smart homes october 2012
DESCRIPTION
Building Construction, Real Estate and Lifestyle MagazineTRANSCRIPT
PUBLISHER: Vivian-Anne Gittens
EDITOR: Aprille ThomasADVERTISING MANAGER: Paulette JonesWRITERS: Cheryl Harewood, Lyle Jones
Sheree-Ann McDonaldPHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Christaldi
DESIGN/LAYOUT: Randy Phillips – Imageworx
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES:
Adrian Bowen – Tel: (246) 430-5519
Email: [email protected]
Kelly Johnally – Tel: (246) 430-5515
Email: [email protected]
PRINTERS:
Printweb Caribbean Ltd (246) 434-6719
COVER PHOTO:
Dan Christaldi
e’ve reached the time of year when once again the annual
entertainers among us open their homes to the numerous friends,
family, visiting relatives and others who will for one reason or the
other drop by. Parties, brunches, luncheons, limes you name it,
it’s time to entertain.
It follows then, as tradition dictates, that it’s time to get your house in
order. As one fussy about your castle you’ll be weighing your options.
What’ll it be - a new paint job, a kitchen remodel, perhaps some sort of
renovation on the outside, structurally or to the landscape?
If you’re looking for a few ideas on what to do to give the home a little
extra pop in the upcoming holiday season, you’ve picked up the right
magazine. In this edition you’ll fi nd helpful suggestions on refreshing your
home inside and out.
We’ll share do-it-yourself tips on décor, and tell you how to freshen the
air inside the natural way. Want to create a sensation in your home to set
guests tongues wagging? How about creating a feature wall? Read on for
helpful tips.
Taking it to the great outdoors, among other things we’ll discuss lawn
care. And, since outdoor entertaining will be one of the desired options,
we’ll discuss outdoor upgrade suggestions that are sure to see you looking
at your patio in a new light.
We’ll visit a home that off ers a taste of life in another world, and off er
insights through the eyes of an architect for whom the landscape is his
canvas.
In our last edition we visited the “Cave”,
the man’s own in-house retreat. This time out
we’ll explore the ladies’ version of an in-home
paradise.
Read on, and be sure to share your
impressions, suggestions on what you’d like to
see in future editions, we’d love to hear from
you. We believe that you will enjoy this issue
as much as we’ve enjoyed producing it for you.
From The Editor
Smart Homes is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of The Nation Corporation, which is a member
of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies. For general info email: [email protected]
Every eff ort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however,
The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions.
This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without the explicit permission of the Publisher.©2012 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED
2 inspiration & innovation
Aprille Thomas
W
EDITOR
4 inspiration & innovation
ContentsPerfect Picks
Building Value In Your Home
Rocking Feature Walls
A Functional Splash of Style
Life and Design
Living In Another World
Cushion With Colour
Water Your Garden Effi ciently
A Woman’s Oasis
Paradise In Your Backyard
DIY Air fresheners
06
08
10
12
14
16
22
24
28
30
34
6 inspiration & innovation
ACCENTS
Fiesta Dinnerware
(Available at Dwellings)
PicksPERFECT
Mango Tangerine Candle
(Available at Dwellings)
Indoor/Outdoor Lanterns
(Available at Gajah Home)
Buddha Ornaments
(Available at Gajah Home)
Faylinn Teal/ Manarin Cushions
(Available at Dwellings)
HINKING ABOUT INCREASING the value of your home?
Even if you are not, every now and again homeown-
ers are bitten by the building and enhancement bug.
They want to expand and enhance their properties,
whether it’s adding an additional bedroom, constructing
a home offi ce, extending the patio or building an enter-
tainment deck. Some choose to build recreation rooms
and studies while others add new appliances, fi xtures
and cabinets to enliven rooms and make their homes attractive
to future buyers.
Here in Barbados the bug mentioned is seemingly very con-
tagious, especially when one considers how traditional chattel
houses or starter homes are often transformed into “castles” just
by adding a room or two, or going one storey up.
However, when you decide to stop sinking money into a home
and buy a bigger place, how much rehab is too much when it
comes time to recover remodelling costs through a home sale?
For example, if you have just spent $4 000 remodelling your liv-
ing room and did not expand your small bathroom, the chances
of increasing the number of interested buyers are slim. With these
concerns in mind experts suggest the following tips for those of
you struggling to add value to your home.
• First, always protect the character of your home. Nothing sticks
out more than an addition that’s rendered in a completely
diff erent architectural style. Be consistent. Recognize your
home’s character and stay within its framework.
