge required. 

Easier demonstration 

With 2D architectural plans, the architect or the agent had to play an active role in presenting and explaining the project. Yes, they still have to do this with walkthroughs, but it’s more about filling in the blanks or giving additional explanations that can help people understand important details.

 

This presentation method gives professionals the option to answer questions more quickly and see how the client is reacting along the way. 

Showing the layout 

As we mentioned earlier, 3D presentations move through all rooms and different parts of a property. That makes it super easy for viewers to understand the layout, where everything is located, consider functionality, and how they can use all of the rooms according to their needs. 

Focusing on essential details 

Walkthroughs can be as detailed as necessary. With various camera angles and movements, it’s easy to show all of the details and highlight unique features. The camera can zoom in on smaller design elements to make them more visible. On top of that, voiceovers can give explanations to support what’s being presented. 

Presenting the surrounding area 

2D architecture plans never included the surrounding buildings or houses. Walkthroughs can feature them and help customers understand the scale, proportions, and how the property fits in with its surroundings. 

They can impress clients 

In the end, walkthroughs can be super impressive and leave an unforgettable first impression on the potential buyer. All of the things we mentioned above can have a massive impact on the viewer and make them excited about a specific property. 

 

The whole presentation, visual experience, and amount of information delivered can be crucial in helping someone decide to buy. But on top of this, modern consumers love technology. CGI is all about technology, and it has a particular “cool factor” that can impress potential buyers. 

 

Even some of the most demanding clients will be impressed when your presentation tackles all of the details, answers their questions, and provides an immersive visual experience. 

Conclusion

Telling a coherent story through this medium can reflect in many positive ways including increased sales. Not only are walkthroughs compelling in bringing people on board with a project, but they can also be used for marketing, as portfolio material, showcasing your expertise, and so much more. 

 

The main thing to remember is to find a professional visualization artist that can execute animations according to the latest standards. These presentations can be valuable to architects, construction companies, real estate agents, and other professionals in the field. 

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How to Make and Organize a Pet Space in Your Home

May 29, 2022
Mike Johnston
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If you have been thinking of getting a new pup or adjusting a corner of your home for your pet’s needs and enjoyment, this article is great for you. In this article, you’ll find some ideas on organising a pet space in your home and making it functional and beautiful. This way, you will be able to keep your home neat, and your pet will have complete comfort.

Necessary Items

While planning this adjustment of your home for your furry friend, you should make a list of necessary items that will be implemented in this space and will make it functional. First of all, you should have a comfortable bed and a crate (if you have a dog that you’re training). It’s also important to have a storage solution for your pet’s supplements and hygiene products, such as a dog toothbrush and paste. For this, you can use a simple box that you’ll keep somewhere in the area where your pet has no access. For the area to look great, and for you to keep it clean, you should have a good mat or a tray and you should also make sure to find an effective storage solution for toys.

The Best Area

pet

First of all, you should decide on the amount of space you’ll be dedicating to your pet. Some people decide on dedicating the whole room to their pets, and some of them would rather pick a section of a room for this. Either way, we should keep in mind that space should not be in the section of the house where we prefer to entertain our guests and where people usually gather. Your pet always has an option to join your gatherings but it’s important for them to have a safe space where they can have some alone time.

How to Match the Pet’s Space with the Room Decor

pet

When you’re choosing your pet’s bed, you should try and match it with the existing room decor. Since your pet’s bed is the dominant piece of furniture in your pet’s area, this would be the most important detail which should match your room’s style. Since this area should be easy to maintain, you should go for the minimalist approach to design. It would be ideal if you could implement the same colours that are dominant in your room into your pet’s area.

For pet lovers, pets are family members and it’s important for them to have their rights in their homes such as their own space. This space could be small or the whole room, but what’s important is for it to be comfortable and safe. Making this space match the aesthetic we prefer makes the whole idea even better, so have fun choosing stylish pieces for your furry friend’s area.

