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July 31, 2005
Concrete Floors Don't Have to Be Boring
A plain concrete floor is cold and unappealing, but colored concrete tiles can bring new life to the material. Maxx Architectural Concrete Tiles come in a wide variety of colors and are available in sizes ranging from 12" x 12" to 24" x 48" and in different thicknesses. After installation, the tiles can be finished with a low or high sheen.
http://www.archsystems.com/ via Interior Design.
Fingerprint Activated Door Lock
I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to the day when we can chuck keys completely and just go around starting our cars with our voices or opening the front door with a touch of our fingers. Well, that day is at least partially here for those willing to spend a little extra for the convenience (all you people out there who lose your house keys, repeatedly, this post is for you). The Biocav Fingerprint Recognition Deadbolt is a lock for your front door (any door actually) that only opens when you press your finger to the reader or enter your unique access number. Keyed to your fingerprint, it allows you to throw away your house key forever. The Biocav lock holds up to 50 users and runs on battery power so there's no need to worry about being locked out during a power outage (a low battery warning alerts you in advance when it's time to change the batteries). The MSRP is $499, but Smarthome has it for $399 at the time of this posting: Biometric Fingerprint Door Lock
July 30, 2005
Stone Farmhouse Sink from Stone Forest
Those of you old enough to remember farmhouse sinks from the days of yore probably never guessed they'd come back in style, but they're hitting today's modern kitchens with fresh new looks. One example is this double basin farmhouse sink from Stone Forest. The sink is handcrafted from your choice of gray/blue granite, beige granite, or black granite. Expect to pay about $1,600 for this durable piece.
Spectra Lock Grout
Ok, grout isn't the most exciting topic, but if you've ever tried to clean grout in the bathroom or between the kitchen counter tiles, you now how impossible it is to get the stuff back to white after time has taken its toll. If you're a do-it-yourselfer thinking about retiling a floor, backsplash, shower, or other area, you might appreciate Spectra Lock Grout. According to the manufacturers, this grout is always cleanable to the original color and doesn't require sealing. It also has Microban (antimicrobial product protection) in it to inhibit the growth of stain causing bacteria, mildew, and mold.
July 29, 2005
Sleek Stainless Steel Range Hood for Uncluttered Look in the Kitchen
Sirius Hoods from Italy, specializes in handsome modern-looking range hoods. The model SU39 hood is available in stainless steel or glass finishes, has four speed settings, 10 minutes delay off, and touch controls. The dimensions are 90cm x 50cm (35.4" x 19.7"). You can find this sleek range hood online for a little over $1,500.
Pictures of Backsplashes
A number of people have stumbled onto this site by searching for pictures of kitchen backsplashes (we do have a few here and there), so I thought I would accomodate future surfers by poking around the web and finding links to some interesting backsplashes. Without further ado...
Pictures of Concrete, Stone, and Metal Backsplashes at HGTV.
Custom Stainless Steel & Copper Backsplashes
A handsome ceramic tile inlay backsplash from Jose Diaz Tile
A picture of a tile backsplash with mural from the same company.
Green River Stone can put their fossilized stone into backsplashes and countertops.
Here's an Australian company doing backsplash murals on glass.
This picture from Eco Flooring uses recycled glass tile.
And lastly, here's an interesting backsplash mosaic.
Polara Refrigerated Oven Automates Meal Preperation
The Polara Refrigerated Range from Whirlpool is designed to make meal preperation simpler for people with busy schedules. You put your roast in before you leave for work, the oven enters refrigeration mode to keep it fresh all day, and then at a preset time, the oven kicks in and cooks the meal. If it finishes cooking before you're home, the range goes into a warming mode for up to two hours. If you're really late, it will then go back into refrigeration mode to keep the food from going bad. The MSRP is $1,399-$1,599 depending on finish.
Lighting the Deck with LEDs
If solar deck lights aren't your cup of tea, or you're just looking to add some unique accent lighting, De-Kor's LED Perfect Panel might be of interest. According to the manufacturer, "These solid cast aluminum panels offer a distinctive and classy look. With the addition of two LED lights we have created a unique living environment by providing safe, natural light to compliment your deck or indoor area." The low-voltage LEDs come with a 30 year warranty, and the panels are available in 20 different coating colors. The Perfect Panels (including lights) start at $74.95.
July 28, 2005
Stainless Steel Hot Tubs
It seems like those ubiquitous portable spas with the faux wood paneling are all over the place now, and there's nothing wrong with them, but for those who prefer inground hot tubs, check out Bradford Products, LLC. They combine stainless steel with tiles to create a number of different colors and patterns for their tubs. According to the company, they use stainless steel because it's "already one of the most durable materials used in architecture and construction today and is widely referred to as a 'green' product. This means it is safe for the environment and 100% recyclable." Bradford has ready-made hot tubs, but they can also customize size, shape, tiles, etc.
http://www.bradfordproducts.com/
Flat Sink Brings New Style to the Bathroom
The Purist Wet Surface Lavatory isn't the first flat sink I've seen, but it's a classy looking one. Both faucet and sink are made by Kohler. "The flat surface and surrounding channel of the Purist wet surface lavatory highlight unique water delivery. This fireclay lavatory offers versatile installation options and is without faucet hole drillings. This lavatory is part of the Purist Suite, which helps transform your bathroom into a luxurious home spa environment." The price for this unique bathroom sink? It starts at $569.95 (faucet not included).
IngenuiTea No-Pour Tea Server
I had my first experience with an "IngenuiTea" teapot at the local coffee house the other night. Adagio Tea's 16 ounce teapot requires no pouring--it drains tea straight out the bottom. Don't worry it's easy to work. Basically, you pour the hot water into the clear pot, toss in some crushed tea leaves (no need for a bag or strainer), let the drink steep, then set the pot on top of your favorite mug. Responding to the pressure of the cup, it drains the tea out the bottom, leaving the leaves behind for easy dumping. Sitting it on a table doesn't make it drain; it has to be on the rim of a cup (it works best with a standard mug--you have to get a little creative draining it into over-sized cups).
Golf in the Garage?
