Yes, we capitalized the HOT in this week’s title – as we should.
It’s going to be H to the O to the T around here and we want you to be safe!
Water, Shade, SunBlock, and A/C are your friends this weekend!
In all seriousness, you should read and bookmark Natail’s “Where to Swim and Cool Off in Fresno, 2023 Edition” right now. She details 23 different local pools and water parks and has everything you need to know to keep the family cool in one place!
We just got word that the Friday Night Farmers Market in Clovis was cancelled due to the heat – so confirm before you make any plans.
Secondly, and we say this just in case, starting Friday, June 30th, 2023, the City of Fresno cooling centers will open. The four cooling centers will stay open until the temperatures drop below 100 degrees per the US National Weather Service Hanford California. These are not necessarily pools, but are places where you can go if you get too hot. They offer cold water and place to rest for you and your pets. If you need a ride, FAX will do a there and back for free.
If HOT stood for something, we’d like it to stand for Happy Occasions Together!
How’s that for positive thinking the acronyms? So this weekend, whether chilling indoors or embracing outdoor escapades, it’s time to beat the heatwave with some sizzling strategies to create some Happy Occasions Together! Are you with us?
FRIDAY EVE:
How about some nice cool Sushi and Sashimi?
What’s your Fav? We’ll offer up a few options.
Namikaze at 1134 E Champlain Dr #108, Fresno:
We recommend either the Kimona (spicy tuna, scallops, cucumber, topped with yellowtail, avocado, spicy crab salad with teriyaki sauce, tobiko) or if you really want to go way out the Surf & Turf (shrimp tempura, cucumber, carrot and pickled radish topped with seared WAGYU, fried onion, garlic, teriyaki scallion and red pepper threads). But you can’t go wrong with anything. For a really cool idea – order the Avocado Sashimi (really!)
Option #2 is Hino Oishi at 3091 E Campus Pointe Dr:
We like the Lemon Drop (eel, cucumber, avocado, topped with salmon, shrimp, lemon slices, and a spicy eel sauce) or the Hino Roll (shrimp tempura, avocado, cucumber topped with spicy crab, tempura flakes and eel).
SATURDAY MORNING:
Get out early and beat the heat. Let’s do a quick coffee and if you go with the numbers that our coffee poll suggests there’s one place to go and that’s Clash Coffee & Boba.
We want the caffeine and the cool so let’s order “The Hint of Minty Freshness“. Oreos blended with a shot or two of espresso and clashed with in house chocolate syrup and peppermint extract for that hint of minty freshness. Total Yummo, Right?
Why Mint? Nobody ever describes mint as anything warm, it’s always cool mint or refreshing mint. Go with the mint!
While the morning is still young, let’s daydream just a bit. Picture yourself sitting poolside with your Minty Freshness in one hand, your iPad reading FresYes articles in the other. Your toes dangle and swirl softly in the cool waters.
You might have the Minty Freshness, the iPad in hand too, but the stark reality might be that you are still missing something… or maybe the something isn’t the right something? Let’s find the right something – shall we?
SATURDAY AFTERNOON:
Get thee to a pool! If you don’t have your own, click Where to Swim and Cool Off in Fresno, 2023 Edition, read and go! Pack up the SPF, the pool noodles, the floaties, the towels and go!
SATURDAY EVENING:
After dinner, how about a little ice cream? It’s the 1st day of July and that means all new flavors at Ampersand! https://www.instagram.com/ampersandicecream/ One of our favorites in June was the Apricots and Goat Cheese. It’s exciting to not know what the flavors will be when you get there. Be daring, try something you’ve never tried before! It’s just a flavor. It’s not like we’re asking you to…
Next, let’s go get a real cocktail. Did you see our post on the opening of Bespoke? They are a menu-less bar that makes one of a kind cocktails. They focus on getting to know you, what you like, what mood you might be in, spirits that you like and then create something perfect for you!
SUNDAY MORNING:
Up early and get everything you need to do done before the heat ramps up. Maybe a little coffee and an old spaghetti western in the morning? Fistful of Dollars is our choice!
Sunday should be a great day to chillax. Our friends at Tap & Cellar are doing Endless Mimosas. Let’s repeat that for emphasis. E N D L E S S freakin’ M I M O S A S !
If that doesn’t get you to the Chillax stage of life, we don’t know what will.
No matter what you do, staying hydrated is the name of the game this weekend, so keep your hydroflax filled to the brim and sip it like a champion in a hydration marathon.
FRIDAY:
Celebrate America Reedley |
Flashdance at The Crest |
Johnny Rawls at Fulton 55 |
Stephen Marley @ The Tower |
SATURDAY:
SUNDAY:
2830 E Millbrae Avenue, Fresno, CA
Fabulous Hallmark Home! Corner Lot, 3 car garage and RV space! Roomy 3 bedroom and a total of 2.25 bathrooms, along with living room that includes a cozy fireplace/insert and separate family room. Built in hutch with loads of storage in the dining area, spacious kitchen with plenty of cabinet space plus pantry and the refrigerator stays! You’ll just love the ample indoor laundry room with more storage space, storage closet, counter top, utility sink, trash compactor and 1/2 bathroom convenient to your back door entry! Beautiful covered patio and low maintenance backyard with mature landscape! The location is not too far from both freeway 41 and freeway 168! Minutes from FSU.
https://www.fresyesrealty.com/property/45-596401-2830-e-millbrae-avenue-CA-93710
Ah, the 4th of July, a day for fireworks, barbecues, and proudly sporting FresYes T-shirts! These patriotic fashion statements are the real stars and stripes of any Independence Day celebration. Whether you’re rocking a shirt that says “Freedom is our jam” or “Land of the free, FresYes I be,” you’ll be the envy of the grill masters and pun enthusiasts alike. So don’t be a firecracker, show off your Fresno pride with a shirt that screams “Red, white, and FresYes!” and watch as jaws drop and laughs explode like sparklers. It’s time to declare your love for this great city while letting your fashion flag fly high!
Available in our store at
https://fresyes-market.square.site/product/fresyes-4th-of-july-shirt/43
Your Haiku of the Day:
Searing summer heat,
Escape to the shimmering pool,
Liquid cool relief.
We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
You’ve probably heard of the kitchen triangle or that the typical countertop height is 36 inches, but despite many layout standards, kitchens are not a one-size-fits-all equation. In Made to Measure, we offer a glimpse of the math that went into creating some of our favorite kitchens.
When Megan Ananian and Andrew Ginn bought their Park Slope, Brooklyn, apartment, they quickly realized their 56-square-foot kitchen was operating at minimum capacity. The 24-inch-wide dishwasher, while average size, took up valuable space that could otherwise be dedicated to extra drawers, there was barely any room for utensils, and there was a big gap between the upper cabinets and the ceiling. A renovation was inevitable.
With Ginn largely overseeing the planning and construction, the couple gutted the cramped space, adding IKEA cabinets with sleek Semihandmade fronts, a marble countertop and backsplash, and a slim spice drawer that serves as a buffer between the oven and the waterfall edge. In the illustration, below, Ananian offers a peek at some of their math, plus what they’d do differently if they had to lay it all out again.
Not getting a new oven (yet).
Raising the upper cabinets to the ceiling and shrinking the dishwasher from 24 to 18 inches wide.
In a dream world, we’d have room for pull-out trash, but this is New York City.
More pull-out drawers, or room for an appliance garage.
Figuring out what to do with the 5-inch gap next to the oven. We decided to add the spice cabinet (Andrew cut a larger IKEA cabinet base to size and then we bought an insert from Rev-a-Shelf).
The post The 5-Inch Gap Between This Kitchen’s Oven and Waterfall Edge Was a Chance for Storage appeared first on domino.
]]>Decluttering your house can pay off — in both a higher sales price and fewer days on the market. Top real estate agent Michael Russo, who sells homes 57% faster than the average agent in Warwick, Rhode Island, says a home “will definitely sell quicker and for a higher price if the house is decluttered and looking good.”
But where to start? We’ll guide you through how to declutter a house to sell.
If you’re starting to prepare your home for sale, hiring a great real estate agent is an important step to take. HomeLight data shows that top-performing agents sell homes faster and for more money than average agents.
Does decluttering and cleaning a house before selling really make a difference? Warwick says yes!
“When potential buyers are touring the house, they can better envision themselves and their possessions living there — their furniture, their belongings — which will enhance their interest and their offer amount,” he says.
One survey by Consumer Reports suggests that, as a home seller, you could see 3%-5% higher proceeds simply by decluttering and depersonalizing the space inside your home.
Here’s a list of decluttering benefits for home sellers:
If you’re overwhelmed and unsure where to start, take it room by room and try the “timer trick.” This method, favored by productivity and organization bloggers, gives you a structured chunk of time to focus solely on cleaning. Set a timer for 15 minutes, and devote the time to one step of the cleaning process. After all, anyone can do anything for 15 minutes, right? Repeat until your house is clutter-free.
Follow this 10-space checklist, and your home will be ready to sell in no time.
First impressions matter, so start at the front door. Remove and pack away out-of-season coats still hanging on the coat rack, multiple pairs of shoes, hats and gloves, and your dog’s leash. Get rid of the pile of mail and old cards sitting by the front door.
Professional organizer Andrew Mellen says that “Greeting cards with nothing more than a scribble in them have done their job — someone was thinking of you at a particular time and let you know it,” he says. “If they haven’t written anything significant, the moment has passed, and you can let go.” Sorting through some messes can take a considerable amount of time, and you might still need the dog’s leash within easy reach, so if you’re stuck here, place items in attractive storage boxes or baskets and hide them away.
If you’re pressed for time, Russo picked the kitchen and bath as the two most important rooms to declutter. “Remove all items from countertops, from on top of fridges, magnets on the front — make it look like nobody lives there,” he advises.
Toss out old, expired food, starting with the fridge and freezer and moving onto the cabinets and pantry. Throw away anything gross or mysterious. Budget 15 minutes per shelf, including time wiping down cabinet fronts and cleaning old spills.
While you’re throwing out expired foodstuffs, take a hard look at your pots and pans collection. Consider tossing any infrequently-used cooking tool, pot, pan, dish, or glass into a donation box. Tuck appliances into newly freed-up space in your cabinets, and consider bringing the toaster out for the five minutes a day that you use it.
Old magazines in the rack beside the couch, books you haven’t read in years piled haphazardly on shelves, and that old armchair with the stuffing bursting from the arms — take a hard look at your living room when it’s time to get a house ready to sell. All of these will distract from the room’s appeal.
How important is the living room? The National Association of Realtors 2023 Profile of Home Staging found that staging the living room was most important for buyers.
Start by clearing out everything that belongs in the trash or recycling bin — including old magazines or a broken lamp. If items from around the house have landed in the living room, sort them into bins color-coded by family members. Then, move them to their respective rooms.
And pack away personal photos and mementos — buyers have a hard time envisioning themselves living in a home if it’s your kid’s pictures hanging on the walls. You really need only one sofa and an accent table to indicate how to use the space. “A lot of times, we see that people just have too much furniture in the room for the size that it is,” Jeremy Kahler, a top real estate agent serving Rapid City, South Dakota, says. “Emptying that out helps it feel like a bigger area.”
In your bedroom, you want buyers to see that their bed, nightstands, and dressers will fit in the space. Making your own furniture visible can help. Clear off the bed so you’ll have somewhere to set laundry baskets, etc., while you clean. Tidy up books, tissues, and old glasses from the nightstand. Move under-bed storage out to the garage.
Sort through your clothes and donate items you haven’t worn in years. Create space in your closet, and make sure closet doors can open and shut easily. Buyers will be poking their noses behind closed doors!
Be picky about sentimental items — like your prom dress or a concert t-shirt. Mellen recommends paying close attention to these moments — namely, “the story you tell yourself” when you’re assessing whether or not to keep an item. “The story you may be telling yourself about how exciting the hunt to find it was, or how much fun you had when you were drinking cocktails with your friends are all good stories,” he says. “They just might not need to be stories you’re still telling yourself.”
In other words, if you’re holding onto an item for fear of losing a memory, let it go and trust yourself to remember the good.
According to Russo, “kitchens and baths sell houses.”
If you’re short on time, prioritize these rooms. In the bathroom, “remove all personal effects from showers, bathtubs, and vanity tops,” he says. Throw out half-empty bottles of shampoo and fold and hang up towels.
Russo says that before the pandemic, home offices weren’t as popular and could be smaller. But post-pandemic, people are still working remotely and prioritize them higher on their list. Clear away scraps of paper and books, but don’t think you have to get rid of everything.
“When it comes to decluttering, it’s okay to have your computer, your bookshelf, that shows that it’s functional and usable,” Russo says. “But you really want to keep it minimal, organized, and looking good.”
It can be hard for kids to let go of beloved toys, but now is the time to weed out broken cars and playsets, stuffed animals that are less “stuffed” than split open, and toys they’ve outgrown. Take kids’ art down from the walls and consider repainting the dark black walls your teenager begged for. Homelight’s Top Agent Insights for Fall 2022 surveyed over 1,000 top agents nationwide, and 78% of them recommended that sellers paint tired rooms.
