Balcony railing decorating tips

If you live in an apartment, condominium, loft, penthouse or if you’re just fortunate enough to have a balcony off your second floor master bedroom in your home, there are a lot of things you can do with that railing! Regardless if you have wood, wrought iron or anything else, there is plenty of decor that will look fantastic.

• Plant Containers – There are plant pots that attach to the inner side of your railing as well as ones pictured that sit on top. They are available in every color imaginable and they’ll allow your plants to get a bit of sunshine that they may not receive if they were placed on the ground with an overhead balcony or ceiling.

• Bird Feeders – Why not invite your feather-friends to share your balcony with you? There are even birdbaths available that you can attach to your railing.

• Lights – Not only can you hang string lights, there are very modern, block lights that fasten to the railing as well. The best thing about these is most are solar-powered so you don’t have to worry about fussing with electricity.

• Crystals – If you have a traditional railing with vertical spaces, why not hang a few crystals to catch the sun’s rays?

Why not spice up that railing? You can add a little pizazz to the outer side too! Make others looking up from the street wonder who the person is behind that fabulous balcony!

Landscaping on a Budget

If you haven’t tackled your landscaping yet because you think it’s not in your budget, you should know there are a few tricks you can use that are very inexpensive. You shouldn’t feel as though you have to splurge and buy everything all at one time either. Adding a few things here and there every week or every other week is often easier than paying for one big shopping spree.
Rocks and Stones
Borders, garden walkways and walls can be pretty expensive when you purchase commercial products. If you scout around and always ask permission, you’ll often find old bricks from structures that have been torn down that you can use for this purpose. Sure, they may be old but they have character! You can create walkways and even mock patio areas with stones and rocks as well which you can also often find for free.
Native Plants
You will find that native plants are not only traditionally inexpensive, they require less care. This means that you’re not having to water so much or buy fertilizer. You can often obtain seedlings or seeds from friends, family and neighbors if you ask around. Native plants traditionally resist disease and insects better as well. Keep in mind, the more plants, shrubs and trees you have, the less grass you have to maintain!
Experiment with Containers
If you do want to experiment with pricier plants, use containers for growing and place them around your landscaping. This will allow you to control and maintain them easier. Should you find that they do well in a certain location, you can always transplant them.
Make Use of Hedges
Hedges can outline your property, offer privacy and act as a sound barrier. Not to mention, those that stay full year round can help reduce your heating costs by blocking the cold winter wind when they’re strategically placed properly.

Why build an outdoor shower?

There are basically two types of outdoor showers, those that leave you fully exposed which are often used for rinsing off after a dip in the pool or those that are fully enclosed. Why would you want one if you don’t have a pool? Just because! An outdoor shower is a nice refreshing experience, out there with nature, the sun shining, cool breeze and listening to the birds.
Besides, an outdoor shower is ideal if you’re filthy from mowing the lawn or working in the yard or if you happen to work in construction or a factory, so you don’t have to get your indoor bathroom so dirty. Not to mention, they are the perfect place to give the dog a bath too! Whether it’s cold, hot, sunny or gently raining, there’s just something invigorating about showering outside.
Location is Key
How you are going to use the shower will influence the location. If it’s meant for guests to rinse off after swimming, a neutral location is fine. If it’s for personal use, aim for a location that offers natural surroundings. Of course, plumbing is going to ultimately dictate location but if you have a skilled plumber, things can be made to happen.
Wherever you install your outdoor shower, make sure that it offers plenty of ventilation. The space needs to be able to dry out thoroughly after use to prevent mildew and mold from accumulating.