 

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What Are The Advantages Of Hiring Experts for Kitchen Makeovers in a Home?

May 13, 2022
Mike Johnston
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One of the rooms in the house that needs to be functioning properly at any given point in time is none other than the kitchen. It is even considered to be the heart of the house. A kitchen should be well presentable and easy to use. With just a few makeovers, a kitchen can look splendid. It doesn’t even matter if the kitchen is quite outdated and old. After the process of renovation in the kitchen is completed with the help of professionals, it will give the kitchen a good potential and make the space look more attractive.

The kitchen makeovers is a process that involves specialists or professionals that help in the modernization and complete transformation of the client’s kitchen. They are available at an affordable cost. The service providers are completely trusted and reliable, as they have been working for many years and have received a good client reviews. For kitchen makeovers there are some points that need to be kept in mind when you look for experts for kitchen makeovers which are as follows:

  • You should be choosing those professionals for kitchen makeovers who offer good quality services at affordable prices. These professionals should even save the cost by completing the assigned task within the budget.
  • Make sure that the professionals coming for the kitchen makeovers make a minimal amount of disturbance to the neighborhood as well as do not make much mess in the house.
  • The specialist provided services after sending quotes. Kitchen makeovers do not mean the installation of new cupboards and doors only but also that each and every corner of the kitchen is to be remodeled.

When a professional company is called for kitchen makeovers then their main duty is to replace all the accessories installed in the kitchen like the cupboards, various panels, handles of the doors, joinery in the wooden furniture, hinges, and working platform, lighting, and drawers. After all the necessary changes have been made in the kitchen it will surely get a fresh look. Now let us discuss some of the points that why it is beneficial to hire the services of the kitchen makeovers which are as follows:

Image by rawpixel.com
  • Saves cost

The professionals provide services that help the client save their money. If the services provided cost the client less than 50% of the total cost then it would be very helpful for the client. 

  • Best quality product

All the products and materials that are changed by the professionals come under a six-year warranty period. Each and every accessory that is changed in the kitchen is completely guaranteed. They are made up of the best quality materials.

  • Ample of options

The experts provide more than 600 designs for kitchen makeovers. The various options for a client to change the style of the kitchen would include contemporary, modern, ancient, rustic, ultra-modern, or digital with the latest technologies. These styles include more than 100 shades of color palette and are applied according to the taste and preference of the client.

  • Much faster

The services provided by the experts are done at a much faster rate so that their clients are satisfied with the work without compromising the quality. As the kitchen is the most vital part of the house it requires the involvement of the client on a daily basis. So, blocking the working space of the kitchen for makeovers can make the tasks of the client much more difficult.

Conclusion

Keeping all these points in mind each and every client should choose the best service provider for kitchen makeovers. They can even take the suggestions from their near and dear ones in order to get the best service providers. It takes a maximum of two to three days to complete the entire procedure.

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How to Sell Your Own House by Yourself without Realtors

May 12, 2022
Mike Johnston
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If you’re thinking of selling your home, you might be wondering if it’s worth it to pay a Realtor. Realtors help walk you through the process of selling your home by listing it for sale for you. But what about those who don’t have a realtor or are just looking for a more efficient way to sell their home? Real estate online marketing is an easy, less expensive solution that can make it easier than ever to sell your house on your own! 

Realtors can charge as much as six percent of the price of your home, which could be thousands when talking about an expensive property. But with a little research and by following the steps mentioned below, you’ll learn how you can avoid hiring a professional – and save yourself thousands in the process. 

With these helpful tips, now any homeowner can take back control of their property and list their house with no hassle. You need to learn these tips and discover some ideas that work for you!