It’s easy for the windowsills to become a catch-all storage place for keys, paperwork, discarded gloves, and more. But cleaning them off allows your windows to shine (particularly if you’ve got a great view), lets in more light, and opens up the space. If shoes are piled in the hallways or on the stairs, clear them off. It should be easy for buyers to walk through your home.
If you’ve got the time, expand your decluttering beyond the house itself. Don’t worry if you’ve been using your garage as a place to store decluttered items. “You can put items in the garage if necessary, but organize them in a way where buyers can still see that, yes, you can actually put a car in here,” Russo says. The key is to organize tools, boxes, and the lawn mower so that buyers can see that the garage is usable.
Adding a firepit, lighting, or seating can spruce up a starter home — 14% of agents in the Homelight survey recommended it. And these fixes are often cheap and add a lot to curb appeal. A new layer of mulch, some fresh flowers, and buyers may overlook some of the yard’s flaws.
While you’re at it, put in some sweat equity. Trim dead branches off trees and bushes, plant new bushes to hide unsightly fixtures like an air conditioning unit, and rake up any dead leaves.
In a seller’s market, it’s easier to sell a house full of stuff. But, as many markets across the country have shifted, it’s more important to give your home every advantage. Removing clutter helps other professionals — all of whom are helping sell your house — do their job.
It’s easier for a photographer to navigate around the house and take the best pictures to highlight its features if they’re not tripping over or moving boxes of stuff. Stagers can come in and use an empty space.
And, as Kahler reminds us, “Neutralizing your space is important because buyers need to picture themselves and their family in the home.”
Maximalists may struggle to live in a minimal home, and it can be tough to stay on top of kids who want to haul all toys to play. So remember, “It’s for a short period of time,” Kahler says. “If you get the house ready and do it well, it’ll sell in a shorter amount of time so that you can basically make the move and get back to living and decorating it the way you want.”
Still not sure where to start decluttering? A top agent can walk through your home and give you a fresh perspective. They’ll point out where small tweaks can yield big rewards, and they’ll know what buyers in your market value. HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing, trusted agent in your market who can help you declutter and sell fast. We analyze over 27 million transactions and thousands of reviews to determine which agent is best for you based on your needs.
Header Image Source: (Y-Boychenko / Depositphotos)
]]>This online community is home to 2.3 million members who are always ready to help people identify the mysterious objects they found.
The gig is simple: someone uploads a photo of whatever it is they want the name of, and the gang starts commenting under it, offering their input until, inevitably, a person shows up who knows exactly what it is.
However, even if you're not posting anything, scrolling through their solved cases feels like an interesting challenge, where you can test (and expand) your own knowledge. So we invite you to do just that!
Answer: It's a magazine rack installed upside down because people decorating Airbnb's don't know what they're doing.
Image credits: mmay_a
Answer: This setup prevents Muslims from having to lift our legs up dangerously high while trying to stick our feet in the sink one at a time. The alternative to that is we have to take a handful of water and pour it onto our feet below the sink causing the floor to get wet. Muslims also have to keep their feet clean before praying, which is obviously problematic in a bathroom where everyone pisses on the floor and walks with their shoes between the stalls and the sink, so you might see them trying to keep one shoe on while washing the other foot and then switching. It’s also why we take our shoes off before praying and use prayer rugs to avoid touching unclean things while praying.
Image credits: atomicdragon136
Answer: They look like silkworm cocoons.
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Answer: Steel "soap" bar. Removes odors like onion from ur hands when u wash with it by just adding a strong steel odor on top.
Image credits: inzombiac
Answer: It's a place to rest your beer while you play cards.
Image credits: One_Has_Lepers
Answer: A Himalayan Calendar. The outer ring as 12 balls, each corresponding to a month. The next two rings have a tens and ones digit. The tens has three balls for up to the 31st, and the next has nine balls, for 0 to 9. And then four rings for the year, up to 9999.
Image credits: Oxfordcommapreacher
Answer: Micro plastic particles. Probably to show how Nike helps to clean up our planet. Greenwashing at best.
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Answer: Looks like a page spreader for reading. Point end goes into the spine and thumb in hole so you can one hand books easy.
Image credits: Karljoneill
Answer: Cabbage sliced for making sauerkraut.
Image credits: Interesting_Usual882
Answer: It's whale sick get it checked it could be worth thousands a kg. It's an ingredient used in high end perfumes.
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Answer: My wife says horse hoof cleaning tool, and she's a major horse gal. Also, burying an iron object within the foundation of a home was once considered good luck.
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Answer: They can be used to avoid chairs scratching your floors. So they are socks, but for chairs rather than humans.
Image credits: InevitableDevice2182
Answer: You hang weights on chains to power mechanical cuckoo clocks. One powers the clock mechanism, and the other powers the cuckoo. The weight turns gears in the mechanism as the chain drops. To wind the clock, you pull on the other end of the chain and bring the weight back up, and the same for the chain that powers the cuckoo.
Image credits: reddit.com
Answer: Probably a horse. The bottom is the sire and dam.
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Answer: It's a butter curler, for making fancy bits of butter.
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Answer: Terra cotta sugar saver. You put it in with your brown sugar to keep it from clumping or drying out in storage.
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Answer: It's actually a purse. There's space in there for some coins for bus/cab fare, some powder makeup (behind the little door), and calling cards.
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Answer: It's an early 19th C Gaslamp. The gas is piped up the pole, and a copper pipe would have extended into the glass lamp house, which fitted into the hoop.
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Answer: HPDFCU Ultrasonic Animal Deterrent.
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Answer: It’s a lamp. It’s literally an oil lamp, to be used to create light. The wick goes in the spout. The oil goes in the belly. You light the wick and a flame will burn on the end of the spout like a little candle, and you can carry your lantern around with you.
Image credits: FlaxxtotheMaxx
Answer: Telephone dialer. You put the ball end in the desired number of the phone dial instead of your finger tip and used it to turn the dial.
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Answer: Anti-wolf collar for sheepdogs.
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Answer: These are pretty much radiators that were filled with embers and/or hot stones when needed.
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Answer: This is a mushroom growing in the ceiling and is likely the result of water damage from the floor above.
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Answer: A cigarette lighter.
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Answer: A vintage spoon pendant used for illegal substances.
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Answer: It is a cold box.
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Answer: It is a spoon designed to separate the fat from the sauce, called "cuillère dégraisseuse".
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Answer: Boards that keep stray dogs from peeing on the door.
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Answer: It’s for the manufacturing of the product so that it can be turned while standing up.
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Answer: Your mechanic is gonna want that back. It’s part of a lift.
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Answer: "Black Money Scam". It's construction paper or similar, he was scammed to believe it was currency dyed to be smuggled and could be restored.
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Answer: Linen press.
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Answer: It's a container for keeping herbs fresh in your refrigerator.
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Answer: It is a Vasculum, a sturdy collection container used by botanists on field excursions in which plant specimens can be collected without damaging them.
Image credits: Valuable-Camera-7107
Answer: It’s a diver rescue marker, for ocean rescue. You release it to dye the water around you and even at night a blacklight can light it up.
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Answer: Part of an old telephone. The bell is for incoming calls. The crank is to buzz the operator to connect you to the other party.
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Answer: It's a chair, howdah style.
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Answer: Immersion heater. The metal piece goes into a cup of water and heats it.
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Answer: YVW Water Watchers! Initiative to remind children to conserve water when possible. This is insanely clever. The Hawthorne effect is when people behave differently when they know or feel like they’re being watched—choosing a healthier meal at lunch with your fit friends, or being more productive at work when you sit near the boss’s office.
Image credits: Johanso
Answer: It's a "claw" to help pull in fishing nets.
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Answer: An old Beltone type hearing aid. There's a transistor in the tie clip, and it plugs into a cord for the hearing aid.
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Answer: Carpenter Bee traps.
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Answer: This is a ULV mosquito adulticiding fogger.
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Answer: Old septic tank.
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Answer: Looks like the membrane from a kazoo.
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Answer: Wow, that's a blast from the past. It's for write protecting a 5.25" floppy disk.
It’s for making a single sided disk double sided.
Image credits: R_McN
Answer: Mirror guy here, there are lots of things related to the adhesive that can pull off or degrade the silver backing, including: forceful detachment of the adhesive which pulls off the silver, using an acid curing adhesive instead of a neutral curing adhesive, putting the adhesive onto unpainted Sheetrock which screws up the curing process, or drawing a closed shape with the adhesive so air gets trapped in it when the mirror is pressed against the wall.
Image credits: AdamCohn
Answer: Obfuscation pattern, it's there to hide info or keep people from trying to read through an envelope and look at personal information.
Image credits: 1nesandzer0s
Answer: Worked at a Ponderosa back in my teens as a line cook and we had one of these. When an order was up we would press a button on a box and it would light up a number, so a server would know their order was ready for a table.
Image credits: Gusto74
Answer: It's a perfume diffuser. You can spray your perfume on it, and it will absorb it and release the smell into the air.
Image credits: Solve-Problems
Answer: This is just a scientific specimen cabinet, which could be used for anything from geology to lepidopterology.
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Answer: It's a button hook.
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Answer: An oil lamp.
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Answer: A wash tamper or "wasstamper" in Dutch.
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Answer: A leather fishing belt. You can put the end of the fishing rod in the hole for support.
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Answer: It's for transporting racing pigeons.
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Answer: It is a space for a wireless pod that tracks your running workout called Nike+ sensor.
Image credits: Zyloph
Answer: This is used to measure the height of the net in tennis.
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Answer: It’s for drafting. It’s an eraser shield.
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Answer: It’s a baler! The metal bands have small metal prongs protitruding, they pick up the hay. The corkscrew in the back moves it into the baling chamber, where a ram compresses it into a bale, after that it’s tied together and pushed out of the machine.
Image credits: only1jellybeanz
Answer: Chicken steamer, it's used to add humidity to the house.
Image credits: uberCalifornia
Answer: It’s an avocado slicer. You cut the avocado in half and seed it, then scoop out slices.
Image credits: Whatsername868
Answer: This happens a lot in seawater. You see it in the beach all the time as a thick brownish foam. Basically, as marine creatures and so on (especially algae) decompose after death their bodies break down into various components. One of the processes is called saponification and basically converts fats into soap (fun fact, the same thing can happen to un-preserved humans). This coats the sand, gravel, rocks etc and then it is stirred up into foam by the water and (usually) high winds. On the beach it’s usually a mix of these animal byproducts, sand and other contaminants, it’s likely similar here but with less sand. In a canal it is likely stirred up by the wake of watercraft.
Image credits: hamo804
Answer: It's a window breaker for car windows.
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Answer: It's for holding books.
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Answer: Hydraulic fluid reservoir for a military vehicle, possibly a hercules.
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Answer: It’s a sensor to turn the heated sidewalk on and off.
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Answer: It’s a comb hammer for dressing stone.
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Answer: I think the dowel was put into a shelf slot after the fact to possibly make this into a paper towel holder. I say breadbox.
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Answer: It's a back support.
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Answer: An old blade honer/sharpener.
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Answer: A rotisserie clamp.
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Answer: Knife rests.
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Answer: A tick removal tool. It's called a "tick twister".
Image credits: Repulsive-Wear8696
Answer: It's a tooth pick in a design patented in 1881.
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Answer: It's a vintage police restraint chain called "chain nipper".
Image credits: Mrandres21
Answer: It's a phone “booth.” At one point it likely held a phone (likely a payphone). You could stand it in, have your call, and not be in the middle of the hallway.
Image credits: Major-tomm
Answer: It's a dry water massage bed. A person lays inside and water pummels them.
Image credits: Wraldpyk
Answer: A hanger cover. It's to prevent suits or similar from getting a crease when hanging on a hanger with sharp angles.
Image credits: ellanaKG
Answer: Guide rails for keeping a derailed car from getting too off center.
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Answer: A display for hats.
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Answer: A pull pin from a fire extinguisher.
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Answer: They're measuring wifi strength and saturation as part of MLB's deal with Extreme Networks.
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Answer: It's a temperature sensor for a humidifier.
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Answer: It’s for laptop/tablet storage while charging.
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Answer: It’s a badger gate.
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Answer: It's part of a cream separator for milk.
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Answer: A wagon brake.
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Answer: This is a seafood or cocktail fork.
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Answer: It is a phone holder.
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Answer: Basically there are huge underground tunnels that take water to the power plants, these gates shut the water to them.
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Answer: These are old kilns.
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Answer: Looks like a it’s maybe a flagpole finial, possibly 19th century or early twentieth.
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Answer: Chef's hat.
Image credits: reddit.com
Answer: They are granaries, for corn and grain.
Image credits: ProperNomenclature
Answer: It’s a home observatory. The telescope inside doesn’t have to be particularly big, but chances are if they spent the money on the dome they have a pretty nice scope.