The Garage Door Golf Practice Net from Nick's Net Works is designed to let you practice your golf swing from home. Standing in your driveway, you can hit the ball at the garage, and the net will catch it and keep it from damaging anything. The net attaches to the back of most garage door systems and tucks out of the way when it's not needed. On rainy days, you can reverse the net system and golf from inside the garage. According to the manufacturer's site, you can also use it for practicing sports such as hockey, t-ball, and tennis (serves). The unit costs $199.
http://www.nicksnetworks.com/
Source: HGTV's I Want That
July 27, 2005
Instant Hot Water with In-Sink-Erator
In-Sink-Erator offers a range of instant hot water heaters that install in your kitchen for easy convenience. No more waiting (and wasting resources) while you wait for your water heater's hot water to reach your faucet. The water is filtered and comes out at a near-boiling 200 degrees. The heater installs under the sink. Fixtures come in a variety of finishes. The price ranges depending on whether you want just the basic instant hot water faucet or if you want filtered hot and cold water to come out of the tap. The basic unit starts at $150 and the more deluxe units are $500 and up.
Reading Lamps with Oomph
When I was a kid, reading under the cover with a flashlight--or even by the light of the outside street lamp--was no problem. Now that I'm a little more, ahem, mature... I need more light to read comfortably at night. The answer might be MicroSun, producer of (according to them anyway) "the wold's best reading lamp." Available in table and floor versions and a variety of styles, the MicroSun lamps put out the equivalent of 375 watts of light while drawing only 68 watts of electricity. They produce a white light instead of the standard yellow, simulating "natural daylight to provide crisp, glare-free light just like the sun." This is what makes them easier to read by. The lamps sell for a little under $200.
Copper vs. Stainless Steel in the Kitchen
In the last decade, stainless steel has reigned supreme as the luxury kitchen material of choice for everything from appliances to backsplashes, but today copper is making a comeback. According to "Copper Comback" in the July 2005 issue of This Old House
http://www.jennairattrezzi.com
http://www.lacornue.com/
July 26, 2005
How to Build a Deck... Sort Of
Want to build a hardwood deck in a day? The Ezydeck "deck in a box" system isn't going to help you if you need to build an off-the-ground deck from scratch, but if you just want the look of a wood deck over an existing tile, brick, or concrete base (any flat base will work, according to the manufacturer), this system may do the job. You don't need any fasteners, adhesives, or posthole diggers with the Ezydeck system. The modular decking snaps together like a jigsaw puzzle in 12 inch interlocking panels. Currently, they have color choices of salmon-colored jarrah or chocolately ipe. Some applications could be: using the decking on a concrete condo patio, using it to create a wood swimming pool deck, or building a rooftop deck.
Contemporary Lounge Chair from Thos. Moser
Thos. Maker, reknowned for their cabinets, makes a few other things, too. This sleek lounge chair is one of the newest additions to their Vita Collection. The curved seat and back are made with solid matched-grain cherry wood suspended over the lounge's laminated, curved feet. The cushions are hand-stitched and "ergonomically set in the cantilevered frame making the Vita Lounge a luxurious oasis on which the body–and the eye–will feel free to linger." The dimensions are 36" high, 22" wide, and 66" long. The price for this contemporary lounge chair is $4,100.
Best Deck Materials?
In today's home improvement market, there are a lot of deck materials available, everything from synthetics made to look like wood to a variety of wood species, tropical and domestic. Visiting your local home improvement store and getting samples of the materials they offer is a good way to get a feel for what you like. In the mean time, here's a look at some of the decking options out there:
Pressure-treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is inexpensive (compared to other deck materials) and very popular. It's usually made from hemlock, southern pine, or fir (sometimes a combination). One of the downsides of pressure-treated wood is it uses chemicals like arsenic to help it resist rot (though the toxic treatments are being phased out). To be on the safe side, you should wear gloves and safety goggles when working with it (it's fine to touch and walk across once it's in a deck).
Tropical Hardwood Decks
Tropical hardwoods include ipe, mahogany, and meranti. These woods are often used in high-end housing because of their extreme durability and resistance to rot and insects. You pay more for those qualities though.
Softwoods
Softwoods include cedar and redwood. They are handsome deck choices and naturally resist decay and rot. Though not as expensive as the tropical hardwoods, softwoods are pricier than pressure-treated wood.
Synthetic Wood Planking
Synthetic woods are environmentally friendly deck choices. Though they don't have quite the same look as real wood, they don't require the maintenance, such as applying a protective sealer annually, and there's no danger of getting a splinter from them. However, synthetics are not strong enough to use for structural framing and can only be used for decking. They are made from materials such as recycled plastics and wood fibers and PVC.
Source: Taunton's Deck & Patio Idea Book
July 25, 2005
Outdoor Speakers... in the Planter?
Outdoor speakers are nothing new, but how about speaker planters? We love our backyard entertaining, and we love our music, but no one wants big ugly speaker boxes cluttering up the landscaping. If outdoor speakers shaped like rocks aren't inobtrusive enough for you, how about ones concealed by a flower planter? The Rockustics Planter is designed to pump out the jams and accomodate live plants (haven't seen any comments yet on how well plants respond to the jams being pumped out beneath them). Yes, these high-tech pots can be watered. A pair of Rockustics speaker planters will run you $550 to a little under $900, depending on the style and speaker you want. If planters aren't your style, they also offer speakers hidden inside cocounts (oh, come on, like a coconut speaker wasn't on your Christmas wish-list?).
Sony Location Free TV
The Sony 12.1" Location Free TV LF-X1 is a compact, completely wireless, LCD unit that lets you watch television or video (or anything connected to the base station up to 50 feet away) from the back deck, beside the pool, or anywhere else you wouldn't normally find a TV. You can also use the wireless unit to check email and surf the Web. No external keyboard is needed; the touch panel and on-screen universal remote and keyboard give you a buttonless interface. The built-in audio/video inputs, a Memory Stick slot, and stereo speakers make it nice for road trips, too. MSRP is $1,500.
