I am loving both the idea and look of interior glass windows. This is a great way to divide a space while allowing light to come through. It's a beautifully aesthetic look and although could be used in many areas, is especially nice for kitchens, pantry's, home offices, and living rooms. I was recently looking into the idea to seperate a kitchen and laundry room in a small space. They are many styles of door and pane options, along with full ceiling height and paint colors.

Creating a container swimming pool is a popular and cost-effective way to have a pool at home. Here are the steps to create one:

Materials and Tools Needed

1. Shipping Container: A 20-foot or 40-foot container, depending on the desired pool size.
2. Steel Reinforcements: To strengthen the container structure.
3. Cutting Tools: Plasma cutter or angle grinder.
4. Rust-proof Paint/Coating: To prevent corrosion.
5. Pool Liner: For waterproofing the interior.
6. Filtration System: Pump, filter, and plumbing materials.
7. Insulation: Optional, for temperature control.
8. Decking and Landscaping Materials: For aesthetic purposes.
9. Safety Features: Pool cover, ladder, and safety fencing.

Steps to Create a Container Pool

1. Acquire a Shipping Container:
• Purchase a used or new shipping container. Ensure it is structurally sound with minimal rust.
2. Prepare the Site:
• Choose a level and stable location for the pool.
• Excavate the ground if you plan to partially or fully bury the container.
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid water accumulation around the pool.
3. Modify the Container:
• Cut Openings: Use a plasma cutter or angle grinder to cut out the sections for the pool entrance, windows (if desired), and filtration system access.
• Reinforce Structure: Add steel reinforcements to maintain the structural integrity after cutting.
4. Rust-proofing:
• Clean and treat the container to remove rust.
• Apply a rust-proof paint or coating to protect the metal from corrosion.
5. Install Insulation (Optional):
• If you want to control the pool’s temperature better, add insulation panels to the container walls.
6. Waterproofing:
• Install a pool liner to make the container watertight. This can be a PVC liner or a custom-made pool liner.
• Ensure the liner fits well and is securely attached to prevent leaks.
7. Install Filtration System:
• Set up the pump and filtration system. Connect the plumbing to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.
• Install the necessary electrical connections, ensuring they are waterproof and safe.
8. Decking and Landscaping:
• Build a deck around the container pool for easy access and to enhance its appearance.
• Add landscaping elements, such as plants and lighting, to create a pleasant environment.
9. Add Safety Features:
• Install a pool ladder for safe entry and exit.
• Add a pool cover to keep the pool clean and safe when not in use.
• Consider adding safety fencing around the pool, especially if you have children or pets.
10. Fill the Pool and Test:
• Fill the pool with water and test the filtration system.
• Check for any leaks or issues and make necessary adjustments.

By following these steps, you can create a functional and attractive container swimming pool in your backyard.

Image via Pinterest

Elevating your outdoor dining space involves combining aesthetics, functionality, and comfort. Here are several tips to enhance your outdoor dining area:

1. Comfortable Seating
- Invest in quality outdoor furniture that is both stylish and comfortable.
- Add cushions and throws to make the seating cozier.

2. Ambiance Lighting
- Use string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Consider adding a centerpiece like a fire pit or candles for evening gatherings.

3. Weather Protection
- Install a pergola, canopy, or umbrellas to provide shade during hot days and protection from light rain.
- Consider retractable awnings for flexibility.

4. Greenery and Decorations
- Incorporate plants, flowers, and potted herbs to add color and a natural feel.
- Use outdoor rugs to define the dining area and add texture.

5. Dining Essentials
- Choose durable, stylish tableware and utensils suitable for outdoor use.
- Have a storage solution for keeping essentials handy but protected from the elements.

6. Functional Additions
- Consider an outdoor kitchen or a grill area to make food preparation easy.
- Add a bar cart or a side table for serving drinks and snacks.

7. Privacy
- Use screens, trellises, or tall plants to create a sense of privacy.
- Consider installing a vertical garden or using lattice panels with climbing plants.

8. Seasonal Adjustments
- Use heaters or fire pits for cooler weather to extend the usability of your space.
- Provide fans or misters to keep the area cool in hot weather.

9. Personal Touches
- Decorate with items that reflect your personal style, such as art pieces, cushions in your favorite colors, or unique furniture pieces.
- Rotate decorations and accents according to seasons or special occasions.

10. Maintenance
- Keep the space clean and well-maintained to ensure it remains inviting and functional.

By combining these elements, you can create an outdoor dining space that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, perfect for entertaining or enjoying a meal with family and friends.