Image credits: jlol8452
Answer: Saildrone.
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Answer: Sonde device to measure pipe blockage / delineation using acoustic waves.
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Answer: It's one of a pair of "rattlesnake eggs". You hold them separated slightly in your hand, and toss them up in the air, and they make a cool noise when they magnetize together. That's about it.
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Answer: These are Japanese folding screen weights.
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Answer: It’s a keyboard key remover. It’s to help install custom keys but if it didn’t come with any custom keys, they probably gave it to you to help you remove all the keys to make cleaning easier.
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Answer: They are anti theft strips and will sound the alarm if you try to pass the detectors at the door when not having paid the item.
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Answer: It’s a core plug for a large roll of paper. You take them out when you load them onto a cutting machine to make smaller rolls like adding machine tapes or toilet paper rolls.
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Answer: It’s part of a magic kit where the magician “guesses” someone’s number… should be like 6 of them with various numbers on them…
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Answer: It’s a spoon rest for cooking so your counter top doesn’t get dirty. Can hold multiple utensils at once. Easy to wash and clean.
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Answer: That is a paddle designed to swat back a small ball 'a hornet' in the traditional swiss sport or hornussen.
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Answer: It is an outrigger for trolling. you attach a long line to it and this carries it out away from the side of the boat so you can put out two long lines at once. Used for tuna and swordfish in the gulf stream.
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Answer: It's a fishing net float.
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Answer: A waterproof bathroom mirror TV.
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Answer: It is an Eruv.
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Answer: A vintage craftsman wet wheel sharpening stone tool.
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Answer: A holder for moth balls, called "mortemoth".
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Answer: It’s a manual massage roller ball.
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Answer: It's a foldable flying disk.
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Answer: It's a vintage “Midget” folding garment hanger.
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Answer: The month and year of manufacture. It’s a permanent dent made in the tool steel of the injection molding tooling, so the most recent dent is the birth date of the wheel arch.
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Answer: A Hoosier flour sifter. The flour is contained in a box above or in this case - the conical bag and you crank out what you need below.
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Answer: A ball mill. Similar in concept to a rock tumbler, but used by industry to powderize or smooth materials.
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Answer: To hold bottles up, so they don't fall out of the door.
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Answer: A Remfly Perimeter Trip Alarm.
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Answer: It's a lazy dog. A small bomb dropped in large numbers. No explosives in it.
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Answer: These are tiny mock versions of what they used to use on riversides to stop erosion. Now they're mostly just decorations or hashi holders (chopstiick holders, but they have much smaller ones - i have some in my cuppard) so your food-covered hashi doesn't touch the table. They were called Takejakago.
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Answer: Mk 25 marine location marker.
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Answer: It’s a pull chain and hanging bracket for a solid door bell.
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Answer: It's a hose holder that prevents tangling.
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Answer: Fidget toy.
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Answer: It's an infrared based occupancy sensor. The TV controller is outputting an infrared signal activating the sensor. Source: husband who is an electrical engineer.
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Answer: Snack plate. Circle is for a cup to rest in.
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Answer: Canopy covers for glider cockpits.
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Answer: It’s a pog slammer.
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Answer: It’s for ties.
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Answer: An inflatable cushion for securing cargo.
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Answer: A South African Knobkerrie.
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Answer: It's a type of WAP for the hotel staff called AT&T Staff Alert.
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Answer: Cell phone holder for the car vent.
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Answer: It’s an old style attachment for a child seat.
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Answer: It's a paperweight.
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Answer: I think it's actually to evenly distribute the coffee rather than tamp it, the tamper would be used after this thing and has a flat bottom.
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“I’ve actually seen porches pulling away from houses,” corroborates Danny Freeman, a top-selling real estate agent in Memphis.
“I’ve seen inch-wide cracks in sheetrock internally, and when you’re to that point, you’ve got to have major home foundation repair work done.”
Unfortunately, the charm of the Leaning Tower of Pisa won’t translate to your home sale. A sinking or damaged foundation is more likely to receive crickets than foot traffic. So if you’ve chosen to invest in foundation repairs rather than drop your asking price, then we’re here to guide you through your options.
Thinking about selling soon? We’d be happy to introduce you to a few top local real estate agents. Our service is 100% free, with no catch. Agents don’t pay us to be listed, so you get the best match.
If you’re not an engineer or construction professional, you’re likely wondering how to know if your house has foundation issues. Freeman points homeowners to the exterior of their homes.
The easiest foundation issue to spot is cracking around the footing or the base of the exterior of the structure; if you see a diagonal crack in the brick, you want to call in a professional to evaluate your foundation. While exterior cracks may be the most common and visible sign that you need to look into home foundation repair, there are a number of red flags that something’s off-kilter with your house.
Here we’ve compiled the key indicators of foundation problems that should be on every homeowner’s radar from the Foundation Repair Network, a one-stop resource for education and resources regarding foundation repair, and HD Foundations, Inc., a foundation repair company with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and locations across Texas:
Freeman shares that the majority of foundation issues with newer houses built on concrete slabs will manifest around the outer edges of the home’s exterior. Older homes with conventional foundations will often exhibit signs of foundation problems inside—this is where you’ll see cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors—because the foundation was blocked up with a crawl space beneath. Cracked floor joists are another common issue.
While these are signs that your foundation may be compromised, knowing the most common foundation issues and their fixes will get you on your way to repair.
The foundation issues Freeman sees most often are due to water damage from “water not being diverted away from the house.”
Missing or poorly constructed gutters can cause water to pool around the foundation, causing it to crack and lose integrity. If left untreated, a water-damaged foundation can lead to major structural damage on both the inside and outside of your home.
When a buyer orders a home inspection, the inspector will be looking for key indicators of foundation issues. Specifically, a home inspector will check to see that the house is level across its windows, doors, and the sides of the home.
The base or footing of the home will be inspected for signs of cracks or sinking. Earth Contact Products, a foundation repair product company with over 20 years in the industry and an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau, shares a few of the most common foundation issues with their causes and the fixes:
Foundation settlement and sinking
Caused by: Soil changes beneath the foundation
Necessary fix: Installation of piers and brackets to secure and support foundation from further settling.
Foundation crumbling, chipping or flaking
Caused by: Weather and water exposure lead to the deterioration of the concrete and masonry comprising the foundation.
Necessary fix: Depending on the cause of deterioration, crumbling or flaking foundations are fixed by eliminating the causes—fixing malfunctioning downspouts and gutters, making sure there is adequate drainage in and around the foundation, crack injections, creating vapor barriers, and encapsulating crawl spaces.
Floor, wall, or ceiling cracks
Caused by: Cracks are a sign that something is amiss with the foundation, which can be settling, sinking or shifting.
Necessary fix: Minor cracks can be repaired using crack injection, but major cracks or those continuing to grow are signs of a more serious foundation issue; a foundation repair professional will determine the cause of the failing foundation and provide recommendations for repair (often the installation of piers to brace and support the foundation).
Uneven or sloping floors
Caused by: Soil changes causing a foundation to sink or settle.
Necessary fix: To fix sloping floors, the foundation issue must be located and corrected, often by the use of piers to brace and support the foundation (thereby correcting the uneven floors).
Door and window problems
Caused by: Separating, sticking, and cracking doors, windows, and frames are a sign that there is a foundation issue.
Necessary fix: Once a foundation repair professional locates the foundation issue, the fix will likely involve installing piers and anchors to brace and support the foundation.
Selling your house soon? Connect with a top agent near you to get an expert opinion on how much your house will sell for, what to fix before listing, and the latest local housing market trends.
Before getting on the phone, make sure you’re ready to vet the right home foundation repair professional for the job.
The Foundation Repair Network suggests that homeowners get three licensed contractors to assess their foundation and submit proposals.
Homeowners should try to educate themselves as much as possible about foundation repair so they can understand what the issues are and what the contractors are proposing. The Foundation Repair Network offers some quick pointers for hiring a home foundation repair contractor:
With such an important job, you might think that foundation repair takes weeks to tackle, but the reality is much different. “Usually they can have the work done in less than a week,” says Freeman, but “they may be 30 days out before they can get to you.”
If you suspect your foundation has issues, it’s better to take care of it before listing your home on the market in case there are delays that could run up your days on market if you jump the gun.
And if you’ve already listed your home, Freeman says to address the issues on the front end. Have a structural engineer come out and assess the damage—you can share these findings with potential buyers, as well as when and what is being done to remediate the problem. Having a plan and everything out in the open makes buyers more confident making an offer on your home.
If you’ve found signs of foundation damage in your home, you may have a lightbulb moment, reminding you that you have insurance coverage for things like this. Well, probably not, and here’s why.
Insurance policies typically only cover damage caused by a direct event, such as a broken pipe flooding the home. Edens Structural Solutions, a foundation repair product company with over 35 years in the industry, states that “as a general rule, your home insurance won’t help cover general foundation repair.”
However, it never hurts to put a call into your agent to find out if your home insurance policy will cover anything related to your foundation issues. Edens recommends starting the conversation with your agent by asking the following questions:
1. Do they cover the repair of small cracks?
2. What foundational repair methods do they cover? And to what extent will insurance cover the costs?
3. What has to cause the foundation damage for insurance to step in?
If you’ve discovered signs of foundation issues, your first call should be for a reputable structural engineer to come out and evaluate the extent of the damage. Most structural engineers are familiar with which insurance companies cover the costs associated with foundation repair and can point you in the right direction.
Get an all-cash, no-obligation offer through HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform whenever you’re ready. Receive your offer quickly and close in as little as 10 days. No showings, no repairs, no open houses.
Before you panic, you should know that a foundation issue doesn’t always translate into exorbitant repair costs—the only way you’ll know is if you contact a professional to inspect the damage.
Depending on the issue, foundation repair can cost anywhere from $300 to $30,000; it depends on what’s going on and how to remediate the problem.
Home Advisor lists the national average for foundation repair in 2018 as $4,061, with the low end running $450 (minor repairs like filling cracks) and the high end of repair work costing $11,500 (significant repairs such as installing hydraulic piers).
The Foundation Repair Network provides the following estimates for foundation repairs:
In addition to repairs, the Foundation Repair Network shares associated costs that homeowners should take into account:
Finding out that you’re in need of home foundation repair doesn’t have to throw you into a panic or automatically doom the sale of your home. Acquaint yourself with signs your foundation may be losing integrity and seek out a professional opinion. Educating yourself about foundation repairs will make the process of hiring a reputable contractor much more manageable and get you well on your way to a foundation fix!
]]>A picture of something before and after the magical touch of a sponge, a cloth, or even a power washer if need be, allows you to fully appreciate the difference and the hard work it took to reach it. That might be one of the reasons people tend to share the images of their hard work with others, and today we’ve gathered some of their best examples on this list for you to view. Scroll down to find the before and after pictures, but browse them at your own risk as they might make you want to start a major clean-up mission.
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I donated 55 trash bags full of stuff and threw away 12 cubic feet of garbage. I can park my car in there for the first time in a year.
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Just soaked in white vinegar overnight like I’ve seen others do. Man, I feel so gross posting this but I honestly had no idea how bad they were. Moved into this apartment about 6 months ago. My bathroom faucet was spraying water so I started with that one, but didn’t take photos. My kitchen sink was by far the worst. What even is this gunk, it doesn’t seem like just hard water. I clean the sinks often and just use the tap to fill my Brita and pots for the most part.
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The Closets Symposium will educate designers, fabricators, retailers, and installers on the most current design, marketing, and business topics relevant to industry professionals seeking to profit from this growing and exciting market niche.
The symposium will occur in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The full-day agenda includes:
How to Use Social Media Influencers | 9:05–9:55 am
Strategies on how to use social media influencers to build your brand.
Presenters:
Carlissa Montoya, CM Closet Design: Carlissa Montoya is the spirit and expertise behind CM Closet Design. In 2020, Montoya launched, with her husband, EncoreGarage San Antonio. EncoreGarage San Antonio specializes in transforming residential garages into clean, organized, and functional spaces. Services include premium Polyurea floor coatings, Garage-Grade cabinetry, and innovative organizer systems. Montoya is a member of the Association of Closet & Storage Professionals (ACSP) Executive Board and is in-coming president.
Allanna Bell, Optimization Dolls: For 20 years Allanna Bell worked in retail management as a visual and store development manager. She worked as a project manager in high volume store openings for some of the top retailers using space optimizations as a planning tool to successfully place thousands of garments and accessories. This gave her the organizational skills and experience to strategically plan a functional space and ensure the success of any project. Bell launched Optimization Dolls in 2016 as a closet organization company and in 2020, Optimization Dolls became a full-service custom storage company.
Telling Your Brand Story | 10:00-10:50 am
Learn how to craft compelling stories to build awareness and attract customers.
