A pendant for your home

Lighting isn’t only about illuminating, it is equally about adding zing to a subtle interior. This is why the pendant lights are the new darlings of interior decorators all over the world. They light up the interior by the sheer charm of their design. Here is what you should keep in mind while selecting and installing pendant lights:

What purpose do the pendant lights solve?


Pendant lights are drop down lights, usually hung from the ceiling. They are best for areas where you require direct light, like, A dining table placed under a high ceiling.
You can add a dimmer to pendant lights to control the illumination.

Where to install the pendant lights?


Do not select pendant lights just for the sake of selection. Sight of lights hanging down from the ceiling may be a distracting one for a smaller room. They are best suited for larger rooms, that have slight open feel to them. They are great ambient lighting alternatives.

Do pendant lights suit different light requirements?


Absolutely. Like many other lights, pendant lights too have various options. Depending on your requirements, you would have a wide variety to choose from. The skull of a pendant light isn’t made of different material for nothing. It affects the amount of light it emits. A pendant light with fabric shades makes the light diffuse through the shade, thus giving a soft glow. Such lights are best for dining or entertainment areas. If you want to select a pendant light for study area you should go for glass shades. Light filters through the glass shades easily, it also lets the light reflect and refract thus creating a brighter and more concentrated effect.

How to choose the pendant light for your home?
1. If you want pendant lights just for the aesthetics, select well crafted shades with deep aesthetic value.
2. If you want pendant lighting for higher ceilings, select the ones that can be hanged a little low.
3. For too high portions, like, the middle of staircase roll, pendant lights with longer extensions may be required.
4. Whenever you hang a pendant light, make sure that it is hung at least 60-70 centimeters above the table.

(Pic for representational purpose only)

What’s so good about stainless steel modular kitchens?

Stainless steel modular kitchens are a rage these days. Here is a low down on features that make these a better (though expensive)  choice:

Why is there so much hype around the ‘stainless steel modular kitchens’?
Simple! Because they are really good (read durable). In a wooden kitchen, you might buy a very good quality wood, but there is always a chance of wear and tear, damage due to water, moisture etc. While stainless steel doesn’t rust. It has a long life.

Any other benefit?
Stainless steel finish is a perfect choice for those who are extra conscious about hygiene. Stainless steel modular kitchens have high standard hygiene finish. Plus it doesn't have problems like termites, cockroaches etc., which often arises in kitchens with wooden finish.

What are the design options?
Like any other modular kitchen, stainless steel kitchens too offer an array of great designs, cabinet options, wall units, top racks, wall tiles etc. If you do not want to go for a fully stainless steel option, you can mix and match it with different materials to get an impeccable look. Steel blends well with granite, marble and such stuff. Plus, you can always look for a budget friendly option. This mixes well with lots of finish and materials; like, you can choose designer sheets for walls instead of going for an all out stainless steel kitchen.
And yes, if you think that the natural steel color is the only color option you have, here is a good news: Thanks to color coating, modular steel kitchens have a whole new array of colors and shades. These colors can be changed later too, with the help of color coating.

What about care and cleaning?
Though there are many modular options, cleaning is something that comes really easy with a stainless steel kitchen. Usually wood finish (which is a preferred choice for modular kitchens) involves setting up cabinets right above the floor thus leaving little space for cleaning below the cabinets. There are no such problems with the stainless steel modular kitchens. Usually, this is fixed on a stand at least four inches above the floor.

What about durability?
Durability is great! It is heat resistant. The polish is such that it doesn’t get scratches easily. Even if some damage is done, it doesn’t require you to change the entire unit; it uses portable parts which can be easily dismantled.

FAQ: The basics of wall painting

Painting walls isn’t only about selecting a flashy (or subtle) paint color. It is equally about durability, convenience and flawless walls. Here are answers to a few vital questions related to wall painting, and selection of the right wall paint:

Why is applying primer necessary before painting walls?
If your wall has been painted earlier, primer is not necessary. If you are applying paint for the first time, you just cannot afford to ignore it. Primer fills up little scratches or gaps on the newly constructed wall and functions as a base for paint. By skipping this important step for the sake of time or money you will only increase your inconvenience. Walls without primer absorb more paint, hence increasing your cost; they look a little rough and may how costly the paint be, the finishing would still be rough.

