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Buying a Tiny House – How Much Is A Tiny House?

Cottage Style Tiny House- via pinterest.comvia www.pinterest.com

So you’re considering buying a tiny house. A common question that gets asked following on from that is “how much is a tiny house? What do they cost?”

In the past few years, the interest in Tiny Houses has escalated beyond anyone’s expectations.

So much so, that there are now businesses that manufacture prefab tiny houses for sale.

There are even businesses that have taken up the gauntlet and set themselves up and focus on used tiny houses for sale.

These aren’t necessarily just your tiny little 200 square feet boxes on trailer wheels either.

Some of these tiny houses actually extend out to being around 400+ square feet in size.

Lovely Tiny House With French Doorsvia www.countryliving.com

The innovation, creativity and sheer mindfulness of many of the creators of these little homes have to be seen to be believed.

Many of their designs are pure genius and yet often times the designer had no previous design or architectural skills or knowledge, they simply used their ingenuity to create something that fits their lifestyle needs. 

When you’re looking to live in a space that you are going to be building, it does make you think about the practicalities and potential pitfalls of your design, so when it comes to putting it all together, it works. 

Large Tiny House on Wheelsvia www.pinterest.com

One of the beautiful things about tiny houses (that is possibly missing in many other construction industries) is the close-knit community that seems to surround the tiny house industry.

There is definitely a culture of sharing and that extends to sharing ideas, experiences, tips, and creativity to help one and other achieve the most practical use of their limited space. 

Amazingly Architectural Designed Tiny Housevia www.youtube.com

After all, one of the reasons behind building or buying a tiny house is to conserve capital, save money, live more frugally, or simply to escape the demands of modern society.

And because most tiny house owners share the same type of philosophy, there is more openness to sharing ideas and experiences.

Mainstream business is beginning to catch on to this new industry though.

If you explore the web, when buying a tiny house, you’ll find websites that have tiny houses for sale and small houses for sale.

You’ll also find tiny house kits for sale and prefab tiny houses for sale too.

So, there are two routes you could pursue if you were looking to change your lifestyle and start living in a tiny home.

Compact Tiny House Designvia www.ana-white.com

You could be creative and buy all the various component parts you need to build your own tiny house (perhaps in a workshop, a garage, or out the back of your property or someone else’s).

Or you could look to buy a kitset that enables you to still build your own, albeit someone else’s design, but more than a likely a proven design that isn’t going to be difficult to put together.

Or you could simply purchase an already built tiny house built by someone else, or perhaps a secondhand or used tiny house that you find for sale on the web.

Two Level Tiny Housevia www.design-shuffle.com

The decision on which way to go will depend entirely on your time available and your overall affordability, or financial resources. 

Sometimes if you’re limited on finances, you can achieve a lot by roaming around recycling centers or even demolition yards, where you often source some great pieces for your new home for next to nothing.

Wooden Construction Tiny House On Wheels from Nashville Tennesseevia Nashville-Tennessee-Tiny-House-Design

Why have tiny houses become such a growing trend of late?

We take a quote from ‘Wikipedia’ which summarizes some interesting facts about home sizes over recent times

Nice Tiny House Design With Deckingvia www.pinterest.com

“In the United States the average size of new single-family homes grew from 1,780 square feet (165 m2) in 1978 to 2,479 square feet (230.3 m2) in 2007, and to 2,662 square feet (247.3 m2) in 2013, despite a decrease in the size of the average family. Reasons for this include increased material wealth and prestige. 

The small house movement is a return to houses of less than 1,000 square feet (93 m2). Frequently the distinction is made between small (between 400 square feet (37 m2) and 1,000 square feet (93 m2)), and tiny houses (less than 400 square feet (37 m2)), with some as small as 80 square feet (7.4 m2). 

Sarah Susanka has been credited with starting the recent countermovement toward smaller houses when she published The Not So Big House (1997).”

