Smart Home

January 29, 2020 by Suzanne Lasky Leave a Comment

The quest for creating a smart home is paramount in today’s modern world. Modern automation solutions within the home can enhance all aspects of your lifestyle. Not only does a sustainable modern smart home provide a minor relief to your home bills at the end of the month, but it creates a happier living space for all the family to enjoy. A smart home, essentially, looks at the modern functionality of your property with simple implementations of smart home technology. We can all appreciate the simplicity of connecting your smartphone to relevant apps, and this principle is used within smart home technology.

With the easy-to-use wireless technology, connecting to your smartphone has never been easier. You can also connect to the technology through home assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home. These smart and innovative ideas allow you to become both vigilant and problem-solving at the same time; with the ability to see and fix a number of issues in and around your home. Safety is paramount and this technology allows you to focus on what is going on outside your home, even who is stood at your front door, when you’re in or out of the house. There are a plethora of gadgets that are simple to use, and can make life so much easier, but the one thing that may cross our minds is, how will it look in the home and is it going to look out of place?

Making it Blend Into Your Interiors

Technology often comes with wall mounted boxes, or equipment that must be fixed around the home. While a lot of modern technology can be small and unassuming, some technology may be bigger and bulkier but it doesn’t have to look ugly around the home. Amazon echo for example is one of the most popular choices for a smart home. It will take voice commands and there are a number of things that can be set and activated around the home. Alexa will be able to assist you with all your home needs, from manually closing blinds across your home, to setting the heating and alarm systems to come on at specific times. An Amazon echo can be neatly hidden within your home, and doesn’t have to look out of place. If you add the right decorations, you can make it work; look at the colour of your technology, what will enhance it and make it blend in?

The Google Home system does similar tasks within the home, like switching lights on and off. Will it look ugly? A smart plug would be connected and all the wiring connected to necessary lights. It sounds complicated but it really isn’t. If you are worried about the way wires may look and if it will interfere with decor, you could look to use the space wisely and camouflage any wires. Although most of the systems are wireless, any wire connecting certain aspects of the home could be covered intelligently, by hanging plants, or lighting to cover up any visible connectivity methods. This can also be used if you are planning to install any sensors for your heating systems or outlets.

The Smart Plug is a plug that can connect straight to your home. It features the smart tracking of your energy uses within the home, a brilliant way to keep on top of your bills and usage. It can also set times for the lights to come on and off at specific times. If you want to ensure that the plug is not within visibility in the home, you could conceal it underneath a table or hide it in a plug point that is not seen, therefore concealing any trace of the technology and it will still work as effectively.

What About The Security Factor?

The need for security in the home, especially if you have a family can be addressed through smart home automation. Surveillance cameras, locks, doorbells, carbon monoxide detectors are all very important. Some of today’s surveillance cameras at home are impeccable quality; which allows you to create a 4k image in and around your home, so if the unthinkable should happen, you can provide the police with high definition images. This also can be linked up to your home, so you can have great HD images and video connected to your home while you are hundreds of miles away. The idea of concealing cameras around the home can be beneficial for security, but you can also choose to have your camera visible as a deterrent. Be safe. Be smart. Your home is your haven.

To learn more about smart home technology, read Home Automation: How To Make Your Home a Smart Home.

Basic Bedroom Design Elements

January 22, 2020 by Suzanne Lasky Leave a Comment

Below is a guest posting that talks about some basic bedroom design elements that can make your ‘nest’ more comfortable and enjoyable. Once someone asked me what defined ‘luxury’ for my personal world. My answer was high quality, unwrinkled sheets and pillowcases on my bed daily. Probably not the answer most would give to that question, but a comfortable bedding situation can make or break how you sleep.
Some of S Interior Design’s clients feel this way, others are more interested in the color and patterns for their bedding. As the phrase goes “to each his own”. Here is a photo of a master bedroom that S Interior Design did the design work for. The client now calls it her sanctuary.

MASTER BEDROOM DESIGN — MASTER BEDROOM BY S INTERIOR DESIGN, LLC

Simple ways to add comfort to your bedroom

Everyone should take time to relax. One of the most personal spaces in your home is your bedroom. It should be the coziest and most comfortable place in your home. Your personal preferences and tastes will influence how you decorate it. For an old-fashioned look, use antique furniture and décor. Or choose something new if you prefer a modern or chic look.

The bedroom is where we spend time relaxing, reading a book being in our own comfortable space. It’s the place where we open our eyes early in the morning and close our eyes at night for a good nights sleep. Every bedroom has essential items like a mattress, bed frame, down pillows, bed sheets, comforters, blankets, and more.

Pillows:

Pillows are one area where the selection is vast. Consider down pillows to avoid neck and shoulder. Down pillows are available in a variety of firmness options. Choose a firmer option if you’re a side sleeper or a less firm option if you are a stomach or back sleeper.

Here are a few ways to add comfort to your room:

Picture Frames & Art:

We all have memories attached to our past. Cherish those memories with photos from your important family events to make your room feel like home. You may hang your pictures on the wall or place them on a table or shelf.