Can walls be saved from stains?
You can use anti-stain spray while the paint is being applied on walls. This helps protect walls against stains to an extent.

Which type of paint is suitable for spaces like bathroom or kitchen?
Walls in both of these spaces are slightly more prone to stains. Oil based paints are stain resistant (to an extent), so you can select these for such areas. Paints with semi-gloss finish are slightly easier to clean, so you can use these as well. For bathrooms, try and look for water resistant paints. This would protect its walls against moisture.

Should the exterior of the house be painted with a special wall paint?
Great if you can do so! Exterior of your house suffers harsh weather, sunlight, dust, rain, hail and what not. So the paint used on these walls tends to fade easily; it can peel off too. Thankfully, you do not need to wander looking for such paints; almost all the renowned brand are having special collection of exterior wall paints. Latex based paints are great for outer walls.

Whatever paint you choose, make sure it is easier to clean and durable. A few extra buck spent here would save you a lot of trouble later.

Vote for your favorite wall color trend

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How good are ceramic floor tiles?

Ceramic floor tiles have been around for years. There durability makes them one of the best choices. If you are planning to install ceramic floor tiles, equip yourself with its pros and cons

Ceramic tiles give slightly porous appearance to the floor. They look great and are easy to clean. An additional advantage is that you cannot have enough of it, they come in many varieties, with interesting colors to size choices suiting different needs.

What is so good about ceramic tiles?



There are lots of pros of installing ceramic tiles:

1. They look good: When it comes to looks, they are just irresistible. These are glazed tiles and look of a blemish less ceramic tile floor is delighting.

2. They are easy to clean: Ceramic tiles do not get stubborn stains or scratches, hence, your floor appears neat and clean. Yes, grouts can be a problem, but then that is the case with many other tiles as well. Just a little grout cleaning makes the floor look new.

3. You don’t have to spend a lot on their maintenance: Ceramic tiles are glazed tiles and do not require waxing etc., thus saving a lot of your time and effort.

4. They are durable: Ceramic tiles are durable unless exposed to a very high footfall zone. If installed properly, it can be years before you see first sign of cracks appearing on it.

5. They can be installed in number of patterns: Their look and size options enables their installing in number of patterns. You can get ceramic tiles in large sizes as well; people who want to avoid the grout problem often prefer larger size. These tiles can be laid down in square or rectangular patterns. You can even choose more than one color for tiles to create a distinct pattern on floor.

What is not so good about ceramic tiles?



Like many other things, there are a few not-so-convenient features of ceramic tiles which must be noted before buying these:

1. Installing these is not the easiest of the tasks: It's not as if their installation requires knowledge of rocket science. Installation process is the same; but you need to use really good quality grout and an experienced labourer to get it done. If ceramic tiles aren’t sealed properly, grout turns black sooner and they are more vulnerable to cracks.

2. They might not be the best choice for bathroom or kitchen: Ceramic tiles maybe a little slippery for places like bathrooms. The best thing is to choose tiles with texture, which are usually not so slippery. Secondly, if you are using these tiles in bathroom, you have to make sure that you wipe off water when you are done.

3. They are not the best choice for high footfall zones: Ceramic tiles are durable, but they are not a right choice for high footfall areas like lobby. Though, this does not mean that they are delicate, but still why take chances.

Cleaning tips

 In case of stain a little detergent and a soft scrub is enough to clean ceramic tiles. You just need to rub the tiles a little and then wash them off with the help of water.

Trend Watch: Wall colors that are here to stay

If you are in the process of finalizing colors for your walls and are worried about making an out of trend choice; here we are with a list of hottest color trends of this decade…

Selecting a color for your walls may not be as daunting, as confusing it is. The biggest fear is to pick a color that has been long buried in décor guides. Once you know about the best color trends, you can pick a shade that suites your preference (i.e. soothing light shades or bold tones of the same color).

1. Neutral tones:

From fashion world to interior zone all the style trends are breathing neutral tones. While nude is a big time hit in fashion, neutral tones with champagne, silver or mahogany are rocking the interior décor scene. These colors are just perfect for small spaces as they give them more spacious look. If you have a spacious home, you can mix these with brighter tones to accentuate your walls.

