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Stella Van Lane

How Sugar Can Have a Positive Impact on Concrete

February 20, 2023
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The beneficial effects of adding table sugar to concrete, such as retarding its setting time, improving its flowability, increasing its density, reducing the heat generated during hydration, and enhancing its strength, have been studied. The optimal amount of sugar to add and the precautions to take during the concrete construction process have also been investigated. Overall, the results indicate that sugar is a valuable additive for concrete.

Sugar’s concrete uses

Functions:

  • Concrete delay
  • Flow and compactness improve
  • Cracks from dehydration, heat, and cold
  • Cracks from dehydration, heat, and cold
  • Later Concrete Strengthens

Concrete-retarding

The glucose catalytic principle slows sugar’s action. Sugar has a polyhydroxy molecular formula. Its surface is polar, causing solid-liquid adsorption, and it possesses molecular hydroxyl groups. 

Boost flow and density

In concrete pouring construction, concrete is often too viscous to put into the formwork, such as thin wall sliding framework, thin wall concrete board, concrete water pool, etc. In thin concrete projects, poor flowability and the hard flap will affect construction quality. 

Water pools, grain silos, and cement silos with air-tightness requirements are especially at risk. Increasing water to improve collapsed slumps will impair concrete strength and anti-permeability. Adding sugar solves the problem.

Sugar in concrete
Photo by Rodolfo Quirós on Pexels

Temperature Cracks from Dehydration, Heat, and Cold

In mass concrete construction, temperature fractures commonly form owing to unpredictable temperature differences between the interior and exterior, caused by cement heat hydration. 

Sugar slows tricalcium silicate crystal hydrate conversion, and cement heat slows the hydration process. Reduces hydration heat peak and temperature-caused concrete fractures. The core of mass concrete without sugar reached 70 degrees Celsius in practice. Adding 2% sugar to the cement raised its central temperature to 55°C. Sugar retards and reduces concrete’s hydration heat.

Concrete Strengthens Over Time

Sugar-coated concrete will separate water. Sugar is a water-reducing ingredient group that slows hydration. This improves the concrete’s late strength and results in solid-liquid absorption. 

By adding sugar (0.1% of the cement quantity) and lowering water use by 12%, sugar-added and sugar-free concrete slumps are similar. Sugar (0.1% of cement) reduces water by 10%. As a water-lowering agent can increase the late strength of concrete like other agents (but early strength is relatively low).

Excess Sugar in Concrete

Sugar is cheap and effective, but the dose should be tested. When the sugar quantity is close to or exceeds 0.3% of the cement amount, the collapsing slump will not grow but will increase continually over time. The sugar content should be 0.2% of cement. 0.1 per cent is usually sufficient for building.

Fast water segregation is another aspect.

After adding sugar, water seeps through the concrete. This is like submerging aggregate. Stationary concrete sugars and condenses. If concrete sits stationary for two hours, it’s hard to compress. Concrete viscosity will drop. 

After adding sugar, use the concrete for 2 hours. Otherwise, segregation occurs. When concrete is injected, the stagnation time should be less than 1 hour. Otherwise, it’ll sink and obstruct the pump.

Advice on Adding Sugar to Concrete and Its Effects on Setting Time

To uniformly mix sugar into concrete, add the solution and stir the material. (Concrete water usage must account for sugar solution water.) Sugar can be added to the concrete by mixing water.

Image by rawpixel.com

Concrete vs. Cement

Cement and concrete vary in how they’re made. Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, aggregate, and water. Cement is made by combining aluminium, iron, silicon, calcium, and other components.

Cement is a binding ingredient in concrete used to cast beams, columns, and slabs.

Cement and water create hydration heat, which helps concrete set and acquire strength.

The chemical composition of cement’s constituents affects its strength. Concrete’s strength comes from a steady water-cement ratio and mix ratio.

Cement production is a difficult process that can only be done in facilities with expert employees, while concrete production is considerably simpler.

Soundness, fineness, specific gravity, initial and final cement time, and consistency tests determine cement qualities. Rebound hammer, Compressive Test, Compaction Factor Test, Strength Test, Slump Test.

Sugar slows concrete setting

Sugar slows concrete’s setting time as a retarder. Adding 0.1% sugar to concrete delays setting by 116 minutes. To postpone the setting time, adjust the sugar value.

Sugars in concrete are “cement destroyers” that increase compressive strength by 22,4%, 19,6%, and 20,3% after 7, 14, and 28 days compared to concrete without sugar. Increasing concrete setting time causes this.

Sugar has no negative impact on concrete, however, 0.06 per cent by weight can delay the initial and final setting by 80 and 110 minutes, respectively.

Sugar’s varied forms affect concrete differently. Like Trehalose, Lactose is a mild concrete retardant. Sucrose is the most retardant sugar molecule.