Spa bathroom finishing touches

It is interesting how many people devote a substantial amount of time and money into creating the perfect spa setting in their bathroom and then fall short on the simplest accessories. If you still have a generic chrome toothbrush holder screwed to your wall or if your soap is just sitting on the edge of your sink, you understand!
The stoneware bath accessories available from West Elm are the perfect compliment to any spa theme. The pieces are hand carved in India by stone artisans and the natural finish offers a clean, simplistic, earthy style. They are made from mint soapstone and the best thing about them is not only do they clean up easy, they are priced quite moderately. The prices rang from $10 to $19 and since they are all sold separately, you only have to buy what you need.
Think your soap dish isn’t important? Think again! When you have guests over, the bathroom is the one room where you can’t actually see their reaction to the decor. The small accents like this will allow you to feel confident that they most certainly are getting noticed. Not to mention, stone cleans off so much easier than plastic so soap scum doesn’t become an unattractive distraction! Take the time to put the finishing touches on your personal spa!

Could you use a new range hood?

In most homes, a range hood is there to keep grease from accumulating on walls, paint from peeling and odors from taking over in a kitchen. However, a stylish range hood can completely transform the look of your kitchen and even become a focal point!
Style
The first thing that you need to decide is if you prefer a range that fits under a cabinet or one that is wall mounted. You also need to determine if your range will exhaust pollutants outside or if you’re going to buy a recirculating one.
Features
Some range hoods have dishwasher-safe filters which is rather convenient. You may also want to consider if you want one that is completely smooth or if you won’t mind getting a toothbrush out to scrub any grooves.
Would a remote control be handy or do you want one that turn on by itself when the heat sensors tell it to? You should also evaluate the lighting. A well lit cooking area allows you to really get a good look at the food you’re preparing.
Noise Level
If you find one on sale but the noise level is a little obnoxious, keep shopping. A great deal isn’t so spectacular when the volume on the television in the next room has to be turned up or if your guests have to talk over the noise. A range should never become a distraction!

Unique Eco-friendly flooring options

Cork Floor

Do you know that out of all flooring options, vinyl and carpet pose the biggest threat to the environment and the air you breathe everyday in your home? 70 percent of carpet in the United States is made from nylon which is petroleum-based. Not only is this a non-renewable resource, it harbors allergens and chemicals that can make you sick. Vinyl is even worse because when it is produced, it causes dioxin which is a carcinogen and quite honestly, neither are biodegradable!

• Wool Carpet – This is fire-resistant, durable, hypoallergenic and stain-resistant. It offers springy fibers that bounce back so high traffic areas never wear down. Wool does come with a heavy price tab but you certainly get what you pay for.

• Sisal – The fibers from agave plant leaves make an easy-to-clean, durable and sound absorbent flooring.

• Other Plants – Seagrass, jute, abaca and coir are all fabulous choices! Interestingly, abaca is derived from the banana family and coir is made from coconut husks which dry fast so this is an ideal choice for humid environments.

• Linoleum – No, linoleum and vinyl are not the same thing despite what you may have heard. Linoleum is created from linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, ground limestone, tree resins and pigments.

• Cork – Care to walk on air? That’s what this flooring feels like due to the tiny sealed air pockets it’s made of. This is a durable flooring. Even if you drop a weight on it, the floor will eventually spring back up. Cork is water-resistant, provides great insulation and will last almost five times longer than vinyl.

• Earthen – Created from clay, lime and sand, this is a floor perfect for cold areas because it holds heat. Earthen floors won’t dent, scratch, crack and they are unique and inexpensive.

If you are creating a modern home, also consider the health of you, your family and the environment and choose a green type of flooring.

