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Whether it’s extra guest rooms, a personal gym, a home theater, or a man cave, there are all kinds of ways you can transform that musty old basement of yours. Ready to get started? Here are some tips to get it done.
Is your basement drab and dirty? If that is the case, perhaps one of the best things you can do is remodel it. If you entertain often, remodeling your basement can be a great way to add some extra guest rooms to your home. Additionally, a basement remodel will also help add value to your house because of the extra usable space. Not to mention the fact that a fully finished basement will help bring out your creativity.
Whether it’s extra guest rooms, a personal gym, a home theater, or a man cave, there are all kinds of ways you can transform that musty old space. Ready to get started? Here are some ways to do it. Pay Attention to the Lighting Your first step is to replace the lighting. Indeed, one of the things that can make your basement appear old and decrepit is if there is a standard singular lightbulb just hanging down on an electrical line. Talk about an uninviting place! Instead of that, you should have myriad lighting options available throughout your basement space. Solid basement lighting examples include lights on the ceiling, lights at the floor level, recessed lighting, bulbs from lamps, and fairy lights. If possible, you also should consider installing new windows and take advantage of natural light too. Desert Empire Mirror & Glass explains that strategically placing mirrors to reflect natural light from windows can make your basement appear brighter, larger, and more open. Adding extra light also helps protect against basement bugs. Cockroaches and other pests are attracted to dark, damp spaces, so they are often found in basements. Additional light will make your basement feel bigger, brighter, and free of cockroaches. Consider the Flooring Naturally, many basement floors consist of solid gray cement. While this makes a good structural foundation for your home, it is definitely an uncomfortable eyesore. Laminate flooring, ceramic tile, vinyl tile, cork, linoleum, and carpet are all good choices. Footprints Floors suggests that engineered wood floors, floors made of layers of wood, expand and contract less than other wood floors, which makes them ideal for basement flooring. Either way, it all depends on the comfort levels of your home. Give Your Basement Space Some Paint Another way to prevent your basement from looking cold and drab is to incorporate the right paint on the walls. Shades of white, gray, and blue can go a long way toward making this a bright space. These colors can also help you to accentuate a focal point, which is the main centerpiece of your basement. For some, it is a big screen TV, while for others, it is a notable work of art. When it comes to decorating your basement, the best thing you can do is utilize your creativity. If you do not want your basement to be just a drab, boring space that is only used for storage, all it takes is a little bit of planning and determination. Not only that, but remodeling your home can increase its value! KEYWORDS
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 A kitchen with live-edge wood decor (BPT) - Live-edge hardwood, in which the sides of the slab are left unmilled to retain the natural profile of the tree trunk, is an increasingly popular decorative trend in today’s residential interiors. The technique is not only used for pieces of standalone furniture such as tables and benches but also for built-in elements like shelving, mantles, counter tops, bars and kitchen islands. “Most mills cut off the rough tree edges, turning the raw timber into neat boards,” says Linda Jovanovich, of the American Hardwood Information Center at www.HardwoodInfo.com. “But the current demand for live-edge slabs has led to a small but vigorous subset of producers who specialize in the category.” These are often boutique businesses that source, dry and mill limited batches of timber for use in furniture of their own design and manufacture. “Some larger sawmills sell live-edge slabs to the public,” Jovanovich continues. “You visit their showroom and pick your own one-of-a-kind piece of ash, cherry, red oak, walnut or whatever other hardwood species they have in stock. A cabinetmaker can then custom-make a piece of furniture or a built-in feature to your exact specifications.” Sustainability-minded entrepreneurs are responsible for another niche in the live-edge hardwood market: small urban suppliers that source culled or fallen trees from the backyards of private homes, public parks, graveyards and other leafy locations in their city and its immediate environs. One such enterprise, RE-CO BKLYN in Brooklyn, New York, recently harvested four 12,000-pound logs from a 150-year-old storm-felled elm in nearby Prospect Park. The logs were taken to an upstate mill to be sawn into live-edge slabs and dried before being shipped back to Brooklyn, where they were either sold or used by RE-CO for tables, desks, bar counters, shelves, headboards and other beautiful custom-made pieces it produces. “It was George Nakashima, the legendary Japanese-American mid-century furniture maker, who pioneered the use of live-edge slabs in refined residential settings,” says New York–based designer Glenn Gissler. “Previously, untrimmed wood planks, sometimes with the bark still intact, were used for rustic, log-cabin or ranch-house effects — elements that referenced the traditions, myths and aesthetics of the American Old West. With his gorgeous large-scale pieces, comprising multiple slabs