1. Consider Having an Open House

One of the best ways to get people interested in your home is by having an open house. All you have to do is schedule the time, date, and place to do it. Let people know that you’ll be there through a sign posted in your yard and a few ads in places where homes are sold, like local newspapers or real estate websites. Setting up an open house is cost-effective since it requires little effort, but it can bring a lot of foot traffic to your property. Be sure to clear the clutter out of your house to present a clean and welcoming look. If you can manage it, try to set up furniture so that it feels like people could be living there. However, please don’t go overboard or make it look too staged. It would help if you also considered preparing for rainy days by having off-season outerwear for guests or having umbrellas available for use.

sell your
Photo by RODNAE Productions: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-and-woman-looking-at-the-documents-8292833/

2. Meet With People Who Are Interested

It’s always best to meet with people in person who are showing interest in your house. If a potential buyer wants to see your home, you should make an appointment and show them around when they want to see it. This shows that you are interested in selling and serious about moving forward with those who want to buy. By doing this, you won’t have to worry about responding to unwanted contacts or last-minute open houses where buyers rush through homes without giving you a chance for serious negotiations.

3. Have a Basic Inspection Done

It’s best to have a basic inspection done at the beginning of the selling process, especially if you’re new to selling your property. This way, you’ll be able to see what needs to be fixed and have time to do it before having an open house or letting potential buyers take a look. You might want to consider using the services of a general contractor for this job since most Realtors won’t perform inspections. However, the inspector can suggest keeping your house in good condition and help you decide which repairs are worth it.

Photo by Sieuwert Otterloo on Unsplash

4. Advertise Your Property Well

If you’re not a realtor, you might be wondering where to start in advertising your property. There are several different places to put ads. This includes paper, online newspapers, websites devoted to selling and buying homes, bulletin boards at local grocery stores and community centers, and even tweets on Twitter. You can also use video marketing, where you can make brief videos highlighting the best features of your home. Real estate online marketing can be a great way to advertise your property without spending a lot of money and being physically present at every open house because it’s all done online.

Another way to reach potential buyers is by using a website or social media page dedicated specifically to this purpose. This can be extremely useful since you won’t have to worry about the expense of searching for agent websites or advertisements in newspapers and magazines. You can create visuals and links online to help prospective buyers learn more about your property. For example, if you have an online listing, use that as a place where people can obtain information on it, such as the square footage, price range, and any other relevant details. You can also use your social media to promote the property, and you can even use it for advertising open houses.

5. Be Responsive and courteous

You might want to set up a voicemail or an email account that you’ll check regularly. It makes it easier to communicate with interested buyers and be receptive to their questions. At the same time, you may want to consider getting an answering machine at home and an answering service when you’re unavailable. If a potential buyer wants information on your house and can’t get in touch with you right away, they’ll have a way of leaving a message for you – and the answering service will be able to get back to them even if you’re not available.

You also want to be polite when dealing with buyers and potential buyers. Although it’s important, to be honest about your house, it’s also important to remember that someone will be living there. If the buyer wants a home inspection, you should honour that and give the inspector two weeks’ notice before granting one. If a buyer would like to see your property after hours, set up a time convenient for both of you – and make sure that you are available at that time. This shows buyers that you are reliable and professional, so they will feel better about purchasing your home.

 

Once you realize the importance of selling your own home, it makes sense to follow these tips. Using them makes you feel more confident in selling your house to anyone who wants it. It’ll also be much easier for you to sell quickly and for a good price. Although it may seem difficult at first, with some determination, you’ll get the hang of listing your house without a realtor – and actually, have fun while doing it! There are many ways to get your property off the market quickly and easily. The key is to keep your options open and remain creative to have a house ready for sale. No matter what methods you choose, remember that no one will be able to take control of your property unless they’re willing to invest in it.

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4 Reasons Why You Should Never Delay AC Repairs

April 28, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Summer is in full swing, and that means blistering heat for many parts of the country. If you’re like most people, you’re running your air conditioner non-stop to keep cool. But what if your AC starts to malfunction? You may be tempted to wait until the end of summer to fix it, but that could be a huge mistake. Here are four good reasons to not delay AC repairs.

Why Do We Need to Repair AC Regularly?