Beautifully Designed Tiny Home Lotus Mini Modelvia www.businessinsider.com

An interesting fact is that the tiny house growth is not unique to just the USA.

There are many people now all around the world wanting the benefits of owning their own home that find the typical price of a standard house out of their financial reach.

The tiny house movement is one method that is helping those forced to look at alternative home ownership options due to unaffordability of the typical house on a plot of land (or even unaffordable apartments in the central parts of most cities.

New Frontier Tiny Home -Alpha2via www.newfrontiertinyhomes.com

However, whilst tiny houses may provide a fantastic, convenient and affordable means of living, it does (or has) presented some very real problems and that is where do you put it? Wikipedia gives us a few more insights into this;

“One of the biggest obstacles to the growth of the tiny house movement is the difficulty in finding a place to live in one.

Zoning regulations typically specify minimum square footage for new construction on a foundation, and for tiny houses on wheels, parking on one’s own land may be prohibited by local regulations against “camping.” 

In addition, RV parks do not always welcome tiny houses.

DIYers may be turned away, as many RV parks require RVs be manufactured by a member of the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association “(RVIA)”.

Tiny House Cypress Finish With Black Roofvia www.tumbleweedhouses.com

Tiny houses on wheels are considered RVs and not suitable for permanent residence, according to the RVIA.

From RVBusiness, “The RVIA will continue to shy away from allowing members who produce products that are referred to as ‘tiny houses’ or ‘tiny homes’. (However, the RVIA does allow “tiny home” builders to join as long as their units are built to park model RV standards.)”

Basecamp Tiny House Wood Designvia www.Inhabitat.com

In 2014, the first “tiny house friendly town” was declared in Spur, Texas; however, it was later clarified that a tiny house may not be on wheels but must be secured to a foundation.

In July 2016, Washington County, Utah revised their zoning regulations to accommodate some types of tiny houses.”

So, you can see that the tiny house movement is constricted somewhat in growth due to the controls exerted by many organizations, and local authorities. 

Still, the tiny house community is a resourceful one, and they are very adept at having to think outside the square, and so consequently, they are also quite adept at finding solutions to the location problem.

Moschata Main Level Floor Plan

For those people who are still committed to living the tiny house lifestyle and want to build or buy their own tiny house, we would suggest doing some extensive research into where you intend on placing your new home first.

A part of the whole tiny living process is to live a peaceful, resourceful, self-sufficient lifestyle and wherever you plan to lay your little piece of paradise, try and make sure you have some security around where you decide to live.

The last thing you need is to create your little sanctuary, only to find you’re being asked to ‘move along’ within a few weeks or months. 

If you can afford to purchase your own little block of land, ideally not in a central part of a city, check with the local authority before you part with your money to ensure they don’t have any rules that will prevent you from setting up your tiny home there.

Below are some external website resources that will help you in buying a tiny house to fit your tiny home lifestyle creation.

Here you will find sites that have tiny houses for sale, used tiny houses for sale, tiny cottages for sale, and tiny houses on wheels for sale.

Tiny houses for sale

This site is a classified directory of Tiny Houses For Sale which can be awesome when you’rebuying a tiny house.

Here you can search unique tiny houses for sale and rent the world over.

If you have a tiny house for sale, then you can get a free directory listing on this site.

We have included a range of tiny houses for sale to give you an idea of how much a tiny house costs and what sort of size tiny house you get for your investment.

Tiny Houses For Sale $50,000 -316sq ftTiny Houses For Sale $50,000 -316sq ft

Tiny Houses For Sale -$42,000-360 sq ftTiny Houses For Sale -$42,000-360 sq ft

Tiny Houses for Sale -$27,000-listing-270 sq ftTiny Houses for Sale -$27,000-listing-270 sq ft. 

Tiny Houses For Sale -$48,000 240 sq ftTiny Houses For Sale -$48,000 240 sq ft

Tiny House For Sale -$53000-300 sq ftTiny House For Sale -$53000-300 sq ft

Tiny Home Builders
An awesome site that provides all-round tiny house information and is from designers and builders of tiny houses on trailers which gives homeowners the flexibility to move their tiny house to the perfect location, even if that perfect location changes.