Presenter:
Kelly Victor-Burke, Burke Architectural Millwork/Bespoke Closets & Organized Spaces: Since founding Burke Architectural Millwork in 2016 with her husband Barry, an experienced craftsman, Kelly Victor-Burke has spearheaded a team of business owners, educational partners and industry organizations in the creation and approval of the first Department of Labor registered apprenticeship in woodworking: Woodwork Manufacturing Specialist. Victor-Burke also debuted Bespoke Closets and Organized Spaces, a custom closet line with “panache,” this year.
How to Elevate Closet Design | 11:00 am–11:50 pm
Enhance designs using techniques, textures, colors, materials and more.
Presenter:
Katherin Lawry, Haven Closet Interiors: Katherin Lawry is a dynamic luxury closet designer with a natural flair for creativity and a wealth of experience in the field of closet design. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree from the prestigious Interior Designer’s Institute in Newport Beach, she has established herself as a leading figure in the industry.
Budgeting versus Forecasting | 1:05-1:55 pm
Learn to balance expenses with sales expectations to maximize profits.
Presenter:
Tim Coleman, SCE Unlimited Chicago: Tim Coleman founded his closet organization company in 1988 and ran his business for nearly 30 years. He sold his successful company in 2017 and was asked by that buyer to stay on to run the closet division, which he did for three years. In October of 2020, Coleman took the helm at SCE Unlimited in the Chicagoland area, which is owned by Installed Building Products, a publicly traded $2.5 billion company. SCE offers both Wire & Solid Systems from melamine to veneered wood, Shower Doors & Mirrors, and Bathroom hardware.
Material Trends | 2:00–2:50 pm
Presenter:
Christina Relyea, JB Cutting: Christina Relyea has over 20 years of experience at JB Cutting, Inc., a nationally preferred cabinet door, drawer, and wood component manufacturer. Relyea is passionate about examining what finishes sell in which marketplace and where to find the complementary products to make for a seamless experience for her customers. She enjoys serving two industry associations, ACSP (Association of Closet and Storage Professionals) as President, and AWFS (Association of Woodworking and Furnishing Suppliers).
Lighting Innovations | 3:00– 4:00 pm
Learn more about the latest innovations and how to apply the technology.
Panelists:
Richie DeMarco, Richelieu Hardware: Richie Demarco is Director of the US Market Development Closet Segment at Richelieu and has spent over 18 years in closets and home storage industry helping closet companies succeed. He is also a past president of ACSP.
Chris Heronemus, Rev-A-Shelf: Chris Heronemus graduated from the University of Arizona in 2009 with a degree in Education and joined Rev-a-Shelf as Western Territory Manager in 2017. With a background in Education and leadership, his career expands into several industries, including corporate training and sales. He may have been new to sales, but not the industry, as Mr. Heronemus’s father has been woodworking for over 25 years and is one of his biggest inspirations. Passionate about helping his clients specify innovative cabinet organization and LED lighting accessories, Heronemus is always amazed to see how his customers react Rev-A-Shelf’s new product releases designed to meet their needs.
Keith Clark, Hardware Resources: Keith Clark is the National Sales Specialist for Task Lighting, covering both the Kitchen-Bath-Closet and Electrical Channels. He formerly served as Task Lighting’s Product Manager for 4.5 years after its acquisition by Hardware Resources in 2018.
Scott Begin, Business Development - Closet and Home Organization, Hafele America: Scott Begin’s background includes more than 21 years in manufacturing and development, including thirteen years in the Custom Closet business before accepting a position with Häfele America Co. Over his 23 years with Häfele, Scott has held several positions, including Sales, Specification, Sales Manager, and Regional Sales Director. “Lighting and illuminating spaces have been a passion of mine from day one. During my career with Häfele, I have collaborated with hundreds of designers incorporating light into their spectacular projects. Light is the perfect complement and enhancement to every beautiful design.” Scott still enjoys practicing design skills by remodeling closets, kitchens, and bathrooms and restoring vintage homes.
Registration for the Closets Symposium includes admission to lunch, the Woodworking Network Leadership Reception after the last session, and AWFS Fair exhibit hall registration. To register for the symposium, first register for the AWFS Fair and then click on the link to "Add Symposia." See you there.
]]>Do you ever sit around and think, “man I’d love to tackle some DIY home projects this weekend but I’m not sure where to start”? Because I do. Sometimes I’m in the mood to DIY but I just don’t have the inspiration. It can be hard to know where to get started when the entire world of possibilities is open to you!
I’m here to help. I’m rounding up sixty simple, affordable, and accessible DIY home decor and home improvement projects that you can tackle this weekend. They’re all beginner-friendly, and they’re all a TON of fun!
I’m organizing the list by room, but of course most of the these can be done in any room! Just browse around and see if any of these DIY home projects speak to you, then do it in whatever room you want.
You can get supplies for pretty much all of these DIY home decor projects at the hardware store, and you can find step by step instructions at the links below.
And there you have it. SIXTY simple, affordable DIY home decor and home improvement projects that you can tackle this weekend. Can’t wait to hear what you try first – you should have plenty of inspiration to get you started with all these step by step tutorials!
The post 60 DIY Home Decor Projects You Can Tackle This Weekend appeared first on Love & Renovations.
]]>Do long summer days have you running out of ideas for how to entertain your children? Do your kids ever complain about being bored? Maybe the answer is to put them to work, because believe it or not, kids can organize!
When it comes to getting organized, children may seem like more of a liability than an asset. While kids can certainly be “contributors to the chaos,” they can also be helpful in establishing order. Of course, very young children have limited attention spans and skills, but it is all about matching the task to the child. It also helps to be very specific, with small, discrete little projects. For instance, rather than telling kids to “clean up their room,” try making a game of “let’s gather all the shoes in the house and find a place for them to live. You might also want to put on a fun song or set a timer. Additionally, offering an incentive (e.g. an ice cream, a trip to the park, etc.) can make tasks appealing and fun.
Here is a list of ideas to consider for a rainy (or steamy!) day:
Want to go even further? Why not set your kids off on a Decluttering Scavenger Hunt?
Do you think kids can organize? Do you have ideas to add to this list?
The post Kids Can Organize first appeared on The Seana Method Organizing & Productivity.]]>There, I learned that how I described certain footwear or refreshments was very different from my new Midwest neighbors. For example, when I referred to the sneakers on my feet, my neighbors replied, “Oh, tennis shoes?” Well, I don’t play tennis but okay.
Then, when I ordered some soda with my pizza at a local restaurant, the waiter looked at me quizzically? So, I got brand specific. “Diet Coke, please?” I asked. “Oh, you mean pop,” he replied. I see–soda pop is just pop here in Michigan.
Also, I can always tell someone from California. There, every multilane road is a freeway.
However, in other parts of the country, there are big differences between a parkway, highway, thruway, expressway, interstate or turnpike. And, as a native New Yorker, I never use the term freeway, even when referring to a non-toll, free highway road.
Regional slang and sayings refer to the unique words, phrases, terms and expressions that people in a particular region or locality use. History, culture and geography shape these linguistic features. They can vary significantly from one place to another.
Regional slang and sayings can include colloquialisms, idioms and dialects that are specific to a particular area. For example, saying “y’all” in the south versus “you guys” in the Northeast versus “yinz” in Pittsburgh.
The history of regional slang and sayings can be traced back to the early days of American settlement. As people migrated from different parts of the world to various regions of the United States, they brought with them their own languages, customs and traditions.
Over time, these diverse linguistic and cultural influences blended together to create unique regional dialects and linguistic features. It’s the same with regional accents.
Turns out sneakers vs tennis shoes and soda vs pop aren’t the only regional words, sayings and expressions that vary depending on where in the United States you happen to be. Like me you probably take it for granted that everyone calls gym shoes sneakers or the thing you sit on in the living room a couch or sofa.
Check out this roundup on the best sneakers (or tennis shoes) for working out.
However, as you’ll discover in this article, there are many regional terms, sayings and colloquialisms (fancy word for expressions and words) that are unique to a certain part of the United States. In some instances these are unique to a certain part of a specific state even.
Finally, there are some regional terms words and sayings that you may find synonymous like I do. For example, I use lightning bugs and fireflies interchangeably. However, people living elsewhere in the United States may not.
According to Thrillist, when you want a certain topping on ice cream, you’d better ask for “jimmies” in parts of New England whereas in other parts of the country, you’ll just ask for sprinkles. And if you want a specific kind of jimmies or sprinkles, then you should add the qualifier “chocolate” or “rainbow” to your order.
Again, soda is the fizzy drink you get in the Northeast and Midatlantic. However, in Maine, you might have to say tonic. Then, you’ll have to ask for pop in the Midwest.
In the south, everything is referred to as “Coke.” So if you wanted orange crush to drink, you would ask for orange crush coke.
Additionally, if you want to order a milkshake aka a drink made with ice cream, you’d better ask for a frappe (pronounced frap) in Massachusetts and other places in New England.
There, a milkshake is just milk with syrup. It does not include ice cream.
On the other hand, in Rhode Island, you would call a milkshake a cabinet.
Additionally, there are lots of different ways that Americans refer to a sandwich on a long, skinny roll. I mean, we’re all familiar with the sandwich shop chain Subway, but not everyone refers to those sandwiches as subs.
So, what are the most common words to describe them?
Grinder: New Englanders refer to a hot version of a sub sandwich, such as a meatball grinder.
Sub: Northeast
Hero: Northeast, except for New England
Italian sandwiches: Specific pockets of Northern New England
Hoagie: Philadelphia area including parts of New Jersey where Wawa convenience stores are popular
Po Boy: Southern states
Besides learning about tennis shoes and pop, there are other slang phrases of sayings that are unique to the Midwest. Here are a few:
Davenport: couch or sofa
Crick: creek
Bubbler: water fountain or drinking fountain. Interestingly, this seems to be unique to Wisconsin in the Midwest and Rhode Island in New England.
Garage sale: when you’re selling stuff on your lawn or driveway or in your garage. Interestingly, a small portion of Wisconsin calls these a rummage sale.
Hot dish: casserole or something you might bring to a potluck.
Front room: the parlor or formal living room in a home
Ope: midwestern version of “oops” or “excuse me.”
Check out these cute midwestern sayings on shirts and home accessories on Etsy.
Yard sale: garage sale. However, the Connecticut River valley of Massachusetts and Connecticut tend to call these outdoor sales a tag sale.
Jimmies: sprinkles to go on ice cream
Creamee: soft serve ice cream, often used in Vermont
Hoodsie: ice cream cup from Hood with chocolate on one side and vanilla on the other that you eat with a wooden stick spoon.
Wicked: most commonly associated with New England and means “very” or “extremely.” For example, “That snowstorm was wicked bad.”
Rotary: traffic circle or roundabout elsewhere in the country or world. Basically, a circle at a traffic intersection in place of traffic lights.
Ottoman: footstool or, in the New York City area, called a hassock. Basically, a place to put your feet up when you’re sitting in a chair or on the couch or sofa.
While I’ve spent most of my adult life in New York and Pennsylvania, I did live for a few years in New Jersey. Plus, where I lived in Pennsylvania was in the Philadelphia area on the border of New Jersey so I’ve picked up some New Jersey slang in that time.
Here are some uniquely New Jersey phrases and sayings.
Down the shore: going to the beach. That is, growing up on New York’s Long Island, we would go to the beach. However, if you go to the beach in New Jersey, you’re going down the shore aka the going to the Jersey Shore.
Taylor ham/Pork roll: Canadian bacon, like what McDonald’s puts on Egg McMuffins. FYI, fights break out when people call this meat product Taylor ham versus pork roll in certain parts of New Jersey. Just so you know, it’s Taylor ham in North Jersey and pork roll in Southern Jersey and at the Jersey Shore.
In addition, there is some New Jersey slang that is specific to the New York area (since North Jersey is a New York City suburb) and Philadelphia (since some parts of South Jersey are considered to be part of the Philly metro area.
For example, if there is an accident on the road and traffic is going slowly because people are looking at the accident, well, people in these two parts of New Jersey call this something very different. In the New York area, it is rubberneckers or rubbernecking, same as in New York.
However, farther south near Philadelphia, rubbernecking is called a gaper delay. As in people are gaping at the accident on the side of the road.
Also with driving, you may see a sign for a jug handle or traffic circle. The jug handle is unique to New Jersey, in that you turn right to make a left. I know, what?
The traffic circle is the same as the rotary in New England or a roundabout–a big circle in the middle of an intersection that keeps traffic moving, without using traffic lights.
Similarly, soft serve ice cream may be called that or Mister Softee or custard a la Rita’s Italian Ice. They refer to their soft serve ice cream as custard.
Find out how you can get free Rita’s custard on your birthday.
Much of the West Coast is known for its laid-back attitude and love of the outdoors. Many of the slang words and terms reflect this approach to everyday life.
Here are some of the most common expressions you might hear on the West Coast, specifically in California, and what they mean:
Hella: Means “very” or “a lot.” For example, “That concert was hella fun.”