When to select neutral tones for walls: These colors work great if you want to display your collection of wall hangings or paintings. These subtle tones do not interfere with visual effects of such decorative pieces and help highlight them.

2. Nature inspired colors:

This is again one huge trend this year (and for many more years to come). Nature inspired color palette may include tones of sunset orange or clear blue sky, or purple with a hint of red. If you want to color all the walls with a single color the best idea would be to choose a subtle shade, but if you want to highlight different colors on your walls, this palette is just for you. Apple red, burnt red, bright natural hues can be aesthetically combined with sober shades are one of the most sought after wall color combos this time.

When to select nature inspired colors for walls: If you want a balance of zing and subtlety on your walls. These are great for multicolored décor. If you are planning to display bright color upholstery, this color palette would provide the perfect base without going over the top.

3. Tribal hues:

Nowadays, interior trends, to a lot extent are more about celebrating the hidden beauty of our surroundings. Tribal hues are bright, vibrant shades that made an entry in 2012, from furniture to décor item, you can spot this trend shaping up almost everywhere. If you are a fan of the rustic charm, you would surely like to have a look at this color palette. The colors to look for are the likes of tangerine, peacock blue, fiery pink, bright yellow, fire red etc.

When to use these colors: These are bright, fiery shades and usually look good on areas that require highlighting. These are great for kids’ room, well decorated lobby areas or as accents for drawing room.

Now that you know about the color trends, the only bit you gotta excel at is mixing and matching these colors skillfully so as to create an amazing overall look. Remember, no shade looks good in itself if the entire décor or theme isn’t telling the same story.

Take a quick look

For smaller spaces: Blue, aqua colors, sunset blue, sunset red, yellowish orange, lighter shades of violet, neutral tones, white, beige

For larger spaces: Mahogany, nature inspired shades of red like burnt apple, brick red etc., rosy shades, plum, rosebud etc.

As highlighters: Peacock blue, fiery pink, electric violet, melon, coral, metallic shades etc.

As base colors: Sea hues, earthy tones, whites, blue mixed green, gray, orange mixed yellow, lighter shades or violet and purple etc.

Feng Shui: Which color means what?

Colors have a vital role to play in Feng Shui. You may not be planning to do your entire house as per Feng Shui, but taking care of a few basic Feng Shui rules is something that many people prefer. Colors and Feng Shui is a vast topic to be explained within one post, but there are basics to it that can be known and followed.

First of all make yourself aware of how Feng Shui actually works. All the elements of Feng Shui, i.e. Wood, Water, Earth, Metal and Fire, work in collaboration with each other to channelize positive energy in your home (or office).

Use of colors in Feng Shui usually revolves around these points:
1. Using the right colors on walls, decor etc.
2. Using the right colors in the right direction (as per Bagua- the Feng Shui energy map).
3. Combining colors so as to enhance their power.

Understanding the Feng Shui colors


Each of the Feng Shui elements (mentioned above) has a few colors that signify or relate to it. Here is a list:
Wood: Green, Brown
Water: Blue, Black
Metal: White, Grey
Earth: Earthy tones like light shades of yellow, earthy colors, light shades of brown
Fire: Strong red colors, reddish shades of yellow, Orange, pink etc.

Understanding colors in relation with Bagua


Bagua has defined the positions of each element of Feng Shui. If you study a Bagua carefully, you will see the Feng Shui elements as given below:
Rear Left: Wood
Rear Middle: Fire
Rear Right: Earth
Middle Left: Wood
Center: Earth
Middle Right: Metal
Front Left: Earth
Front Middle: Water
Front Right: Metal

How to use colors to make your home a Feng Shui home



Now that you know about the elements, it is not hard to understand that the colors corresponding to these element should be used in the mentioned directions.
The fact is, Bagua has its own color preferences for all the elements. For example: Middle right and front right, both represent metal hence colors corresponding to metal can be used. Still, strict Feng Shui followers like to go by the Bagua preference of white and pastels in middle right and black, grey and white in front right.
The shade selection is also a matter of choice. Just make sure that you do not select a color that may contradict the energy of a particular region. For example: Rear Middle is Fire, you should not select colors of the Water element for this direction as it may affect the fire element. Your goal should be to create harmony among all the elements to help yourself achieve harmony with universal energies.