of characterful woods like walnut and cherry connected with butterfly joints, Nakashima showed us how unfinished natural edges and richly figured knotted surfaces fit perfectly into even the most sophisticated urban interiors.” Today, original Nakashima pieces are highly collectible and command high prices at auction. But his free-edge aesthetic is more influential than ever as homeowners discover the ability of live-edge furniture to work with almost any decorative style. Paired with blackened-steel legs, for example, a live-edge slab of burled walnut creates a dining table with loft-worthy industrial chic. Fixed to the bedroom wall, a free-form expanse of warm-toned cherry provides a romantic headboard. Or a hefty live-edge slab of oak, supported on an equally hefty oak-slab base, makes for a monumental console with the presence of a piece of archaic sculpture. New York–based designer Laura Bohn has even used the chainsawed cross-section of an elm trunk — complete with its bark — as a counter top on which to mount a stainless steel powder-room sink. “It introduces a decidedly rustic note into a thoroughly modern space,” she says. “And yet it looks perfectly natural, as if it had just grown there of its own accord.” Visit www.HardwoodInfo.com for more about residential design trends and other applications and products using American hardwoods. KEYWORDS
 (BPT) - If current design trends are any indication, wood siding is back. Design professionals are recommending one species in particular: cypress. What’s behind this revival of cypress siding? “Good looks, dependable performance and affordability,” says Stephen Logue of the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association, www.CypressInfo.org. “Cypress has a unique appearance with its honey-like hues and intriguing grain pattern. Its ability to withstand the elements and nature has long made it a favorite siding material in areas of the country that experience constant heat, high humidity and torrential rains. Additionally, cypress is a competitively priced material. We see it being requested more and more.” Architects side with cypress: Take it from the pros Atlanta-based architect Daniel Martin says he recommends cypress to clients based on his firsthand experience with the unique wood. “The performance is great,” Martin says. “I’ve had cypress siding on my own home for more than 20 years, and I’ve only had to repaint it once in that time. One of the main reasons I recommend cypress is because it’s resistant to decay, as well as insects like termites and bees. Carpenter bees love some other species of wood, such as cedar. They’ll bore in and lay their eggs, and then woodpeckers come along and gouge out grooves to get to the eggs, destroying the wood. That’s not an issue with cypress.” As Martin has learned, cypress comes by its durability naturally, thanks to an oil that is produced while the tree is growing. The oil acts as a preservative, meaning cypress wood doesn’t need to be pressure treated with chemicals like some other wood siding options. David and Laurel Mullikin, a husband-and-wife design/build duo in Atlanta, say they use cypress regularly in outdoor applications. “We’ve designed some of our best projects with cypress,” Laurel says. “It’s one of our favorite species of wood to use. In fact, we’re currently designing our own new home. We are incorporating cypress as the ceilings for our porches, adding a lot of aesthetic warmth to a part of the house many people overlook. And we’re using cypress siding and finishing it with the Shou Sugi Ban method, which involves charring the surface of the wood and then sanding and sealing it. The process not only provides a unique look to an already beautiful wood, but also enhances its natural durability." For the best performance As with any wood siding, cypress will require a little TLC every now and then to look and perform best. With properly applied finishes and regular maintenance, cypress siding will last a lifetime or longer. Whether installing new cypress siding or refreshing existing wood, the first step is to make sure its surface is clean so that it can better absorb the desired finish. Wash the wood with a mild bleach-and-water solution, using a pressure washer on a low setting. Let the solution soak for 15 minutes before thoroughly rinsing. Then, allow the wood to dry for about a week. This also is a good time to repair any nail holes and surface irregularities. Homeowners who prefer cypress’ natural color can preserve the look by applying a clear, water-repellant sealer to all sides and edges of siding boards. It’s also suggested to look for products with a UV inhibitor to block out the sun’s fading rays. Sealers should be reapplied every few years to rejuvenate and protect the wood. If left untreated, over time, cypress will weather to a dark gray. To bring out the richness of cypress’ grain, semi-transparent, oil-based stains work best. These stains will penetrate the wood, prevent water problems and allow the wood to breathe. Stains typically need to be reapplied every two years. If you like the clean look of a solid finish, paint it. For best results, apply a 100 percent acrylic latex paint with a compatible primer. It’s also recommended to back prime the boards to avoid any potential moisture issues. No matter your chosen finish, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. For more information on cypress, or to get inspired for your next home or renovation project, visit www.CypressInfo.org. KEYWORDS:
 (BPT) - The melding of contrasting materials throughout the home is a sophisticated way to add visual interest and depth to your design. Bold finishes coupled with muted color tones create an eye-catching statement, while natural wood combined with cool metal boasts a stunning blend of nature and machinery. From partnering unconventional textures to pairing deep wood tones with warm gold finishes, mixing materials in a space poses a refreshing take on luxury design for each room of the home. Textured charm Incorporating different textures with furniture, textiles and accessories can add layers of visual and tactile appeal to a living space. Create an elegant, yet contemporary design by complementing white wooden floors with shag rugs and velvet accent pillows in neutral colors of blush and dusty blue on cream or light gray upholstery. The contrast of a coarse wool throw draped over a smooth leather chair quickly adds texture to a sitting room. For tabletop décor, brushed silver and wood statement pieces in tiered sizes radiate a deluxe aesthetic to draw the eye to a central gathering point. Exposed materials Exposed brick and wooden beams bring a modern, industrial vibe to any space, while doubling as focal points in a room. From urban-rustic to contemporary environments, the rugged masculinity of the exposed elements can be balanced by soft, feminine touches to suit a multitude of design preferences. Incorporate scalloped linens and delicate prints framed in brushed gold to instantly soften and brighten the room. Reinvigorate a traditional design statement by offsetting rich, jewel tones with a neutral or light color scheme and warm metals. Naturally inspired The infusion of metal and natural accents into one space brings a clean, spa-like aesthetic to the home’s oasis — the bath. Live plants and bamboo décor bring an element of the natural environment into the space, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The teak wood accents with the chrome or nickel handles in the Litze Bath Collection by Brizo exemplify a beautiful marriage of manmade and earthy details, evoking a unique sophistication. Sophisticated luxury Deep wood tones combined with metallic and brass finishes bring refinement to any room, especially the kitchen. Darker grains, such as walnut and mahogany, emanate refined luxury, while cabinet hardware, backsplashes and modern barstools in bright metal finishes instantly capture the eye’s attention. Adding hanging light fixtures in varying heights add depth and dimension. Complete the space with minimalist furniture, such as a sleek kitchen table and structural chairs stained in cocoa tones, to bring all pieces of the room together for a cohesive look that is both polished and inviting. KEYWORDS
While outdoor living season may be winding down, there’s no better time to start planning your dream deck. These 5 quick tips make creating your outdoor oasis exciting and easy.
Deck Design Made EasyStart planning now for a beautiful outdoor living space(Family Features) While outdoor living season may be winding down, there’s no better time to start planning your dream deck. Prep work is a big part of the process – much of which can be done now and throughout the cooler months to get your backyard retreat ready for next spring. The following are quick tips to make creating your outdoor oasis exciting and easy: Get digitally inspired Dive into design 
Decide on details Incorporate railing Understand costs and value For more information and inspiration for getting the deck planning and designing process started, visit trex.com. SOURCE:
While most people today understand the main benefits of composite decking, the material itself is still new enough to raise questions, confusion and some skepticism among homeowners who grew up with wood decks. To help set the record straight, a pair of backyard design experts offer their insights on five common misconceptions about composite decking.Demystifying Composite Decking5 common misconceptions about composite material(Family Features) First introduced in the late 1980s, composite decking quickly gained acceptance among builders and homeowners who recognized and appreciated being able to achieve a natural wood look without the ongoing hassles of upkeep. While most people today understand the main benefits of composite decking – durability and minimal maintenance – the material itself is still new enough to raise questions, confusion and some skepticism among homeowners who grew up with wood decks. To help set the record straight, Trex Company, the world’s No. 1 decking and railing brand and leader in high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products, has teamed with backyard design experts Paul Lafrance and Kate Campbell of HGTV’s acclaimed “Decked Out” series. Misconception No. 1: Composite decking looks “fake.” “Composite decking has evolved tremendously since its beginnings more than 20 years ago,” Campbell said. “The latest generation of products, such as Trex Transcend, look more natural than ever, featuring high-definition wood grain patterns and rich, saturated colors ranging from warm browns and pristine grey to spicy reds. There are also tropically inspired boards designed with subtle color variations and authentic streaking that mimic the look and feel of exotic hardwoods without the environmental impact – or splinters.” Misconception No. 2: All composite decking materials are the same. “Since composite decking was invented in the early 1990s, the market has been flooded with competitive offerings varying widely in quality, aesthetics and value,” Lafrance said. “For my projects, I use what is categorized as ‘high-performance’ composite manufactured with an integrated, three-sided shell or ‘cap.’ Capped boards feature an added layer of protection against severe weather, heavy foot traffic, fading, mold and staining.” Misconception No. 3: Composite decking is maintenance free. “Anything that sits outside in the elements for years on end is going to need some type of maintenance,” Campbell said. “When it comes to decking, the difference lies in how much upkeep is required. Maintaining wood decking is a downright chore with all the scrubbing, sanding and staining that wood requires – not to mention the replacement of splintered, warped and rotten boards. High-performance composite decking, on the other hand, calls for just wiping up spills when they happen and a simple soap-and-water cleaning twice a year – once in the spring when you’re getting it ready for outdoor living season and again when you close up your outdoor living space for the winter.” Misconception No. 4: Composite decking is too expensive. “Over time, wood decking actually ends up being more expensive than composite,” Lafrance said. “Sure, the initial cost of pressure-treated lumber is less than wood alternatives, but since a deck is a long-term investment, it’s important to consider the long-term costs, such as all the materials you’ll need for seasonal stripping, staining, painting and sealing. Add to that the time and cost involved in repairing and replacing wooden deck boards that will inevitably warp and splinter over time – even if they are well-maintained. When you factor in the cost of ongoing maintenance required with a wood deck, a composite deck ends up paying for itself in the long run.” Misconception No. 5: Composite decking is not eco-friendly. “Because it is made primarily from recycled content, composite decking is remarkably eco-friendly,” Campbell said. “In fact, Trex composite decking is made from 95 percent recycled content. By using plastic and industrial wood scraps that would otherwise wind up in landfills, they use more than 400 million pounds of recycled material each year in the making of their deck boards.” For more information, visit trex.com. SOURCE: Decks are often considered an extension of the home, so it's important to maintain the appearance of these spaces just as any other area of the home. The survey also found that 64 percent of Americans take pride in how the exterior of their home appears, and more than two thirds agreed that having a nicely stained wood deck increases the curb appeal of their home. For this reason, it is important to choose the best colors and products to enhance the appearance of outdoor areas, including decks. But the secret to maintaining decks lies in the maintenance of the wood itself.  (BPT) - In many parts of the U.S., warm, summer weather draws families and friends outdoors to enjoy the season while it lasts, making decks, gazebos or other outdoor areas of a house favorite spots for entertaining and relaxation. In fact, according to a recent survey by Sikkens ProLuxe Wood Finishes, 96 percent of Americans use their outdoor decks in the daytime almost every other day, with 82 percent using decks during the night time for more than half of the month. With this much use, a deck is part of the living space of a house. The best room of the house Decks are often considered an extension of the home, so it's important to maintain the appearance of these spaces just as any other area of the home. The survey also found that 64 percent of Americans take pride in how the exterior of their home appears, and more than two thirds agreed that having a nicely stained wood deck increases the curb appeal of their home. For this reason, it is important to choose the best colors and products to enhance the appearance of outdoor areas, including decks. But the secret to maintaining decks lies in the maintenance of the wood itself. Maintaining beauty and function When it comes to color preference for wood finishes, most Americans prefer subtle color, if any at all, to bring out the natural patterns in the wood. In fact, more than two thirds of U.S. consumers find the appearance of the natural wood on their home to be either extremely important or very important. With this trend towards more natural wood stains, consumers should look to products, such as Sikkens ProLuxe premium wood finishes, that highlight wood's natural beauty on the exterior of homes. "Sikkens ProLuxe wood finishes offer a signature look of richness, making them known for high-quality, luxurious results," said Jennifer Dodson, senior manager, Sikkens ProLuxe Wood Finishes. "Using the finishes on decks can create a high-end appearance that not only protects wood, but also enhances curb appeal." Since decks are exposed to weather extremes such as snow, heat, sun and rain, all of which can take a toll on exposed wood, consumers should ensure that the wood finishes on their homes can protect their decks throughout the year. Sikkens ProLuxe wood finishes guard against damage from UV exposure and moisture, while providing a mold and mildew resistant coating. Using the right wood-care products to maintain decks, both in appearance and function, can allow homeowners to enjoy more summer days and nights on their outdoor decks. By protecting against the elements and maximizing wood's natural beauty, Sikkens ProLuxe wood finishes gives consumers a powerful way to protect and enhance their favorite outdoor spaces. Long the go-to material, wood is increasingly being replaced by composite decking as the material of choice for outdoor spaces. Designed to deliver incredible durability, easy maintenance and lasting beauty, composite decking offers all the beauty of wood along with these key advantages. |
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