Sluff: In Utah, to skip school or work is called “sluffing.” Other places in America might call it ditching or cutting
Gnarly: Cool or impressive. “The dude caught a gnarly wave.”
Freeway: Any high-speed roadway.
Overall, regional terms, words and sayings can be a fun way to learn about different parts of the country and the unique cultures that exist within them.
I’ve done my best to roundup the most common expressions in the regions where I have the most familiarity. Of course, if I’ve missed something or gotten something wrong, please let me know.
The post Regional Terms and Sayings: How expressions for everyday things vary in America appeared first on Real Sophisticated Consumer.
]]>By Anna Kocharian
There’s an unspoken rule that an entryway should serve as a drop-off point for all sorts of gear—shoes, coats, mail, and keys are just the start.
And while some homes have a mudroom, hall closet, or garage with dedicated storage, others lack the necessary framework for concealing clutter.
With that in mind, we turned to professional organizers for their tried-and-true tips for bringing a little more method to the madness that can be a home’s entry.
In a mudroom or entryway, function should always come first, says professional organizer Lucy Milligan Wahl, founder of LMW Edits. “You can make any system look good, but you have to create it first,” she says.
Photo: Linda Raymond/Getty Images
Everything from a home’s layout to your lifestyle and even the climate can affect the way the area is arranged.
If you live in a region where it’s always raining, having a dedicated and easy-to-reach spot for umbrellas and rain gear is important. If your family is involved in a heavy rotation of sports and music lessons, you might want to carve out a nook for the gear they’ll be toting back and forth.
Finally, think about how often you’ll be able to organize the space—and be realistic about it.
“Are you willing to put in a few minutes every day to tidy up or does it all need to be grab-and-go?” Wahl says. Once you’ve figured that out, analyze your space and make a thoughtful plan from there.
If your home is lacking a mudroom or an entryway altogether, you may have to fashion one.
“First, find a space that is a good one-stop-spot for jackets, shoes, bags, and more—a catchall on the way in and out where your family can store things and have easy access to coming and going,” says home improvement and lifestyle expert Kathryn Emery of Be the Best Home. It doesn’t need to be a huge area; all you really need is a little bit of wall space.
Carving out a kids’ zone can be a helpful way to encourage them to stay tidy—or something close to it. Emery suggests dedicating a cubby or shelf for each child, to help them form a habit of stowing their belongings the moment they walk in.
Photo: Tria Giovan/GAP Interiors
“A bench with storage drawers is great for kids, as they are low to the ground and simple to get in and out of,” she says.
Though if you’re looking for a more simple approach, wall-mounted hooks are the way to go. Be sure to install them at a height the little ones can easily reach for convenience when hanging coats and bags.
Swivel hooks, which can often feature three to five movable hooks, are a great option for maximizing a space and keeping one person’s items confined to a dedicated spot, Emery says. And if you have enough wall space, install a few of them in a row.
The Shopping List
• Oversize Hammered Metal Wall Hook, $40 at Pottery Barn
Shop more wall hooks: Amazon, Target, Wayfair
• Safavieh Damien 3-Drawer Wood Storage Unit, $250 at Walmart, $281 at Home Depot
Keys, wallets, and similarly sized items can easily get lost in the shuffle, so it’s always worth having a dedicated spot for them. “Use containers that are just large enough for the items you need,” Wahl says.
Photo: Tria Giovan/GAP Interiors
Keys can go in a small dish or tray, phones can live on a charging station, and mail can be stacked in trays, Wahl says.
Take things a step further and give each member of the family their own tray to make the process a bit more streamlined. The entry is an area that’s already filled with lots of stuff, so avoid adding anything extraneous because it will instantly become clutter.
“The area should be for the things your family uses on a daily or near-daily basis,” the organization expert says.
Shop mail and key organizers: Amazon, Target, Walmart, Wayfair
If you have more belongings than storage space in your entryway or mudroom, a freestanding cabinet can be a good solution. One that incorporates an array of useful features—think a coat rack, shoe holder, and bench—can be a great way to consolidate the basics into one neat zone.
Photo: Kilito Chan/Getty Images
The sort of cabinetry you choose to bring in can include features like a clothing rod, drawers, hooks, or shoe shelves, says certified professional organizer Schae Lewis of Mission 2 Organize. It all depends on your needs.
Play to the weaknesses of the area. If you’re lacking a designated zone for a specific category, be it shoes, coats, or bags, find a storage unit that can cater to that.
“If you are creating the space from scratch without any cabinetry, plenty of hooks and a shoe solution are crucial for this space,” Lewis says.
The Shopping List
• Vasagle 3-in-1 Coat Rack, $68 at Wayfair, from $70 at Amazon
• Godishus Wardrobe, $150 at Ikea
• 6-Tier Shoe Storage Cabinet, $45 at Amazon
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2023, Consumer Reports, Inc.
]]>We had to swap out some of our outdoor gear to make room for our stroller and other baby items, but thanks to these camper van organization ideas that I’ve developed over the years (and a bit of Tetris), everything fit in the van perfectly.
I consider an organized van to be essential to my sanity on the road. With two adults, two dogs, and now a baby, everything HAS to have a place….otherwise it quickly becomes chaos.
Here are some tips to help you take your van organization to the next level and make life on the road easier.
Before you start packing your van, measure the inside of every cabinet, drawer, and floor area where you plan to store your stuff. Start to visualize what needs to go where.
Then purchase bins that perfectly fit in these spaces in order to compartmentalize your stuff and prevent it from sliding around while you drive. Bins also make it easy to pull things in and out of the van when you are loading and unloading.
For smaller items that need to go in your overhead cabinets and drawers, like toiletries, food, and kitchen utensils, The Container Store has just about every shape and size of bin you can imagine.
For larger items, get some stackable plastic bins with lids that are the right size for your van garage. I like to lump items of the same category in my van’s gear garage bins. For instance, backpacks and hiking gear are all in one bin. Shoes are in another. Dog food in a third. This camper van organization idea will help you keep track of what goes where so you never have to search for things again!
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact storage solution for your Starlink, check out the gear boxes made by Radius Outfitters. I recently got the Radius Outfitters Starlink Storage Case which is their 5500 Gear Box with a foam insert that is perfectly cut for the Starlink Dishy and Modem.
Previously I had an Alubox that was adapted for the Starlink. The box itself was very high quality, but you really had to wrestle to get the Starlink in and out. This Radius Outfitters Starlink Storage Case makes it so much easier to store and protect my Starlink which is pretty important considering it’s how I work and access the internet on the road.
Radius Outfitters is currently running a 15% sitewide Father’s Day Sale through 6/19. Use the code DAD15 at checkout!
Read next: Get tips for getting reliable internet while you’re traveling in your van
Seems simple, but I bet 90% of us do it anyways. I know I’m still guilty of this even after all these years. Although I have my clothes pared down to what will fit in five packing cubes, once we are on the road, I realize that I still have too much.
For example, we left Salt Lake City 10 days ago, and I’m only on my second shirt. If you choose quick dry, athletic-type fabrics and solid colors that are easily matched, you can get away with a minimal number of outfits. Having fewer clothes that you can wear many times before needing to wash them makes it easier to keep your van clothes folded and tidy. Plus, it’s nice to not have an overwhelming amount of clothes in the van to have to keep organized.
Read next: Get my clothing tips for van life so you can pack efficiently
The same goes for the rest of your belongings. You don’t need to bring every toiletry you might use over the next six months. Unless you’re driving to Alaska, you should have no problem getting what you need on the road. You can even get Amazon packages in most places as you travel if you really need to restock something.
Pare down your outdoor gear so you’re packing stuff for your favorite activities that you know with confidence you will use. That paddleboard that’s been collecting dust for 2 years in your garage? That can probably stay home.
Get this free PDF that will help you pack up your van in a jiffy.
Packing cubes are a genius way to store your clothes in your van. You just need one for shirts, one for pants/shorts, one for socks, one for underwear, and one for miscellaneous items like a beanie, gloves, and a swimsuit. This helps keep your clothing organized so you aren’t searching through a duffel bag or a cabinet for a pair of socks.
This is a fairly new hack for me. I recently realized that utilizing the back of your seats is a great camper van organization idea, as it provides a place to store small things that would otherwise get easily lost in the van.
On the back of my driver’s seat, I have the Overland Gear Guy Sprinter III Seat Organizer. It’s a great place to store charging cords, dog poop bags, business cards, our baby monitor, and other things that we use regularly. It also has a secret laptop compartment which is not only good for security, but also makes it easy for me to reach my computer if I want to get a little work done while Ryan’s driving.
On my passenger seat, I have the Radius Outfitters Small Trash Tube. I’m not using it for trash though. Instead, I’m using this for my dog gear (leashes, harness, chuck it, frisbee, etc) – which we use every single day. It’s so handy having everything all in one place right by the door.
Where to store your trash is an afterthought for many people when they are building out their vans. In my first Sprinter Van, I had nowhere to store my trash because I didn’t think to plan for it. I ended up hanging my trash bag on a hook on my back door. I hated that it was always visible, and when I got a dog, it became a big no-go.
In my newest Sprinter Van, I hide away my trash cans in a cabinet so my dogs can’t get to them. However with a new baby, I didn’t want to be putting dirty diapers in my kitchen trash, so I picked up the Overland Gear Guy Spare Tire Trash Bag.
Made of heavy-duty vinyl, it’s water resistant and can be used for trash, transporting firewood, tools, or anything else that you don’t have room for inside your van. And since it sits outside the van, you don’t have to worry about any funky smells in your living space.
If you’ve run out of space in your van or things are getting cluttered, consider storing some things outside your van. I have the Owl Vans Medium Expedition box on the back of my passenger side door, and I love the added storage it provides (check out my Owl Vans review for more details).
Inside our Owl Vans storage box, we keep our hose, electrical hookups, tools, trekking poles, and even our portable gas Lavabox portable firepit (pictured below).
It’s so nice not having to store that stuff that tends to get dusty and dirty inside the van, and it really helps reduce the clutter.
Use the code ‘BEARFOOT’ to save 10% on any LavaBox.
It’s nice to have some extra pantry goods on hand for easy meal planning, but food can quickly eat up space in your living area. Instead of trying to cram canned goods, pasta, bread, cereal, chips, and other food into your cabinets, consider having a designated food bin.
We have a big bin in our van garage that has all of our food. It’s easily reachable from our van’s living area so whenever we need a snack or are prepping dinner, I just reach under there, open the lid and grab what I need.
For your food bin, I’d suggest something clear so you can see what’s in there and something that latches closed. This way if your dog gets sneaky OR a mouse ever makes its way into your van (it happens!), your food will be protected.
No matter how organized you are, you really have to stay on top of the clutter when living and traveling out of a small space. When you’re in a hurry (ie running out the door to hit the trail), it’s so easy to not put something back “where it goes.”
If you get lazy, before you know it, the van is a mess.
In order to prevent our whole organizational system from getting out of whack, we try to tidy up regularly. Then every couple of days we make a bigger effort to put things back where they belong and do some cleanup.
I hope these practical camper van organization hacks will help you maintain order in your van, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Got your own van organization tips? Share them in the comments below!
The post 8 Camper Van Organization Ideas & Smart Storage Solutions appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.
]]>Quick Facts
Square feet: 4,200
Bedrooms: 3
Offices: 2
Bathrooms: 3 plus 2 powder rooms, including one outdoors
Garage: Oversize 2-car
Amenities: Swimming pool, gym
Fireplaces: 2
Decks: 1 upper and 1 lower
Darryl Chemel and Cindy Granek were happy in Toronto, except for the traffic and noise, which seemed to get worse each year. Visiting Kelowna, they were captivated by a lone vacant lot with sweeping views of mountains, lakes and vineyards.
It was the last lot in Woodland Hills, so they bought it, and over the next year, they worked with Destination Homes and Uprise Design + Drafting to create an eclectic, functional and comfortable home—built just to their liking.
It’s apparent that this professional couple has eclectic tastes the moment you walk up to their bright orange front door. As you step inside the house, the open space immediately takes the eyes darting from one unique feature to another. First, they settle on the gas fireplace, which is encompassed in a tiled, 18-foot-tall, monolithic-style wall. These gorgeous tiles have warm browns, whites and greys running through them to create asymmetrical patterns.
A glance to the left and the kitchen area pops with splashes of colour, like the bright red quilted island stools and deep red kitchen cabinet uppers.
Look again and you’ll see a custom-made, 42-inch round kitchen table attached to a rectangular island. This works remarkably well in the room and adds a softness to the right angles. The island countertop is made of Dekton, a mixture of 20 minerals bonded to create a composite that is functional, easy to clean and beautiful.
When you look more closely at the large open-concept area, you’ll note that while everything is beautifully designed, much of it is not symmetrical. This couple loves asymmetrical patterns, and this theme repeats itself throughout the house.
“If you were to describe us, you could say we are very asymmetrical,” Cindy says. “We don’t need things to be perfectly balanced.”