 

Utilize your bathroom space to the fullest

In space starved urban dwellings, a super-spacious bathroom is often a luxury beyond reach. Still, people want to pep it up to the best of its capacity. This can be done. A bathroom built over a large area may not necessarily be the best. It’s smart planning that makes it so. Find answers to a few most vital questions here:

Usually architects give a broader design of partitions and they do not provide internal detailing, not unless you have asked for it. If you are doing the layout on your own, be very cautious about what you do with the space. Know one simple rule, a bathroom looks best with sufficient open floor area.

The importance of free space


Whatever size your bathroom is, it must have a little free space to make it look good. You may want to include some fancy products in your bathroom, but this isn’t the wisest of ideas if all that it does is to make the bathroom look all crammed up!
Thanks to designers, you have size and design options to almost all sort of tools and equipment. So your goal must be to include items that make the bathroom look good besides being useful.

List down the items you want to install in your bathroom


Making a list would help you understand the real requirements and save you of unnecessary clutter. This would also give you an idea of how large a piece does your bathroom actually require.

How to make the list


Divide this list into three parts: Essentials, Desired and Optional.

List 1: Essentials: This is the most important list. Identify essential items that your bathroom must have.
Wash basin, basin mirror, toilet, toilet paper holder, geyser, laundry rack, toothbrush holder, a small vanity, towel rack, soap dish (in case you need to fix this on the wall) etc. would fall under this category.
This list will not include necessary equipment like faucets etc. which are installed during constructions.
* The size of products should be proportional to your bathroom space. An extra large mirror would not look good in a normal sized bathroom. Similarly do not go for an extra large cabinet.

List 2: Desired: This list should include items that you wish to install in your bathroom. The items included in this category may be the once that have caught your fancy. Since you are done with the first list by now, you would have a fair idea of the space left with you.
a) You can write down details of products like a fancy shower panel, bath tub, jacuzzi etc. in this list (Of course you wouldn’t go for all of it in one bathroom, select the one that may fit well within the bathroom space).
b) If you wanted to include some additional stuff like an extra cabinet for your makeup products, a linen closet, a dresser, steam showers etc., include it in this list.
c) Whatever product you finalize later, try to visualize your bathroom with all of it and see how much free area would be available. If the bathroom appears a little over-crowded, make some vital changes. For example: You can replace an extra large jacuzzi bathtub with a slick shower panel or steam shower to save some space.

List 3: Optional: As the name says, items on this list must come last, that is only after picking items from the first two lists.
If your bathroom space still permits inclusion of some other items, go ahead and include that fancy seating, LED, music system, decoration space, that you have always wanted in your bathroom.
Remember, more items you include in your bathroom, more free space it requires. So, be wary of creating a clutter.

Making the final selection


The final selection will need fair analysis of all the three lists.
1. List the items you have zeroed in on in one list according to the priority.
2. Finalize the item size keeping in view space occupied by each item on the list. You may need to reduce the size of the cabinet to create a little space, or you may need to zero in on a smaller bathtub.
3. DO NOT compromise on the essentials. Selecting a smaller washbasin or toilet to be able to place a vase in not a wise idea. This selection should entirely be based on the functionality of the products.

Note: What is essential for someone may fit in someone else’s ‘desired list’. Not everyone may find a shower panel essential. The list should be totally based on personal needs and priorities (and of course, budget)!

Understanding the Bathtub Material

A bathtub is often selected on the basis of its look and capacity of the buyer’s wallet. Know about best and worst of different bathtub materials here, and bowl over your dealer with the tid-bits of details while he is busy bragging about his stuff...

Porcelain Bathtubs


There is no doubt that porcelain bathtubs are one of the most popular choices. Their being reasonably priced and not-so-fussy to maintain also contributes a lot to their popularity. The bathtubs do not get damaged easily, but they are not totally unforgiving to scratches and all. Once they get scratches or bruises, be ready to live with it because you cannot get rid of them. Usually they are easy to clean.
Porcelain bathtubs are actually made of steel shells, fused with porcelain enamel to form a shiny, glassy coating, which actually looks great!
Now, to talk of the bathtub using experience, this material is cold to touch. Usually porcelain bathtubs aren’t longer than 5 and a half feet. Though there can be some pretty nice exceptions.
Budget factor: Porcelain bathtubs are popular because they are not very expensive.