 

What is residential post-construction cleaning?

October 21, 2022
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The ultimate aim for any construction contractor is to pass over the key to a freshly constructed work or refurbished facility to any customer that they will be servicing. However, after the construction project itself, not to mention the tears and sweat that they must endure, the task of a construction business is not complete until it is completed. Before the final key is turned over, there are a few more tasks to accomplish before the building is complete. These extra activities include complete facility cleaning with a construction cleaning checklist for deep cleaning, sometimes known as post-construction cleaning.

POST-CONSTRUCTION CLEANING IS A SERVICE PERFORMED ON NEW OR RENOVATED BUILDINGS.

The term “post-construction” implies that this cleaning is done after the building phase. A building contractor may clean up waste in general, but specific cleaning is no longer part of their work. This kind of cleaning involves cleaning the whole facility from top to bottom, not only sweeping the floor and washing the carpet and other visible surfaces.

 The following are some of the cleaning standards that must be met:

  • The walls are clean and devoid of markings, grime, and smudges.
  • Power washing and window and frame cleaning.
  • Remove plastic/stickers off furniture, windows, and doors.
  • Wet and dry dusting of ceilings, lighting, fans, and heaters
  • Clean and polished floors that are free of clutter, particularly on edges and corners
  • Cleaning with a vacuum cleaner.

Trimming clean

  • Cleaning the threshold
  • Internal and external cleaning of all appliances, cabinets, and shelves
  • Proper waste and debris disposal
  • Addressing any safety concerns, such as unsecured wires and leaks, with the building contractors

Once the cleaning is finished, do a last thorough inspection of all the spaces, corners, and interior surfaces.

THESE CLEANING REQUIREMENTS ARE COMPLETED ONE STEP AT A TIME THROUGH THE THREE POST-CONSTRUCTION CLEANING PHASES.

Photo by Monica Silvestre: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-standing-in-room-with-unfinished-walls-4249477/

PHASE 1: ROUGH CLEAN

The first phase begins once all essential electrical, plumbing, and framing installations have been completed. The first and most important stage in this phase is to remove big things such as garbage, trash, leftover materials, and other items that cannot be cleaned.

Then there will be general sweeping or vacuuming. This step also includes the removal, but not the cleaning, of stickers from doors and windows.

PHASE 2: CLEAN LIGHT

This is the most labour-intensive step of post-construction cleaning, requiring a large amount of cleaning equipment and materials. Restrooms and kitchens, which serve a specific function, are receiving special attention.

Sinks, toilets, windows, and cabinets are just a few of the installed things that will be completely cleaned during this period. One of the reasons people employ a professional cleaning service is during this phase.

Clients can depend on Dirt2Tidy to deliver the most effective and up-to-date cleaning equipment and products, ensuring that these regions and most inside surfaces, such as air ducts, are thoroughly cleaned.

Additional cleaning of the locations with removed stickers from the first phase is also being addressed here; areas such as windows, glass areas, doors, walls, and so on. This phase brings us one step closer to the arrival of customers.

This kind of cleaning involves cleaning the whole facility from top to bottom, not only sweeping the floor and washing the carpet and other visible surfaces by a commercial cleaning crew in the newly built to remove dust and debris.

Photo by La Miko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cleaning-supplies-3616735/

PHASE 3: COMPLETE CLEANING

The last cleaning process is known as touch-up cleaning. This occurs several days after the second phase since dust and dirt may still settle; as a result, the cleaning staff will have more time to focus on the final dust removal.

This step takes less time than normal since the common items that are cleansed at this stage are smudges, fingerprints, and other defects from the regions cleaned in previous rounds.

Builders Clean

Post-construction cleaning requires full time and attention and may take many days to complete. This activity is difficult to handle for a building contractor that has a lot on their plate.

Construction contractors are already preoccupied with erecting the structure, and the extra duty of cleaning up their mess is a significant hardship. As a result, employing expert cleaners, whether via the building contractor or on your own, is highly recommended.

If the building contractor does not provide extra cleaning services, some customers may elect to forego hiring professional cleaners and instead handle their own cleaning, but this must be done with caution.

Inner and concealed portions of the building that most people are unaware of might be missed if cleaning is done by customers rather than experts. This is too dangerous since it might endanger the safety and health of the individuals who will inhabit the building.

Photo by Matilda Wormwood: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-a-protective-suit-disinfecting-inside-the-house-4099260/

HERE ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF HIRING PROFESSIONAL CLEANERS

The safety of everyone who will use the venue will be prioritised. There’s no need to be concerned about a nail left on the garage floor or dust that might create lung difficulties.

Professional cleaners have the necessary abilities and equipment, therefore they are expected to provide professional results, such as no paint spatters, unremoved stickers, or dust.

The whole facility will be fully cleaned and ready for occupancy.