A tiny house can be built with all the amenities required to function as a stand-alone house, or equipped more sparsely to be used as an office or studio.

For those looking to build their own tiny house themselves, there are also guides, consulting offers, and plans available for purchase. All of the plans have been used to build tiny houses and have been perfected in the process.

Tiny Heirloom
Is a family business where their values and principles are close to the heart in every decision they make.

The belief that upright integrity and hard work is how a company makes history.

Their philosophy is to create a solution for those who would like to start fresh with the freedom to go wherever one desires in a tiny house that is as uniquely beautiful as its owner.

Downsizing to create a more simple and free life is what tiny living is all about but at what point do you stop compromising your living standards?

Tiny Heirloom as a business decision decided to bridge the gap so that downsizing doesn’t have to mean downgrading.

So, they decided to create a way for someone to downsize and upgrade at the same time.

Tiny House Community
This website is where tiny house enthusiasts can create, read & discuss anything to find information on designing and building (or buying) a tiny house, places to live, FAQ, blogs and more.

 

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Home Decor Based On Your Zodiac Sign

Home Decor Based On Your Zodiac SignWhat Is Your Ideal Home Decor Based On Your Zodiac Sign?

Have you ever wondered what your Zodiac sign needs in the home might be?

If the astrologers got it right, then your zodiac sign helps define your taste and personality, which in turns spills over into everything you do. 

Your preferences affect how you dress, where you work, what kind of pet you have, and even how you decorate your home!

So if you’ve been thinking of going on a little redecorating spree, what better way to get a little inspiration than by turning to the stars?

Consider these home decorating ideas based on zodiac sign.

Aquarius: January 21-February 19

Zodiac Sign Home office - home interior decoratingThose born under the stars of Aquarius are known for their exceptional intelligence, creativity, and independence.

Make sure you’ve got a great place to put all that brainpower to good use.

If you use a home office, consider a bold color palette to keep you inspired while you work.

An accent wall with a pop of vibrant color or printed wallpaper adds interest without being overwhelming. 

In dual-purpose offices that also serve as living spaces, use freestanding screens to define the space and provide additional privacy.

Pisces: February 20-March 20

Zodiac Decorating Home plants - home interior decoratingPisces are sensitive, imaginative people who care deeply about others.

It can be exhausting to give so much of yourself, so if you’re a Pisces, create a rejuvenating oasis in your home.

Decorating with cool tones provides a relaxing, low-stress atmosphere, and also plays off the influence of water as Pisces’ ruling element.

Live plants can create a healthier home and bring the tranquility of nature indoors.

Low maintenance greenery such as air plants, philodendron, and spider-plants are easy enough that you won’t even need a green thumb to keep them looking lush and beautiful.

Aries: March 21-April 20

Chandelier - home interior decoratingThose born under this first April zodiac sign have fiery personalities in sync with their ruling element, so, of course, their interior design should match as well.

Ample light is key to creating that flame-bright atmosphere.

Use metallics in warm colors like gold, brass, and copper to add a glow to any space. Lamps, furniture, and even wall art can be a good way to include these elements. 

Updating your light fixture can also be a good way to boost the energy of a room.

A chandelier with faceted crystals creates a flickering sparkle, or for a more masculine space, opt once more for metallic fixtures.

Taurus: April 21-May 21

Home bar -home interior decoratingThe sign for Taurus is a bull, and though it’s true people with this zodiac sign do have a bull-like stubborn streak, they’re also warm, friendly, and reliable, just the sort of people who like to entertain close friends and family.

To create an ideal entertaining space, first, consider the type of events you prefer to host.

If you’re all about gathering around the table for a delicious meal, focus on the kitchen and dining spaces, adding extra seating with window-benches and bar stools so that the cook can be the life of the party instead of trapped alone in the kitchen.