Add depth by sponge painting

When done properly and with colors that combine well, sponge painting can make a rich, dynamic impact on a room. Suddenly a wall goes from flat to being deep and mysterious. Grant it, there are times you will see a wall sponged and it looks all wrong. There are also instances when it can be too much like if more than two walls are done in a small room.
Really, one wall of a harmonic blend of colors is all you really need to liven up a room, especially with contemporary decor. If you have minimalistic flow through your home, three colors should be all that you need to use. These will color and blend without becoming too busy.
Think it’s a hard process?
Sponge painting is super easy! All you need to do is pick three colors that blend well together and get yourself a can of glaze and a few different sea sponges. Begin with the darkest color first. Pour some in a paint dish and add glaze so the ratio is about 60:40, being paint to glaze. Dip your sponge in water so it’s damp and then the paint mixture. Sponge the entire wall without leaving any large gaps and allow it to dry completely before moving onto the next color. Repeat this process until you have used all of your colors. Always make sure the lightest shade ends up on top.
Sponge painting is a great way to add a focal point to a room and really accent a great piece of art or water fountain. Just remember, less is more. Even if you want to do two walls, start with one, give it a week and see if you still feel the same way. This is also a great way to make an extra-large room appear a little more cozy!

Ma.gnolia • Add to BlinkList • Save to del.icio.us Making a Studio Apartment Modern

Just because you have a small space does not mean that you cannot create a completely modern home that you are proud to show off. Sometimes, having a smaller area to work with is actually easier to decorate because you don’t have to be worried about the design of one room flowing to the next!

• Welcome the Sun – Natural lighting will amplify the size of your room. Heavy curtains should be avoided at all costs in small spaces.

• Flexible Furniture – While you want to be able to entertain your guests at a full-size table, this will only take up a lot of space when not in use. Using a drop leaf table is the perfect solution. Also, don’t underestimate seating cubes or footstools that provide a modern appeal and can double as a a coffee table or an extra chair when needed.

• Shelving – Small spaces can really benefit from shelving, not just for aesthetic purposes but for storage as well. Use decorative boxes that accent your decor to hide things you have no room for.

• Minimal Furniture – That overstuffed sectional may look fantastic on the showroom floor but it will dwarf your room size. Keep furniture minimal with nice clean lines.

• Don’t Forget Rugs – For whatever reason, many people feel that need a large space to lay down rugs. This is not true! You can even lay contrasting rugs over one another to give your studio apartment an ultra chic look that will leave your guests wondering if you hired a professional to design your interior.

Whether this is your first apartment or if you are simply downsizing, get comfortable in your space! You will find you may love the smaller area more than you ever imagined with the right accents.

Environmentally-Friendly Materials that are popular in contemporary design

Reducing your carbon footprint goes far beyond recycling, solar panels and choosing non-toxic paint and flooring. The decor that you use in your home can also be environmentally-friendly as well. Today, designers are creating stunning pieces that are actually beneficial to your living space.

• Bamboo – This raw material exploded in popularity many years ago and has not lost its novelty. This renewable resource not only makes beautiful products, it grows back fast! Fresh bamboo shoots are always a great idea to bring any room to life as well.

• Recycled Glass – What else is there to do with recycled wine bottles, windshields and dinner plates besides make them into something spectacular. This glass is broken up into tiny pieces and then concrete holds it together. What you get are recycled countertops, tables, vases and more, made from materials that would have otherwise ended up filling landfills.

• Recycled Aluminum – Many manufacturers are recycling industrial scrap metal, soda cans, etc., to use as backsplashes, countertops, accent furniture, art and even sculptures for your garden.

• Cork – This is quickly becoming a preferred choice in flooring and is expected to be a material found in home accents in the near future. It’s durable, comfortable, water-resistant, contains no formaldehyde binders or PVC and is a renewable resource.

Other materials recognized as being environmentally-friendly are concrete, recycled paper and natural plaster. Whether you are building, remodeling or redecorating, there are now an abundance of choices available to make a contemporary home, GREEN!

Paint on a Chalkboard!

Have you ever had one of those unfortunate days where you abruptly discover that coloring books and scrap paper suddenly weren’t good enough for your children so they moved onto your walls? There is just something about a wall that makes such a better coloring station! Well, did you know that you can paint a chalkboard on a wall? It’s a super easy do-it-yourself project that your kids will love and you will never have to worry about wasted paper (or your walls) again!
Things You Will Need
Grab all of your supplies before you start. You’ll need chalkboard paint, paint roller or brush, painter’s tape, paint pan, sandpaper, drywall spackle and it doesn’t hurt to have a drop cloth handy too!