• The most fi nancially rewarding areas to remodel are usually
the kitchen and bathroom. Newly redone cooking spaces
and cabinets can attract more buyers and many command a
slightly higher price for the home than a comparable one on
the market. Simple repairs that are made to last will bring you
the biggest returns upon sale.
• Enlarged bathrooms and kitchens are very popular attrac-
tions to new home buyers. In addition, jacuzzis, whirlpool
baths and modern showers and fi xtures are becoming a big
thing these days.
However, be sure to install modest, solid amenities. It is easy
to quickly overspend on bathroom fi xtures even though buy-
ers are more interested in above-ground living space — not
yards and walkway.
• A swimming pool can be a poor investment if installed for
the sole purpose of increasing a home’s value. It is rare that
a pool’s cost will be recovered in a home sale. It can also be
a negative feature for potential buyers with very young chil-
dren.
• Replacing worn carpets, tiles and wood fl oors can give your
home immediate advantage. Updating paint colours in all ar-
eas of your home can also prove benefi cial. However, it is
recommended that you use neutral colours such as beige,
grey and off -white when adding new fl oor and wall coverings.
Fewer buyers will then turn away because of diff ering tastes.
• Stay simple with your remodelling and look at your home as
though you were the buyer. Chances are that if you fi nd the
upstairs bedroom could be brightened by a larger window,
potential buyers will probably feel the same.
• Don’t go overboard. Concentrate on improving two or three
defi ciencies at a time. More than likely, the time and money
you spend adding quality to your home will be rewarded with
greater profi t when the time comes to sell.
HomeBUILDING VALUE
IN YOUR
STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD
1.
REAL ESTATE
8 inspiration & innovation8 inspiration & innovation
First, always protect the character of your home.Nothing sticks out more than an addition that’s rendered in a completely different architectural style. .
T
Remodelling or retrofi tting your kitchen will not only enhance its
functionality and décor, it can increase appeal as well as value of
your home.
walls
he holiday season is fast approaching, and being
somewhat of an entertainer you’re sure to have plenty
of friends dropping by. The thing is you’re not feeling
very house proud because they’ve seen it all already.
No showpiece to set tongues wagging this year, last
year’s remodeling covered everything possible to
accent your pride and joy. Or did it?T10 inspiration & innovation
Does your home have a feature wall?
Didn’t think so. Adding a feature wall is a great way to create
depth and add interest to a room. Makes a great talking point too.
First, choose a wall that holds the focus of the room. In the living
room it could be the wall the three-seater runs along. Avoid walls
that have windows as they tend to detract from the eff ect you’re
trying to create. In addition, try not to choose any wall that’s too
small because it can make the room look cluttered.
Creating a feature wall can be a simple or complex process.
From the simple painting of one wall in a diff erent colour to the
others and decorating, to the more complex construction of
a textured surface accented with special lighting for eff ect, the
result will be a masterpiece of which you’ll be proud.
When deciding on a colour or pattern to feature consider the
kind of eff ect you want to create. A dark colour will make the
wall appear closer to you while a light wall will have the opposite
eff ect. The same goes for large versus small patterns.
The creative do-it-yourself amateur designer might experiment
with contrasts using light and dark colours to great eff ect.
A feature wall is a great way to experiment with colour and bold
pattern and if used properly and considered within your existing
design, it’s a simple way to make a room look sophisticated, stylish
and chic.
Materials are also important. According to one interior designer,
“materials like suede, silk or wood add texture and interest. And
if you have a dark room or corridor, mirrors or metallic refl ective
wallpapers … are a great choice. They feel opulent and also
bounce and refl ect light around the space.”
Some also use tiles to great eff ect, not to mention photographic
images blown up to wall size, if you are looking for something
diff erent. Or go 3D: a collection of objects can make a striking wall
feature.
Perhaps the idea of a major change would neither suit you nor
your budget, however, you can still create a special display in your
living-room or main entertaining area by selecting a suitable wall
People are more concerned with aesthetics than anything else, and while this is of great importance, there are many other factors to consider before taking the plunge.
ROCKINGFEATURE
10 inspiration & innovation
DESIGN
STORY BY: LYLE JONES
11smart homes 11smart homes
and hanging a collection of family photos.
Maybe your collection can feature a walk
through time chronicling family members’
journey from babes to adults.
Be mindful however, that a feature
wall should accent a room rather than
overwhelm it, so you need to avoid
choosing something that doesn’t fi t with
the style of the room.