Sony LF-X1 LocationFree 12.1" LCD TV
Custom BBQ Pits/Grills/Smokers
For some BBQ enthusaists, a classy stainless steel grill from the likes of Viking is all they'll ever need, but if you want something with a little more, er, character, you might need a custom BBQ from David Klose down in (where else?) Texas. One example is the "Beer Bottle Smoker" shown below. The company, BBQ Pits by Klose, has been in business since 1986 and makes grills, pits, smokers, and mobile cookers to your specifications. And they do it without fancy machinery or assembly lines: "All BBQ Pits are made by hand, with no machinery involved in the manufacturing process except a welding machine, in the spirit of the old style iron foundries. One welder to one pit from the beginning to the finished product. Handmade all the way." Prices range from $300 to $50,000.
July 24, 2005
Dog Cool Mat "Canine Cooler"
If your dog is suffering in the hot summer heat, and the dog house air conditioner isn't a practical buy, a Canine Cooler is a cheaper and more versatile alternative for keeping your buddy cool. Put out by Maverick Marketing Ventures, the Canine Cooler uses SoothSoft® Comfort Technology to "give your dog comfort that is second to none." The mat is supposed to be easy to clean and doesn't require any refrigeration. It contains no toxic gel or other harmful materials. Amazon sells them for under $50: Canine Cooler Mat
Granite Bench
Since granite countertops are popular, why not granite furniture? Granted, the natural stone might not be the most comfortable in your living room lounger, but this handsome black-white granite bench from Hammacher Schlemmer is hand-crafted and polished over a 5 day period. It has a solid Western Cedar base that makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor living. Decorative scoring gives it personality and a square cutout on the top can be used to hold sand, stone, or even water to create a serene reflecting pool.
Room Dividers
Whether you're living in a spacious loft or a tiny studio apartment, you may want to use room dividers to define public and private spaces. While those foldable Japanese room dividers are popular, they certainly aren't all that's out there. The Mitad Del Mundo (we don't name 'em; we just write about 'em) from Iris Design Studio allows you to see others without them seeing you. The divider looks like wood but is actually electronically cut forneer that is available in magenta, yellow, or brown.
http://www.irisdesignstudio.com/
Cowhide Furniture
Cowhide furniture isn't for everyone, but a few people north of Texas may be swayed by this snazzy looking cowhide bench from Sublime American Design. This hair-on hide piece is available in white or black and comes with nickel-plated legs and a cold-rolled-steel frame. The standard length is 72 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 18 inches tall (though Sublime says others sizes are available).
http://www.sublimeamericandesign.com/
via Interior Design
July 23, 2005
New Miele Steam Oven Coming
Steam ovens, long a staple of professional chefs, are making their way into more residential kitchens. According to manufacturers like Miele, steam ovens make bread that is softer on the inside while remaining crusty on the outside, and they keep meat from drying out during the cooking process. In November, Miele Inc. will be offering a "Navitronic" built-in wall steam oven with an interactive menu system designed to help users determine just how to cook various dishes with steam. Steam ovens are more expensive than traditional ovens, so expect to pay for this luxury. The MSRP for the Miele oven will be $2,299.
Colorful Pendant Lamps
Looking to improve your home decor with colorful pendant lamps? If the Rainbow from Bruck is a little too much for your tastes, the Helios Pendant from JGoodDesign is a bit more sedate. The lamps are made from hand-blown glass, and they're designed to scatter light in concentric circles. They're made from bamboo, partially recycled glass, and recyclable aluminum. The pendant lamps are available in 7 colors.
http://www.jgooddesign.com/Helios%20Pendant.htm
July 22, 2005
Home Bar Made Easy
Home bars are popular choices in households that enjoy entertaining, but installing a bar with all the necessary woodwork and plumbing can be quite a home improvement project. The Vintage Bartending Center makes things simple since it's a fully contained unit that can be used indoors and out. Vintage's largest home bar is a 42-inch unit with an integrated all-weather refrigerator, built-in sink, and removable cutting board. An insulated ice center keeps ice cold, and the unit's insulated bottle wells hold previously chilled drinks. The price is around $2,500 give or take a hundred or take depending on the model.
http://www.vintage-grills.com/
GE Undercounter Wine Reserve with Privacy Glass
There are quite a few undercounter wine refrigerators out there, but GE's "Monogram Privacy Glass Wine Reserve" adds a new twist. It has a privacy door that is made from two layers of UV resistant glass with a liquid crystal glass laminate between them.
"Liquid crystals within the laminate manage light flow through the glass door. In an uncharged state liquid crystals are randomly set and block rays of light from passing through the window. When the privacy display is inactivated with an electrical charge, the crystals or pixels align in a parallel fashion and rays of light can pass through both layers of glass."
Why, you ask, do you need a wine refrigerator with a privacy glass? GE states a couple of reasons. For one thing, the tinted glass protects the wine from being tainted by ultraviolet light that can harm the tannins. Also, hiding the wine allows you to place the reserve in any room in the house.
Ann Sacks Copper Bathtub
According to any number of professional chefs who swear by their copper pots, copper retains heat better than other materials. Ann Sacks offers a copper bathtub that supposedly has the same heat-retaining properties. Part of their Kuo Collection, the handscrafed, freestanding oval bathtub has double-wall construction and "body-fitting curves." Its redish tones fit in well with stone surroundings and remind you of the olden days (but with today's modern amenities like... running water).
Ceramic + Glass Tiles
I caught these combination ceramic and glass tiles the other night on HGTV. Trikeenan Tileworks uses a cracked glass front with a fired ceramic back to create tiles with unique designs. There is a perk for homeowners looking to save money: glass tiles usually require professional installation, but because these have ceramic backings, a skilled do-it-yourselfer can install them. The tiles are sturdy and can stand up to outdoor as well as indoor applications. Examples of places to install them are: kitchen backsplashes, showers, floors, accent walls, swimming pools, and fireplace surrounds. Check out their site for lots of pictures of the tiles in their natural milieu.
July 21, 2005
Frameless Glass Shower Doors
Frameless glass shower doors are popular upgrades in luxury bathrooms--let's face it, a vinyl shower curtain with mildew stains isn't a good look with slate tiles and multiple shower heads. (Ok, it's not a good look any time.) Alumax Bath Enclosures manufactures a line of custom-fabricated showers and enclosures designed to fit any decor. Finishes include: silver, satain, brushed nickel, and gold. Framed and frameless glass shower doors can come in clear, tinted, and obscured styles, or with etched patterns.