It’s no secret that the summers can be brutally hot. And while most of us have air conditioners to help keep us cool, it’s important to remember that these units need regular care and maintenance to function properly. Otherwise, you may find yourself dealing with a broken AC unit in the middle of a heatwave – and trust me, that’s not fun.

So why do we need to repair AC regularly? Well, there are a few reasons. First, as your AC unit runs, it collects dust and debris on its coils and other parts. This buildup can eventually lead to problems like reduced airflow and decreased efficiency. Additionally, over time, wear and tear can take its toll on your AC unit, causing parts to break down or fail completely.

By getting your AC unit serviced regularly, you can help prevent these issues and keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.

AC Repairs
Image by Pixabay.com

4 Reasons for Not Delaying AC Repairs

Air conditioners are a vital part of our everyday lives. Just like our cars need immediate repairs when we face any complications, ACs need to be repaired as soon as possible when problems arise. Here are the 4 reasons why we should not delay AC repairs.

  • Delayed Repairs Leads to More Problems

Whenever there is an issue with the AC, it’s very important to contact an HVAC technician and schedule for repairs. This is because overlooking a single small problem for a long time can eventually lead to much more serious problems. For example, suppose the compressor of your AC makes a sound when you turn it on. 

You might overlook it and think it is not a major problem but over the course of time, this small problem with your compressor can lead to compressor failure as well as damage to other parts of the AC. It’s better to be safe than sorry so never overlook small problems with your AC. 

  • Delayed Repairs Can Cost You Money

We often think of repairs and maintenance as something that we put off until it’s absolutely necessary. However, when it comes to your air conditioner, this could be a costly mistake. If you put off fixing your air conditioner for too long, you may wind up spending a lot more money in the long run. Here’s how:

Your utility bills will go up – If your air conditioner is not working properly, it has to work harder to cool your home. This means that your energy usage will go up, and so will your utility bills.

The repairs will be more expensive – The longer you wait to repair your AC unit, the more damage it will cost. This means that the repairs will be more expensive, and you may even have to replace your unit entirely.

Your home will be uncomfortable – If your air conditioner is not working properly, your home will be hard to live in. You will be compelled to crank up the thermostat, which will only make the problem worse. Moreover, you need to spend extra money on buying portable fans to keep yourself cool as the ac will not be helping much.

So, if you think your air conditioner needs repairs, don’t wait! Call a professional AC repair company today and repair now. They can help you get your unit back in tip-top shape and save you money in the long run.

Image from rawpixel.com

  • Faulty AC can be Harmful to Health Hazards

One of the most often utilized items in both homes and workplaces is the air conditioner. While it is typically thought of as a way to keep cool in the summer, AC units also help to remove humidity from the air. However, when an AC unit is not properly maintained, it can actually become a health hazard.

Mold and mildew can grow inside an AC unit that isn’t maintained or repaired for a long time. When the unit turns on, these spores are then circulated through the home or business, causing respiratory problems for those with allergies or asthma. 

Another health hazard associated with faulty AC units is carbon monoxide poisoning. AC units that are not properly vented can release this odorless, colorless gas into the air. Carbon monoxide is exceedingly harmful, causing headaches, nausea, and in some extreme cases, death.

If you suspect that your AC unit may be causing health problems, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. They will take all the necessary steps to make the AC safe by performing essential repairs and maintenance. Taking these precautions will help you avoid potentially serious health hazards.

  • Faulty AC Can Cause Fire Hazards

Faulty air conditioners can cause fire hazards. One way is by overloading electrical circuits. If an AC unit is drawing too much power, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip or even cause a fire. Another way faulty ACs can cause fires is by leaking refrigerant. Refrigerant is a highly flammable substance, and if it leaks onto an electrical component, it can cause a fire. Finally, faulty AC units can also cause fires by sparking or shorting out. If an AC unit sparks or shorts out, it can ignite nearby combustible materials and start a fire.