You can create a feature wall in any
room of the home, from the kitchen to the
bathroom, but interior designers caution
against including too many in any home as
doing such could result in overkill.
Previous Page:
Taking the 3D eff ect to the max… .
Raised, intricately shaped white wall
panels stand in marked contrast to
the brightly painted background wall
and colourful furnishings to grab the
attention.
A study in options … at top the textured,
recessed feature wall complemented by
colour coordinated furnishings.
In the middle …. the bold coloured
wall provides the perfect canvas for a
summetrical display featuring specially
positioned picture frames separated by
panels perfectly spaced and centred
in the middle of the wall. Colour
coordinated furniture completes the
picture.
At bottom … Texture, lighting, raised
mirrors, faucets and wash basins
combine to create a feature in the
bathroom that mesmerizes …
T
12 inspiration & innovation
DÉCOR
HESE DAYS backsplashes are making a huge fashion
statement in home décor and design.
People with discerning tastes and the resources to spend
usually have great interiors. Most try to give their homes the
most modern and stylish look possible. From living room to
kitchen, bedrooms and bathroom, everything needs to be
perfectly aesthetically great.
This is where backsplashes come in. They have defi nitely become
part of the modern age of home designs.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A BACKSPLASH?
It is an architectural feature which is designed to be both ornamental
and functional in areas where water is involved. The backsplash
protects the underlying wall from water damage, and also provides
an easy to clean surface which helps homeowners keep their homes
more tidy.
Backsplashes can vary in size, and it is also possible to create your
own, as long as you are handy with grout.
In addition to being used around water in places like sinks and
bathtubs, backsplashes can also be used in areas where oil and
grease feature, like around the stove.
Typically built using tiles – which may be glass, ceramic, or stone
– they are afi xed to the underlying wall and then grouted. A sealer
may be applied, depending on the type of tiles and grout used. When
materials splash up out of a work area, they hit the backsplash rather
than the wall, and this makes spills much easier to clean up.
Backssplashes are a necessity around sinks and bathtubs. Water
can cause serious damage to the underlying structure of a home, and
splashing water is inevitable with sinks, tubs, and showers by their very
nature. If a splashback is not constructed, the water will penetrate the
wall and ultimately cause rot, which can be very expensive to track
down and fi x. backsplashes also resist staining, which can be quite
advantageous.
The solution to keeping the bathroom clean to use backsplashes.
Some people consider glass backsplashes for their style, design and
convenience.
However, despite their popularity, you should carefully consider
the space available and choose colours that blend with the existing
colour scheme when deciding the type of backsplash you intend to
have installed.
You should also ensure that it not only looks elegant and stylish, but
it is one that incurs low maintenance cost.
Splash of style
A FUNCTIONAL
Who says that something functional can’t be trendy. Backsplash can be built using a variety of materials and rendered in attractive styles. STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD
12 inspiration & innovation12 inspiration & innovation
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/premiumlook
13smart homessmart homes
MAKING A SPACE SIMPLY YOU!
So you’ve just moved into a space that you simply love,
or maybe looking around it is apparent that you need
to make some changes. Whatever your starting point
is, there is quite a bit of information out there on the
internet to get you off and running.
In the midst of popular opinion and trends, never
lose sight of the fact that you have to live with this
space - day in and day out. If you are about to make
an investment to make your space more of what you
would like it to be, every cent spent should be worth
it. You ought to come into this space with a feeling of
satisfaction every time.
WHERE DO YOU BEGIN?
HERE ARE THE THREE IMPORTANT POINTS
TO CONSIDER.
1. WHAT WILL YOU USE THIS SPACE FOR?
What is the main purpose for this space? There may
also be secondary reasons for its use that you also
need to consider. For example, your bedroom may be
your sanctuary to escape from the world, but you may
also get inspired to write poetry, in which case a writing
desk should be included in your furniture selections.
If it is a child’s room, you may need to facilitate a space
for play or homework. Your living room maybe where
you entertain a small number of guests, if so, you need
adequate seating.
ACTION POINT(S)
• Write down a list of all major and minor activities
you plan to use the space for.
2. HOW DO I WANT TO FEEL OR WANT OTHERS TO
FEEL WHEN WALKING INTO THIS ROOM, HOUSE
OR OFFICE?
Planning the mood you want in a room does not
have to be an “airy fairy” part of your design process.
Magazines and pictures on the internet can really make
your life easier. Sometimes a look through can help you
decide what you defi nitely do not want.
Think about these things regarding this space:
Do you want it to be formal or relaxed?
Do you want to have a very traditional setting or
totally unusual and off -the-wall?
