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Design & the City

5 Things to Do With a Big Open Backyard

8/31/2022

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If you've been blessed with a big open backyard, then you're in luck! You can do many things with this space to make it more functional and enjoyable. This post will discuss five of the best things to do with a big open backyard.

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Via Pexels
1) Add a deck or patio.
This is a great way to create an outdoor living space where you can relax and entertain guests. If you have the budget for it, hire a professional to build a custom deck or patio that fits your specific needs and backyard layout. If you're working with a smaller budget, consider using premade deck kits or paving stones to create your own DIY patio. Either way, adding a deck or patio is a great way to make better use of your big open backyard. In addition, decks and patios are also great places to add outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other decorations to personalize your space further.

2) Install a swimming pool.
Another great way to make use of your big backyard is to install a swimming pool. This is an excellent option if you live in a warm climate or if you have the budget for it. Installing a pool will allow you and your family to enjoy countless hours of fun and relaxation in your own backyard. If you're not interested in installing a permanent pool, consider getting an inflatable pool that can be set up and taken down as needed. Swimming pools are also great places to host parties and other social gatherings. If you have the space, you could even add some patio furniture and create your own little backyard oasis.

3) Build a granny flat.
You could build a granny flat if you have a big open backyard and an extra budget. Granny flats are small homes or apartments that can be built on your property. They're perfect for housing elderly relatives, guests, or even tenants. Granny flats usually have their own kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom and are separate from the main house. If you're interested in building a granny flat, be sure to check with your local zoning laws to see if they allow for this type of construction and search for a professional Granny Flats Builder.

4) Grow a garden.
If you have a green thumb, then consider using your big backyard to grow a garden. This is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while also producing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You can start small by planting some basic crops in raised beds or containers. Or, if you're feeling ambitious, you could turn your entire backyard into one giant garden. If you decide to go this route, be sure to do your research first so that you know what plants will thrive in your climate and soil type. Gardening is an excellent hobby for all ages and can even be therapeutic.

5) Add some outdoor games.
If you're looking for a fun way to make use of your big backyard, consider adding some outdoor games. This is a great option if you have kids or if you like to entertain guests. There are many different types of outdoor games that you can choose from, such as horseshoes, croquet, bocce ball, and cornhole. You can even set up a badminton or volleyball net for some friendly competition. If you have the space, you could even add a basketball hoop or build a small putting green. Outdoor games are a great way to get everyone involved and active. They're also perfect for summertime parties and BBQs.

These are just five of the best things to do with a big open backyard. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can turn your backyard into the perfect outdoor living space.
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All About Bathrooms

8/17/2022

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Up there with kitchens, bathrooms are tied for adding the most resale value for your home when it comes to upgrades and renovations. They are a pretty important factor in home improvement. There is nothing like an eye sore of an outdated bathroom, never mind one that is in gross disrepair. Often times, mold and plumbing leaks create the domino affect in an overhaul. Whether it’s a full board renovation or a minor remodel - many of the design boards I have done for past bathroom projects provide a look and direction for an updated and current bathroom. Some of these concept boards include minor renovations, others include all the selections for a full remodel. If you are looking for help with a bathroom remodel, I offer a flat rate bathroom design for just $650 per room. More details here.
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Insider Tips For Buying An Apartment

8/15/2022

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Whether you are thinking of selling your home to downsize to an apartment or moving out for the very first time, it can be useful to know some tips for buying your first apartment.

Buying an apartment is somewhat different from buying a house as it involves different fees and sometimes the eligibility to only live in the apartment for a certain number of years.

Hence, here are some top tips to help when you are looking to purchase an apartment.

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Apartment Accommodation Flat - Free photo on Pixabay

Ask realtors for their recommendations
Although you might have your heart set on a certain apartment, it might not be the ideal apartment for you due to the building condition or other tenants. The realtor will know more about the overall living experience that you will attain from living in a certain apartment or block.

For instance, should you be looking for newly built apartments that nobody else has lived in, then asking a local realtor will ensure that you can find the best on the market to fulfill your needs. They might even be able to show you plots that are not yet built but will be ready for the time you want to move, which will help you get your hands on an apartment before anyone else.

Look for extra bedrooms
Although some apartments can be very spacious, they can often feel more limiting in comparison to a house. This could be due to being on one floor or smaller rooms and ceilings.

Either way, it can be a good idea to look for an apartment with more bedrooms than you need. This will ensure that you can have people stay or use the spare room for other functions such as working or chilling.

Know your desires
When you are looking to purchase an apartment, it is a good idea to know your desires and goals. If your goal is to find somewhere that is suitable for just a year or two, then you might be able to deal with somewhere smaller and save yourself money.

Yet, your goal might be to buy somewhere old that needs refurbihsing. Hence, knowing exactly what your desire is will help to narrow your search and help you save time.

Find cheap locations
Although you might want to live in the hub of a city or close to work, your budget might not allow it. Or, you might be able to find somewhere within budget but it might be a lot smaller than what you hoped for.

Therefore, it is a smart move for yourself and your realtor to scout cheaper locations. Moving just five or ten minutes away from your desired location could help you spend wisely and attain an apartment that fulfills your needs. Although the commute might be a bit longer, you might be able to settle on your dream apartment. Sometimes, the location can play a huge factor to how expensive the apartment is. You might be able to save a lot of money and get somewhere bigger than you imagined by moving a little further afield.
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10 Ways to Improve Your Home Health

8/11/2022

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We spend most of our time inside our homes so it makes perfect sense that you would want to be as healthy and comfortable as possible. Your house is your castle and when it comes to things like home renovation and decorating, you need to do all that you can to make your home healthy.