Professional cleaners will determine the top place that requires extra attention based on their years of expertise and training.

Nothing will be left behind; the outdoor area will also be cleaned and given care.

Cleaning will be completed one at a time, in accordance with the three stages of post-construction cleaning.

Restrooms, kitchens, office spaces, conference rooms, stairwells, elevators, utility rooms, and storage facilities are just a few of the places that we focus on.

Furthermore, Dirt2Tidy may provide the following cleaning services. Dirt2Tidy constantly ensures that all of their customers’ post-construction cleaning criteria are satisfied and that nothing can surpass what they can achieve.

 

5 Backyard Ideas that will Transform Your Outdoor Space

September 21, 2022
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There are many reasons why you might want to add a deck or patio to your backyard. Perhaps you need some extra space to entertain guests, or maybe you just want a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. No matter what your reasons may be, adding a deck or patio is a great way to improve your backyard, plus consider these extra few ideas.

1. Add a fire pit

A fire pit is a great way to transform your outdoor space. Not only does it add some warmth and ambiance, but it can also be a great place to gather with friends and family. You can find fire pits in a variety of shapes and sizes, so there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for your backyard. 

Once you have your fire pit, you can then start to think about how you want to use it. You can use it for cooking, roasting marshmallows, or simply as a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whatever you choose to do with your fire pit, it’s sure to be a great addition to your home.

2. Install a pergola

A pergola is a great way to transform your backyard and create your own backyard oasis. Not only will it provide you with some much-needed shade, but it can also be a great place to hang out or relax. You can even add some curtains or lights to make it even more inviting. 

Pergolas are fairly easy to install and can be a great DIY project for weekends. Just make sure to do your research and get the right materials before you start. With a little bit of effort, you can easily create a backyard retreat that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Backyard deck
Image by Francine Sreca from Pixabay

3. Add some plants and flowers

If you’re looking for a simple way to transform your backyard, adding some plants and flowers is a great option. Not only will it make your space look more inviting, but it can also provide you with some additional privacy. Consider planting a hedge or installing some flower boxes along your fence line. You could also add some climbers to cover up an unsightly view. Whatever you choose, adding some greenery to your backyard is a surefire way to improve its appearance.

4. Install a deck or patio

One of the best ways to transform your backyard is to install a deck or patio. A deck or patio can provide a great place to relax or entertain guests, and it can also add value to your home.

If you’re thinking about installing a deck or patio, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need to choose the right location for your deck or patio. You’ll also need to decide what material you want to use. There are a variety of options available, including wood, composite, and concrete. 

Once you’ve decided on the location and material, you’ll need to hire a contractor to install your deck or patio. With a little planning and some help from professionals, you can easily transform your backyard with a new deck or patio.

Backyard deck
Image by eyeclick from Pixabay

5. Build a shed or workshop

Building a shed or workshop is a great way to add some extra space to your backyard. Not only will it provide you with a place to store things, but it can also be a great place to work on hobbies or projects and put to use all those home remodel tips you’ve learned. 

If you’re thinking about building a shed or workshop, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide on the size and style of shed or workshop that you want. There are many different sizes and styles available, so it’s important to choose one that will fit your needs. Once you’ve decided on the size and style, you’ll need to choose a location for your shed or workshop. 

It’s important to choose a level spot that’s not too close to your house or other structures. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, you can start planning the construction of your shed or workshop. Be sure to check with your local building code office to get all the necessary permits before you begin construction. With a little planning and effort, you can transform your backyard into an extra storage space or workspace.

Final thoughts

There are many different ways to transform your backyard. By adding some plants and flowers, installing a deck or patio, or building a shed or workshop, you can easily make your backyard more inviting and functional. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can turn your backyard into the perfect retreat.

“Boys and girls of every age,

Wouldn’t you like to see something strange?”

Fall is finally upon us, which means that it’s finally time to, once again, show our creativity and delight of fright and decorate our homes and yards in a way that will send chills down your neighbor’s spines.

It’s finally the time of ghoulish light, wacky witches and smoking cauldrons. The time to get a bit innovative and a bit freaky, without anyone having the right to judge you. And while some people start their Halloween decoration efforts as soon as the last days of September roll around, others wait to get closer to All Hallows’ Eve to showcase their ghostlike charms. So, if you still haven’t decorated your outdoor area, here are some interesting ideas.

“I am the one hiding under your bed, teeth ground sharp and eyes glowing red”

image credit: https://wallpapercave.com/w/bgaz9wp

This idea is quite simple, wherever you have a dark corner or a poorly-lit cranny you can make eye-shaped cutouts made of cardboard and place them in the dark spot. Glue some glow stick behind them and have a bunch of ghoulish eyes welcome everyone who approaches your home. This works particularly well in areas under your porch and stairs.