Rainbow Lights
If you like cool lights, visit Bruck Lighting Systems. They have some unique residential light fixtures like the "Rainbow." This light has an inner cased glass with a dichroic (it changes color depending on the different wavelengths of light that strike it) coated outer glass. When off, the Rainbow glass has a mirror-like effect. When on, it shows a fusion of colors. According to the company, the Rainbow casts a clean and even task light. These lights can be used as single fixtures or grouped for track lighting.
http://www.brucklightingsystems.com
July 20, 2005
Vacation Homes and Taxes
It's been a while since we mentioned vacation homes, and I came across an article that deals with how they are tax deductible and figured I'd share the details:
Assuming you finance your vacation home, the interest on the loan is tax deductible (so long as the mortgage isn't greater than the home's market value).
If you file an itemized return, its real estate taxes are deductible, too.
Thinking of renting your vacation home?
If you rent it 14 days or less a year, the rental income is tax-free. It gets more complicated if you rent it out more than 14 days a year. Then you have to compare the days rented to the days of personal use. "When the personal use of the home exceeds 14 days--or 10 percent of the total number of days rented, (whichever is greater), all rental income must be reported and deductions must be allocated between rental and personal days." Yeah, my brain went a bit fuzzy at that, too. The article earnestly recommends seeing a tax professional if you're planning to buy a vacation home with the primary intention of renting it out.
Source: "Tax Talk" in American Dream Homes Winter 2005
Rechargeable Battery Operated Blender
If you're hosting a party indoors, it's no problem blending everyone's favorite drinks, but what about if you move to the backyard where you don't have an electrical outlet handy? Well, you need a portable rechargeable battery operated blender, of course. Built by RoadPro, their rechargeable blender comes with 12VDC and 110VAC adapters, so you can actually charge it in the car, if you want to take it on the road. For the safety of those on the road with you, no driving and blending though. It's available on the Web for about $60.
Portable Rechargeable Battery Operated Blender
Recycled Glass and Concrete Countertops
Maybe you've read about Vetrazzo Glass Countertops, but they're not the only ones out there making kitchen counters from environmentally friendly materials. Icestone is another manufacturer using recycled glass and concrete; their countertops use 75% recycled materials. They can do a wide variety of colors by adding pigment to the mix, everything from black to ivory to all colors in between (pictured below: "Cobalt Ice" and "Sapphire Snow"). The material is designed to hold up as well as other popular countertop materials: "IceStone™ durable surfaces are strong like granite, not as porous as marble and heat-resistant like stone." The slabs can also be used for backsplashes, tabletops, bathrooms, and even floors.
Portable Massage Tables
Looking for a little pampering at home? Massages are popular with just about anyone who's prone to tense or sore muscles, and some homeowners are relaxing with portable massage tables right at home (of course, it's up to you to get a massage therapist to come over). The Frontgate Portable Massage Table (shown below) is padded with a memory foam layer designed to conform to its occupant's body. The table is 73 inches long with maple legs. A nylon storage case is available for $59 extra. If you're just looking for a no-hassle way to get a foot massage, something like the Jentle Ped foot massager may be more your speed.
July 19, 2005
Motion-Sensing Tiles from SensiTile
If you're looking to do something unique with a backsplash, shower stall, bathroom wall, or what have you, SensiTile offers "motion sensing tiles." The tiles sense the movement of a passing person and create colorful ripples in response. The tiles are passive and don't need to be powered; they use ambient light and daylight as their source of power.
Window Cleaning Made Easy
It's hard to get excited about cleaning windows (and if you're lucky, you can afford to hire someone else to do it), but the Leifheit Hand Held Window Washing Wonder is designed to take some of the drudgery out of the task. The tool, which is half aqueegee half pressure washer, has an integrated detergent tank and a micro-fiber cleaning pad. It can wipe away smudges or take care of the whole window. The only thing you need to figure out is how to talk the kids into doing it for you.
Outdoor Misting Fan
If you're looking for a way to cool off in the summer heat, and the misting cactus just wouldn't go with the landscaping in your backyard, a portable misting fan might be a pleasing alternative. The Windchaser outdoor fan oscillates and has a three speed weather-proof motor. The misting knob is UV and rust resistant. The fan can be adjusted in height from 4 1/2 to 6 feet in height. You can find it online for a little under $150.
WindChaser Outdoor Misting Fan
July 18, 2005
Pharo Shower Cocoon
This Hansgrohe freestanding shower (AKA the Pharoh Cocoon) looks a little like something you'll find on Mars Colony some day. It's "rendered in four colors of translucent acrylic and has an integral lighting system and an attached rail that warms towels while you wash."
Quote from "Complete Bathroom Design
http://www.hansgrohe-usa.com/
Aquarium Toilet
People are putting fish in some interesting places these days. If the fish tank backsplash and the fish tank sink weren't your cup of tea, how about an aquarium toilet? It combines a reservoir for flushing with a working aquarium and is sure to be a conversation starter when guests visit your bathroom. This fully function toilet was designed by Oliver Beckert and is distributed by Elseware. Not recommended for those who don't like being watched while doing their business...
Lapis Lazuli Gemstone Globe
Globes of the world are just one of those things you expect to find in a classic home library or den. The "Lapis Lazuli Ocean Gemstone Globe" adds elegance and a unique design to that traditional piece. From the manufacturer: "assembled by hand using 37 different semiprecious stones from around the world. Mounted on a handsome polished bronze stand (choose from quad or tripod designs), its rich, blue lapis lazuli ocean background and classic trimline compass complement the stunning land masses of your globe."
Lapis Lazuli Ocean Gemstone Globe
July 17, 2005
Cuisinart Waffle Stick Dipper
If you or your kids are a sucker for those French Toast Sticks from the fast food joint, you might have fun with a waffle maker that produces dipping sticks instead of traditional waffles. The Cuisinart "Waffle Dipper" has a stainless steel finish and makes eight sticks at a time. The non-stick surface makes clean-up easy. And if dipping sticks aren't your thing, maybe you'd be interested in their stainless steel heart-shaped waffle maker. Both machines are available for around $50 online.