If your air conditioner is broken, you should have it serviced or replaced as quickly as possible.

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Laminate vs Quartz Worktops: A Handy Comparison Guide to Help You Decide

March 28, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Laminate versus quartz worktops—Seems like a far-fetched comparison, doesn’t it? Surely, you can’t begin to imagine how laminate could compare with the likes of quartz. 

Remember the time when laminate worktops had poor visuals and often are easily worn down? However, the gap between these two surface materials is narrowing to a point wherein designers, homeowners, etc. are starting to compare them with each other to find out which one is better. 

Premium laminates are quickly catching up to the wide customer base and market share of quartz. In fact, those who previously would pick quartz any day (if their budget persists) are finding themselves considering laminates instead.  

Prospective buyers often are caught undecided between the choices for worktop material. So, to help you make the decision-making easier here is a comparison between two surface materials that are worth looking into if you plan on remodelling or buying a new kitchen. 

Let’s begin with the basics, but if you already know this, then skip this section and continue with the next. 

Composition

Quartz worktops. Quartz is a mixture of materials. It is composed of 10% binding resins and the other 90% comprised hard materials such as pure quartz crystals, marble, glass, mirrors, etc.

Because it is a composite material, alternate terms are often used like engineered stone, man-made stone, or cultured stone, reflecting this material’s true nature.

Laminate worktops. Basically, this is a sandwich of materials. A thick slab of particleboard makes up the structural part, which you will never see since the thin sheet of laminate covers it. 

Although laminate is called “plastic,” it is not actually plastic. Laminate is largely composed of kraft paper and resins. 

worktops
Photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden on Unsplash

Appearance 

Solid Colours. Should all worktop surfaces mimic stone surfaces? Perhaps, no. 

Quartz surfaces are widely known for their unmatched consistency in colour and patterns that even granite couldn’t match, yet it lacks in depth of colour. However, you should worry since quartz can easily pull off a natural stone feel and appearance that even laminate couldn’t match. 

In the UK, laminate is available in hundreds of solid and contemporary colours, including graphical prints and patterns which really help to improve your home internal look. Laminates can also mimic stones such as travertine, marble, and slate and also organic materials like wood, leather and cook and also even fabric and paper. 

Depth. In terms of duplicating a natural stone’s look, then there’s no question that quartz is the clear winner. However, high-end laminates are breaking barriers and are becoming even more realistic at replicating the appearance of a natural stone. 

Regardless of how expensive a laminate is, it may never duplicate the visual depth of quartz since it isn’t visually deep itself.  

Best. If you prefer stone-like surfaces, quartz is your best bet. But if you want a surface able to mimic a stone’s distinctive veining, opt for laminate. 

Durability

Independent testing services such as the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) in the UK and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), in accordance with set guidelines, conduct tests to rate the durability of worktop materials. 

Scratch resistance

Quartz. Compared with natural stone counters, quartz has impressive flexural strength and is almost indestructible. Yes, it is highly scratch resistant. However, note that it does and can scratch. Especially susceptible are tight-grained, solid, dark colours, and they’re highly difficult to fix. 

Laminate. Long been considered as laminate’s Achilles heel is its “wear layer” or the topmost layer. This layer easily scratches and chips, especially with knives that are prominently found in kitchens.

Typically, a salesman would inform you that laminate slabs are as long-lasting as quartz slabs, and of course, we all know that most homeowners wouldn’t want a blemished surface, especially if they often have friends and guests over for small or large gatherings. 

So to remedy this, opt for dark-coloured or patterned laminate slab because it hides better cuts and bruises.

​Heat resistance

You might be surprised to know that laminate can withstand extreme heat, whereas quartz surfaces are only durable so long as sudden and extreme temperature changes are not directly applied on the surface.

Best. Although both materials are very hard-wearing, quartz definitely has the solid win in terms of abrasion ratings, but laminate in terms of heat resistance. 