“Ghosts and goblins and witches roaming the streets, in moonlight”

For the next idea, you’ll need some gauze, wire or wire hanger, a ball, some sort of glue or Mod Podge. Now, keep in mind that, depending on the circle of creatures you wish to create, the ingredients may vary. So, for example, for a ghost circle, you should place the ball on a wire construction to give your ghost a person-like shape. Next, cover the construction with a gauze you previously soaked in Mod Podge or another decoupage solution. Once dried, remove your “ghost” from the construction and repeat the process until you’re happy with the amount. Arrange them in a circle and add glow sticks inside, or fairy lights below them t make the scene more dramatic. If you want to create a circle of witches, the process is the same, just replace the gauze with trash bags and make a few witch hats.

“Bowls of candy and goodies delicious and waiting…”

Next, let’s turn to your front door ornaments. Of course, a Halloween-inspired wreath is a must, but you should also consider filling your porch with: a fun witch doormat; carved Jack-o’-lanterns; a sleeping scarecrow guarding the candy bowl – you can make this one by using some old jeans, a checkered flannel shirt, a balloon (for the face), a straw hat and some hay to fill out the suit and give it shape.

“I’m a master of fright, and a demon of light, and I’ll scare you right out of your pants”

image credit: http://www.npnurseries.com/5-halloween-outdoor-decorations-on-a-budget/scary-outdoor-halloween-decorations/

Of course, Halloween decorations are simply not complete without a good jump scare. Therefore, come up with a way to implement an interactive piece of decor in your design. It can be anything from motion-sensored laughing Jack-o’-lantern, witch or scarecrow to the classic pop-up zombie hand in the candy bowl. Some of the more elaborate and more demanding ideas include a drone-powered Grim Reaper, but this idea might be too much for some people. Whichever you opt for, make sure you give your neighbours and visitors a good scare.

“Our man Jack is King of the Pumpkin patch, everyone hail to the Pumpkin King now!”

image credit:https://www.pinterest.com/pin/166773992428956119

Finally, every Halloween decoration simply has to include a pumpkin patch. It doesn’t have to be particularly big, but it should be well-organized. So, get your hands on a dozen or so pumpkins – 13 to make things super spooky – of various sizes, shapes and colour and arrange them according to your liking. Next, add a bale of hay and some faux ravens. Top everything off with a few con stovers, a couple of sunflowers and faux cobwebs to give it that spooky glow. Additionally, you can even make a Pumpkin King – the process is very similar to the scarecrow one, just use a carved pumpkin for the head – to guard the entire patch.

 

So, let your creativity run wild and get down to decorating. And remember, your Halloween decorations are done right if you manage to frighten or jump-scare at least one person.

The smart home market is ever-expanding and opening up exciting new opportunities for modern homeowners. Namely, as technology advances by leaps and bounds, we are in a position to make our living environments more awesome, functional, and safe. Then again, all products are not created equal and you want to avoid gimmicks and subpar gadgets. Instead, focus on those that add real value to your home and upgrade your daily life. To help you in your search, we compiled a list of amazing gadgets based on our tests and existing reviews.  

Amazon Echo (2nd generation)

Smart home speakers such as Echo are popping up in homes and offices across the globe. The second generation of Amazon’s flagship is smaller, cheaper, and simply better than its predecessor. It is capable of playing music, setting alarms, producing weather reports, managing shopping lists, making calls, controlling other smart technology devices, etc. All of this you can do hands-free, using just your voice. After all, this enhanced speaker contains seven microphones, a Dolby processing unit, as well as 360-degree, omnidirectional audio.

iSmart Alarm

The next product on our list is one of the best home DIY security systems currently in the market. It is actually an eight-piece set that comes with two window sensors, alarm hub, two door sensors, a motion sensor, and two keychain remotes. Those who go for a pricier, premium package also get an HD security camera. The system includes customizable settings, integration with an app that tracks everything, and app- or keychain-enabled controls. Users can also choose to receive notifications via email, text and phone calls.

Ring Video Doorbell Pro

This one is more than just a wireless doorbell. It is also a smart video product that seamlessly connects to your smartphone. Yes, that means you can have conversations with your visitors without having to get up and stop what you are doing. Besides, you get a product that doubles as a security camera. Did I mention that recorded videos are stored via cloud and that with an optional accessory receiver, you can hear the doorbell anywhere in your home? The only bummer to speak of is the price tag. Here is the list of some of the best wireless doorbell products.

 

Ecobee4

Programmable thermostats enable homeowners to improve heating and cooling patterns and save a lot of money in the long run. Ecobee4 is a standout product that pays for itself after less than two years. It has a user-friendly responsive display and remote-control functions. Advanced sensors analyze occupancy and temperature to automatically determine the most optimal modes. There are a bunch of smart integrations, but I would say that one killer feature is a built-in Alexa speaker. This means you can control it via voice or smartphone app.