• Prep – Clean the wall with soap and water. Fill any holes with the spackle and then sand them to a smooth surface.

• Tape – Measure and mark the designated area, whether it’s the whole bottom half of a wall or a smaller section and tape it off, making sure that your lines are level.

• Paint – Most chalkboard paint labels will recommend two coats, allowing sufficient drying time in between. The chalkboard should be permitted to dry completely for 72 hours before using it.

Chalkboards aren’t just for a kids room either! Paint a small one in your kitchen for everyone to leave messages so Post-it notes aren’t scattered everywhere or paint one in your home office to keep track of appointments.

Flower power?

Funky, contemporary, retro AND vintage all rolled into one? Is that even a possible or logical combination? Apparently so! One of Padstyle’s readers was kind enough to recommend the Plush Deco site in the comments section of our Top 25 Interior Design and Furniture Blogs entry. Well, if you can’t tell by the flower-inspired chair in the picture, this is definitely a furniture line worthy to be labeled as Friday fun!
The upholstered Flower Blossom Chair is not only incredibly unique and a definite showstopper, it’s surprisingly comfortable. It comes in green, purple and black, covered with a shiny microfiber fabric and it has a gorgeous swiveling chrome base. If you have a room that’s just lacking something, this may be that one focal point piece that you desperately need. This is a chair that would look great in an office too, it certainly is a conversation starter and a fabulous way to break the ice.
Who says furniture has to be either stylish or comfortable? Why can’t you have the best of both worlds? For more information on the Flower Blossom Chair or to view the rest of the incredibly fun and oh-so-stylish furniture, visit the Plush Deco website.

How to be Playful Without Being Silly

There is a fine line between playful and silly, and it can be difficult to determine where exactly that line is sometimes. If you want to incorporate playfulness, whimsy and fun into your modern interior without going over the top, we’ve got some tips for you.

• Inject some youthfulness with bright colors. Yellows, pinks, purples and oranges are all fresh and funky colors that can be playful if used as accent walls, throw pillows or lighting fixtures.
• Use patterns in conjunction with bright colors for even more playfulness. Striped sofas and dotted rugs can go a long way in bringing some fun into your home.
• Consider wallpaper. While not the supreme trend lately, patterned, playful wallpaper can bring new life to a room that’s a little on the dull side.
• Go for some contrast. Add surprising flashes of yellow amidst an all-white space, or a shag rug on a smooth wooden floor.
• Think retro. Retro-mod is inherently playful. The bubble chair, bead curtains, and yes, even wood paneling can bring some nostalgia as well as playfulness into your home
• Go on the hunt for cute accent pieces. Check out your local thrift stores and farmers markets for some whimsical accents, like carved wooden birds or wind chimes.

As with anything, keep moderation in mind. When you add playful elements to your home, it’s usually best to start small and increase from there, in order to let things grow organically.

Creating a contemporary nursery

Chances are, your baby isn’t too fussy about the style of their room at least until they become a toddler so why not create a contemporary look until you have to change it to a princess or superhero theme? You’re spending a lot of time in the nursery so when the surroundings make you feel good, your baby will pick up on your feelings and be more relaxed.

• Color Palette – Use one wall to paint darker and leave the others as a calming neutral. Ideally, you will use three colors to make up your palette like beige, chocolate and white or white, black and lime green, etc.

• Furniture – The furniture should fit with your color scheme, be minimal and positioned so there is plenty of space, allowing positive energy to flow through and keep you from feeling cramped.

• Decor – A natural fiber rug in a bold pattern is a great accent as are textured wall art, three-dimensional mobiles, etc. Consider using some type of cabinet to house stuffed animals, toys and other baby gear so it doesn’t look cluttered.