When your home is healthy, you can feel healthier and happier, too. When you build a brand new home, you will be aware that the house has everything there to be a healthy and good house to be in, and that’s why people love a new-build. There’s no issue with things like dirty AC filters, mold in the walls and more. In this blog, we’ve got ten great suggestions to improve your home health and build on the foundation of health that you’re trying to achieve. Let’s take a look!
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  1. Check out the indoor air quality of your home. You need to ensure that you have healthy air pumping round your house and that means looking at your HVAC and ensuring that it - and its filters - are as clean as possible. You need a good heat recovery ventilator included, too, because this can make your home cleaner and healthier. You can save energy and ensure that your indoor air isn't stale anymore, either.
  2. Invest in air purifiers. You need to invest your money in the correct way for your house and a part of that will be in buying an air purifier. If you’re not ready for a full heat recovery ventilator then make sure that you have air purifiers around the house. These should be connected with HEPA filters - these are high efficiency particulate arresting and they can remove even the most microscopic particles.
  3. Get rid of drafty windows. When was the last time you looked at your home window situation? Are they secure and are they thick enough to keep the cold out and the heat in? These are things that you should be able to answer because they should tell you how to get the high performing windows that you deserve. You need a better insulation performance where possible because you won't have to worry about building condensation and you have to think about ensuring that you have a warm house. Triple pane windows will be able to help you to naturally soundproof the space and if you live near a busy/loud space, you will be able to reduce the noise!
  4. Bring in nature. We’re talking about making your house healthy, right? Well, indoor plants are going to help you clean the air. Your houseplants are going to bring in the carbon dioxide and pump out fresher, cleaner air. You can ask your local garden center or green house which plants you should buy to make this happen for you. You should also consider the fact that the whole job of plants is to ensure that you are breathing clean oxygen! It shouldn't be hard finding the right ones.
  5. Install carbon monoxide detectors. You should consider the health of your home in terms of things going wrong, too. Fire is a scary thing to deal with, but it’s not just fire that’s unhealthy for your house. Carbon monoxide can kill you and if it’s leaking through your house you could pass away in your sleep; it’s not called a silent killer for nothing! You need to have alarms in the house that can detect the carbon dioxide. They will beep loudly and let you know that there is a danger out there.
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Image Source: Pexels
  1. Always change the filter. You can install a good HVAC system but what’s the point if you don't change the filters often enough? You need to make sure that you set the calendar where possible because you will then remember to change it over. If you’re dealing with allergies especially, you need to change the filter every three months at a minimum.
  2. Upgrade your smaller appliances. When was the last time you had a new vacuum cleaner? Buying a good quality one with a great filtration system will help you to keep the house healthy. You can ensure that a high suction vacuum cleaners are the best option and there are some that come with extra tools for upholstery and things like drapery. These are going to help you to get the dust and pollen out of everything and not just carpet!
  3. Pay for a cleaner. You wouldn't believe the amount of dust and dirt that you could be pushing around the house but until you hire a cleaner who can get into the nitty gritty areas for you, you’re not going to know. Cleaners have the tools and the materials to really get your house as clean as possible - cleaner than you could possibly get it. When you engage and pay for a good cleaner, you can ensure that your home is healthier.
  4. Leave the shoes at the door. Most people do this anyway for comfort, but remember when you are walking into the house with your shoes on, you’re tracking in all manner of dirt and grime. You need to think about leaving the shoes at the door and putting on slippers instead. Slippers can still get dirty but they’re not going to be as big of a problem as shoes!
  5. Use sanitizer. When was the last time you washed your TV remote or your handheld devices? Appliance and device wipes are a thing and the toxins on your hands can make these things filthy to handle! Instead of worrying about having them sitting dirty in the house, get them cleaned up and think about using sanitizing sprays more regularly.

Your house is supposed to keep you comfortable - not make you sick. When you know the ways in which you can keep your house a healthy place to be, you’re going to know that it’s money well spent every single time. Kitchen renovations, mold removal and roofing checks come next to ensure your home will stay upright!
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Back To School = Dorm Room Design 

8/9/2022

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Flat Rate Dorm Room Design via Online Design

Looking for help designing a dorm room or a college apartment room? Email your room dimensions along with pictures of the room & any existing furniture you want to incorporate and receive a complete room design which will consist of:
  • a furniture floor plan layout
  • furnishing selections (artwork, accessories, area rugs, furniture, & lighting)
  • paint color swatches
  • & a list of resources - all within your budget, which you can implement and purchase as your time & budget allow

​Please email JSInteriorDes@aol.com for more info, questions, or to forward pics and measurements.
​
​Just $500 per flat rate room design.
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    ​Looking for interior design help? Offering design consultations and online design for anyone, anywhere. Happy to help with any of your design needs!

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    Jill Seidner is a Los Angeles based Interior Designer specializing in commercial & residential interior design, design consultations, & online design services. She is active in the design community & also the Los Angeles blogger for the Material Girls Blog. For media kit and blog sponsorship info, click HERE.

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