Image by rawpixel.com

Installation

A great majority of all quartz and laminate surfaces of quality are professionally installed.

It’s nearly impossible for homeowners to actually develop the skillset required in the fabrication and installation of quartz surfaces. This also holds true for laminates. 

If homeowners want to close the “quality gap” between laminate and quartz, then they must be installed professionally, too.

However, is it possible to install laminate or quartz on your own? Yes. There is an existing market of off-the-shelf laminate slabs that can be installed on existing counters, but this requires some effort on the part of the homeowners. 

Note that if you do this wrong, you’ll be spending a lot more instead of saving. 

Best. Laminate, since you need professionals for proper quartz installation. 

The Takeaway

So which is it, laminate or quartz worktops? If you are still on the fence, ask your dealership to provide you with samples and place them in your kitchen to see which one suits your taste and lifestyle. Again, the ultimate decision rests upon your personal preference.    

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What is Modernist Architecture? What You Need to Know About Today’s Style

March 25, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Modernism design isn’t a design style that’s set in stone. It evolves over time and it’s highly influenced by what’s going on in today’s world. But when it comes to choosing a design style for your home, there’s a difference between “modern” and “modernist.”

What is modernist architecture?

Modernism isn’t a strict set of rules that one must follow to the T when you’re designing. It’s more of a mindset and it’s always evolving, thanks to current cultural trends, technology, new materials, our geographical location, and sustainability principles, like rules for dealing with construction waste. 

When you hear the term “modernist architecture,” you’re probably thinking about clean lines, stark white decor, glass, and metal elements. It all sounds so new, right? But did you know that this type of architectural design has actually been around for the past century? The style originated in the 1920s and was most popular between the 50s and 60s. Its popularity cooled off between the 70s and 2000s, but it is making a comeback. 

So… Think Frank Lloyd Wright combined with touches of Germany’s Bauhaus School.

modernist architecture
Photo by Jimmy Chang on Unsplash

The rise and fall of modernism in the 20th century

At the conclusion of the Second World War, modernist architecture was in its prime. The early 1950s saw a second wave of architects who embraced modernism. Paul Rudolph, I.M. Pei, and Phillip Johnson took ideas from Bauhaus and injected it with regional inspiration that drew heavily from their local landscape, climate, and (of course) the culture. Other architects like John  Lautner and Alden Dow actually studied under Frank Lloyd Wright and you can see that influence in their designs. 

Once the 1970s hit, modernist architecture wasn’t in much demand due to maintenance problems. Modernism design was ahead of its time, to be sure. However, no one could anticipate the problems they’d experience due to the designs and materials used to create these signature designs. 

An example of this is the flat roof. They may have looked cool, but at the time, roofing materials weren’t the greatest and leaky roofs were a common issue. By the time there were improvements to roofing material, modernism fell out of popularity. In its place, homeowners, designers, and architects embraced postmodernism’s bold use of color, ornamentation while drawing on historical design elements to break free of the limitations of modernism.  

Modernism is back in action in the 21st century

While people’s interest in modernist architecture waned during the late 1990s, modernism began its glorious comeback in the 2000s. Once again, people fell in love with the minimalist lifestyle (often thought of being sterile, cold, and unfriendly) while still embracing mid-century design. 

People often associate modernism with white boxes sitting on top of concrete slabs. This is true for many homes that employ this design style, they aren’t the de facto design elements. Modernism is about using regional elements to create a home that feels like it belongs there. Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic style seamlessly blends minimalist design with functional design elements that respond to natural elements like the weather, sun orientation, and the like. 

Photo by Nerses Khachatryan on Unsplash

What are the most common elements of modernist architecture? 