Do you want it to be futuristic looking, or warm and
homey?
Do you want persons to feel elegant and refi ned or
is this a place where people feel comfortable on your
fl oor?
Do you like the feeling of lots of open space or do
you like your ornaments and plants everywhere?
These thoughts help to guide the colours you choose,
the look of furniture you chose, the accessories you
use, as well as the drapes and fl oor covering.
ACTION POINT(S)
• Get magazine cut outs or picture selections of
rooms or furniture from the internet.
• Visit your local paint store and have a look at the
swatches. Choose several samples that you like.
• Visit your fabric store and have a look at the
materials on display. Most stores are willing to give
small cuts of the material so you can remember
what the fabric generally looked like.
• Add all of these items to your design folder.
3. BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
After you have decided exactly what you will be using
the space for, and the mood or feeling you want it
to have, the fi nal touch is to bring these elements
together.
Make sure that the colour selections of the main
pieces of furniture, wall and fl oor covering are not
confl icting. The colours should harmonize.
There is always room for an element of surprise in a
room. For example, an unusual sculpture that you got
for a bargain somewhere and refuse to part with. Just
make sure that the room is not full of surprises.
Make your furniture relatively the same size. For
example, if you look at a book shelf, is it large and
overpowering in size compared to the chairs you plan
to also put in the room? The sizes of the furniture should
also harmonize.
The type of furniture should go together well. For
example, a mahogany chair may not go well with a
glass top table with chrome legs.
ACTION POINT(S)
• Create a budget for every item you will need to
complete the space. Do not forget to include the
cost of paint or wall covering. Have a detailed list
and allocate a cost for everything so that you have
no surprises or disappointments at the end.
• If the process seems too time consuming, consider
hiring a decorator for assistance.
• Shop!
14 inspiration & innovation14 inspiration & innovation
DÉCOR Life & Design
STORY BY: SHEREE-ANN MCDONALD
LUXURY, stylish living, surrounded by the beauty of nature in a peaceful setting,
inexpressible, breath-taking views and an elegant
lifestyle can be found at Vuemont Residences,
Mount Brevitor, St. Peter.
16 inspiration & innovation
FEATURE - VUEMONT
In Another World
LIVING …
here, nestled among the 77 residences featuring both
apartments and modern-styled two and three-bedroom
villas is villa 276, our featured residence in this edition of
Smart Homes.
With its central theme of earth toned furniture and exotic
furnishings, Villa 276 presents itself as a contemporary
furnished residence.
From the moment you enter its doors and step unto the designed
porcelain tiles, after a casual walk up the pathway set in the middle
of well- kept manicured lawns and beautifully landscaped grounds
with tropical plants lining each side, you’ll experience a new world
of architectural beauty. Conveniently designed with an open fl oor
plan, you’ll also come face to face with a cozy living and dining room
space, sure to take your breath away. On your left you’ll walk into
the spacious Italian-styled kitchen which features a full appliance
package, granite countertops, recess lighting and lots of cupboard
and storage space.
The dining table also off to the left, and superbly decorated with
sea shells, helps to enhance the room’s décor, while a sea-grass
designed beige and suede living room suite complete with shades
of green, brown and beige throw cushions, add that romantic feel to
an already well-decorated and defi ned room.
T
PATIO
With a view such as
this, dining on the
patio twice the feast.
STORY BY CHERYL HAREWOOD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DAN CHRISTALDI
17smart homes
18 inspiration & innovation
FEATURE - VUEMONT
LIVING AND DINING
ROOM
Classy, stylish,
contemporary furnishings,
perfectly positioned,
accentuate the breezy
spacious feel of the living
and dining area of the villa.
KITCHEN
The roomy kitchen boasts
plenty of storage space.
19smart homes
20 inspiration & innovation
FEATURE - NEWLANDS
OH LA LA!
That will probably be your response when your feet touch
the fl oor of the back patio. It’s a setting fi t for a king – or
queen – for that matter. This patio, extended deck, lounge and
outdoor dining area will probably be your favourite outdoor
living space. In fact, it is quite safe to say that like most of the
villa residences at Vuemont, outdoor living plays an integral
part in the lifestyle of each homeowner.
The wooden deck, dining table which seats six, chaise
lounge for relaxing, and patio furnishings complete with orange
accent cushions, makes this area very special. Another delight
of this outdoor living space is the plunge pool that extends off
the patio that off ers a breath-taking view of the ocean.
WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR?