If you prefer casual drinks and conversation in the living room, create a well-stocked bar cart to keep refreshments close at hand, and decorate with colorful and textural throw-pillows.

Gemini: May 22-June 21

vintage and modern home interior decoratingWith Gemini’s inherent tendency toward a split-personality, it might seem tricky to select decorating ideas based on zodiac sign, but this can actually work in your favor.

Can’t decide between a rustic look and a modern one? Use elements of both.

It might take some practice to find the right balance, but combining styles is a favorite technique of professional designers.

Think sheepskin rug in a sleek modern living room or richly colored, paisley patterned bedspread in a neutral, monochromatic bedroom. 

It’s easiest to experiment with this kind of mix-and-match designing on a blank canvas, so opt for off-white walls and simple hardwood or laminate flooring to showcase your funky furniture and accessories.

Cancer: June 22-July 22

walls of shelves -home interior decoratingPeople with this water sign are often homebodies with a sentimental streak.

To create an inviting, comfortable space, pay particular attention to texture.

If you have smooth laminate flooring, create a contrast by choosing velvet upholstered seating with lots of lush throw pillows.

Satin fabrics bounce back extra light and add a touch of luxury, while nubbly afghan blankets are homey and comforting.

If you have a habit of keeping mementos, photos, and memorabilia, make sure you have a beautiful way to display them.

A wall of shelves makes a perfect canvas to decorate with your treasured memories.

Paint them a solid color, as Cancers tend to like pearly colors like off-white and pale gray. Your mementos can take center stage.

Leo: July 23-August 21

long blinds and drapes - home interior decoratingLike the lion for which this sign is named, Leos prefer warm golden sunshine, so pay special attention to your window treatments!

There’s a fine balance between allowing in light during the day and creating a private space at night.

Curtains and drapes, of course, are a timeless option.

Always hang curtain rods close to the ceiling and let the drapes hang all the way to the floor to give the illusion of larger windows.

Avoid this in young children’s rooms, however, since the hanging curtains may pose a danger if little ones pull on them too hard.

Instead, opt for Roman shades to provide style and privacy, adding a valance for a little extra color if you prefer.

This is also an excellent solution for very small rooms where drapes could overwhelm the design.

Virgo: August 22-September 23

Open shelves -home interior decoratingVirgos have a reputation for being perfectionists and neat-freaks.

There’s a place for everything, and everything is in its place.

If you’re a compulsive organizer, make it easy on yourself by streamlining clutter-prone spaces like your garage and mudroom.

Install hooks and shelves to keep things off the floor, and create catch-all baskets to keep little items contained. 

Use open shelves for items you use frequently, but tidy away the rest in closed cupboards to keep them from becoming an eyesore.

Libra: September 24-October 23

bedroom headboard - home interior decoratingWith their keen eye for detail, Libras are known for their appreciation of good quality.

Quality comes with a price tag, of course, so rather than breaking the bank to outfit your entire house, choose a few key pieces that can anchor your overall design. In your living room, a pair of high-end chairs can be eye-catching, while in a bedroom, opt for an unusual headboard to steal the show.

Keep the rest of your design simple to highlight your showstoppers.

A chic minimalist design will always look elegant and inviting.

Scorpio: October 24-November 22

wall art - home interior decoratingIf your sign is Scorpio, you may have a reputation for being dynamic and exciting.

Your home should reflect these aspects of your personality, and one of the best ways to do that is through vibrant wall art.

Look for unique pieces that fit your color scheme and design sense.

Don’t limit yourself to canvases or paintings: materials like architectural schematics, botanical illustrations, and vintage advertisements also make eye-catching statement pieces when framed and displayed singly or in groups. 

If you do opt for a collage of framed pieces, choose an odd number like five or seven.

This tends to look more balanced than an even number in a similar grouping.