Philips Hue White LED Starter Kit

Philips Hue White is a soft light bulb you can manipulate remotely. Namely, smart controls are intuitive, a dedicated app automates the whole experience, and there is also support for Hue’s well-connected platform. What is more, you can easily add extras to your setup if you wish it so: Hue Dimmer Switch, Hue Tap, Hue Motion Sensor, etc. The product is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The right ambience for your mood is just a few taps or voice commands away.

August Smart Lock

Smart locks have revolutionized home security and August is certainly worth your while. The interface is simple and easy to put to good use. You do not have to replace your keys, which is utterly convenient. There are auto-locks and auto-unlock features that really make your life easier. Moreover, you can count on the smooth HomeKit, Alexa, Siri, and Nest integrations. The app experience is solid and the components are well-made and sturdy. Just bear in mind that there is no alarm included in the package.

Play it smart

In this day and age, the market is flooded with cutting-edge gadgets and smart devices. They span nearly every room and automate various home systems and features. Thus, they give you a chance to be in full control of your environment. Try to stick to devices that are easy to install and use, as well as those that speak to your inner “techie”. So, it is time to comb through the internet, and embark on your own shopping adventure. Put together an intricate framework for a high-tech, 21st century home.    

Despite your personal style and standards, these living room decorations are must-haves for anyone. Having these in your living room will make it that much more appealing, trendy, and presentable.  These items are universal and can be combined with any decor and any style. Surely, this touch of style will impress your friends, family, neighbours, and even your plumber. If you’re not interested in decor that much, then the “magic simply hasn’t happened to you yet”. Read on to find out the 10 living room decorations everybody needs.  

1. Throw pillows

throw pillows, grey sofa, yellow pillow, black pillow

Pillows on couches are one of the all-time styles that never go out of trend. They present the couch as cozier and welcoming and create a sort of contrast against the couch with their colour and edge. The pillows also provide a great back/headrest when you’re on the couch. Hence relaxing and refreshing your body. Beside pillows, there are creative ways to use linen to decorate your living room. 

2. Floor lamp

living room, armchairs, floor lamp, modern style

Floor lamp creates such a great, relaxing, and vibrant environment. Since the light is a point source from the side, it creates a beautiful complexion of lights, shadows, and colour shades around the room as opposed to ceiling lights that flood light from the top of the room. Floor lamps have an edge over table lamps as the wiring can be hidden away easily.

3. Carpet

comfortable sofa, carpet, relaxing room

From red carpets at Oscar awards to carpeted floors in an apartment, carpets make the flooring more appealing. Therefore it should be an essential part of your living room. Whether you want a small carpet near a couch or fully carpeted floor is up to you. They are great for winter especially because they provide you with a warm and cozy floor to walk on. With a carpet, you also have the comfort of preserving your flooring for a much longer time.

4. Coffee table

cozy living room, yellow color, contemporary, relaxing

With a coffee table, well you can keep your coffee mug on it off course. But, it also attracts the attention of the people on and around the couch towards it by being a centrepiece for that part of the room. You can keep magazines, newspapers, small photo albums, or even a plant on it. Make sure the colour, material, and design all match with the rest of the room, especially the couch.

5. Tall stools

tall stool, flowers, table, window, street view
There are times when we just want to sit and have a nice chat or have a glass of wine, but the couch is just too comfy. Tall stools They are a great alternative to sitting on a sofa but definitely can’t replace a sofa in everyday life. So, you’re going to need both a stool and a couch.

6. Wall art/photos

wall art. photos, giraphees

First of all, take a look at the wall you’re going to fill to decide what size of the art you should pick. There are many ways to determine this and here are some different ideas. You can buy a million-dollar art or paint one yourself or have a photo of a candid moment. Anyway, this is a great way to add to the living room environment as well as display your skills, taste, fond memory, or even your status. A good rule of thumb is to choose wall art that takes up the width of the wall, minus 6-12 inches on each side, so it looks like it’s centered, like in the image above.

7. Map poster

world map, wall art, wall

This is quite similar to a photo or art on a wall. Except, this one gives you travel vibes. World map posters especially turn your living room artsy. The maps could also be historical or mythical, but they’ll surely make your living room wall more appealing.

8. Stacked curtains

stacked curtain, yellow room, bright, cozy room, white furniture

Curtains are quite old-fashioned but they easily fit any style of living room, whether modern or classic. Stacked curtains are even better as they can be used for any season and weather. Here are some ideas on how you can use curtains or even drapes to improve your living room. If you want to create a relaxed look, you should go with curtains to the bottom of the window trim or the sill. If you want to give your home a luxury, high-style look, lush drapes that touch the floor are the best choice.