It’s in this setting that you can re-energize yourself after
hours of relaxation. You also get to enjoy nature’s best of both
worlds – mature dwarf coconut trees, garden views and an
exercise trail to your right and a gazebo to your left with a
panoramic view of the west and northwest coasts of the island.
This villa’s three bedrooms and two bathrooms can best
be described as excellent. Each room carries its distinctive
theme well, with the master bedroom and en-suite bathroom
continuing the central theme of earth toned bed-linen and soft
light-coloured drapery, accentuated with brightly coloured
throw-cushions.
While there is coral stone moulding throughout the villa,
the master bedroom, which boasts a king-sized bed, appears
to carry this feature best. This main bedroom also leads onto
the patio, so imagine waking up to such peace, tranquility and
scenic beauty each day.
Twin-beds with skillfully designed sea horses in an
underwater setting will defi nitely conjure up thoughts of
swimming in the ocean or relaxing on the beach. Shades of
blue and beige furnishings, matching padded headboards and
drapery set this room apart from the second guest bedroom,
which gives one a sense of royal living.
A bamboo-designed head board is the focal point of this
room, which is tastefully furnished with matching side tables,
bedside lamps, gold and pastel green drapes which also
perfectly match the bed linen and hand-painted prints which
adorn the walls.
Along the hallway of this 1 560 sq. ft. villa is a collection of
old Barbadian prints by Corrie Scott, one of a number of artists
whose creations enhance the appearance of each room.
A Barbadian-owned and managed residential community,
Vuemont is a product of the combined craftsmanship of
Rotherley Construction Inc. and C.O. Williams Construction
Limited.
And the elegantly furnished Villa 276 is an excellent example
of modern day architecture – a simple, contemporary villa with
all the right furniture, furnishings, class and style.
FEATURE - VUEMONT
GUEST BEDROOM
Exquisitely furnished with matching twin beds, the
second guest bedroom features an ocean theme.
BATHROOM
Hues of gold add to the rich, warm welcoming
feeling one experiences on entering the bathroom.
MASTER BEDROOM
Spacious, comfortable, well appointed, and with a
view to die for… with a master bedroom like this it
doesn’t get much better.
22 inspiration & innovation
HECK OUT ANY type of home décor these days and
you’ll discover that throw cushions/pillows play a big
role in home decoration.
These huggable pieces which come in a variety of
shapes, colours and materials can easily be paired with
drapes or indoor and outdoor furniture to create a sense
of luxury and elegance.
Throw cushions can enhance the look of your home without
breaking the bank. Use them as accents or as a focal point in
your living room or any room that needs a splash of colour.
Whatever your choice of throw cushions and throw pillows,
they can also add a touch of comfort to any room – even when
used in the lone chair which has been positioned somewhere in
the corner of your living, dining or bedroom.
There is an art to choosing or placing throw cushions. Go for
an odd number, like three or fi ve, rather than more traditional
pairs. A few big pillows look cleaner than a jumble of smaller
ones, which can seem like “too much punctuation”.
As far as shape and size go, square cushions should be 18 to
24 inches across, large enough to showcase a solid colour or
a pattern. Oblongs are also nice, since they tend to stand out
when paired with square-shaped cushions.
Today, there are numerous fabrics from which to choose – silk,
cotton, suede and polyester are popular.
Your choice of fabric is entirely up to you and the décor you
want to create, but a limited colour palette and large geometric
prints on smooth, tightly woven fabrics, like cotton and linen,
work well in a modern environment.
However, if you love having lots of colours, take a tip that
applies to all settings. You can pull any colour from a piece of
art that’s in the room, the colour of the walls or your living room.
Your patio furniture can also be enhanced with outdoor throw
cushions and pillows. Such accessories will go a long way to
making your outdoor space feel homey, comfortable and above
DÉCOR
STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD
CUSHION THE LIVING SPACE
With Colour
C
23smart homes
There are a lot of outdoor throw pillow styles, depending on your
taste. There are regular square pillows, pillows with a ruffl e, pillows
with fringe or cord and even bolster pillows to support your neck or
lower back while lounging around the patio. Just be sure that when
choosing throw cushions or pillows for the patio that you choose a
fabric that is designed to be used outdoors. Normal fabrics will fade,
stain and colours could run. Choosing the right fabric will ensure a
long life free of fading, mildew and loss of strength.
Most throw cushions can be easily made. Why not design and
create your own, if time allows you to do so.
There is an art to choosing or placing throw cushions. Go for an odd number, like three or fi ve, rather than more traditional pairs. A few big pillows look cleaner than a jumble of smaller ones . . .