This attitude is present in the asymmetrical patterns in the counters, the fireplace surrounds and the unique lighting choices. The highly asymmetrical Kuzco Cursive LED linear pendant above the island draws the eye with its unique design. The fixture above the dining room table is also asymmetrical, with a different number of lights on each end.
No matter how you look at it, this kitchen/dining area is ready for any cook or chef to create cuisine to their heart’s content. The kitchen backsplash features vertical glass tiles instead of horizontal ones. The couple decided on a BlueStar six-burner gas stove with a pot filler and a large double-door fridge/freezer by Frigidaire. Add two Miele dishwashers, a Blanco sink in the island, and another below a window on a side counter, and you have a dinner party just waiting to happen.
Heading into the butler’s pantry, you’ll see more Dekton counters, both in the pantry and in the large mudroom and laundry room, located off the garage. The pantry also has Norelco pull-out shelving, a sink and a coffee area.
Back in the great room, one can’t help but notice the 18-foot ceilings are complemented by the entire dining and living area walls, which are constructed almost entirely of glass. Five glass doors lead out to the upper deck, and each can be opened on its own or, since they are joined together, they can be folded into each other. Sixteen transom windows in the great room let even more of the great Okanagan sunshine in.
There’s more on this spacious main floor. To the right of the front entrance sits Cindy’s office, which catches the morning sun. From here, you’ll find a large closet and a powder room for guests, and snuggled away behind that colossal fireplace is the master suite, which happens to be Cindy’s favourite room.
“We end up with a gorgeous view of the lake and the sky with the L-shaped windows,” she says. “The light is amazing, especially at sunset. I love it here at that time of day. Then in the morning, we wake up to the mirrored surface of Okanagan Lake.”
The master en suite has a full soaker tub, a double-headed walk-in shower and a separate side room with a toilet and sink. Off that is the master closet complete with shelving.
As we head downstairs, it’s time to see Darryl’s favourite room. It’s not the open-concept family/entertainment room with more gorgeous Okanagan views and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. It’s not the almost-full second kitchen complete with sink, dishwasher and freezer/fridge. It’s also not the two large bedrooms with a full bathroom and steam shower sitting between them. It’s not even the downstairs fireplace, which mirrors the one upstairs, without the towering height.
It’s the electrical and mechanical rooms that Darryl loves, because this home is a techie’s dream come true.
“I have an app that does almost everything in our smart home,” Darryl explains. “I can change the temperature of the floors in each room separately. I can choose lights anywhere in the house and turn them off or on. I can open the garage door for deliveries and close it when they are done. I love that I can see who is at the door without going to the door. This smart home has it all’ from the control of the blinds, lights, security cameras and alarms, to floor and room temperature and so much more.”
After a tour of the mechanical room, we enter the home gym. It is a huge space and comes complete with Fibrematt flooring. Natural light pours through the windows and there’s another bathroom with a shower right around the corner.
On those days when work has to get done, Darryl simply walks into his lower-level office.
Hands-on from far away
When you plan to build a home in the Okanagan while living in Toronto, you may assume it will be stressful. Darryl and Cindy say there was a little stress, but for the most part, it was easy.
“We’d come out for four or five days and we’d have three to five appointments in a day,” Darryl said.
They give a simultaneous head shake when Cindy brings up the day they went to Wolseley Plumbing to pick out sinks and plumbing fixtures.
“We have 14 sinks,” Darryl says, “and we had to pick out every one of them.”
“Then there were the faucets,” Cindy adds. “Each one was accompanied by a question like what kind of finish we wanted. Near the end of picking out sinks, we just told them to pick anything, we were done!”
Darryl, the gadget-loving owner, admits that much of the stress was relieved due to their Buildertrend app. “We knew when everything was being scheduled. All the materials were listed on it, as well as the architectural drawings. If we needed information, we just went to the app.”
Asked why they chose Destination Homes as their builder, both smile.
“Travis from Destination Homes was better than great to work with,” Darryl says. “You could tell he cared. He treated our home like it was his own. He’d drop by just to check in to see how things were going.”
Describing how they found Destination Homes, Cindy says, “We went to Lakeshore to see the open house, but it was after hours. Charlotte, Travis’s partner, told us to come in anyway. They were having a little party for their subcontractors. We felt that if they treated their workers that way, we wanted that too.”
Cindy and Darryl are looking forward to warmer days when they can use their outdoor, in-ground pool.
“We’re looking forward to enjoying the Okanagan summers,” Cindy says. “And all they have to offer.”
Supplier List:
Destination Homes
Uprise Design + Drafting
ROBINSON Lighting & Bath
Coast Appliances
Folding Sliding Doors Canada Ltd.
Ply Gem
Smarttech Integration
K2 Stone
Interior Pool & Spa
Wolseley Plumbing
Story courtesy of Boulevard Magazine, a Black Press Media publication
Like Boulevard Magazine on Facebook and follow them on Instagram
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Dads are so unassuming – they do so much for others and expect so little in return. Whether they are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, big brothers, godfathers, or other father figures, Father’s Day is the one day of the year when we can show our gratitude and celebrate them. So why not choose a Father’s Day gift they might actually like and decide to use? We’ve rounded up – and categorized – an assortment of gift ideas that are sure to be appreciated and bring a smile this Father’s Day.
All of these products have been hand-selected by Team 6sqft. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these affiliate links. All prices reflect those at the time of publishing.
Gifts to help Dad relax
[TAG1] Photo courtesy of Saatva | Dad works hard every day (even on his off days) but you can help him sleep well with this comfortable mattress. It includes five pounds of ultra-premium memory foam and high-density foam layers, so it can relieve pressure points while also providing stable support for Dad’s lower back – whether he sleeps on his back, stomach, or side. In addition, the gel-infused foam is breathable to keep him cool while he sleeps. The mattress is available in firm and relaxed firm versions. Loom & Leaf Mattress (Queen) $2,395/Sale $2,070, Saatva |
[TAG2] | This bedding bundle, woven from 100 percent organic cotton with a 300-thread count, will envelop Dad in luxurious comfort. The breathable sateen set is free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, and it gets softer with each wash. The bundle includes a duvet cover, two shams, a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases. Color choices include Nightfall, Charcoal, Light Blue, Sage, Clay, Cream, White, and Windowpane. Luxury Organic Sateen Bedding Bundle, $169 (Queen) at Quince |
[TAG3] | If Dad prefers Bamboo sheets, these are made of 100 percent Viscose from Bamboo (and Oprah called them the softest sheets ever). The breathable and moisture-wicking fabric feels cooler than cotton sheets, to help Dad sleep comfortably. The sheets are available in both regular and deep pocket sizes and in light grey, white, driftwood, charcoal, and oat. Bamboo Sheet Set(Queen), Cozy Earth, $389/Sale $311 |
[TAG4] | Dad will feel like he’s at a resort hotel while sleeping underneath this hotel-quality down feather comforter. The baffle-box construction is designed to have an even thickness throughout, so the comforter is free from lumps and cold spots. The breathable material is soft and fluffy, as well as leak-proof, and can be used in any season. California Design Den European Down All-Season Comforter, $299.99, Amazon |
[TAG5] | Dads who have problems falling asleep may find relief with this weighted blanket. It’s a cooling weighted blanket – made of 100 percent premium cooling lyocell – so he can sleep comfortably even during the hottest nights. The blanket is breathable and moisture-wicking, in addition to being silky-soft. It contains glass beads to promote relaxation for a stress-free and deeper level of sleep. Color choices are plentiful and include classic grey, cerulean blue, forest green, and cocoa. Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket, $200 (15lbs) at Gravity |
[TAG6] | Most Dads keep an eagle eye on the thermostat to avoid paying higher energy bills, but with this tower fan, they can remain cool without adjusting the AC. The fan has a brushless motor and is powerful, yet lightweight and silent. Dad can use it in a stationary position, but the tower also oscillates 120 degrees, and in auto mode, it’s smart enough to adjust the fan speed based on the ambient temperature. There are four modes and 12 speeds on the fan. Dreo Pilot Max Tower Fan, $129.99, Amazon |
[TAG7] | Good luck dragging Dad to a spa, but these towels are made of 40 percent Viscose from Bamboo and 60 percent cotton, so they provide a spa experience every time he steps out of the shower. The ultra-absorbent set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and four washcloths, and is available in light grey, charcoal, white, and crème. Classic Bath Bundle, $165, Cozy Earth |
[TAG8] | Help Dad soothe those aching muscles with this premium percussion massage gun. It can relieve pain and stiffness while reducing tension and helping him sleep better. The massage gun has four attachments: a dampener for tender areas or to use close to bones, a standard ball that can be used anywhere, a thumb for lower back use and trigger point therapy, and a micro-point that’s designed to help improve circulation. The cordless massage gun(which uses fast USB-C charging) has an ergonomic grip and is easy to use on his back, neck, hip, hands, feet, or anywhere else. It has a customizable speed range and easy one-button controls. And, the massage gun can be used with the Therabody Smart App for preset routines and other helpful content. Theragun Prime Percussion Massage Gun, $349/Sale $279 at Amazon |
[TAG9] | Another gift idea to help Dad relax is this pillow with Celliant fiber technology, which can promote longer, deeper sleep and help his body recover quickly from everyday physical stress. The pillow is reversible: one side has softly tufted-down alternative fiber pockets, and the other side is made of temperature-neutral memory foam. Recovery SoftCell Select Pillow, $190, PureCare |
Gifts for Dads who are always in the kitchen
[TAG10] | If Dad likes to experiment with coffee, he’ll love these Hawaii coffee varieties. The storybook gift box includes 4 ounces of Maui Mokka: medium dark with natural chocolate flavors along with roasted walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rose; 4 ounces of Kona Peaberry: medium light with honeysuckle, caramel, black cherry, and plum flavors; and 4 ounces of Kona Laurina, which is naturally low in caffeine and has a dense fruity flavor). The box also includes five single-serve Hawaii packets, a classic Espresso Bites bar, and a lip balm made of 100 percent Hawaii coffee and organic oils. Coffee Roasters Storybook Collection, $125 at Big Island Coffee Roasters |
[TAG11] | With this one countertop appliance, Dad can make Belgian waffles, pancakes and sausage links, eggs, roast beef and Swiss cheese paninis, grilled lobster tails, garlic and rosemary strip steaks, hamburgers, grilled veggies, and more. The grill-griddle-waffle maker has swappable, cast aluminum nonstick plates and a double cooking surface (it can open flat or the top cover can lock in four different height positions for variable contact with your food). Dad can use various configurations (like grill on one side, griddle on the other side) and the dual zone heating provides independent temperature controls for each side of the plate. The appliance has a maximum temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is available in three colors (black, blue haze, and cloud cream). The plates are also dishwasher safe. Elite Multi Grill, Griddle, and Waffle Maker, $429 at GreenPan |
[TAG12] | Dad will enjoy making his own espresso beverages with this fancy, yet simple-to-operate espresso machine. It has a built-in grinder with eight grind settings, so he can make freshly-ground coffee for a single or double espresso. The active temperature control ensures that the right temperature is used for different types of coffee beans. There’s also a professional steam wand so Dad can create latte art and a separate water spout when he wants a cup of hot water for hot chocolate or tea.| De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Espresso Machine, $699.95, Amazon |
[TAG13] | Gift Dad the essentials with this set of two skillets from Viking. Each one has a 3-ply stainless steel core that provides even heating to avoid hot spots. Also, the raised pattern is designed to ensure metal utensils don’t damage the nonstick surface. The set includes a 9.5-inch skillet and an 11-inch skillet, both of which are oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, with ergonomic handles that stay cool. The skillets are also dishwasher safe. Viking Hybrid Plus NonStick 2-piece Skillet Set, $199 at Sur la table |
[TAG14] | A high-quality wok is so versatile that Dad can use one for pretty much anything, from stir-frying to steaming to searing and beyond. The HexClad uses hybrid technology that combines stainless steel with ceramic nonstick and the laser-etched hexagonal design provides a great surface that results in even heat distribution. It can be used on electric, gas, ceramic, or induction stove tops, and is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (and also metal-utensil resistant). The lid is oven safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The wok is also dishwasher safe and available in a 12-inch and a 10-inch version. HexClad 14-inch Hybrid Stainless Steel Wok, $179 at Amazon |