Fiberglass Bathtubs


Fiberglass bathtubs are made of layers of fiberglass held together with polyester resins. It is also known as FRP and is a molded bathtub. Fiberglass bathtubs are very light-weighted as compared to the usual bathtub options. They are inexpensive and cracks and all can be repaired using an epoxy resin kit.
Now look at some negative features of fiberglass bathtubs. Fiberglass bathtubs are strong, yes, but do remember that a fiberglass bathtub is a molded bathtub, and like many molded equipment, even this bathtub may break under more weight or pressure. Like lots of things that are made of fiber, a fiberglass bathtub too sustains scratches very easily. Bad news is this that you cannot get rid of these scratches.Your dealer may try to convince you with its shiny colorful surface, the fact is, it wears off with time and the fiberglass bathtub will start getting dull over the years.
Budget factor: Fiberglass bathtubs are one of the most decently priced bathtubs available in markets.

Cultured Marble Bathtubs and Marble Bathtubs


Cultured Marble bathtubs do look like made of marble, actually they are made of limestone and polyester resins. A real marble bathtub is made of marble, but you have to be very careful while selecting one out of these two varieties. Cultured Marble bathtubs suffer less scratches, so with real marble bathtubs. One fact is that though marble bathtubs are luxurious and costly, even they can break. Both of these tubs are easy to clean and do not harbor moulds and mildews. (In pic Stone Forest Papillian Bathtub)
Budget factor: Cultured marble bathtubs are costlier than acrylic bathtubs yet a cheaper option than cast iron or marble bathtubs.

Acrylic Bathtubs


Acrylic bathtubs are one of the most popular options available. They are light weighted, shiny, easy to clean and convenient to install. An acrylic bathtub gets scratched easily, the good thing is that it is repairable. You can even get it painted in some other color, if you decide to change its color sometime later. Acrylic bathtubs usually face competition from cast iron bathtubs when it comes to the bathing experience. There are lots of sizes and varieties available.
Acrylic bathtubs lose heat easily, so you can arrange for double insulation. Talk to your dealer regarding this and see if he can help you out. Or may be you can invest in a maintenance water heater.
Budget factor: Acrylic bathtubs are reasonably priced.

Cast Iron Bathtubs


If you are one of those who like to soak for longer duration, cast iron bathtubs are for you. They can hold heat for longer duration thus saving you the expenditure and pain of arranging insulation (Though you would not bother this cost much if you are ready to spend on a cast iron bathtub).  Cast iron bathtubs look very decent; though sometimes they tend to put off buyers due to their heavy weight. They are very heavy, thus not very easy to install. You may need to understand how much weight your floor can bear, before going for a cast iron bathtub or any other option for that matter. (In pic, cast iron bathtub by Devon & Devon)
Budget factor: Usually, these are one of the costliest options among bathtubs.

Whichever bathtub you decide upon, it’s important to give a thought to the installing process. Remember, the problems you face during installation, may get repeated when you are uninstalling or re-installing a bathtub, probability of which can not be negated. See the depth and size of the tub carefully, because at the end, it is the bathing experience that matters.

(Pics for representational purpose only)

How to select the right fabric for curtains

Decor isn't only about creating a 'wow' space, it is equally about functionality. Interestingly, most of us tend to overlook the latter over former. The smallest selection is important while decorating your sweet space. Here are our tips for one such perfect selection- curtains. Read on:

What all fabric choices do you have?



Well, lot many. From cost effective nylon, rayon and cotton to luxurious silk, linen etc. you are actually spoilt for choice. Focusing on the right fabric for curtains. Not only you should focus on the 'look' of the fabric, its durability, maintenance, price etc. are a few important points you would like to know about.