24 inspiration & innovation
he fi rst thing people notice
when they see your house is the
landscaping— the curb appeal.
Whether you have sturdy, mature
trees or a rainbow coloured
garden, they will catch a visitor’s
eye. One of the concerns
homeowners might have is the
level of maintenance a lawn or garden
requires. Especially if you are a busy person,
you might not have time to give your plants
the H2O they desperately need.
Sprinkler systems can assist you in the
care of your surroundings, while off ering
several benefi ts to you. Some of the
advantages of owning a system include
conserving water by using less than you
would if watering by hand; saving you time
seeing as they do all of the work for you;
and eventually saving you money by cutting
your water bill.
The most important thing for you to
do is to identify your unique landscape
situation and fi nd out what type of system
will best suit your needs (this is how you will
maximize on savings).
SLOPING BACKYARD
If you have a sloping backyard, you may
be concerned about the water pooling
around the sprinklers and causing unwanted
soggy areas. One solution for this would be
to fi nd a sprinkler with a nozzle that delivers
water at a lower rate, which will allow for a
suffi cient ‘soak-in’ time.
DIVERSE GARDEN
Diversity may be the way you defi ne
your plants, and for those of you with trees,
shrubs and fl owers, you may want to make
sure you fi nd a system that caters to all
your needs. All of your plants will require
STORY BY: APRILLE THOMAS
The most important thing for you to do is to identify your unique landscape situation and fi nd out what type of system will best suit your needs
WATER YOUR GARDEN
Effi ciently
T
LANDSCAPE
25smart homes
Hurricane, Security & Sun Protection
LANDSCAPE
26 inspiration & innovation
varying amounts of water and a low-volume drip irrigation system will give
you the fl exibility to customize your water delivery. You can set up several
independent zones and schedule watering as required. This method is also
appropriate for gardens where some plants experience more sun exposure
than others.
SMALLER SPACES
Even homeowners with small yards will want to spruce up their surroundings.
To ensure against your sprinklers watering more of the driveways and
sidewalks than your precious plants, you can install variable arc nozzles
which deliver precise, even coverage. They are also effi cient when dealing
with an area of your yard that may have odd shapes and corners.
RAINY DAYS
In Barbados we have the ‘dry season’ and the ‘wet season’ but it still
seems like we get our fair share of showers year round. Obviously if the rain
is falling heavily, you won’t require additional water for your rooted pets. A
simple solution would be a rain sensor, which automatically monitors weather
conditions and effi ciently signals the controller to turn off the system when
it rains.
Even though sprinkler systems can be bought and set up as DIY projects, if
you are unfamiliar with this type of work it may be best to hire an expert. You
want to make sure that your system is set up correctly so that you don’t end
up wasting water, because saving water (and money) is the aim of the game.
Diversity may be the way you defi ne your plants, and for those of you with trees, shrubs and fl owers,
you may want to make sure you fi nd a system that caters
to all your needs.
27smart homes
OASISA WOMAN’S
28 inspiration & innovation
DÉCOR
MAN NEEDS a ‘Man Cave’ because in a typical home
setting the woman has control over the kitchen, laundry
room, bedroom, living room and just about every other
nook and cranny in the house, right? Of course! After
all, what woman doesn’t want to wash, cook, clean and
take care of the children while her husband is in his
sound-proof Man Cave, watching his favourite James Bond movies
on a high-defi nition, 42-inch fl at screen TV, mounted on the wall?
Exactly. The battle of the sexes is on, and women are cashing
in on their right to their own space. Let’s face it; women are also
in dire need of some time to themselves. Some women might
choose to drive to a secluded area like a park or a beach to read a
book; or maybe to the movies to catch a chick-fl ick alone; or even
for a day at the spa. But why spend so much money on a mortgage
every month only to seek solitude elsewhere? You should be able
to fi nd refuge in your own home.
Don’t worry if you built your house 10 years ago without a
specifi c room for yourself. If you have any available rooms, they
can be repurposed to suit your needs. So grab a notebook and all
of your ideas and let’s get started.
Unlike a kitchen or a bathroom, there isn’t any right or wrong
way to create a woman’s space because there’s no universal
functionality of the room. As a woman, your space should refl ect
your personality and style. This is yours, so make sure that it’s just
as unique as you are.
Even though every woman’s space will be diff erent, there are
some guidelines that can help you get to that perfect place.
FUNCTION
The fi rst thing you should decide on when planning a woman
space is the purpose of the room. The easiest way to do this is to
make a list of your hobbies or the activities that make you happiest.