Sagittarius: November 23-December 22

home tech - home interior decoratingThose born under the stars of Sagittarius are known as free-spirited wanderers, so it’s crucial that their homes be comfortable but low maintenance.

Use technology to your advantage: thermostats, lighting, security and entertainment systems, even some appliances can be integrated with smartphone apps.

That way, even if you’re always on the go, you can still keep tabs on what’s happening at home.

If your lifestyle has you moving from place to place regularly, cut down on the hassles of moving by choosing versatile furniture: comfortable, upholstered dining chairs can double as living room seating.

Simple, unpadded barstools can serve as small end tables, nightstands, or breakfast bar seating.

Capricorn: December 23-January 20

vintage style home - home interior decoratingFor Capricorns, a fondness for tradition is a major personality trait.

In your design sense, a good way to express this is through furnishings that have a bit of a story attached, like vintage pieces, family heirlooms, and antiques.

Choose light colors for upholstery and walls to contrast with the darker tones of classic wood flooring and furniture, or highlight the bright hues of retro accessories with a coordinating accent wall.

Since some of the most important traditions involve family, make sure to leave plenty of wall space to feature family photos. With a traditional design sense and modern interpretation, you’ll create a space that feels timeless.

Coming up with inspired home design ideas can be a challenge, but when you look at your own personality and choose decorating ideas based on zodiac sign, you can’t help but get off to a good start.

Before you start planning your next redecoration, take a minute, read your horoscope, and think about what your sign is telling you!

Image sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

 

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Converted Barn Homes


barn-conversions-05-1-kindesign-onekindesign-comBeautiful brilliant barn conversions with relaxing living area and a massive opening door revealing an amazing open outdoors area. Source: www.onekindesign.com 

Converting an old derelict barn has become all the rage in the past few years as homeowners look for an alternative challenge that could provide them with something a little out of the ordinary.

Old barns on farms or large lots or in a rural area that have been neglected for years now offer intrepid builders or renovators an opportunity to restore these wonderful buildings and convert them from their old ‘no longer productive’ condition into examples like you will see in this article.

Utilizing all the old rustic features only adds to the charm of these converted buildings.

From rough sawn, large chunky timbers and natural worn timber flooring through to exposed brick walls, it’s plainly obvious why these old buildings have so much appeal to today’s builder or renovator. 

Another great feature of these buildings is that usually offer an expansive open plan living space often with the ability to fit a mezzanine or second story within the structure itself.

This gallery of brilliant barn conversions will give you some insight into the possibilities with these buildings and who knows, maybe you too, may become a barn convert. 

a-stunning-conversion-of-a-derelict-barn-in-lancashire-bullen1-source-www-homebuilding-co-ukA stunning conversion of a derelict old barn in the Lancashire countryside. Source: www.homebuilding.co.uk  

barn-conversion-leachachan-4-640-source-www-wildernesscottages-co-ukSimplistic smaller scale barn conversion with extensive use of barn doors for full effect. Source: www.wildernesscottages.co.uk

barn-conversion-lincolnshire-uk-source-telegraph-co-ukOld barn conversion project in the rural Lincolnshire United Kingdom. Source: www.telegraph.co.uk

Converted Barn Homes -barn-conversion-in-yorkshire-england-source-www-telegraph-co-ukBeautifully stunning barn conversion in Yorkshire England.

The contrast of the stone walls with the modern timber doors and the skylight makes this example very appealing indeed. Source: www.telegraph.co.uk

historic-barn-reinvented-modern-home-exposed-trusses-13-exterior-source-www-trendir-comThis historic barn has been re-invented into a modern home with exposed trusses and an annex. Awesome image with twilight lighting and snow surround. Source: www.trendir.com  

barn-conversions-10-1-kindesign-onekindesign-comJust love the mix of old timber beams with modern decor finishes like the floor tiles, the extensive sliding windows, the modern kitchen, and lighting.