Cuisinart Waffle Dippers Sticks Maker
Cuisinart Heart-Shaped Waffle Maker
Stainless Steel Toilets Come to the Home
With stainless steel coating all the kitchen appliances these days, it was only a matter of time before someone put it in the bathroom. The Metro Urban Toilet from Neo-Metal is a stainless steel model that is designed to work with standard residential water and waste lines. The company also offer stainless steel bathtubs and sinks if you want that cool metal gleam throughout your bathroom. The price for the Metro Urban Toilet will run you a little over $3,000.
Racor Garage Storage System
Running out of room to store stuff in the garage? The ProStor PHL-1R HeavyLift Garage Storage System from Racor is designed to store things overhead, making use of otherwise wasted space. It comes as a kit that you put together. The platform gets secured to the ceiling with metal beams, then a hand crank raises and lowers it for easy access.
Tree Swings
Every kid needs a tree swing, right? But if you're living in a posh 3 or 4 car garage house in a classy neighborhood, a tire on a rope hanging from a tree branch might be considered a bit... ghetto. Why not ditch the tire and try a painted tree swing shaped like a leaf or a ladybug? These swings can handle up to 150 pounds in weight and can be hung outdoors from a tree or indoors from a sturdy rafter.
http://www.sassafrasenterprises.com/
July 16, 2005
Outdoor Pizza Oven
With outdoor living areas and outdoor kitchens being so popular these days, it shouldn't be any surprise that outdoor pizza ovens are a big hit. According to a blurb in the July 15, 2005 issue of the Wall Street Journal (print), sales for residential pizza ovens grew 50% in 2004 from a year earlier, and they're expected to see similar gains this year. What cost your own pizza oven, you ask? Expect to pay about $3,000 ($6,000 installed) for a wood-burning model from a specialist like Earthstone Ovens, Inc. Gas-fired ovens start at $9,000 (not including installation).
http://www.earthstoneovens.com/
Finding the Money to Remodel (A Loan Primer)
The last decade has seen a boom in the home improvement industry, with millions of homeowners choosing to remodel their homes to give their families more space and comfort and to increase the value of their property. Remodeling can be an expensive prospect, though, especially if you're considering redoing a room like the kitchen (the number one most remodeled room in the house). The average kitchen remodel costs $30,000-$40,000. When you start factoring in luxury items like granite countertops, custom cabinets, and stainless steel appliances, remodeling costs can climb even higher.
So, how are so many homeowners paying for these expensive renovations? They are financing them. You have a few different ways to get the money for your home improvement loans. Here's a look at your financing options:
Home-equity loan
Home-equity loans work by using the equity you've accrued in your house for collateral. This is one way to acquire a significant loan amount with a reasonable interest rate. Also, home-equity loans are usually tax deductible on the first $100,000 of the loan principal. The maximum amount offered for home-equity loans is typically 70% to 80% of the home's value minus the outstanding mortgage.
Construction loan
Construction loans are short-term loans from a bank, where the money is paid to the builder in increments at specific points during the building process. These loans usually have 6 to 12 month terms. During the construction process, you make interest-only payments, and when the project is completed, it is paid off and replaced with a regular long-term mortgage.
Refinancing
If interest rates have lowered since you took out your mortgage, refinancing may allow you to lower your monthly payment. However, when you refinance, you may also have the option to take out a larger mortgage (that reflects the appreciated value of your home) and cash out the extra money to pay for home improvements.
Personal loans
If you don't have much home-equity built up yet, or don't like the idea of borrowing against your house, you can take out a personal loan. If you have good credit and adequate income, your bank will probably offer you an unsecured loan for between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep in mind personal loans come with higher interest rates than home-equity loans. They also tend to have shorter repayment periods and may not be tax-deductible.
Source: Home Building magazine 2005 Product Guide
July 15, 2005
Stone Planking, a New Style for Stone Floors
When most of us think of stone floors, we think of travertine tiles or maybe flagstone pavers. Stone Planking (from Colorado Stone Planking) is an alternative way to lay stone. The planks can be installed on any floor, and can even be used for decorative countertops, walls, or a no-maintenance outdoor deck. On their site, the company has pictures of stone planking samples. The planks come in a variety of stones, including marble, sandstone, and travertine.
Bathroom Scale Measures Weight & Body Fat
The Tanita Innerscan Body Composition Monitor is a bathroom scale designed to tell you not only weight but body fat percentage. As those of us with big bones know, weight isn't always the best measure of health. Skinny people can have a lot of body fat while stocky people can weigh more but have less. The Innerscan scale doesn't stop with body fat though. It reads: your body water percentage, metabolic age, bone mass, visceral fat and daily caloric intake. It works by sending a low-level electric pulse through your body. The scale can "remember" up to four users so you can compare results over time, and there's also a guest mode. It's available via Amazon for $120: Tanita Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor
July 14, 2005
Motorized Paper Towel Dispenser
Oh, come on. You've never dreamed of a motorized paper towel dispenser? Point and Cut's "No Touch Paper Towel Dispenser" means no more goobering up the rest of the paper towels or the rack with sticky fingers when you need a sheet. This motorized paper towel dispenser mounts under a cabinet so as not to take up counter space, and comes in stainless steel to match the rest of your classy kitchen appliances. Just wave your hand once to unroll the desired length, then wave again to cut the towel.
Brunswick Pool Tables for the Modern Look
The $14,000 Manhattan pool table from Brunswick Billards was featured last night on HGTV's I Want That. Brunswick's "Contemporary" line of pool tables are designed in a variety of classy modern styles meant to fit seamlessly into your home rather than stand out like a garish reject from the billards hall. "Bright, airy, and uncluttered, the style embraces white walls, blonde woods, fresh colors, sensual textiles, clean-lined furniture, and materials that are natural, recyclable, or industrial such as glass and steel. The result: eclectic yet cozy retreats from fast-paced pressures."
http://www.brunswickbilliards.com/
Camouflaged Air Purifiers
Air purifiers can be helpful additions for homeowners with allergies, but putting a humming box in your bedroom or living room maybe be a decorating faux pas for some. You may consider hiding that air purifier in... a tree. The Amcor Group offers an air purifier that doubles as an artificial ficus tree. The purifier's filter is washable, so you don't need to order replacement parts (and the tree never needs to be watered). The price listed on their site is $89.50 though Amazon has it for a few dollars cheaper.