[TAG15] | For Dads who love fried foods but need to eat healthier, this 5.3-quart air fryer uses 360-degree TurboAir technology to cook food more efficiently, so it is crisp and juicy. The air fryer also uses 90 percent less fat than traditional frying methods. There are 13 cooking functions, including fries, chicken, steak, shrimp, pizza, and onion rings. The air fryer can also bake cakes, make toast, and preheat food. Proscenic T22 Air Fryer, $139, Amazon |
[TAG16] | Dad will love this black, 24-piece flatware set, which is perfect for formal dining or eating leftovers. The 18/10 stainless steel and shiny PVD color finish resist corrosion, oxidation, and scratches. The modern flatware set includes six of each: knives, forks, spoons, and teaspoons. In addition to black, other color choices include silver, gold, and rose gold. Kilne 24-Piece Flatware Set, $275, Kilne |
[TAG17] | Another gift sure to bring a smile to Dad’s face is this set of four serrated steak knives. The high-carbon German steel knives have a full tang construction and a five-inch razor-sharp blade edge that is easy to grip, and comfortable to cut with. Cutluxe 4-Piece Serrated Steak Knife Set, $69.99, Amazon |
[TAG18] | Dad can make his favorite concoctions with this professional 1800-watt blender, which can blend, juice, grind, mix, and more. With a metal drive, stainless steel blades, and a 64-ounce BPA-free shatterproof jar, he won’t be replacing this countertop appliance any time soon. It’s convenient to use and has four program settings: ice crush, puree, smoothie, and clean, for making everything from soup and chili to dressings and sauces to smoothies and other beverages. And the LED timer shows the time remaining to remove any guesswork. Hamilton Beach Professional 1800 Watt Blender, $249 at Hamilton Beach Collection |
Gifts to help Dad around the house
[TAG19] | Dads love to save money, and this carpet cleaner lets them avoid calling in the pros to handle this chore. The 1300W motor and 130AW of suction power, along with the ability to maintain a water temperature of 104 degrees, all combine to pull all of the dirt out of his carpeting. There’s also a dry-only mode that produces a 167-degree breeze to dry wash carpets quickly, leaving no water behind. Attachments include an extra hose and stain remover tool for upholstery, car interiors, and carpeted stairs. Tineco Carpet One Smart Carpet Cleaner, $499/ Sale $399 at Amazon |
[TAG20] | New dads (or babysitting granddads) can relax knowing they can monitor the baby from other rooms – or even away from home – via smartphone. This baby monitor has a camera with audio, so it can be used for viewing, hearing, and talking to babies, infants, and toddlers. The camera provides a 360-degree view (and even has night vision), and the gooseneck provides flexible positioning. The smart monitor also has eight soothing mood light colors that can be intensified or dimmed – and can also serve as sleep training to help babies develop better sleep patterns. In addition, the monitor can play hi-fi lullabies and natural sounds to provide an environment that’s conducive to sleep. CHILLAX BabyMod Pro Baby Monitor, $299 at Amazon |
[TAG21] | The problem with most video doorbell cameras is that Dad can either see the top image or the bottom image. However, this dual camera provides both a top video image and a separate bottom video image, so he can see the top of the delivery driver’s head as well as the package on the ground. The camera also sends alerts before someone even rings the doorbell, and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s battery-powered and can work with Dad’s existing chime. Anker Eufy Security Video Doorbell Dual Camera, $259.99, Amazon |
[TAG22] | When Dad wants to see what’s happening anywhere on his property, this waterproof stick-up battery camera is ideal for inside the home, in the garage, or even in the backyard. It has a live view to let him view images anytime on his smartphone, tablet, or Echo device. The camera can be set on a flat surface, or it can be mounted on a wall or from the ceiling. There’s also a two-way talk option. Ring Stick Up Battery Cam, $99.99 Amazon |
[TAG23] | Air purifiers don’t have to be big, bulky, or white. Dad will appreciate this stylish, dark grey air purifier that doesn’t take up much room. In just 10 minutes, it can clean up to 180 square feet, removing dust, smoke, cooking odors, pollen, and other allergens from the air so he can breathe better. The fan is quiet, and can also be controlled remotely via the Smartmi Link app. Plus, it’s compatible with Alexa, Google, and Apple HomeKit, and includes a stylish leather carrying strap. Smartmi P1 Air Purifier, $159 at Amazon |
[TAG24] | Power out? No problem with this nifty little portable power station, which can charge Dad’s smartphone 28 times, his laptop five times, and his tablet 14 times. It can also power a light for 25 hours, or an electric fan for 7 hours (and there is also a convenient LED light on the panel, itself). He can also use it when out and about since it can charge his camera 19 times, and his drone 5 times. The device can recharge via solar panels (sold separately), but it can also be recharged via a wall outlet or even the car charger. 70mai Portable Power Station Hiker 400, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG25] | If Dad needs to power several devices and appliances during a power outage or when traveling in his RV, this portable power station has a 2160Wh capacity, allowing him to function normally for a long time. The generator provides 260 phone charges and 16 laptop charges. Since it’s battery-powered, the generator can be recharged using solar panels (sold separately), via a wall outlet, or using a car charger cable. Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station, $2,299, Amazon |
[TAG26] | Dad can keep 15 tools in his pocket with this Leatherman Curl Multitool. Instead of having to lug around a heavy toolkit, this has everything he needs. It includes pliers, wire cutters, wire strippers, knife, spring-action scissors, ruler, awl, can and bottle openers, files, bit driver, and screwdrivers. Leatherman Curl Multitool, $89.95, Amazon |
[TAG27] | The only thing better than a tool kit is a translucent one that lets Dad see what’s inside. This one also has a modular tool tray for organization and a convenient handle. The kit includes a drill/driver, 20V max Lithium-Ion battery that holds a charge for 18 months, charger, needle nose plier, tape measure, slip joint plier, hammer, utility knife, level, 32 fastening bits, 12 hex keys, 10 drill bits, and a picture hanging hardware kit. Black & Decker 20V Max Drill with Home Tool Kit, $108/Sale $89 at Amazon |
[TAG28] | Big and bulky vacuums can’t compete with this compact hand-held car vacuum cleaner that uses a USB-rechargeable battery. The high-speed handheld vacuum, which includes a multi-surface tool, and two-in-one brush nozzle, and a crevice nozzle, can clean the seats and carpet in his vehicles, and he can also use it to clean around the house since it can reach between seat cushions and pick up debris on the floor and in other spaces. The vacuum has an eco-mode and a turbo mode and can be stored and charged on the slim base. Brigii High-Speed Handheld Vacuum, $99/Sale $79 at Amazon $79 |
[TAG29] | In any season, Dad’s home can be dry and stuffy inside. This smart humidifier can cover up to 600 square feet, providing a mist that brings comfort and relief. It can mist up to 100 hours on one refill, and since the device is tall, it can mist higher. The top fill design is easy to use, and the lid can be removed with just one hand. It comes with a filter that softens hard water and reduces limescale, which results in less mineral buildup so it won’t have to be cleaned as often. The humidifier can be controlled via remote, app, or voice. Levoit OasisMist 1000S Smart Humidifier, $149 at Amazon |
[TAG30] | When Dad is fixing stuff around the house, it can be difficult to hold a light and the item in question at the same time. However, this LED Headlamp allows him to be hand-free so he can focus on the task at hand. The straps are adjustable so he can achieve a comfortable fit. And in addition to a large convex lens with a zoom mode, there are also side lights for additional light. The waterproof headlamp uses Type-C charging and has a power display to let him know how much power is remaining. (It can be used for 8 to 10 hours on a single charge). Plus, there’s a power bank function to supply power to other mobile devices. Exqulife LED Headlamp, $35 at Amazon |
Gifts for work-from-home and on-the-go Dads
[TAG31] | Dad can transport his laptop and other essentials safely (and stylishly) in this portfolio with foam-padded pockets designed to keep tech gadgets protected. The fabric is waterproof and the lining is made from recycled materials to provide eco-friendly protection, while the vegan leather trim adds a fashionable touch. The portfolio has several internal pockets and a separate pocket that can hold a 16-inch laptop. The portfolio is available in black or navy blue. Portfolio, $95 at Mujjo |
[TAG32] | There’s nothing like jerky chair movements to interrupt Dad’s workflow. However, this glass chair mat makes it easy to roll or glide on either carpet, hardwood, or tile. Since it’s made of tempered glass instead of plastic or vinyl, it’s designed to be durable (supporting up to 1,000 pounds). And the chair mat also ensures Dad’s chair doesn’t scratch or scuff up the floor. Tempered Glass Chair Mat, $189, Quartet |
[TAG33] | Dads who work from home need an ergonomic office chair and this one, which is designed for big and tall people, supports up to 330 pounds. The seat is 3.35 inches thick and the back of the chair has an S-shape that mimics the human spine. The chair can be tilted from 90 degrees for working, to 116 degrees for reading, to 126 degrees for relaxing. In addition, the lumbar support and armrest are both adjustable, and the headrest can also be adjusted up and down 3.54 inches and rotated 45 degrees. Sihoo M18 Ergonomic Office Chair, $199/Sale $169 at Amazon |
[TAG34] | Corral all of Dad’s cords with the 10-in-1 Anker 647 Charging Station, which neatly provides plenty of ports for charging numerous devices. The charger has two retractable USB-C cables, one USB-C port, one USB-A port, and six AC outlets, so it can reduce desktop or tabletop clutter. It also charges quickly–in fact, it can charge a MacBook Air in under 90 minutes. Anker 647 Charging Station, $99 at Amazon |
[TAG35] | If Dad has a MacBook and he’s using an external computer monitor, this vertical laptop holder can help him keep his laptop safely out of the way – and help him reclaim valuable desk space. The laptop holder is also a docking station and has two Thunderbolt 3 ports. In addition, there are intake and exhaust vents to keep the laptop cool while in the holder. Brydge Vertical Laptop Stand/ Docking Station, $169.99, Amazon |
[TAG36] | When Dad is traveling, it’s impractical to pack and carry an external monitor. However, this 15.6-inch portable monitor is slim and lighter than an iPad, weighing 1.7 pounds, so it fits easily in a briefcase or suitcase. The 1080p monitor has a speaker, 3.5mm audio jack, and HDMI port, and it’s ideal for use with desktops, laptops, gaming consoles, and smartphones. KYY 15.6-inch Portable Monitor, $161.49, Amazon |
[TAG37] | You can help Dad protect his new desk – or breathe new life into his old desk – with this extra-large leather desk pad, which is 49 inches by 26.5 inches. The full-grain leather feels and looks buttery soft, and has a natural cork backing. It’s available in either black or tan leather and also in smaller sizes (small, medium, medium-plus, and large). Another great desk accessory gift idea is a set of black or tan leather coasters, which can keep either hot or cold beverages from leaving water rings on Dad’s desk. Leather Desk Pad- XL, $400, Grovemade |
Fun gifts for Dad
[TAG38] | Upgrade Dad’s TV without breaking the bank. This thin profile 43-inch TV has 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Digital Plus, and includes an Alexa Voice TV Remote, so he can tune into his favorite TV show using voice commands. The TV has 3 HDMI 2.0 ports, and an HDMI 2.1 with an eARC port, as well as USB, ethernet, and Digital Optical Audio Ports. It’s also available in larger sizes: 50-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch models. Fire 43″ Omni Series 4K UHD Smart TV, $399/Sale $339, Amazon |
[TAG39] | However, Dad’s home entertainment options shouldn’t be limited to TVs. With this portable projector, he can view TV shows and movies on a blank wall, or even project videos and other images on the side of his garage. It projects 500-ANSI lumens at 720p and provides cinematic sound. The projector works with laptops, gaming consoles – pretty much anything that uses an HDMI or USB 2.0 cable, so he can stream Netflix, YouTube, and other apps. Anker Nebula Mars II Pro Projector, $549.99, Amazon |
[TAG40] | Splurge on your Dad with this pay of premium headphones. Made of real leather and microfiber, the high-fidelity headphones are designed to be comfortable for long periods of item. That’s important because he’ll never want to take these off. Focal is known for headphones that range from $1,000 to $5,000, and these were created with that same technology for an enjoyable listening experience. The headphones also have active noise canceling to block out background noise and provide clear telephone conversations. Battery life is over 30 hours, and just a 15-minute charge provides 5 hours of listening time. The headphones can also be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Focal Bathys Headphones, $799 at Amazon |
[TAG41] | When Dad wants to get around without taking the car or using public transportation, this electric cruiser bike is a great alternative. It has 26-inch puncture-resistant tires, a 350W direct drive geared motor, and can get up to 19 mph. The large battery, which has a USB charging port, is safe and easy to remove. Dad can travel up to 25 miles on one charge using pure electricity and 40 miles using pedal assist. The dual shock absorber provides a comfortable ride on any terrain, and the dual lights provide safety, while the integrated rear rack can store cargo. The bike supports 264 pounds and is available in black or white. Heybike Cityscape Electric Cruiser Bike, $649, Amazon |
[TAG42] | Whether it’s providing under cabinet lighting in the garage or adding some flair to his big screen TV, this light strip is an easy and fun way to decorate around the house. With 5.56 feet of strip light, Dad is only limited by his imagination. The lights can also be controlled by Apple and Google hubs (like Apple Home Pod, Nest Hub, and Google Home Mini. Govee LED Strip Light M1 Matter, $59 at Amazon |