Shelves for Décor or Books:

Many of us love reading a book. It’s a good habit. It can relieve stress and in transport you into a new world. A bookshelf in your bedroom can be used for books or for photos and keepsakes.

Lighting and Lamp:

When designing a room, don’t forget that light is in an important especially if your room is in a portion of the house where sunlight does not pass. There are a variety of lighting options including fixtures, ceiling fans with lights, or floor or table lamps to match a wide variety of styles.

Mirrors:

Adding a mirror to your bedroom is always a good idea. A mirror reflects light and it makes your room look larger and more bright. A mirror is also useful when getting dressed to make sure you’re looking your best.

Linens and Bed Sheets:

Many use cotton bed sheets as they are an affordable and comfortable option. Consider different types of cotton for improved comfort, Egyptian or Pima cotton has a tighter weave and can give feel of staying in a luxury hotel.

Furniture:

While adding furniture into your bedroom keep the size and amount of space. Oversize furniture works well is a large room where smaller furniture is a better option for smaller bedrooms with little space.

Color Scheme:

Something else to keep in mind when designing a room is the color scheme. Pick a color scheme that coordinates with the rest of your decor. Lighter colors generally make a room feel larger and work well in rooms that don’t get a lot of natural light. Darker colors bring a more relaxed vibe and work well in rooms with lots of natural light.

Storage options:

To keep your room organized and tidy, consider storage using shelves or a chest of drawers. You can also add organizers and shelves to closets to increase the efficiency of your space there.

Conclusion:

The bedroom is the most personal room in your house. Design it according to align with your preferences. You can spend a lot or find budget ideas to make your room perfect. Overall, you should be happy and comfortable in your bedroom and it should reflect aspects of your personality and things that are important to you.

Tile Types ‘101’

January 21, 2020 by Suzanne Lasky 1 Comment

S Interior Design uses tile in a lot of their design projects. The options can be overwhelming. Besides how a tile looks, the most important consideration is whether it is the appropriate tile type for the functional usage. Using a tile material that is best for the functional usage of a space will save you from re-work and labor intensive up-keep.

Below is guest post that reviews some of the main types of tile materials in terms of their pros and cons.

The Right Tile for Every Space

Tiles are a popular choice when it comes to flooring as well as other spaces that you have at home or in the office. They are available in various materials, colors, textures and designs for you to choose from. However, not all types of tiles are suitable for every space. The most common consideration is the kind of material, but this can also be the hardest choice to make. With a wide range of materials available in the market, each offers pros and cons depending on the room and condition.

Ceramic Tile

One of the most popular choices in tiling is ceramic. Ceramic tiles are suitable for many applications because they come in various styles that can fit any design. They are also cost-effective, which is ideal for those who are on a budget. However, the material is slightly fragile despite being easy to install, clean and maintain. The best ceramic tiles are commonly used in rooms with light traffic, such as studies and bathrooms.

Porcelain Tile

Quite similar to ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles are another common choice of tile material. They are harder than ceramic and most suited in living rooms and kitchens where there is heavy traffic. They come in three types of finishes – glazed, unglazed and polished. So, be sure to know which one to choose according to your needs. Consider also that it is tricky to install porcelain tiles and you need adhesive when laying them down. If you are thinking of installing these tiles on walls, be sure that the wall structure can hold up the weight of the material.

Glass Tile

Although glass tiles are more fragile, they are best suited to use on walls because they have an exquisite look when tiling is done correctly. The material is stain-resistant, which makes it a fantastic alternative to natural stone with its clean and minimal look. Usually, glass is cut, colored and hand-finished to achieve various looks and styles. Just remember that glass is likely to chip, especially along its edges. It should not be used in high-traffic areas like kitchens. Instead, use it for smaller applications, such as in table tops or desks, or around the fireplace. It can also be used as backsplash.

Cement Tile

Cement is another material that has long been used in tiling. It offers versatility in terms of patterns and colors. However, with its extremely porous surface, it should be sanded and resealed at least once a month to maintain its beauty. Also, laying these tiles can be quite difficult and they are prone to discoloration over time. They should be used only in low-traffic areas and in small numbers.

Travertine

Made with natural stone, travertine tiles offer natural and one-of-a-kind finish. No two travertine tiles look the same. The material, however, is easily impacted by water, stain and traction. Therefore, it requires extra maintenance and must be sealed before and after grouting.

Marble

If you want to achieve high-shine and classic appeal in your space, marble is a top choice. Despite its cost, it can add a touch of elegance and refinement to any room. In order to maintain its clean and shiny look, it requires regular polishing. It is the kind of material that is susceptible to scratches, etching and stains. Marbles tiles are often used as decorative material in shower floors, columns and backsplashes instead of having them on benchtops.

Metal

Designers who want to achieve contemporary look may choose metal tiles in modern layouts. Benchtops with metal tiles will have a chic and modern look, aside from being durable. The material also gives smooth and textured finishes to add depth and character to spaces. It is often seen in kitchens, bars or utility rooms. It is not recommended in baths because it scratches easily.