The effect a room has on you will ultimately affect your baby. A contemporary room has been voted very helpful for women who are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or suffering from postpartum depression.

There’s always time for an afternoon nap

You don’t have to have an ocean at your backdoor to appreciate a modern lounge daybed. You really don’t even need to be the type of person who enjoys an afternoon nap. All you need is to be someone who appreciates comfort and an elegant, contemporary look. At times, comfort and contemporary certainly do not live harmoniously but the Lagoon daybed by Solpuri proves that the two can create the perfect balance.
Imagine this stunning piece by your pool, on your deck or even under your favorite tree, it certainly would catch a few glances from jealous neighbors. The Lagoon features a very modern roundish frame with an amazingly plush mattress to envelope you in comfort and promote deep relaxation. It’s even large enough to sleep two!
What makes this daybed so special is its removable shade that transitions with ease so when you’ve had enough sun you can create your own shade. Still not impressed? How about the fact that the translucent base actually lights up on the inside to create a gorgeous moonlight-colored glow at night?
If you are looking for that perfect contemporary piece that will compliment your outdoor living space yet invite you in for days of relaxation, the Lagoon daybed just might be it. For more information on this season’s collection, visit the Solpuri website.

Energize Your Home With Lighting

Regardless if you are working with synthetic or natural light, it has the ability to energize not just your home but the people in it as well. Brilliant touches of radiance can invigorate your home instead of letting dark spaces create a dismal mood. These easy tips will bring light to your space to add cheer to your day.

• Welcome the Sun – Sheer window treatments, like sheer Levolor Blinds, provide brighter color by allowing natural light to fill the room. Thoughtfully placing mirrors where the light will be reflected will add a bright, positive energy to your space.

• Avoid Clutter – Ottomans and storage benches are ideal for hiding blankets, magazines, etc., when not in use. Also, avoid adding too much furniture or art to a room. Too many objects in a room can cause it to appear smaller and darker.

• Make Use of White – While white may not be the color you immediately think of when you picture contemporary design, small hints of it can certainly go a long way in brightening up your space. Fluorescent bulbs used in white accent lamps will offer you a more natural feel with your lighting while white moldings, shelves and picture frames can add just a hint of contrast in a darker room.

Light plays a key role in your mood and overall appearance of a room and should be treated as a primary decorating element, not an afterthought!

Why Does Stainless Steel Always Look Stunning?

While the picture above might be a little bit over the top, stainless steel is almost a no-brainer when it comes to kitchen appliances. Sure, you have other options, but why not go for the classic yet modern, sophisticated yet stylish, stainless steel?
It’s always in fashion, and it will, nine times out of ten, match whatever decor you surround it with.
So what is it about stainless steel that is so appealing?
First, it is a sophisticated material. Your oven, refrigerator, dishwasher and, yes, even your garbage bin will enjoy a glean of sophistication when you choose to have them done in stainless steel.
If you are able to get all of your appliances – the large and the small – in stainless steel, your kitchen will have a posh, unified look that will verge on the ultimate in style.
Stainless steel is a clean look, one that makes its surroundings look neat and organized as well. The crisp lines and reflective surface would be a luxurious addition to any home.
Although stainless steel will make your appliances stand out more than if you chose to conceal them, they’ll stand out with a bold, beautiful punch. Stainless steel is the material of bold designers who want to accentuate their stylish flair.
If you’re looking for a way to bring together your kitchen in sophisticated, timeless, yet ultra modern style, stainless steel is the way to go.