The right way to choose a fabric for curtains

While looking for the right fabric for your curtains, do not look for just any good looking thing available within your budget. Analyse the fabric, your requirement and your means well, before taking it home. Below is your step-by-step guide:



Step one: Decide on the look

It's important to know the kind of look you want your windows or doors to have. You gotta be very clear whether you'd like your curtain to be opaque or sheer. Discuss this requirement with your dealer and  start selecting the print, colors and patterns after that.

Step two: Understanding the fabric

Cotton is one of the most commonly used fabrics for curtains. Not only it is easy to wash and hang, it is reasonable, organic, and available in variety of weaves. You can select a light cotton curtain or a heavy one as well. This is easy to wash, though if you are buying light cotton fabric, you might have to iron it after every wash. It is good for summers and is one of the most varied curtain fabrics. If you want to avoid frequent washing and ironing, go for heavy weight cotton curtains. Another durable and reasonably priced curtain fabric is nylon.  You can even go for polyester blends, they do not wrinkle easily. If you can afford delicate fabric and are looking for a rich look that boasts of your taste for everything rich, silk or linen are the fabrics for you. Fabrics like silk are best suited for indoors. If you are buying rayon curtains would have to tend to them because it might shrink.

Step three: Choosing the fabric

Every fabric has a distinct sheen to it. For an ethnic drawing room with rich silk cushions and covers, a printed cotton curtain is a decor disaster. So, decide on the fabric by the look and feel of it. Your second focus should be on the maintenance requirements. If you hardly have any time for extra cleaning at home, a curtain that needs a wash or ironing every other day is the last thing that you would want. Similarly, if you are looking for budget decor, rich emroidered or brocade curtains are the last thing you'd like to buy. So analyse how easy or tough it is for you to arrange a frequent wash for your curtains; whether you would like to own such high-maintenance pieces, or the kind of weight and weave you want the curtains to have. This will save you from any impending inconvenience.

The fabric which answers most of your queries is the best choice for you. Happy decorating!

How to select the right wall color

Selecting the right paint for your house isn’t only about finding your favorite color and splashing it all over your place. It’s a lot more than that. A color may look good in itself, but if it isn’t able to hide flaws in the architecture of your home, it is nothing more than just another expenditure.

Go easy with your favorite color

There is no doubt that people tend to choose their favorite colors for wall paints too. It’s perfectly fine, as long as you know how to use different shades of that color to highlight the beauty of your house:

1. Be careful with the selection of shades. Color selection plays an important role in deciding the look and feel of your abode. If your flat is small, the best way would be to use lighter shades of your favorite color, if you must. For larger spaces dark shades are just perfect.
2. If you want a vibrant look, select lighter shade of a peppy color and splash a contrast bright color at bits and places. Do not overdo highlighting, it may ruin the impact.
3. Do not pick the most tempting, luxurious shade of your favorite color. A wall color makes a good impact in entirety. If finishing of the wall doesn’t support satin color, it would look a disaster despite your spending a fortune over the costliest of paint.

Selecting the right shade

1. Do not buy a color by looking at the print sample of it. Lighting makes a lot of difference to the overall impact. A sample color may not look the same as on a computer designed 3D room image, or a print color identifier, or even in the color bucket itself. Light of surroundings changes the complete look of a color. The impression you get on your walls depends upon the lighting arrangement at your place.
2. Always apply a color to a small portion on a wall before deciding on it. Ideally you should apply two coats of it on a wall that you often notice. Expose yourself to this color as much as you can. Still, if after a week you find yourself looking at that colored patch with admiration, you know you have made your choice.

Selecting the right finish

1. Matte, satin, glossy, flat, there are so many paint accents and finishes. Satin and glossy look expensive and rich, but they are meant for perfectly finished walls with no visible signs of scratches or peeling or chipping. If your walls have that nice, smooth finish, you can think of it. Otherwise, a flat and matte paint is the best deal. It looks great, and it hides little marks and flaws as well.
2. The finish of the paint should be decided based on the room lighting as well. Matte is usually great with all bright and dull lights because it doesn’t scream attention. If your room has scarce natural light, select a paint that helps in reflecting it. 
3. Whichever shade you choose finally, select one shade lighter paint as a single color paint looks a little darker when used on all the walls.
   Overall, your focus should be on selecting a color that adds in the overall impression and not be a patch on it. Remember, colors can easily be complimented with right accessories and upholstery.