Creating light-filled spaces involves a combination of architectural design, interior design, and thoughtful use of materials and colors. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

1. Maximize Natural Light:
• Windows and Doors: Install large windows and glass doors to let in more natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows are particularly effective.
• Skylights and Solar Tubes: Add skylights or solar tubes to bring light into darker areas, especially in rooms that don’t have exterior walls.
• Open Floor Plan: Design open floor plans that allow light to travel freely throughout the space.
2. Use Reflective Surfaces:
• Mirrors: Place mirrors opposite windows to reflect light and make the room feel brighter and larger.
• Glossy Finishes: Use glossy or semi-gloss paint finishes, tiles, and furniture to reflect light around the room.
3. Light Colors:
• Walls and Ceilings: Paint walls and ceilings in light colors such as white, light grey, or pastel shades. These colors reflect light better than dark colors.
• Furniture and Décor: Choose light-colored furniture and accessories to enhance the sense of brightness.
4. Interior Design Elements:
• Minimalist Design: Keep spaces uncluttered and open. Minimalist design reduces visual barriers and allows light to spread more easily.
• Transparent or Translucent Materials: Use glass or acrylic furniture, partitions, and doors to allow light to pass through.
5. Artificial Lighting:
• Layered Lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to ensure the space is well-lit at all times. Use dimmers to adjust the intensity.
• LED Lighting: Use energy-efficient LED lights with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) to mimic natural light.
6. Outdoor Landscaping:
• Strategic Planting: Plant trees and shrubs strategically so they provide shade without blocking too much natural light from entering the home.
• Reflective Exterior Surfaces: Use light-colored materials for patios and pathways to reflect light into the interior.
7. Architectural Features:
• Light Wells and Atriums: Incorporate light wells or atriums to bring natural light deep into the interior spaces.
• Clerestory Windows: Add clerestory windows (high, narrow windows) to allow light to penetrate while maintaining privacy.

Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance the natural light in any space, creating a brighter, more inviting atmosphere.

Creating a light-colored living room involves choosing the right color palette, furniture, and decor to achieve a bright and airy feel. Here are some steps to guide you:

1. Choose a Light Color Palette
Walls: Opt for light shades like white, cream, light grey, or pastel colors. These shades reflect more light and make the room feel larger and more open.
Ceiling: A white or light-colored ceiling can enhance the sense of height and space.
Flooring: Light wood, white-washed floors, or light-colored tiles can add to the overall brightness.

2. Furniture Selection
Sofas and Chairs: Choose light-colored upholstery, such as white, beige, light grey, or pastel tones. Materials like linen and cotton can add a soft touch.
Tables and Shelving: Light wood finishes or painted pieces in white or pale colors will blend seamlessly with the light palette.

3. Maximize Natural Light
Windows: Use sheer or light-colored curtains to allow maximum light to filter through. Avoid heavy, dark drapes.
Mirrors: Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.

4. Lighting
Overhead Lighting: Choose fixtures that provide ample light, such as chandeliers, pendant lights, or ceiling-mounted fixtures with a light and airy design.
Lamps: Incorporate table and floor lamps with light-colored shades to add soft, ambient lighting.

5. Decor and Accessories
Rugs: A light-colored area rug can anchor the space and add warmth without darkening the room.
Throw Pillows and Blankets: Use accessories in complementary light shades or subtle patterns to add texture and interest.
Artwork and Decor: Choose pieces that are light in color and style. Frames in white or light wood can help maintain the light aesthetic.

6. Minimalist Approach
Clutter-Free: Keep the room uncluttered to enhance the light and airy feel. Opt for minimal and streamlined furniture and decor.

7. Natural Elements
Plants: Add greenery with light pots or baskets to bring life and freshness to the room without overpowering the light color scheme.

By carefully selecting light colors, maximizing natural light, and choosing the right furniture and decor, you can create a living room that feels bright, spacious, and inviting.

For help with any of your interior design needs, click here.

Adding pops of color to a bedroom can bring life and personality to the space. Here are some ideas:

1. Accent wall: Paint one wall in a bold, vibrant color to serve as a focal point in the room.
2. Throw pillows and blankets: Incorporate colorful throw pillows and blankets in different textures and patterns to add visual interest to the bed or seating area.
3. Artwork: Hang colorful artwork or framed prints on the walls to inject color and personality into the room.
4. Rug: Place a colorful rug under the bed or in a seating area to anchor the space and add warmth and vibrancy.
5. Curtains or drapes: Choose curtains or drapes in a bold color or pattern to frame the windows and add a pop of color to the room.
6. Decorative accents: Scatter colorful vases, lamps, candles, or decorative objects throughout the room to add small pops of color in unexpected places.
7. Plants: Incorporate colorful plants or flowers in vibrant pots to bring natural beauty and color into the room.

Remember to balance the colors and patterns to create a cohesive and visually pleasing look.