Posted by admin | Bathroom | Posted on August 26th, 2009
In almost all traditional bathroom designs the bath is always the main feature, so keep this in mind. Towards the end of the 19th century many bathrooms became alot smaller so cast iron baths were changed for freestanding bath designs which were thought to be more hygienic. Effective Victorian styles are available from manufacturers such as Victoria and Albert with ball and claw feet similar to that period.
Pretty mirrors with decorative edges and pictures were common features seen in the bathroom. Black and white family portraits are a great way to imitate the united front families resembled in that period. Portraits should be placed in the main focus of the room for guests and family to view clearly.
Fixed shower heads with wide projections are a must have with traditional fixed arms it creates a classic replica. Manufactures such as Hudson Reed specialise in traditional showers to create the ultimate classic look. Clutter is not a disadvantage in a Victorian styled bathroom design as it creates a more lived in feel. Miniature trinkets and detailed objects will only add to the character and warmth. Modern blinds will be too 21st century so instead opt for sweeping curtains with tassled tie backs to create a lavish finish.
Vintage radiators and towel warmers will create a charming bathroom addition whilst being practical. High heat outputs will definitely keep you feeling warm in the winter months. Deep toned pinks and purples are the colours enhance the enduring bathroom ambience. A distinctive line of tiles on a blank canvas offer a unique focal point to distract the eye. Small square tiles in dark colours such as black or dark brown are the best option if a lighter tone such as pink is going to be used as a background color.
To add drama into the design a distinguished idea is to add a chandelier right in the centre of your bathroom to illuminate the whole room, remember the more dramatic the better!
Posted by admin | Bathroom | Posted on August 23rd, 2009
When reaching a certain age many people find getting around the bathroom may not be quite as easy as it once was. Independence in the bathroom can be maintained so do not think that the bathroom cannot stay contemporary when adapted for easy mobility. If searching for an easy accessible bathroom product for a loved one or yourself, it may be useful to keep certain bathroom products in mind.
The most popular way to enhance easy access in any bathroom is too replace the bath. Walk in enclosures with bespoke shower trays are the next best thing. Walk in Enclosures are a simple way to provide a spacious washing area. The ranges of sizes available on the market are perfect to replace a standard bath size of 1700 x 700mm and smaller sizes if you wish to downsize. If you are opting for a wet room then a glass shower panel is another clever method of creating your very own bespoke enclosure. The panels are great for wheelchair access as there are flexible sizes available. One straight panel will give your bathroom a modern feel whilst reflecting light around the room. The panels can be used in conjunction with or without an end panel depending on your personal requirements. The shower tray to use with the panel may be a concern as the standard 80mm in height may be too high. If this is an issue for yourself then maybe consider a designer low profile tray which will half the standard height to just 40mm. This shower tray may be of use to you when suffering from medical issues that affect your mobility. A glass panel is great when cleaning becomes an issue as there are no hidden corners. The height of the panels means that cleaning can be undertaken quite easily in comparison to a traditional bath which means a lot of bending and twisting. Many people like a bath because it gives them a chance to relax and unwind. If you are getting rid of the bath and worry about standing for a long amount of time then purchase a shower seat to compromise. Attaching to the wall it can be placed anywhere inside the enclosure or wet room, so you have the best of both. The products and slippery surfaces produced in the bathroom can be quite daunting; so consider installing a grab rail for support to put your mind at rest. In terms of bathroom suites try to obtain suites that have higher height WC’s and wall hung basins. Look out for bathroom taps with single levers which are easier to operate rather than the traditional design.
Although everyone’s individual needs are different these are just a few simple products which may help your bathroom to be more accessible for you to enjoy your time spent in your bathroom.
Posted by admin | Furniture | Posted on August 19th, 2009
A record low level of spending by affluent consumers for home furniture and furnishings is suggested by the most recent survey in a series of twice-yearly studies that began in Spring 2002.
Negative attitudes about the current economy and the economic outlook for the next 12 months are contributing to plans for spending less on home furniture and furnishings by affluent consumers during the next year, according to the Spring 2009 Affluent Market Tracking Study #15 conducted by the American Affluence Research Center.
In the Spring 2009 survey of the wealthiest 10% of all U.S. households, spending plans for home furniture and furnishings during the next 12 months, in comparison to their spending for such items during the past 12 months, are to be increased by 10% of the affluent consumers and to be reduced by 43% of the affluent consumers. The remainder (47%) expects to spend the same for home furniture and furnishings during the next year as in the past year.
The survey respondents indicated a negative 12 month outlook for business conditions and personal household income. They also reported declines in their net worth, as a result of substantial declines in the value of their home and their investments/savings during the past two years. Together, these factors have contributed to a general attitude toward reducing or deferring expenditures in all areas.
The intentions to reduce spending for home furniture and furnishings are consistent with the overall mood of the affluent market. Over 80% of the survey respondents reported that they had made a general effort to reduce or defer expenditures during the past 12 months, would make a conscious effort to do so during the next 12 months, or had both done so in the past and would continue to do so in the future.
The survey is representative of the population of the most affluent 11.2 million households in the U.S. that account for almost 40% of total personal income and two-thirds of the personal wealth of all Americans.
The 640 men and women included in the national survey have an average annual household income of $290,000, an average primary residence value of $1.2 million, an average net worth of $3.1 million, and average investable assets of $1.4 million. This survey of the affluent market has a maximum margin of error of five percentage points at the 95% confidence level.
These surveys track how affluent consumers assess current business conditions and their 12-month outlook for the economy, the stock market, personal household income, and their spending plans for different products and services that include major appliances, home computers, furniture/furnishings, home entertainment equipment, casual and upscale dining out, entertainment, recreation, domestic and international travel, designer and non-designer apparel, collectibles, fine jewelry, and political and charitable contributions.