9. Indoor plants

indoor plants, cactus

It doesn’t have to be some really green and long plant that yields fruits. Choose a plant, according to your room’s decor.  Plants make the room come alive just as do pets. There are so many options out there that can suit everyone’s needs. *Keep in mind any allergies you might have to plants.*

10. Wall shelf

wall shelves, flowers, awards

And the final piece of decoration you’ll need to complete your living room is a wall shelf or wall shelves. It’s a simple installation but you can get help from your neighbour or a professional. You can showcase all your possessions such as artworks, photos, maps, plants, and prizes.

And now, here are a few last words.

A Quick Sum Up

All of these items are suggestions based on my research and gatherings, of course. So, it’s understandable if you’re not convinced you need every one of these. Also, these items are not the only items you need in your living room as these are mainly for decorative purposes. Assuming you already got your bare essentials such as couch, TV, heater/fan and such, these living room decoration ideas will beautify your living room elegantly.

Go on –  you can do it!

You might think that choosing colors for your home is easy – you just pick the ones you like, and that’s it. In most cases, you will get a satisfying result in a visual sense, but psychologically, the color you picked might not be the best choice for the purpose of the room. As you probably already know, certain colors make us feel a certain way, and color psychology is something you should keep in mind when designing your home. It can help you create not just visually pleasing spaces but also spaces that allow you to rest, work, or entertain your guests much more efficiently. With that in mind, here are some of the most popular colors and how you should use them around your apartment.

Blue

blue wall, plant

Blue is one of the most popular colors in general, and it’s not hard to see why. It is a very soothing color that can lower your blood pressure and help you relax, which is why it’s a good choice for the bedroom. You can also use it in your study, as it is known to boost creativity. Moreover, if you want to decrease your appetite and lose weight, use it in your kitchen.

Blue can make people moody though, especially those who tend to suffer from the winter blues, so perhaps you shouldn’t use it too much in your living room. In general, if you live in colder climates, it might be a good idea to opt for warmer colors or at least balance the blue with some warmer-colored accessories.

Green

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The psychological effects of green are similar to those of blue. It can help you relax and clear your mind, since it’s usually associated with nature, vegetation, and spring. It’s a bit more cheerful than blue though, so it’s less likely to make people depressed and moody.

When combined with brown and yellow, it becomes perfect for your kitchen, as it can remind you of spring and sunshine. In the bedroom, it works best when combined with blue. This makes the room softer on the eyes and helps you rest. When combined with blue, it’s also a great choice for the bathroom, since it can help you create a spa-like atmosphere.

Red

red room, modern, new
Red is used to convey passion, love, and excitement, but it can also indicate danger and threat if the shade is too bright. It is known to increase appetite too, which is why it’s often used in restaurants, and it’s a good choice for your kitchen.

You can also use it in your living room if you want the room to feel more energizing and lively. Just don’t overdo it; as mentioned, too much red cause make people feel threatened, aggressive, and mad. Using it as wall décor, and adding pops of red with flowers and accessories can be more than enough to achieve the positive effect. In the bedroom, you can use it to enhance passion and romance. However, red can make it more difficult to fall asleep, so again, don’t overdo it.

White

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Many people would say that white is boring or bland, because it’s usually used in hospitals, offices, and other facilities that don’t carry much personality. However, when used correctly, it has many benefits. For example, it can make your living room feel more spacious, which is great if you live in a smaller apartment. Also, if you think of it as a blank canvas, it actually gives you the freedom to add color with everything else, from bigger statement pieces to smaller accessories. This also means that you can change the effect you want to achieve just by changing the accessories instead of repainting the entire room, and it’s a method that can work in any room.

Brown

brown wall, cozy, armchair
Brown is a great choice for when you want to create a cozy and comfortable environment. This is because it reminds people of earth, nature, chocolate, coffee, trees, and other comforting things. It metaphorically keeps you “down to earth”, so use it when you want to create a safe space.

Moreover, when used correctly, it can also make the room appear more luxurious and elegant. This depends on the materials used though; mahogany, for instance, is often used in libraries and spaces designated for quiet conversations.

Yellow

girl smiling, yellow wall, happines, music

Light yellow is a cheerful color that invokes sunshine, happiness, and optimism. Darker yellow, on the other hand, can irritate people, so it’s not a good choice for a base color. Yellow is very popular in kitchens that receive a lot of sunshine since it can warm up the place during winter and freshen up the atmosphere during spring and summer. Moreover, it’s a good choice for halls and entryways, because it can visually expand the space.

Final note

colourful building, blue sky, bright

When choosing the colors for your home, keep in mind that while people do respond similarly in general, there are always exceptions. For example, most people would say that black is the color of death and mourning. However, there are also people who would emphasize its timeless elegance and would enjoy being surrounded by it. Similarly, a color could evoke memories, both positive and negative, and this could influence one’s feelings towards that color regardless of the color psychology. With that in mind, color psychology is something you can rely on, but, when possible, one’s personal feelings should also be taken into account.