Perhaps you’re a big reader, music lover, or maybe sports fanatic
(of course you can feel free to have a multipurpose room; your
only restrictions will be available space and budget). Incorporating
the top three activities that make you happy will go a long way in
ensuring that you feel comfortable in your Oasis.
LOOK
After you determine what you’re going to be using the room for,
you need to visualize the space. As I said earlier, your Oasis should
be a refl ection of your personal style. If you’re not sure what that is,
STORY BY: APRILLE THOMAS
A
29smart homes
5.
Whether built around a particular theme or not, as long as the cave is equipped with all the creature comforts the man feels he needs, all will be will in his world.
you can do some simple tests. Look for inspiration in magazines.
Do you like modern rooms with straight lines and chrome fi nishes?
Or do you prefer the older, more traditional style? Next, determine
a colour palette. Since this is your room, I’d say go with your
favourite colours. Who cares if they’re quirky or odd? Choose two
base colours, and then add some accent colours for fun. Please
don’t go crazy with the colours, if you need to, consult a colour
wheel to see which colours go best together. Mixing random,
oddly matched colours may result in throwing the atmosphere of
the room off -balance (see next guideline).
FEEL
You should be able to pick up on the atmosphere of the room
as soon as you enter. Think about your own personality and then
see how you can have that translate into your space. Are you a
warm person? If so, you might want the furniture in your space
to be cozily arranged. Reed diff users or oil burners with a few
drops of vanilla essential oil can help you achieve that cohesive
atmosphere. Choosing the perfect lighting is also essential for
creating a specifi c mood in the room. A warm person who is
creating a cozy Oasis might utilize heavy curtains to block out
sunlight and opt for dim yellow lights.
KEY ELEMENTS
Some commonalities may arise when women are designing
their spaces and you should all bear these in mind.
Furniture should be comfortable. It doesn’t matter if you’re
designing a spa, theatre or mini basketball court. If you’re going
to be spending a lot of time in this room, you need to feel at your
best. So don’t skimp on the furniture.
Make sure that your lighting is appropriate for your activities.
Dim lights may work well if you’re creating a movie theatre setting,
but not so much if you’re going to be spending long hours reading.
If you want to incorporate both of these activities, make sure that
you have lights that can adjust to suit.
Don’t forget to eat! Time can fl y when you’re having fun, but it’s
important that you don’t get lost in your secret world and forget
your health. When you enter your Oasis, you don’t want to have
to leave to take a trip to the kitchen. Either prepare meals in
advance to take into your Oasis with you, or keep a well-stocked
mini fridge.
Some women are happiest in the company of their girlfriends.
If you’re going to be sharing your Oasis, make sure that you have
enough furniture and maybe even keep a fully-stocked wine bar.
Maybe you’re a woman who loves action movies. You don’t
want loud sound eff ects to disturb (or attract) others in your
household. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time watching
movies in your space, maybe you should consider investing in
soundproofi ng your walls.
Lastly, remember the reason for the space. Your room should
be like a mini-vacation or getaway. Keep it fresh and updated with
the stuff you love and make sure that you make time to enjoy it!
Woman’s space theme ideas:SpaOutdoor garden (indoors)Movie theatreLibrary Art museumBarGames roomSewing/fashion design roomBeauty parlorShopping lounge
Your oasis should refl ect your style and your
personality. Choose the colours, smells and
furniture that best represents you. Most
importantly, don’t forget the reason for the space.
HETHER YOU refer to it as
a verandah, patio, or porch,
creating an outside area
for relaxation can add class
and comfort to your home
environment.
With a little creativity
and the addition of a few accessories, an
ordinary patio can be transformed into a
private oasis. You can have your very own
personal retreat where you can spend
relaxing moments alone or with someone
special.
At some point we all need an element
of seclusion; time to relax and unwind. You
also need your own private oasis and can
create privacy in a variety of ways. There
are many types of decorative fence panels
available.
You could place these on the perimeter
of your patio oasis to enhance its privacy.
If that project seems too daunting, you can
simply add privacy screens to make it more
secluded. Large potted plants can be used
to create a semi-private patio area. What’s
important is that you fi nd a way to make
your patio feel like a small world that is
totally separated from the activity going on
around it.
Your patio oasis requires comfortable
furniture, and there are some great pieces
at furniture retail stores across the island.
Wicker is still very popular, so is cast iron,
but there are various products and designs
from which to choose.