How to Create a Modern Antique Bathroom

Want in on a secret? Trendiness isn’t necessarily what’s “new”. Right now, a growing trend in interiors, especially in bathrooms, is giving everything an antique glaze.
Antique bathrooms can be subtle in their approach, or they can be a complete blast from the past.
Take cabinet styles for instance. You can create an antique look simply by adding a distressed finish to your current cabinets, especially if they are made from wood. Just be sure to safely apply the varnish and coatings to be sure to preserve your cabinet.
Cabinets can also be completely redone to get that antique look. Think beautifully, ornate, carved wooden shelves lining your walls, in either a rich brown or light neutral.
If you want to just dip your toes in the water of antique bathroom style, you can try upgrading your fixtures to reflect the dated-but-trendy look you desire. Rubbed bronze is always a good bet when going for the antique look.
Other accessories can give that antiqued feel too. Try adding a detailed, vintage, framed mirror above your sink. Going to anything gilded in gold or bronze can get you just the effect you’re looking for.
When redesigning your bathroom in the antique style, try to purchase sturdy, good quality pieces. Although flea markets and vintage shops can offer great finds, don’t be afraid to really test out the merchandise before buying. If the pieces are truly antique, you don’t want to buy them just for their style only to find out that they have no substance when you get home.

Positioning a Bed In a Contemporary Room

The bed is always the focal point in a contemporary-style bedroom so proper positioning is everything! While a minimalistic platform bed was once only available in a few styles, today you can find them in a wide variety of colors, some open underneath, others closed off. They typically do not have a headboard but if there is one, it’s usually quite basic.
So, with how simple these platform beds are, how do they demand so much attention? It’s all about the position in the room! A bed in a contemporary room can be placed in the room’s center but most people find they appreciate the security of a wall behind them. When placed against a wall, it should be a large solid one that can house a nice piece of art. It really should never be positioned under a window or in direct line with the door and you absolutely do not want to have a bed under a beam. It is suggested that the weight of a beam overhead can cause headaches and disrupt sleep patterns.
Draw More Attention
If you really want to zoom in on the bed, turn tall dressers or shelving so they are positioned kiddie corner, this allows them to be on an angle facing the bed. As a last tip, contemporary styling is minimalist but it is all about balance so if you have a lot of sharp lines including your bed, dresser, television, etc., consider adding a round nightstand, piece of art, rug or even a bean bag chair to bring an equal balance to the room.

Make an office space without an extra room

Whether you want to hide that desk you have in your living room, create a little privacy area or make an office for your kids to study, you can easily do it even if you don’t have an extra room available. You don’t really need much space or a lot of furniture and supplies. Generally, a small desk, comfortable chair and of course, a gorgeous lamp to spice up the area is about all you need. Small cubicles are so easy to create anywhere in the house that if you have several people in your home, everyone can have their own private getaway to do homework, read, study, pay bills or simply escape!
Closet
The easiest way to create an office is with a walk-in closet. Yes, closet space can be hard to give up but if everyone can move their coats out of the hallway closet then you’re all set. Paint the area white or another light color and make sure there’s proper lighting. Closets offer a great deal of privacy. There are plenty of small desks available and you can even hang a cork board, calender or whatever else you want on the walls. The best part is, any mess is hidden with the door!
Under the Stairs
Many homes with multiple levels, have a cubbyhole under the stairs that is the perfect private area to turn into an office. Treat it the same way you would a closet and if you want a little extra privacy, buy a nice screen or hang a tension rod and a curtain to make yourself a door.
Corner of the Room
If the other two ideas just aren’t an option, section off a corner of a room and create a desk area. You can either make yourself a fabric room divider and hang it kiddie-corner or use two so your office area is square. Alternatively, you can use a room screen here as well. This is really ideal in kids rooms or dorms, especially if two people are sharing a space. A little privacy goes a long way.
Everyone needs their own personal space, a place to put their belongings that they know will be safe and things won’t get moved around. Of course, this can often turn into a mess so hiding these areas is always a great idea!

does your room flow?

The way a room is laid out can have a huge impact on not only how aesthetically-pleasing it is but on how comfortable it is to be in too! Creating a balance between furniture, accents and the flow of traffic can leave you with a harmonious room.