 

Colors can influence people’s emotions, both positively and negatively. So, when designing your home, consider the effects that different colors can have, and your apartment will be not just visually appealing but also much more functional.

Some of the most popular interior design trends today revolve around a clever use of all things vintage and antique. What’s more, the newfound love for mixing and matching the old with the new allows for a lot more freedom in home décor as well as a unique and personal touch. In general, well matched antique bits and pieces can add dimension, texture and warmth to your home environment.

Image source: modern-homedesign.com

Looking for antiques

You may get scared at the mention of the word “antique” and assume that just one piece can cost you an arm and a leg. Of course, that can be true – if you look for your furniture and décor at antique galleries and shops that deal with centuries old, extravagant pieces. However, antique nowadays refers to anything that simply doesn’t look modern and is reminiscent of the past decades. So, if you don’t want a Queen Anne’s cabinet for your bedroom, you can definitely find some great deals and vintage pieces at flea markets, thrift shops and even garage sales. This, however, means that the best finds will await you only if you take the trouble to patiently browse and look through all the offers that come your way.

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Matching the furniture

When it comes to vintage/antique furniture pieces, as mentioned, the hottest trend nowadays is to match them with the modern ones. For example, vintage chairs can look absolutely stunning when matched with a modern dining table or a coffee table. The same effect can be achieved with antique tables and modern sofas and chairs. This balance is necessary if you don’t want to overstep the line and end up with a kitsch and gaudy look that doesn’t feel pleasant. Moreover, matching the old and the new in your bedroom can be effectively achieved if you stick to the color pattern. In case you have an antique desk or a wardrobe, make sure that the nightstands and bed have the same shade of wood. If only one furniture piece in your entire room is antique, introduce vintage-inspired wall décor, such as large paintings, to add some harmony to the whole look.

When it comes to vintage/antique furniture pieces, as mentioned, the hottest trend nowadays is to match them with the modern ones. For example, vintage chairs can look absolutely stunning when matched with a modern dining table or a coffee table. The same effect can be achieved with antique tables and modern sofas and chairs. This balance is necessary if you don’t want to overstep the line and end up with a kitsch and gaudy look that doesn’t feel pleasant. Moreover, matching the old and the new in your bedroom can be effectively achieved if you stick to the color pattern. In case you have an antique desk or a wardrobe, make sure that the nightstands and bed have the same shade of wood. If only one furniture piece in your entire room is antique, introduce vintage-inspired wall décor, such as large paintings, to add some harmony to the whole look.

Introduce little details

Mixing and matching your furniture and other larger objects is a tad easier compared to the smaller decorative bits and pieces. In general, you have a better grasp of what furniture layout fits your taste and achieves a good balance. On the other hand, it’s fairly simple to get overwhelmed with antique decorative details. You should be very careful not to overstuff your personal environment with these because you will only create clutter, and there are no benefits to living in a cluttered space. What’s more, too much antique clutter can again look really distasteful when paired with the rest of your furniture. In that respect, use these decorative details as statement pieces. A vintage tea set, intricate statue or some other figurine, a music box, a vintage mirror, etc., can all look absolutely stunning if they are the main display piece in your room. Of course, other sleeker and more modern details can match these nicely if you keep your decorating task minimal.

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What about kitchens and bathrooms?

For some people, it’s relatively easy to work with this interesting interior style when it comes to their living room and bedroom. However, kitchen and bathroom can prove to be a bit of a challenge. Don’t feel pressured into piling up antique décor in these two rooms. Your kitchen can look amazing with all of your modern elements if you just add a set of antique pictures or even a tapestry. Furthermore, you can always use decorative plates and pots for pops of antique décor, as well as create your own backsplash with vintage-inspired vinyl wallpaper. Similarly, dark timber in your bathroom can make a huge difference. Free standing tubs can look great, but if you don’t want to invest in renovation, feel free to mix the wooden elements with antique gold details. Thanks to the waterproof metallic spray paints, you can transform any surface you want.

There are plenty of other interesting details that you can add to your mix of modern and antique home interior. Rugs, cushions, curtains, antique-looking frames, and lighting shades are just some of them. Still, as mentioned before, you have to make sure that the antique bits and pieces don’t overshadow the modern ones and vice versa. Always strive for balance and harmony as you keep the desired impact in mind.

Although decorating with nice, soft and natural colors is always the safest and probably the chicest way to go, sometimes you just want to spice things up a little bit, right? But, some people are usually afraid of going bold. Don’t be. Here is how you can easily incorporate bright, bold and strong colors into your neutral space without making everything tacky. The safest and probably the best option is to start slowly by adding various accessories. Here are some you could consider.