While the choice of furniture is certainly
a matter of personal taste, you should give
consideration to items such as an outdoor
daybed, single or double chaise lounge
or an ultra-comfortable single chair or love
seat.
You’ll want to include some tables so that
you will have a place for your drink, the book
or magazine you are reading while relaxing.
An outdoor lamp is another possibility, or
even a bistro set.
30 inspiration & innovation
W
OUTDOOR DÉCOR
In Your BackyardSTORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD
PARADISE
At some point we all need an element of seclusion; time to relax and unwind. You also need your own private oasis and can create privacy in a variety of ways.
BACKYARD OASIS:Enjoy the best of the outdoor living in the
comfort of your own home by adding features to
your patio to create your personal oasis.
31smart homes
32 inspiration & innovation
OUTDOOR DÉCOR
Before you know it, you would have created a convenient
location for early morning coff ee, a midday meal or an
evening drink. Remember that many individuals are going
for back patios, but whether it’s to the front or rear of the
house, it should provide you with total relaxation.
If there is little or no shade on your patio, you might
want to consider using a sail shade to make your patio
a more comfortable spot. These shades are durable and
attractive. They can add a tropical retreat appearance to
your patio area.
Personal fi re bowls or candles can also add to the
ambiance of your patio, while accenting with subtle
lighting will allow you to enjoy your retreat late at night
or in the early morning hours. String lights are a possible
option for your décor.
You might want to go one step further by adding a
water feature to your patio oasis or the surrounding area
– like maybe a nearby lawn or garden. The sound of a
waterfall will enhance the relaxation experience. The size
of the water feature is irrelevant to its benefi t. A table top
or wall fountain can be just as attractive and provide the
same relaxing sound as a large fountain in an outdoor
garden area.
Once you’ve created your ideal patio oasis, be sure
that you designate time to enjoy your magnifi cent retreat.
Your mind, body and spirit can benefi t from a little time
spent relaxing in your secluded oasis.
OPEN DECK: Your patio oasis
requires comfortable furniture, and there are
some great pieces at furniture retail stores
across the island.
OUTDOOR COOKING:Adding a built-in
outdoor grill makes it that much easier to keep the party
outdoors.
33smart homes
34 inspiration & innovation
ACCENTS
Air fresheners
ou’re having people over
for dinner tomorrow and
you realize a foul stench
somewhere in your house. It
may be from your dog running
through the house earlier, or the
fi sh you cooked last night. Or
maybe your child spilled something. You
open the windows and clean the house,
but the scent is still lingering! There is no
way you can entertain guests like this.
Before you think about cancelling the
dinner party, try one of these homemade
air fresheners that are sure to do the trick
at a fraction of the cost.
TASTES LIKE VANILLA
Get a cotton ball and soak it in vanilla
extract. Place the cotton ball on a small
dish and relax as the warm smell fi lls your
house.
LAVENDER RAYS
Get a small jar, like an old jam jar. Poke
holes in the lid using a hammer and nails
(you can get creative here and arrange
the holes into a design if you wish). Fill
about a quarter of the jar with baking
soda. Add six to eight drops of lavender
essential oil, and voila! Just give the jar a
shake when you notice that the smell is
getting weak.
CINNAMON BUNS
This one is very simple. Simply put a pot
of water on the stove and add cinnamon
sticks. Your kitchen will smell like you’re
making a delicious baked treat!
LITTLE ROSE GARDEN
Roses aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re
also lovely to smell. To maximize on this
breathtaking aroma, place one layer of
rose petals into a glass jar and sprinkle
some salt on top. Repeat this until you
have several layers and close the lid.
After a while, uncover the lid and let the
romance fi ll the air.
CUP OF HERBAL TEA
Crush ¼ cup of dried sage and ½ cup of
dried bay leaves. Mix the herbs with 1 cup
of witch hazel, place in a glass jar, and
cover. After a few days, pour the liquid
into a spray bottle and use it every time
your home needs a refreshing pick me
up.
TWO BIRDS, ONE STONE
A lemon’s strong, astringent smell not
only gives your house a fresh scent,
but deodorizes as well! Wash a lemon
carefully and cut it into quarters. Place 2
cups of water on the stove and add the
lemon quarters. When the water reaches
a boil, remove the pot from the stove and
let it cool completely. Strain the lemon
solution through a fi ne strainer into a
bowl. Stir in ½ cup of baking soda and
whisk away until it completely dissolves.
Allow the solution to cool and then pour
it into a spray bottle. Use this as often as
you like!
STORY BY: APRILLE THOMAS
Y
DIY:
35smart homes
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