Ficus Tree Air Purifier
http://www.amcorgroupusa.com/
July 13, 2005
Hammock or Art?
The Satala Hammock from Aqua Creations has a futuristic pod shape that will make guests wonder if it's a piece of furniture or an art sculpture. The hammock can be used indoors or outdoors, and the unique design means it only needs one wall to attach to. It comes in a range of colors and is paired with a featherdown cushion for comfort. This piece of loungable art is made by Aqua Creations. The $4,500 price tag will put it out of reach of casual shoppers, but if unique furnishings are your raison d'etre, this hammock may be worth it.
Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways
Thinking of redoing your driveway? Asphalt and concrete are the two most common materials in the US. Asphalt is best suited for hot climates while concrete works better in colder climates. For moderate climates, either work well. Want more details?
Asphalt Driveways Information
Asphalt is made of petroleum mixed with small stone particles. It comes hot to the site, is put in a paving machine, and is spread in layers 4-8" deep. A heavy roller then compacts it to form a smooth black surface. It lasts for many years, but can develop "soft spots" if exposed to oil or gas spills. If you don't like the color of asphalt for a driveway, it can be altered by embedding a layer of pea gravel to allow it to blend better with the landscape.
Concrete Driveways Information
Poured concrete is a little more expensive than asphalt, but it's longer lasting when installed properly (although see above for notes about which works best in which climate). If you don't want plain old concrete, you can color it, stain it with chemicals, top it with exposed aggregate, etch it with acid, score it, stamp it, or coat it with acrylic. Stamped concrete driveways, in particular, are becoming more popular since they can be made to resemble stones, bricks, or various sized and shaped pavers.
Source: Front Yard Idea Book
July 12, 2005
Custom Homes
Custom homes may be the pinnacle of luxury housing. Sure, you can get luxurious living in homes that someone else designed, but custom homes allow you to get exactly what you want. Or do they? Is the hassle worth it in the end? Here are a few articles I've found around the Internet that discuss benefits as well as troubles. They may be of use to you if you're considering a custom-built home:
About Custom Home Plans:
Buying House Plans Online: Good Or Bad Idea?
Getting Your Blueprints From a Catalog
Building Custom Homes:
Custom Home Troubles (Consumer Reports article on some of the potential pitfalls)
How to Build a Custom Home
Custom Home Building 101 (This whole site on home building is worth looking through)
Custom Home Costs:
Desire a Modern Design? Expect These Obstacles (From the Wall Street Journal's Real Estate Journal)
High Cost of Custom Homes vs. Production Homes
And if you're in a hurry (not interested in waiting the two years it can take for a custom built home to be completed, you might consider a modular home--you can get quite a bit of customization with them, yet they only take a few weeks to put up)...
Modular Home Articles:
A Panelized Home: Factory-built Homes With a Custom Flair (from the Bob Vila site)
Types of Modular Homes
And if you get tired of surfing the Internet, here are a couple books on the subject over at Amazon that have gotten good reviews:
Build Your Dream Home for Less
How to Plan, Subcontract and Build Your Dream House: Everything You Need to Know to Avoid the Pitfalls
Tips & Traps When Building Your Home
Teak Soaking Bathtub
William Garvey's teak Geo Bath is based on traditional Japanese bathing preferences (deeper tubs with less of a footprint). It is shorter than standard US/European bathtubs and snugly fits into smaller spaces without giving up any of the luxury of soaking. The handsome teak gives it a unique look (they also have a few teak sinks you can choose from).
July 11, 2005
Installing Columns
There's nothing like columns to add a touch of majesty to your house. If you're remodeling an interior or exterior area, you may be interested in the pictures of various columns over at Chadsworth Inc. Their PolyStone columns are popular; they are load-bearing, fire and impact-resistant, and work well both indoors and out.
July 10, 2005
Flat Top Outdoor Grill, Anyone?
You didn't think that snazzy gas grill you purchased for the summer would be enough for your outdoor entertaining needs, did you? Just incase you've ever wanted to use a flat grill (like a big round griddle) outside for cooking pizzas, pancakes, stir fry, etc., Evo is ready to supply you with the necessary machine. The stainless steel Evo Flattop Grill is basically a big, circular griddle with two concetric burners under a 30 inch wide cooking service. The 48,000 Btus can crank the heat up to 630 degrees F. The round grill has no backside so several people can gather around it to share in the cooking duties (or just comment on your ability to burn stuff). The lack of an open flame makes it a little safer to use for younger chefs.
The cost of the 30-inch standalone model is $2,600, so the evo isn't a grill for the budget-minded.
July 09, 2005
Log Siding
After spending some time investigating log homes (and some of their downsides), you may decide it's just not for you. But if you like the rustic look of log homes, you might still be able to get that. Several companies offer log home siding, partial logs that can be attached to your existing home's exterior instead of vinyl, wood, shingle, or whatever kind of siding you have now.
Premium Toaster
What does $369.99 get you in a toaster? Well, if it's Kitchenaid's Pro Line 4-Slice Toaster, it's stainless steel, has slots long enough and wide enough to handle bagels and speciality breads, and has 9 different shade settings. The $15 toaster I got from Target does pretty much the same thing (albeit it's not stainless steel), but if you demand the best in kitchen appliances, this toaster might be for you. Kitchenaid does promise to deliver a replacement to your door if one of their counter appliances fails in the first two years (I believe Target recommends using theirs as a door stop if it fails in the first two years...).
July 08, 2005
Wood "Carriage" Garage Doors
Looking for garage doors that make a statement (besides ahh, don't look at me, I'm ugly)? Wood garage doors can add class and curb appeal to the outside of your house. Carriage style doors are popular and reminiscent of horse-drawn carriage days (don't worry, you can open today's models with a garage door opener). The Biltmore Estate For Your Home Carriage House Collection from Amarr has six designs with Western Red Cedar overlays that are made to resist cracking, twisting, and warping.