Rug

Rugs are the best and coolest accessories for every room. Besides screaming style, they also provide you with a warm fuzzy place for your feet, which makes buying a rug a total win-win scenario. Oh, and let’s not forget about their special role: hiding floor flaws.
If you want to spice things up a little bit in your neutral light space with light floors, opt for an area rug in a bold color such as red, orange, royal blue or purple. If your floor is dark, get a lighter shade such as champagne white or Pantone Greenery shade.

A group of accessories

Image source: www.imanada.com

When you add a group of like-colored elements, it gives the room a huge impact. For example, you can add some bar chairs in the same color, a set of cobalt vases or something like that.

Painting

Paintings are a perfect choice for those who like their furniture and accessories minimalistic, but still want to add some color. Add artwork and photographs to your space. This especially goes for that all-white places, because the paintings will instantly give it that gallery-like impression and a perfect impact.

Pillows

They are giving you the best of both worlds, for sure. First of all, if you choose your pillow set correctly, the entire room will seem way more elegant, and second, they are providing you with comfort. Make sure that they’re soft enough as well as big enough. The perfect choice would be those fluffy down-filled 22-inch ones because, the larger they are, the better they look.

How to?

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80/20 rule

Basically, the 80 is for neutral, while 20 is for bold colors. It means that you actually don’t have to add that much in order to create an impact. If you don’t think it is enough, just remember the red lipstick. You know how small our lips are when it comes to our body proportions, right? Yet, our entire look changes once we change the color of our lipstick.

Warm vs. Cool

Before doing anything, you have to determine: do you like cool colors (blue, purple, green, grey etc.) better or the warm ones (reds, yellows, oranges etc.)? Once you do this, make sure you’re using them separately. Keep things simple all the time. Mixing cool colors with warm ones can go wrong in no time, and it is extremely complicated. You don’t need that much stress in your life.

Darks and lights

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While light colors open up the space, dark ones are making it appear much smaller. The key is in making a balance which will “deceive” our eyes. Vary the use of strong and dark colors from room to room to make a nice contrast between them. Also, make sure that your space itself has a great lighting. Not only light opens up the rooms, but it also makes every color seem a lot stronger and nicer.

Painting walls – yes or no?

First of all, you should know that painting walls is an exhausting and expensive process. Not to mention that painting every single wall is going to end up looking awful and make the space look smaller, and believe it or not – dirty. Instead, paint just one accent wall with a bold color of your choice. It is going to be far more effective.
That would be it. We hope our advice helped, and that you will have fun while decorating.

Feature image credit: Dlqilinshuma.com

World-renowned decorator, Eddie Ross, did not start his career as an interior designer. In fact, he is a graduate from the Culinary Institute of America and a former food editor, and he discovered his love and talent as a design director on a culinary TV shows. As strange as it seems, his passions merged perfectly: food and decorating, and he had gigs for Calico Corners, Ralph Lauren, and Bloomingdales (just to name a few). As if that is not enough, he also published a book where he reveals some of his time-saving tips and real-life shortcuts for decorating.

Eddie Ross holding a vase

Image credits: Daily Herald

He is open and friendly

Eddie Ross is not your typical celebrity who will hide from the eyes of public and keeps his professional secrets. He talks openly about what inspires him, what he sees as passing trends, and what he couldn’t live without (it’s vintage mahogany pharmaceutical cabinet he inherited from his grandfather). He is active on Instagram and loves browsing vintage magazines and visiting flea markets when he feels like he needs more inspiration. He also admits his mistakes: one time he painted his apartment which was going to be in a magazine, but when he got up in the morning the colour was terrible. Instead of despairing, he changed the art and the furniture a bit and just went with the flow.

He loves flea markets

One of the things that make him so interesting to the wide public is his open love of flea markets and thrift shops. Decorating a room is not something you do once and never again: the room design should be changed often, and that is not something you can afford if you only buy high-end furniture and pieces. By choosing to buy things which are not expensive, you can move them around and replace them without feeling guilty. Having expensive lamps and couch may be eye-catching, but if you add colourful cushions with bold prints (think leopard, you can find a cheap material quite easily) you will get a wonderfully bright combination everyone will notice.

Magazine cover

Image credits: Annie Selke

He improvises a lot

He is very honest about who he is, and that is one of the things that got him out of the Top Design show. He is traditionalist in some ways, but loves experimenting and improvising in others – He had a blue-ivory-and-gold Christmas instead of traditional red-and-green one and people loved it. He also said you shouldn’t get a Christmas tree that is so big that you have to rearrange the furniture completely so it would fit in the living room.

Being innovative and creative as he is, Eddie says that he loves constant changes and new discoveries. It is his advice to always improvise and channel your creativity so you can find as many solutions for a decorating ‘problem’ as you can. Always try to give new life to old things and you will love how different a room can look with tiniest changes.