Altogether a stunning barn conversion. Source: www.onekindesign.com

barn-conversions-04-1-kindesign-www-onekindesign-comA real mix of eclectiveness with the typical rustic features of the old barn and the modern living layout of current lifestyles. Source: www.onekindesign.com 

barn-conversions-07-1-kindesign-onekindesign-comAnother beautiful old style barn conversion with massive open plan living. Source: www.onekindesign.com

barn-conversions-15-1-kindesign-onekindesign-com

Awesome rustic timber-roofed barn conversion with rich timber floors and open plan living. Source: www.onekindesign.com

barn-conversions-003-1-kindesign-www-onekindesign-comUnbelievable rustic charm in this barn conversion with rich polished floorboards, stone fireplace, and large rustic beams. Source: www.onekindesign.com

barn-conversions-01-1-kindesign-www-onekindesign-comBeautiful two level barn conversion with rough sawn rustic overhead ceiling beams and posts. Source: www.onekindesign.com 

former-depot-of-railways-source-www-planete-deco-frThis is a former railways depot barn. Love the brick outside walls, the polished concrete floor, the spiral wrought iron staircase, and the overall rustic feel. This is beautiful. Source: www.planetedeco.fr

farmhouse-abcoude-source-www-hoog-designWhat a stunning farmhouse barn conversion.

Massive cathedral type ceilings, exceptionally rustic timbers, and an amazing central fireplace. Source: www.hoog.design 

barn-conversion-source-pinterest-via-michaelmcnamaraassociates-co-ukBeautiful aristocratic brick barn conversion. Source via pinterest.com from www.michaelmcnamaraassociates.co.uk

tourin-barns-renovation-in-ireland-by-james-gorst-architects-source-jamesgorstarchitects-comTourin barns renovation in Ireland by James Gorst Architects. Source: www.jamesgorstarchitects.com 

modern-barn-renovation-source-www-chestnutwoodworking-comA modern barn renovation with extensive re-use of older timbers. Source: www.chestnutwoodworking.com

classic-taste-modern-life-source-traditionalhome-comBeautiful classic taste barn renovation mixed with modern lifestyle. Source: www.traditionalhome.com


barn-renovation-source-katejohnsaia-com

Exterior view of a barn renovation beside an icy river. Source: www.katejohnsaia.com

barn-renovation-source-pinterest-via-kelly-www-talkofthehouse-comTraditional open plan residential layout configured from this stunning barn renovation. Source: pinterest.com from www.talkofthehouse.com

barn-renovation-image-by-heritage-restorations-www-heritagebarns-comRusticated finish to this barn renovation. Source: www.heritagebarns.com 

barn-renovation-image-via-countryliving-comAbsolutely gorgeous two storey country barn renovation.

With its rusticated old-time feel of the stonework to its semi-contemporary feel, this barn makeover is a beauty. Source: www.countryliving.com

renovated-barn-in-the-french-countrysideAn example of an old renovated barn from the French countryside. 

barn-renovation-image-via-pinterest-from-the-white-sparrowClassic barn shape with an well thought out renovation whilst keeping the overall original barn look of the building intact. Source: Via pinterest.com.

restored-stone-barn-with-slate-roof-in-rural-countryside-against-a-blue-skyAnother fantastic example of a beautifully restored stone barn with modern slate roof in a rural countryside setting set against a blue sky.

 

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Artillery Mansions, London (UNLOCKING SPACE)

Artillery Mansions, London -dining-area-kitchenThe Artillery Mansions, London showing the dining area kitchen and work station. Bruce Hemming

Built in the 1990s, the original layout of this central London developer-built flat had conformed to the standard cookie cutter solution. Defined almost entirely by compliance with regulations and conservative market convention, the front door had opened onto an unwelcoming windowless L-shaped corridor, with solid fire doors providing the necessary separation from the rooms, including a charmless and entirely
separate internal kitchen – an arrangement with which we are all familiar.

study-area-and-entrance-to-kitchen-space-bruce-hemmingStudy area and entrance to kitchen space. Bruce Hemming