Crystal Lights
Crystal Beauty Spot light fixtures from W.A.C. Lighting create an interesting fractured effect on the ceiling while providing lighting for the room. They create the patterns on the ceiling by using multi-faceted lead crystal elements to break the light from their low-voltage xenon lamps. The crystal lights are available in square, round, and cylindrical shapes. You can choose chrome, platinum, clear, and white finishes. The lights come in six colors and two sizes.
July 07, 2005
Home Vending Machines
Tired of the refrigerator shelf dedicating to keeping sodas cold? Maybe you need a home vending machine. Ok, nobody needs a home vending machine, but if you're trying to turn your house into a party pad--or at least get your kids to stay at home more often--how can you turn one down?
The Maytag Skybox vending machine keeps your beverages icy cold and comes with a variety of mostly sports-related exteriors. It holds 66 12-ounce cans or 33 12-ounce bottles with up to four selections. It comes with a child-lock out option if you don't want your three year old guzzling down the Jolt while you're not watching. Don't worry; since it's a home vending machine, it operates without quarters. The price? Just under $500 at Amazon: Skybox Home Vending Machine
http://www.skyboxbymaytag.com/
Viking Induction Cooktops
Residential induction cooktops are becoming more popular because they are easy to clean (the surface is flat and continuous--no bumps or indentions at the burners) and they are more efficient than electric or gas cooktops. Also unlike tradition burners, induction cooktops stay cool to the touch and only heat the pan, so it's hard to burn yourself.
Wondering how induction cooktops work or what exactly is involved? According to The Induction Cooktop, a short article that describes the technology, "Each hob contains one or more coils made of ferromagnetic material. When an alternating current is passed through these coils, a magnetic field of the same frequency is produced. If a magnetic-based pan is placed on the hob, the magnetic field induces a current in the pan. The internal resistance of the pan causes heat to be dissipated, following the Joule effect. Thus it is the pan itself, and not the cooktop, that heats up and cooks the food. Once the pan is removed from the cooktop, the energy transfer stops. The result is a flame-less method of cooking in which it is nearly impossible to start a fire by forgetting to turn off the stove."
Induction ranges aren't cheap, however, and prices for the Viking Induction Cooktop start at around $2,000 and go up depending on size.
http://www.vikingrange.com/cooking/induction_family.html
July 06, 2005
Undercounter Refrigerator + Ice-maker + Freezer
The Echelon undercounter Combo system combines a refrigerator, freezer, and ice-maker in a two-drawer unit that offers a variety of storage options without taking up a lot of room in the kitchen (or maybe you're looking to build a bar area downstairs and don't want to add a regular size fridge). The top drawer holds the refrigerator part and has a digital diagnostic controller that allows you to see and adjust the temperature for each drawer. The bottom drawer houses the freezer and ice-maker which can put out up to six pounds of ice daily. The MSRP for the Combo system is $2,424 for the black unit and $2,790 for the stainless-steel.
Outdoor Art Prints
Now that outdoor living is popular, people are looking for ways to spruce up the decor on the deck and in the backyard. Why not hang something on the wall? Outdoor art prints are designed to be water and weatherproof so they can stand up to the elements when they're hung outside. One company, Open Air Designs, offers hundreds of reproductions of fine art, guaranteeing them to withstand weather of all seasons for five years without rusting, fading, or otherwise deteriorating.
http://www.openairdesigns.com/
Natural-looking Swimming Pools Are In
The old square blue rectangular swimming pools are out and natural is in. Natural pools are designed to fit into the landscape with boulders, dark bottoms, waterfalls, and pebblestone finishes.
This look doesn't come cheap though. While traditional inground pools cost about $15,000 (nation-wide average), natural pools can start at $50,000. Just adding a boulder waterfall to your design will cost $8,500.
Why are people willing to invest in these luxury swimming pools? They're trying to spend more time at home with friends and family. Some of these pools are such incredible sanctuaries that there's no need for travel; you've got peace and relaxation from your own backyard.
But what about if you're going to sell? Despite the fact that in the US, swimming pools are an $8 billion dollar industry, they're not a very good investment. Adding a swimming pool (even a cool luxury one), probably won't add as much value to your home as you might think. Expect to only get 35%-50% back on every dollar spent. If you decide to install a pool, make sure you're doing it to add value to your life, not your home.
Source: CNN Open House
July 05, 2005
Trivection Ovens Cook Meals Faster
GE Profile Ovens with "Trivection" Technology are one of the newest trends in kitchen appliances. I know what you're thinking; what is a trivection oven? Basically the ovens combine thermal, convection, and microwave technologies in order to cook meals more quickly while retaining all of the flavor you'd expect from a traditional oven meal. Food remains moist on the inside while turning golden brown on the outside. Here's a little blurb from the GE site that describes how the technologies work together:
"A traditional oven cooks an angel food cake in 48 minutes using only thermal energy. A Trivection oven cooks an angel food cake in 26 minutes using thermal energy throughout the entire process, convection energy for 40% of the time, and microwave energy for only 10%."
http://www.geappliances.com/trivection/
Snazzy Caller ID Message Center
The Sharper Globe Message Center with caller ID has sort of a high-tech scifi look to it. When a call comes in, the call information (caller name and number) scrolls via LEDs across the globe-shaped top. The message center also doubles as a clock with the time and date. Reviewers over at Amazon say the globe makes it easy to see time/date/call information from anywhere in the room whether the lights are on or not. So, if you're one of those people who are too lazy (er busy) to walk over to the phone to see who's calling, this might be just the gadget for you.
Sharper Image Globe Message Center with Caller ID
July 04, 2005
Log Homes
Log homes are booming in popularity. In the mid-80s, only about 7,000 homes were being built annually in the US, but today the number is over 25,000. They've become a status symbol, too, with celebrities buying them. Oprah Winfrey, Tom Cruise, and Bill Gates are all log home owners.
Though touring one with its soaring ceilings, roomy great rooms, and open lofts can give you an idea why they're desirable, a recent online article from the Wall Street Journal's Real Estate Journal warns that log homes have quite a few problems.