Mosaic Tile

Upgrade your interior design with mosaic tiles that come in different shapes, sizes, colors, styles and materials. These small tiles are available in sheets and are arranged to achieve unique and thematic designs in various spaces. Choose the right space where the tiles will be installed and create an accent based on your preferences.

Granite

With a similar look and feel to marble, granite is a natural stone that is often a cheaper alternative. Granite tiles are commonly used in laundry rooms where your top priorities are performance and lower cost while maintaining natural flecks in the area.

Limestone

Limestone is another type of natural stone used in tiles to achieve a truly rustic style. This type of material has natural tones, shades and variations. It is durable and soft enough that designers can easily shape and cut it for specific patterns. Keep in mind that it is a porous rock that needs to be properly sealed to avoid cracks and etches, and to make it long-lasting Use limestone tiles in outdoor spaces like the patio to have the perfect final look.

Aside from material, there are several other considerations when choosing the right tiles for every space you have. The size of your room matters when choosing the size of tiles. Check the area that you want to cover to choose the right shape. This can include the common square or rectangle, or the circular or geometric forms. The area will also help you determine the number of tiles to purchase. Make sure to add 10% more of the total number in case of breakage or wrong cutting. A little more will also be needed if you want to do a patterned design. Consider also the type of finish you want to achieve.

Keep in mind that tile installation needs sealing and resealing, maintenance, and grouting depending on the type of material that you use. Each type of material is unique on its own and the above mentioned ideas can help you choose the perfect tile while having the appropriate installation and the necessary aftercare.

2020–The Year of Wall Covering

January 10, 2020 by Suzanne Lasky 1 Comment

Is 2020 the year you will update your interior design using a wall covering material on your walls? S Interior Design suggests that if you are planning some design updates you consider incorporating a unique wall covering into your design plans. You can add dimension and beauty that you cannot achieve using plain wall paint.

The word wall paper conjures up images of cabbage roses for a lot of people. This is not what today’s wall covering selections are about. Of course paper and vinyl based wall coverings are a good option. There are endless styles and colors to look at. Besides that option, there are wood and tile options, metal and even leather. The goal is to add a design element to act as either a great focal WOW moment, or as a perfect back drop to high- light other design elements and furnishings.

Tips To Improve Curb Appeal With Your Garage Door

October 10, 2019 by Suzanne Lasky Leave a Comment

Below is a guest posting on how to improve your home’s curb appeal by the look and design of your garage door. Here in Phoenix many homes have front facing garages and they can sometimes distinctly define the look of a home; for better or for worse. This makes it very important to have a garage door design that compliments and enhances your home’s elevation design.

First impressions are absolutely important, especially when we’re talking about your home. There’s nothing like the feeling you get when people stop, stare, and marvel at the way your house looks. More importantly, that first impression matters when you’re thinking about putting your house on the market. House-hunters will surely want to call your real estate agent with just one look at the front of your home.

That impressive look, of course, can be achieved when you make an effort to enhance the curb appeal of your home. There are many ways of improving curb appeal, but did you know that your garage door can play an instrumental role in bringing fresh excitement to your home’s façade?

Admittedly, a garage door can look incredibly bland, which isn’t surprising since many homeowners just concern themselves with keeping it functional with maintenance and garage door repair. But with a little creativity from your end, your garage door can do so much more, especially when it comes to improving curb appeal. Here are some tips on doing just that.

Paint your garage door.

If the color of your garage door matches the paint of the exterior, then it’s time to do some repainting on it.

As it stands now, your garage door will tend to disappear into the walls. So pick a color that will contrast to the rest of the house in an attractive way. The best color for your garage door would be one that is a few shades darker than the paint on your home. A house painted a light tan, for example, would look great with a garage door with light brown paint. The point is to create a contrast that isn’t too stark.

Do some accessorizing.

If your garage door already came with handles, windows, patterns, or side arrows, then you’re all good on the accessorizing front. However, if your garage door is a little on the simple side, you can enhance the way it looks by adding accessories around it.

Consider placing potted plants on either side of your garage. For added flourish, you can have shrubs, tall plants, and other kinds of greenery close to the garage doors. If you can incorporate some decorative stonework on your driveway, then that would make your garage door pop nicely.

Add lighting fixtures.

When installed in the right spots, exterior light fixtures almost instantly make everything look great. Put up exterior lighting with the garage door as a focal point, and you can be sure that they will enhance curb appeal.

A wise choice is overhead and side lights. They provide much-needed illumination and security, and make the garage door look stunning at night as well. Of course, you have to make sure that the lights you install complement not only your home’s color tone but also its overall style to make the overall look of your home stand out.

If you have a big enough budget for more lighting, then you can go for ground lights that point upwards, preferably towards the trees and tall plants around your garage door.

Balance everything with the front door.

It would look odd if your garage door is all spruced up and your front door isn’t. So whatever enhancements you did with your garage door, it would be a great idea to do the same for your front door. It will make the look of your home more consistent and balanced.

Garage doors don’t have to look dull. Follow the tips above, and your garage door should be able to contribute significantly to the overall curb appeal of your home.