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.

Bedtime stories

Planning to buy a bed? Do you know what do the terms ‘Queen size’, ‘King size’ etc. mean? If not, this ignorance can lead to huge inconvenience once you bring that exquisite piece of furniture to your bedroom. Here is help:

Usually, dealers use certain terminology while they are describing a product; so with beds. You may seem to understand it, but a little comprehension mistake may lead to the wrong selection.

Custom size bed:
This is a term you would hear too frequently. A general impression one would draw is that the bed being referred to is of custom size, i.e. all the beds of custom size (from every brand) would have same size. Ideally, this should happen; unfortunately, it does not. In practice, many dealers call the ‘custom size of their brand’  and not the custom size according to market standards, as the custom size bed. So if you saw the custom size bed of one brand and are planning to order your bed from some other brand store or a whole seller, confirm about the size before finalizing the deal. There is a possibility of slight difference in measurements.

Twin beds:
Usually, the word twin bed (or beds) is used for one single bed from a double bed set (which uses two single beds to make one double bed). This is what it is in reality. But sometimes, you would hear twin beds being used for bunker beds or beds with emergency sleeping arrangement. So, it's wise to check out this point before placing an order.

Standard size beds:
Just like custom size, the measurements of a Standard Size Bed too can vary from one brand to the other. So, if you are planning to order a standard size mattress, it’s advisable to measure the bed size in inches. This will reduce the chances of variation in size of mattress or bed.

King size bed:
Do not buy a King Size Bed on the basis of its name. There are more than one varieties of King Size Beds. While you maybe ordering a King Size Bed, the dealer may pack you the Californian King size, Eastern King Size, or some other variant. Californian King Size Bed is a huge bed, and finding a mattress its size may be a daunting task.

 

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.

The right chair for your kid

The most essential furniture for a kid’s room is the chair. Whether you have sufficient space in your home to your kid a separate room, or you appease him by decorating a corner of living room to his name, a chair is something almost every parent buys for their kids. Now, picking up a kid’s chair is not similar to buying a carpet or a table that we usually finalize on the basis of design. Several points need to be considered before buying a kid’s chair.

What every chair must have



Well, even before you start paying attention to small nuances in design, you must look for a few essential features:

1. The back of the chair must have the proper curve that helps back have the required support and the right posture. You can even try an ergonomic kids’ chair.

2. How safe the chair is? This should be the second question. Pelvic belts, quality of material used (most importantly, paint, because kids tend to lick everything they can lay their hands on), adjustable height etc.

Buying different chairs for kids

Every design has its own pros and cons, a little attention may help select the chair that your kid would love to spend his time on:

The normal chair:



If you are borrowing a normal chair the right height should be your first priority. Make your kid sit on it to see that his feet touch the ground, the backrest is comfortable. Kids legs should not bend. Make sure that the kid wouldn’t have to bend a lot to be able to use the table.

An adjustable chair:



These chairs work for a longer duration as these can be adjusted to suit a growing kid’s requirements. Such chairs must have pelvic belts, these are required when your kid is too young to be able to sit all by himself. As kids grow, pelvic belts are not required. The seat size of these chairs should be such that it doesn’t pose problem for a little grown up child to fit in, ditto with back rest. Before you finalize such chairs, talk to the shopkeeper about the age group you want this chair for. Adjustable chairs are made keeping different age groups in mind. A chair meant for kids between 6 months to 3 years cannot be used for a 5 year old. So if you want to cover that age too, better ask the dealer about an adjustable chair that can be adjusted to meet the needs of a five year old.

Rocking chair:



These are usually bought for toddlers. With a rocking chair height is usually not a hassle, still it is advisable to look at this aspect. One important point is side to side stability. If you are buying a folding rocking chair, do not forget to see its portability in terms of weight, or the complications in re-installing it (if any). Do look for seat belts, they are necessary as young kids tend to fall a little too often.

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.

 

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!

Classy cushions

Thinking about changing the cushions? A random selection is not a very good idea. Here is what you would like to know before zeroing-in on any pattern:



What fabric should you choose?


Silk has always been a classy cushion fabric for ethnic style interior. These days, linen and velvet have also found a place in the in-trend cushion fabric list. Jute and Khadi are the new entries.

What colors are in?


Selecting cushion colors is going to be a tricky thing. A particular color may be in trend but if it doesn’t suit the interior theme of the room, it is a wrong choice. So, while selecting a color you have to be very conscious about the color theme used in your room. These days, bright cushion colors steal the cake. Colors like turquoise blue, peacock blue, coral sea green, ruby, etc. can be selected without giving a second thought! If you want to drift towards the lighter side of the color palate, cream, light grey etc. are the colors to go for.

What prints and patterns should you go for?


For long single color cushions have been in trend, this is the time to introduce some bold prints. If you are not game for loud prints, go for embroidery, patch work, lace work etc. Before you pick any of the heavily worked pieces, work out the display pattern in your mind. Displaying all embroidered cushion on a seat in a heavy traffic area would reduce its life span. Similarly an all white cushion set may not be the right choice for living area. Geometrical print are a hot trend too.

Browse it quick!
For sophisticated look: Go for fabrics like silk, linen, silk mixed with cotton, or velvet.
For a cool, casual look: Khadi, Jute and Organic cotton are the best bet!
For a bright interior: Pick bright colors in a fabric that has some sheen to it, like silk.
For a more subtle look: Pick pastel colors. The choice of fabric should depend on the interior style. Like Silk may not gel well with an organic theme.
For monotone display: Choose a single color cushion set. The selection of color should be in stark contrast to the furniture.
For a vibrant display: Mix and match is the trick. Mix two or three colors or patterns (of course they have to be according to the interior theme), and display them in a line.

(Pics for representational purpose only)

Select the right blinds for your home

Blinds not only shut the outside world for you, they reflect your taste as well. Here is what you should keep in mind while selecting blinds for your windows:

1. Ensure that the measurement is correct:



Pre-built blinds may seem hassle free, but there is a great chance of a misfit. Just like clothes, blinds and chicks too don’t look decent in they are not of the right measurement. So even if you are planning to buy blinds, it’s better to leave guesswork behind and take the measurements of all the windows you want to select blinds for. Write it down on a paper so that you don’t mix it up. Make notes regarding color and all if you have some specific preferences.

2. Always see the readymade sample:



While your dealer may be hell-bent on convincing you to buy a particular design, do not fall for it unless you have seen the real sample. Never finalize a design based on what you see in a sample book, as the colors used in the final product may differ from the photographic impression. It’s always better to see and feel the material before zeroing in on it.

3. Think before you put your finger on any pattern:



There are many types of blinds. While solid blinds or shades are most commonly seen in offices, they can be used in modern homes as well. Venetian and Roman blinds are a rage these days. Roller blinds have always been popular due to their functionality and color variations. So any of these choices is perfect, as long as it doesn't challenge the looks of your well done interiors.

4. Think about the color scheme:



The treatment that you give to your windows is going to affect the look of that entire area. Keep color scheme of the room in mind. Do not pick a color that does not gel well with the interior of the room, or even a color which has been overdone in the room for that matter.

You can match blinds with a few paintings on the walls, or something as basic as furniture. What is important is that they do not look out of place. You have to make sure that are treated as a part of the interior and in turn they do add something to its looks as well.