FORMstudio’s re-imagining of this flat demonstrates how a fresh approach can make much better use of the available floor area in a typical developer flat of this type by incorporating the previously wasted the space of the internal corridor, optimising area to create a more generous, flexible and naturally-lit open-plan arrangement. 

bedroom-bruce-hemmingBedroom. Bruce Hemming

Within this open-plan space, a central ‘floating’ block, articulated with a concealed LED strip around its top edge, now conceals an existing structural column and houses a home office work station. It also, crucially, allows a spacious kitchen to be incorporated within the open plan living space, as well as providing an alternative escape route to the front door.

dining-area-mike-nealeDining area. Mike Neale

Two full-height concealed fire doors on electro-magnetic holds, complete the enclosure of a protected escape route from both bedrooms and living space in the case of a fire, and also provide flexibility for separation of the work area from the living area, or temporary increased separation of the open living/cooking area from the bedrooms as and when required. 

work-station-bruce-hemmingWork station. Bruce Hemming

Bathrooms and storage, which are located logically in the deepest internal area of the plan, are finished in grey glass mosaic to enhance the ‘cave like’ sense of them having been carved out of the carefully detailed white finishes; white-oiled wide plank Douglas fir flooring unifies the other naturally-lit areas of the flat.

FORMstudio aims to create places that can be inhabited and experienced by people in a natural and instinctive way. Enjoyable places with a tranquil sense of simplicity, which create a supportive and uplifting backdrop for life.

Individual solutions are developed for their clients which are an intelligent, inventive and sustainable response to the complex matrix of issues that shapes each project. Solutions with a lucidity and apparent simplicity which belie their underlying complexity. Listening, analysis, discussion and clarification
are at the heart of an inclusive approach that recognises the fact that some of the best ideas are generated in the space between people rather than by individuals. 

dining-area-and-living-space-bruce-hemmingDining area and living space. Bruce Hemming

Studying together, and later teaching, at The Bartlett (UCL), directors Malcolm Crayton and Jeremy Lingard first recognised the strengths of combining their shared enthusiasms and complementary skill sets in a collaborative design approach driven and tested by discussion. An approach that has been honed
over the years and is at the heart of the practice’s working method today.

Supported by talented staff including three Associates, who have added further core technical, energy use and design expertise to the practice, the directors maintain a direct involvement in the development and evolution of every project. Investing in people and celebrating diversity, FORMstudio aims to engage with and draw out the particular individual strengths of its staff, developing experience and knowledge base through practice and ideas sharing.

5 Secrets To A Healthy Home

5 Secrets to a Healthy HomeHere are 5 Secrets To A Healthy Home To Keep You Healthy And Safe

Your home is your sanctuary.

It is a space that fills you with warmth and joy. It is your haven from the outside world, a respite from the hustle and bustle of work and stress.

Yet, what if your home isn’t as safe as you think?

From your furniture to your choice of cleaning agent, every small choice can have massive repercussions on the health of your home and sanctuary. 

A healthy and happy home is one that is clean and free from health hazards.

Maintaining a healthy home requires more work than one would assume.

It requires research, careful decision making and simple techniques that must be implemented from the very beginning.

Otherwise, small things can snowball into a massive health hazard that will be difficult to deal with later on.

1-kitchen-care-min

Here’s a simple guide to help you create a home that isn’t just beautiful but is healthy and safe for you and your entire family.

image1-1-minChoose Your Furniture With Care

A home without furniture is an empty space.

It is the furniture that gives it character and makes it comfortable, which is why when choosing furniture, most of us focus on aesthetics alone.

We forget that furniture is a dust magnet, a hotbed of germs and requires frequent and rigorous cleaning.

1-choose-your-furniture-with-care-minBulky furniture that is difficult to move around will collect dirt and dust in the corners, which can affect the air you breathe.

Instead choose simple and light furniture that can be cleaned around with ease, ensuring that no dirt is trapped in small spaces and corners.