One modernist home can look very different from another modernist home, but they almost always have similar features like: 

  • Open floor plans
  • Flat or low-pitched roofs
  • Lots of natural light
  • Glass walls
  • Clean lines with very little ornamentation
  • Geometric and asymmetrical structures
  • Visible structural elements like beams, reinforced concrete, and steel frames
  • Elements that blur the line between indoors and outdoors

What to know if you’re thinking about owning a modernist home

If you’re drawn to modernist architecture and your dream home would look like something out of Wright’s portfolio of designs, there are some things you need to know. 

First of all, it’s going to cost a lot to maintain the temperature in the house. Since this design style often features a lot of glass and open spaces, you’re going to have to think of energy-efficient solutions. Walk around the house and pay attention to the temperature and airflow, as they will impact your energy efficiency and overall living comfort.

You’ll also want to remember that if you’re looking at an older modernist home, you’ll want to get the roof inspected. Not only will you want to look for leaks (old and new), but also if there are ways you can make the roof less likely to leak in the future. 

Modernist architecture is making a comeback and people are embracing the philosophies that go with it. Gone are the days of busy wallpapers, bold colors, and closed floor plans because it’s time to embrace the cleanliness and functionality that modern design offers!

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Top 7 Interior Design Trends That Will Make an Impact in 2022

January 28, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Ready for a light spring update of your interior in 2022? If you love to follow trends in interior design and keep your home relevant, there are a few trends that will pop this year. Adopt any of the following trends and you’ll love your home even more: 

Warm colors will be big in 2022

There’s no design without color, interior design included. The color palette you’ve chosen for your home can make or break the design. Colors have a strong effect on humans and can evoke emotional responses. In the past years, cooler tones like purple have been very popular. In 2022, warm colors will find themselves back on the big stage. 

Red is one of the main colors of the year, but all different shades of red, orange, and coral will be present in modern interiors today. If you’re aiming for an earthy and sustainable vibe, browns and beiges are expected to replace gray as the neutral color this season. 

in 2022
Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash 

Soft shapes will remain relevant in 2022

From the various architectural elements to furniture and décor, in 2022 we can expect to see a lot of rounded shapes, softness, and femininity in forms. If your home is full of lines and sharp corners, it’s easy to rectify this with furniture that flows. Designer furniture has lost its actual (not figurative) edge. We can see soft and rounded tables, lighting, sofas, and ottomans. Even chairs will exhibit softness instead of their stoic and rigid structure. 

Statement ceilings are here to stay in 2022

If you want to achieve a very obvious and bold change in your interior, just point some attention up towards your ceilings. Bold colors and patterns today are not only reserved for walls and flooring—ceilings will enjoy a lot of interest and instantly transform any boring space into a quirky and eclectic environment. 

Photo by Maiar Shalaby on Unsplash 

Diverse and flexible design

In the past, before the pandemic, every room had a specific use and the design that supported it, but today, when we have to do so many things at home, we need designs that will be flexible and diverse. Multi-functional spaces that allow you to use every inch of your home will be all the rage in 2022, especially among people who live in smaller homes and apartments. 

For instance, with folding chairs and tables it’s possible to go from a full dining room to open space for workouts. Furniture with tiny wheels is also popular because it’s easy to move around and create different designs with it. 

Concrete décor pieces & accents

Concrete is a common material used for flooring, walls, and countertops, but this material (that’s surprisingly eco-friendly) has more uses today, most notably in décor. For instance, you will notice more lighting pendants, coffee tables, and small decorations made with concrete. If you like this trend, just make sure to balance the gray and cold vibe of concrete with some bold and bright colors to prevent the space from becoming too sterile. 

Image by rawpixel.com 

Woven elements

Furniture and accents made with cane are still going strong, but in 2022, we can expect to see some more woven elements. These are very attractive details that can bring nature into your home quickly and efficiently. Besides well-known weave chairs, we can expect to see other elements like vases, pendants, lamps, and cabinets adorned with woven elements. 

Café curtains

If you’re completely new to café curtains, you might be stunned to see this trend, but after you keep seeing it, it will definitely grow on you. Aesthetically not the most attractive, café curtains just make sense because they provide users with ample privacy while allowing the sun to shine through. When you see café curtains in action, you’ll become a believer. 