• Control the Flow – People and pets need to be able to find their way through the room without obstacles or tight, undesirable squeezes. Keeping seating where it won’t interfere with doors and electrical outlets is crucial. Also, take into consideration recliners that may become fully extended or leafs that might be added to tables.

• Have a Focal Point – Every room needs a focal point. In homes with a fireplace, the mantle usually takes over, a contemporary bedroom has a platform bed, etc. The eyes can become lost and exhausted if left to travel aimlessly throughout a room and never reach a focal point. Wall fountains, art, biofuel fireplaces or even large aquariums all work well.

• Scale – The furnishings need to be reflective of the size of the room. You simply cannot have over-sized furniture in a small space. Choose clean lines and create balance to make the room appear larger.

If you feel a little lost in your room or something is just not quite right, you may just need to rearrange a few things. When the layout of your room is perfect, you will know right away. Sometimes it helps to leave, go get a coffee and then see how you feel stepping back into the room for the first time to determine what is throwing the space off balance.

Turning your bathroom into a spa

You don’t have to do an entire remodel on your bathroom to create a spa atmosphere. Adding a few essentials to your decor and hiding the clutter will ensure that you find tranquility whether you’re soaking in the tub or just trying to escape the chaos of a busy home.
Choose a Theme
Spas will rarely have mismatched towels or a confusing theme so you may need to purchase a few new essentials. A natural garden, blue lagoon or Asian theme are just a few ideas to get you started.
Add a Little Nature
Vases with fresh flowers, a hanging fern or some bamboo are all fabulous ways to bring nature into your bathroom. These living things breathe life into your space and promote a calming environment.
Pay Attention to Detail
You don’t have to spend a fortune on decor. Roll a few towels and place them in a basket, add a small table with a tabletop fountain and make sure that you place a few soy candles around the room.
Eliminate Clutter
Spas are simplistic and so should your bathroom be. Instead of having things laying around your sink, tuck them away somewhere. There are simple storage solutions available to accommodate even the smallest bathrooms. Remember, a spa is a peaceful place. If your eyes come to rest on a pile of towels on the floor or an assortment of hair products laying around, the entire aesthetic of the room is compromised.

Padstyle’s visit to the Museum of Modern Art, NY

The Museum of Modern Art is located in Midtown Manhattan, NYC. It has been described as one of the most influential museums of modern art in the world. Not only does the MOMA contain modern art from artists such as Jackson Pollack and Vincent Van Gogh, it also shares over 300,000 books about architecture, drawings, paintings and sculptures. The Museum of Modern Art originally opened 7 days after the Wall Street Crash in November of 1929. With this said, I felt very privileged to have been able to have this experience. I attached one photo of the modern furniture I ran across.

Choosing the right skylights

If you have decided that your home could use some skylights, be prepared to make some pretty big decisions. The main purpose of these strategically placed windows is to provide natural light which can also amount to some additional heat. This could be beneficial in the cold months but a disaster in the summer unless you add some type of shading.
Skylights have come a very long way through the years. Today they are available in several designs and from different materials. The main types are fixed, ventilating and tubular with all varieties having the option to be modified to include shades, screens, tinting and thermal insulated glass.

• Fixed Skylights – The sole purpose of these skylights is to provide natural light. They are ideal not only for your primary living space but for attics and workshops where extra illumination could be appreciated.

• Ventilating Skylights – These types of skylights provide light as well as ventilation. When they are open, they create an updraft which freshens the air in the home. These can usually be operated with a wall switch or remote control.

• Tubular Skylights – This is the newest variety of skylights that is quickly becoming very popular. They’re small in size, average about two feet across and are ideal for smaller spaces. Some have baffles which direct the light out through the tube so even though they’re not as large as traditional ones, they still provide an abundance of light.

Skylights aren’t like painting your wall where if you don’t like the color you can just redo it. This is a fairly detailed install so take the time to research styles and make sure that you will love the ones that you choose.