Choose durable materials that can be maintained such as tile, stone, and leather. Avoid fancy carved furniture, large drapes that attract dust and heavy rugs that require constant cleaning. 

Living room home interior with a white sofa, wooden floors & decorative vasesAdditionally, a lot of materials used to make furniture is covered with harmful chemicals.

For example, foam that is used in mattresses and couches is often covered in dangerous flame retardant chemicals.

Combat this by using cotton or wool where possible or ensuring the foam is covered in thick material preventing exposure to the chemicals used.

Take care when choosing paints and varnishes as well to ensure that no toxic chemicals are present. 

imaimage-1-minWaterproofing Solutions

Based on the type of home you have, an apartment or a house, it is important to ensure that you choose the right type of waterproofing solutions.

Inadequate waterproofing can lead to a wide range of health concerns for those living in the home.

Leakage and seepage can cause mold, mildew, and fungus to grow on the walls and ceiling, leading to breathing problems and fungal infections to say the least.

This makes it imperative to tackle the problem right from the root with sound waterproofing on the structure. 

1-waterproofing-solutions-minWhile waterproofing begins with smart drainage that diverts all water away from the foundation of your home, you might also need additional waterproofing for extra protection.

Choose bituminous or polyurethane based waterproofing for roofs and cement based waterproofing solutions for kitchens and bathrooms.

Consult with a waterproofing expert to choose the right materials for your home, because there is no one-size-fits-all waterproofing solution.

Each option has its own characteristics and pros and cons which necessitate an informed decision.

image3-1-minBe Careful With Wiring

Wiring and electrics are something we rarely pay attention to unless we run out charging ports for our precious gadgets.

This overlooked aspect of home maintenance is incredibly important especially when moving into a new home or renovating.

Incorrect wiring and sloppy work can lead to a fire hazard in the house.

Which is why you need to ensure that you have certified electrician do all the wiring in the home. 

1-careful-wiring-minMoreover, once your home is complete, don’t forget to call an electrician for bi-annual checks to ensure that everything is working as it should.

After all, when it comes to wiring and electricity, one small mistake can have dangerous and potentially lethal repercussions.

image2-1-minSimple Ventilation Techniques

Stale air can be a massive concern in today’s day, with indoor air pollution often higher than levels seen outdoors.

It is important to counter this with a few simple measures that will air out your home and keep the air clean and fresh.

1-simple-ventilation-techniques-minThe most important thing is to make sure that your windows are easily accessible and can be opened every few days to air out your home.

Make sure you use fans including exhausts in the bathrooms and kitchen to circulate the air effectively.

You might also want to consider an indoor air purifier to ensure that the air inside your home is clean and dust free.

Pair it with a humidifier for air that is easier to breathe.

Lastly, it is important to avoid using aerosol air fresheners. These are full of chemicals that should not be inhaled.

Instead, use natural scented oils and diffusers for a home that is both healthy and aromatic. 

image-5-1-minPractice Regular Effective Kitchen Care

Your health begins in the kitchen.

But these days kitchen health is more than just choosing organic produce and mercury-free fish.

A toxic material can make its way into your kitchen through the cookware you choose and the cleaning products you use.

For optimal kitchen health, it is important to pay attention to the details.

Stainless steel cookware and kitchenware hanging above gas hobCookware is essential to a kitchen and utensils must be chosen with care.

Non-stick cookware is known to release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures so consider swapping to cast iron, steel, and aluminum.

Similarly heating up plastic in the microwave can be harmful to your health. Use glass or ceramic utensils to store food and for use in the microwave.

When choosing bottles, stick to BPA free plastic or switch to glass where possible.

Likewise, the cleaning products you use are often full of dangerous chemicals that you can do without.

Wherever possible, swap these out for healthy and organic cleaners that incorporate household products like vinegar, lime juice, and baking soda.

You don’t necessarily need an army of products to keep a clean kitchen and home, a few simple all natural products will do the trick with ease.

 

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