Final thoughts

In 2022, expect a lot of freedom to experiment with different interior designs and different décor elements. If you want to use these above as the inspiration for your unique design, feel free to adopt them and enjoy your new interior.

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Easy Decor Tricks for a Cozy and Stress-Free Living Room

January 21, 2022
Mike Johnston
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Living rooms are meant to be a retreat within your home. A place where you can curl up at the end of a hard day. A room to gather with friends and family. A space to call your own. Finding the perfect balance between cozy and stress-free can be challenging. We tend to think of cozy rooms as a place where you’re surrounded, whereas a stress-free room invokes images of a clutter-free existence. Fortunately, you can have it all. Here are some easy decor tricks to help you achieve a cozy and stress-free living room.

Take a minimalist approach

There’s a misconception that minimalism means having a sterile, unwelcoming space. While that’s one version of minimalism, it’s more about everything in a room being chosen with intent and creating an ideal flow. 

First, consider the scale of your furniture in comparison to the room. If you have a small living room, having smaller, sleeker furniture can open up space. Rather than having sofas and chairs that rest flush against the floor, consider adding legs to elevate the furniture and allow air to flow through.

Use a floor planner to determine the best living room layout, creating separation for different spaces as needed. Remember that furniture doesn’t always need to be up against the wall; adding a narrow table behind a couch can improve the room’s flow while creating functional surfaces for beverages, books, and displays.

Photo by Lisa from Pexels

Incorporate natural elements

Humans are innately connected to nature. Bringing natural elements into your home decor can create a sense of calm and belonging that adds to the coziness of your home without adding clutter.

Indoor plants are one of the most manageable natural elements to incorporate into your decor. Bring your living room to life with a bouquet of tropical flowers for a pop of color that looks amazing against a neutral backdrop. 

You can also get some low-maintenance leafy plants, like the snake plant or dracaena. Adding stone candle holders and natural wood elements also add a nice touch when reconnecting with nature to create a stress-free living room. 

Rely on cozy textiles

What is more cozy and stress-free than an assortment of blankets and pillows? Add a few layers of lush throw blankets to your furniture, or keep them stored neatly with a blanket basket or ladder. Using throw pillows is a great way to make the space relaxing while creating versatility for seasonal decor.

Don’t neglect the window treatments when considering your textiles. Sheer white curtains create a calm, breezy environment in the warmer months, while thicker fabrics create a sense of warmth during the winter.

Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

Create lighting options

Your living room should have more than one lighting option. Ideally, you’ll be able to influence the tone of the room by the lights you use. Consider having a bright overhead light for cleaning and getting things done, as well as a few warm, dim lamps for a soothing atmosphere.

Create clutter-free storage options

Keeping your living room clutter-free can be a challenge, especially if you have kids. As this is the area where people gather, it tends to collect more clutter than other rooms. Incorporate storage options into your decor. Baskets can be placed on shelves to hide toys, and decorative boxes are great for storing wires and electronics. You can also create rules about leaving things in the living room; remember to follow the rules yourself!

Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

Display joy-inducing photos and art

Don’t feel compelled to display imagery based on decor trends and what you think you should do. Instead, display art and photos that bring you joy. If you prefer comic book splash pages over “live, laugh, love” signs, put them on the wall— this is your home! It’s also worth noting that if you’re someone who doesn’t like displaying art and photos, and prefers the clean feeling of a blank wall, choose that instead. 

 

Creating a cozy and stress-free living room means blending your personal style with a clutter-free layout. Add comfortable elements to convey warmth and welcoming, and you’ll have the living room of your dreams.

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Smooth Decorator is a website dedicated to our little sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of the outside world – to our homes, sweet homes. We believe that the foundation of a quality life needs to be set right there, in the place where we first dream things up, and that only when we organized our homes can we hope to organize the rest of our everyday existence.

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