First off, they are expensive to build (though they hold their real estate value well), costing between 25% and 50% more than traditional stick built homes. The problems are generally caused because of the way the industry works: log home kits are created and shipped to the building site where the future homeowner is responsible for finding a local contractor to put them together. Because contractors often don't have experience with log homes, there can be problems that can cost a lot in the long run.
For more information, consult As Log-Home Interest Grows, So Do Gripes. If you're still interested in buying or building a log home, there are some articles at http://www.aboutloghomes.com
Corn Countertops from "Cornboard"
If recycled paper countertops or lava countertops aren't exotic enough for you, how about counters made out of corn husks? Corn husks are normally a waste product, and they are more readily available than hemp or wood fiber. Thus it makes sense to try and do something with them.
At the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, cornhusks are being used as the key ingredient in a new form of particleboard they're working on. Appropriately, it's called Cornboard. The husks don't require any special preperation to be used in the particleboard manufacturing process. A polymer resin binds the fribrous corn components. The finished composite works for structural applications and can even be used in the home, such as for countertops.
More information at: http://www.otm.uiuc.edu/techs/techdetail.asp?id=124
Source: July/August 2005 edition of Smart HomeOwner
Floating Shelves You Design
Floating shelves can save space while housing your knick knacks, but why not make them look cool, too? Wilder Creative makes a "slot shelving system" in a variety of materials, and they can be mixed and altered to create whatever layout strikes your fancy. Made to be assembled by the homeowner, the floating shelves come as simple parts that can be shaped into complex patterns and structures to hold CDs, DVDs, candles, or whatever other small items you need close at hand.
http://www.wildercreative.co.uk/
Hardwood Floor Medallions
Hardwood floor medallions are impressive, especially in a foyer or great room. The medallions at Oshkosh Floor Designs can be made from a variety of woods (stone, metals, or even glass can also be used) and start at $300 for small medallions. (The price goes up from there in sort of a your-imagination-is-the-limit way.) While popular in entryways, hardwood floor medallions can be used in great rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or any room in the house. Some of Oshkosh's designs can also be installed on ceilings or walls.
July 03, 2005
Hedge Trimmers With a Perk
Hedge trimmers are a necessity for anyone who wants to keep the shrubs in the yard looking nice, but the worst part of the job is picking up the trimmings after they've been cut. The Garden Groomer is a hedge trimmer that handles that part for you. It uses stainless steel blades to make a crisp cut, then sucks up the trimmings, storing them for later disposal. According to the manufacturer, this hedge trimmer's ergonomic handle and sleek body make it easier to use than the competition. (Personally, I was already sold when I found out it handled the clean-up.) MSRP is $149.
Stainless Steel Tiles
Stainless steel isn't just for appliances and counters. Stainless steel tiles are an increasingly popular option for kitchen backsplashes (for those not brave enough to install a fish tank backsplash over their oven). You can do a solid wall of stainless steel tiles or combine them with other types of tiles to create interesting designs that make a unique focal point in the kitchen. The tiles are generally easier to work with than larger pieces of stainless steel, and a do-it-yourself homeowner can likely manage the installation.
Metal Tiles, Ltd in the UK has a nice collection of pictures featuring stainless steel tiles, so you may want to browse their site if you're looking for design ideas.
July 02, 2005
Corner Refrigerators Save Room
While putting a standard refrigerator in a corner can be a bad idea (just look at the pictures on this page: refrigerators in corners are plain unfriendly), buying a fridge that's designed to fit into a corner can be a different story. The Corner Fridge Company builds refrigerators meant to be tucked into corners with doors that open at an angle, providing room to get at the food while taking up a smaller footprint in the kitchen.
For folks with plenty of square footage in the kitchen, there's probably no need, but for those of us living in studios, lofts, and space-squeezed condos in the city, a corner refrigerator may be an ideal way to save space. The Corner Fridge can be built into existing cabinetry to blend into the kitchen's current decor.
July 01, 2005
Gaggenau Steam Oven
Gaggenau has long been a name associated with quality kitchen appliances. The Gaggenau Steam Oven allows professional quality steam and convection cooking. According to their site, "The CombiSteam system combines the advantages of a steamer and a convection oven in a single unit, as the high temperature ensures a good crust while the added humidity keeps food moist." One of the perks of cooking with steam is that food comes out healthier; food retains its nutrients along with shape, size, and color--qualities that are sure to appeal to the professional chef. The price on the Gaggenau depends on the model size--it's about $3,700 for the 24" oven.
http://www.gaggenau.com/
DIY Wood Flooring
Hardwood flooring appeals to many homeowners, but true wood can be tricky to install because it has always involved ripping up existing flooring and dealing with messy glues. Tarkett QuickLoc is a relatively new type of laminate wood flooring with a tongue and groove design that makes installation simple. It floats on top of your existing floor, and pieces fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, so there's no glue involved. This turns installation into a do-it-yourself project rather than something that requires specialists and a lot of time. The QuickLock flooring costs about $4 per square foot.
Tarkett QuickLoc is available through Home Depot.
Earth-friendly Laundry Detergent
If you can afford to spend a little extra on laundry detergent, and you're concerned about the environment, you can get environmentally-friendly detergent. Sold by the Good Home Company, the detergent uses only natural "earth-friendly" ingredients and is accredited by the BUAV (a British organization that fights animal experimentation) as being cruelty free. The laundry detergent is supposed to work as well as the regular stuff, and it's appropriate for hand-washing as well. It comes in Lavender, Vanilla, Paris Rain, Pure Grass, and Beach Days scents.
Aquarium Backsplash or So, You've Always Wanted a Fish Tank Behind the Stove...
We've mentioned the aquarium sink, but how about an aquarium backsplash in the kitchen? On this week's Kitchen Trends (a Home & Garden TV show), they mentioned the first fish tank backsplash I've heard of (or even thought about). Put out by Encore Kitchens, a company that specializes in cabinets, counters, and backsplashes, the aquarium covers the entire back wall. It works like a normal fish tank, and according to Kitchen Trends, the only requirement it comes with is a need for space behind the cabinets (in order to feed the fish). So, if you think tile backsplashes are boring, and you're looking for an interesting new focal point in the kitchen (or just like having company while you cool), give the folks at Encore Kitchens a holler.
