10 Modern House Design Tips and Features
Posted by in House Plans on June 27, 2011
By Ian M MacDonald
House design is a very unique process that needs to be completed properly so that people end up with the results that they expect and deserve. In order to make sure that your home is as modern as your tastes are, here are 10 tips and features to keep in mind during the designing and planning stages:
1 – The kitchen affects the rest of the home more than most people realise. You have to determine the layout and the features that you want here before you look at any other rooms because the kitchen is the hub of many homes.
2 – Design your living space to be open, with as much natural light as possible. Use windows and fewer walls to allow more natural light to flow in.
3 – Always make sure that function is the priority. Modern home planning is based on function. Make the space as useful as possible so that you don’t have to add as much furniture later.
4 – Look for areas where you can add style and function at the same time. Getting a great design that works for your needs is a win-win for everyone.
5 – Consider whether you want a formal dining space or just a breakfast nook or bar. Some people like both, while others will choose one or the other. It doesn’t matter, as long as you get what you need.
6 – Figure out where your television will go in the living area and design around it. While this might sound like a lot of power for such a small device, the TV is generally the centre of your living room and needs to have a space so that it is useful and accessible.
7 – Think about windows, where you want them and how many you want. Windows are important in modern home construction and will allow you to get the perfect amount of light for your needs.
8 – Create solutions specifically for storage of the things that you need or do daily, such as crafts, hobbies, or activities.
9 – Modern home design features open layouts, but careful planning is key in keeping your layout open and not overcrowding it with stuff.
10 – Make sure that every style element and feature speaks to your tastes and needs. This is your home, after all, and it should reflect your tastes and daily life.
These are all important tips to keep in mind when it comes to house design. Modern homes have many unique features and elements to consider, but all that really matters is that you get a home that you love.
Create the Perfect Home Bar
Posted by in Home Based Business on June 27, 2011
By Rich Large
With the rising cost of nights out, BBQ’s and home parties are on the increase. For any social gathering or just for the drink connoisseur a home bar is essential, so how do you go about getting the home bar of your dreams.
Home bars can be installed in any room of the house, you just need to put thought into the design. location, personalisation and cost.
Dream the dream.
Let your imagination run wild, create a wish list and allow yourself to include everything you have ever wanted, designing a home bar form scratch means that you don’t have to compromise. From your wish list you can whittle down your requirements depending on your home, the space you have available and your budget. You need to consider your home décor, how you entertain your friends and what your personal tastes are.
Think about the cost.
You need to consider how much money you invest before you begin, installing a bar can be a quick weekend job or may involve a more in-depth building project, it is important to establish what level of work is involved and commit to the necessary budget.
Location, location, location
Where you decide to place you bar is very important, it is no good installing it behind the back of a door that leads into the garden as there will always be clashes, neither is it a good idea to locate it at the bottom of the stairs if you have young children where noise can travel. Good locations include recreation rooms, garages, sheds, gardens, and dining rooms, but be mindful of important factors such as plumbing for sinks and power sources for refrigeration, blenders and other equipment.
It’s all about the size and shape.
Standard dimensions for home bars are about 42 inches tall and about 24 inches deep, and barstools are around 30 inches tall, but you need to make sure that your bar is high enough for your stools so you guests can sit and drink comfortably. Popular options for home bar designs are straight, L Shape, round or kidney.
Now there is nothing to stop you browsing the internet, taking a trip to your local shops, picking up interior design magazines to help you create your home bar wish list, if you need any help choosing your bar there are plenty of resources on the internet to help you get started.