[TAG43] | If your Dad grew up listening to the Rolling Stones and Jimmy Hendrix, he’ll definitely know the Marshall brand. These headphones can take him back to the good old days, with a signature sound that’s beyond impressive. Active noise canceling ensures background noise doesn’t interfere with his listening experience. The headphones provide up to 30 hours of wireless playtime with ANC and are compatible with Google Assistant. The collapsible design makes it easy to transport the headphones in the travel kit – which also includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a USB charging cable. Marshall Monitor II ANC Headphones, $284 at Amazon |
[TAG44] | If Dad is more of an earbuds guy, these wireless earbuds provide a crisp clear sound full of bass. He can use one earbud or both, and the earbuds can also connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. The hybrid ear tip design ensures the earbuds fit securely and comfortably, and the control on the earbuds is easy to operate. There’s an option to block outside noise or let it through, depending on the situation. The earbuds have a 20-hour battery life and a 10-minute charge provides 90 minutes of listening time. Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds, $149 at Amazon |
[TAG45] | This rugged speaker lets Dad listen to his favorite tunes or talk show wherever he goes. It’s portable and designed for outdoor use – in fact, it has a shockproof body and an IPX6 waterproof rating, along with a carrying strap that includes a bottle opener. Four speakers provide clear and vibrant sounds, and there’s also a built-in microphone for conference calls. There are also two passive subwoofers and a built-in power bank. The speaker has a 20-hour battery life and Dad can continue listening while charging it. Treblab HD Max Bluetooth Speaker, $118 at Amazon |
[TAG46] | Dad can drink his favorite beverages in style with this two-piece set of 14-ounce double-wall beer glasses. The glasses keep hot drinks hot (but cool to the touch) and keep cold drinks cold, without creating condensation. The glasses are made of borosilicate glass and are safe to use in the microwave and freezer, and put in the dishwasher. The double espresso cup set is another option if he prefers handles. Zwilling Double-Wall Beer Glasses, $36.93, Amazon |
[TAG47] | Dad will never get lost with this cool mirror compass. It has a globally balanced needle with jewel bearing, and sighting tools for more accurate direction taking. The adjustable declination correction also contributes so the accuracy of the compass, which has a liquid-filled capsule, sighting hole and notch, clinometer, metric UTM scales, an inch ruler, baseplate with a magnifying lens, and luminescent marking to low light conditions. It also has a detachable snap-lock lanyard with a wristlock. Suunto MC-2 G Mirror Compass, $77/Sale $72 at Amazon |
[TAG48] | Beer and snacks take on a new meeting with this bundle. It includes a Japan-made frosted beer glass, and otsumami (Japanese snacks served with beer). The snacks bundle includes smoked crackers and peanuts that are salty with a lemon flavor, Garipote spice chips (think: garlic French fries), a mix of spicy shrimp curry flavored rice crackers and peanuts, and well as several other flavorful snacks in a natural canvas tote bag. Another option is the Diamonji Ame Honpo Handmade Candy Gift Box, which includes 12 bags. The six flavors are Sakura (Cherry Blossom), Ramune, Kaki (Persimmon), Yuzu Sake, Mikan (Mandarin Orange, and Kyoyuzen Candy Mix. The Beer Glass and Otsumami Snacks Bundle, $59 at Bokksu |
[TAG49] | If you’re looking for a more affordable headphone choice, Edifier has you covered. The high-quality sound is certainly impressive and the headphones provide ambient sound awareness for the kind of noise that you need to hear, like sirens or passing cars. With a 49-hour battery life with noise cancellation off, and 33 hours with noise cancellation on, Dad can listen for a long time without worrying about recharging. In addition, the Edifier App provides customization features. Edifier W820NB Plus Headphones, $79 at Amazon |
[TAG50] | It’s a lantern. It’s a Bluetooth speaker. Dad will love this 100 percent waterproof EcoLantern that has both an emergency mode (bright flashing white and red light) and a multi-colored party light mode (actually 2 modes: synced music and relaxing color fade). The lantern has a 4400mAH power bank to charge a smartphone, action camera, or tablet. And since it’s a speaker, it can also play up to 20 hours of music and connect directly to Siri or OK Google. EcoXGear 100% Waterproof Lantern/Speaker, $99 at Amazon |
Gifts for fashionable Dads
[TAG51] | Dad can fight foot pain with these sneakers, which have lightweight EVA foam to provide a shock-absorbing cushion in every step he takes. The soles of the shoes also flex dynamically to hug and protect his heels, while the insole includes contoured dual-density foam for arch support. Color choices include mountain Ssge/white-smoke gray, indigo-white-basalt, jet black-white-fire red, jet black-citron, storm gray-black, and java brown-spice brown. The tennis shoes are available in medium and wide options and in sizes ranging from 6.5 to 14. Atom Sneakers, $160 at KURU |
[TAG52] | Even though Father’s Day is in June, it’s a perfect occasion to gift him items for cooler seasons. This stadium jacket is ideal for casual events. The unlined jacket is made of 100 percent nylon with a PU coating. In addition to a chest pocket with a snap button, there are also hand pockets on either side. The navy blue stadium jacket uses branded snap buttons and is available in sizes ranging from S to XXL. Stadium Jacket, $220 at Adsum |
[TAG53] | Denim is probably one of Dad’s favorite materials, and this denim blue shirt is made with organic cotton and washed in an enzyme that makes it soft and comfortable to wear. The shirt is actually biodegradable/compostable and includes natural dyes made from plants and minerals, so they’re non-toxic and non-allergenic. And the buttons are made with corozo, a Brazilian nut! The shirt, which is designed to look nice untucked, is available in sizes XS through XX. In addition to denim blue, it’s available in ivory and wave. Porto Shirt, $155 at Alex Crane |
[TAG54] | This midweight tech jacket can be worn alone in warmer months, or layered when the temperature drops. It has a naturally water-repellent fabric that’s treated with DWR (durable water repellent) for an advanced level of protection from the rain. The dual zipper hand and flap pockets keep Dad’s phone, gloves, keys, and other items secure. The chest phone pocket, which also zips close, has a membrane fabric that provides water protection and an opening for the internal headphone jack. The jacket is made of 85 percent nylon and 15 percent spandex. It comes in sizes ranging from SX to XXL, and is available in Viking Red, Light Grey, Iron, and Black. Midweight Tech Jacket, $188 at Ten Thousand |
[TAG55] | What Dad wouldn’t like a trench coat? Admittedly, long versions can be cumbersome, but this short trench coat is the perfect size. The all-season, waterproof-and-windproof trench coat is made from Italian cloth, and the cotton blend is also breathable. It has binded seams, and a large interior pocket that’s big enough to hold a 13” MacBook. Sizes range from XS to XXL, and color choices for the exterior and interior include Tan/Navy, Midnight/Olive, Brown Watcher Check, Charcoal/Grey, Navy/Grey, Dark Green/Stone, Black/Blue, Tan/Navy, and Forest/Cinnamon Waterproof Sherlock Trent Coat, $247 at Percival |
[TAG56] | If Dad is a photographer – or just likes various compartments to separate and transport his gear – this backpack has lined fuzzy fleece compartments for an expandable water bottle/tripod pocket, hidden passport pocket, laptop/tablet sleeve, and secure front pocket. The interior has removable cubes to protect camera equipment and other valuables. The weather-resistant bag also has an adjustable and removable chest strap, key clip, magnetic tote handles, and luggage handle-passthrough. And the expandable rolltop can be unrolled to provide extra space when he needs it. Color choices include black, Wasatch Green, Aegean Blue, Yuma Tan, Sedona Orange, and multicam Black. WANDRD PRVKE 21L Travel Backpack, $219 at Amazon |
[TAG57] | Sports-and-fitness dads will love this smartwatch that’s designed for adventures and has 97 sport modes (like running, cycling, climbing, fitness, and swimming). GPS capabilities include a single band GNSS, and it can connect up to 32 satellites at one time, and five satellite systems. The navigation feature includes a route plan with heat maps and a breadcrumb trail in real-time. Battery life is 40 hours in GPS mode and 300 hours in tour mode. The military-grade watch is designed to be durable, yet it’s ultra-thin and dressy enough to wear to work or around town. The smartwatch can also track Dad’s sleep cycle, stress phase, and recovery phase. Color choices include All Black, Ocean Blue, Forest Green, and Pearl Gold. Suunto 9 Peak Pro GPS Smartwatch, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG58] | Dad will look casually cool with this tailed 3-roll-2-button blazer, made of 97 percent cotton and 3 percent spandex. The cotton twill jacket has three patch pockets, two internal welt pockets, and a notched lapel. Garment washed with enzymes, it has a soft feel and can be machine washed in cold water. The mid-rise pants are straight through the thighs and taper below the knees. They have a waist button closure, two single-welt back pockets, and a single-welt coin pocket. Jacket sizes range from XS to XXL, and sizes for pants range from 28 to 38. Color choices are mariner navy, khaki, canteen, and light sage. Carry-On Jacket and Pants, starting at $138 at Buck Mason |
[TAG59] Photo courtesy of Able Carry | This lightweight Daybreaker 2 Backpack with a minimalist design has an easy clean shell made of Cordura ripstop nylon that is strong, abrasion-resistant, and colorfast. It has a full-length zipper, internal bottle pocket, and internal and back cushions, along with shoulder pads and an air channel for a comfortable experience. The stretch divider can house a 15.7-inch laptop (although it’s unpadded so Dad would need to keep the laptop in a sleeve). Color choices are Black and Olive Green. Another alternative is the Daily Plus Backpack, which has a laptop sleeve that fits most 16” laptops, and a tablet sleeve that can fit up to an 11” tablet. It also has a hidden bottle pocket. Both models are available in black and olive green, and the Daily Plus also comes in navy blue. Daybreaker 2 Backpack, $128 at Able Carry |
[TAG60] | A long sleeve stylish Henley can always find a home in Dad’s closet. This one is made with custom-developed 1 x 1 slub rib cotton and has flatlock seams, semi-raglan sleeves, and a self-fabric rib collar and cuffs. The athletic trim fit of the Henley pairs well with the Midweight Terry Slim Sweatpants. Both items are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL, and color choices include navy, heather grey, black, white, and British racing green. However, for the pants, there are also additional color choices, such as desert rose, fir, crimson, heather stone, and deep teal. 1×1 Slub Henley $100 at Reigning Champ |
[TAG61] | Dad’s a busy guy, and this smartwatch is designed to keep up with him. It has 100 sports modes, including running, walking, indoor walking, treadmill elliptical, outdoor cycling, rowing machine, and pool swimming. The watch is water-resistant, heat and cold-resistant, humidity and salt spray-resistant, and ice and freezing rain-resistant. It includes a blood oxygen monitor, and sleep quality monitor, and supports other functions such as an alarm, calendar, calorie tracker, email, music player, phone, and text messaging. Battery life is 20 days – 25 in saver mode. Amazfit T-Rex Ultra Smartwatch, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG62] | Dad can look stylish while dodging raindrops with this lightweight rain jacket, which goes easily from the office to the gym. It’s made of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton and has an adjustable shaped hood and hem and a 10K waterproof rating. The jacket has a fully seam-sealed interior and six bonded pockets. The interior pockets can hold devices and gear, keeping them safe from the elements. The rain jacket is available in sizes S through XXL and in two colors: total eclipse blue and thunder heather. Stormchaser Rain Jacket, $198 at Mack Weldon |
[TAG63] | For relaxing in the yard or running around town, Dad will look good in this stylish T-shirt and shorts set. This deep blue T-shirt, made of sustainably-grown linen and washed with biodegradable softeners, is heat-regulating, breathable, and antimicrobial. And since it’s preshrunk, it won’t shrink in the washing machine. Sizes range from XS to XX, and there are 13 solid and striped color choices including Dusk, Caulk, Rust, and Gold. The Bo Shorts in Overdye Dusk with drawstring, match perfectly and are available in 25 colors to mix and match. The shorts are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXX. Sun Tee, $65 and Bo Shorts, $78 at Alex Crane |
[TAG64] | These water-friendly slides can be worn literally everywhere. They’re made of a flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), which is both waterproof and oil-resistant, and a sugarcane sole. The lightweight, durable shoes also have a textured footbed, arch support, heel cupping, and comfortable double straps. Sizes range from 6 to 13, and color choices include Black, Brown/Tan, Blanc de Blanc, Aurora, Navy Sunset, and several other options. Oasis Double Up Men’s Slides, $55 at Reef |
Editor’s note: The original version of this article as published on June 6, 2022 and has since been updated.
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An eye-popping structure in Glastonbury, CT, that appears to be floating among the trees is this week’s most popular home on Realtor.com®.
The Cedar Bridge House was designed by architect Wilfred Armster and appears to hover some 50 feet above the wooded lot, anchored to a steel support structure above the garage.
Other offerings you clicked on this week include an affordable tiny home in Colorado, a retro residence in Vermont, and the former home of the Galveston Wedding Chapel in Texas.
For a full look at this week’s 10 most popular homes, keep on scrolling.
Price: $829,000
Why it’s here: This Normandy-style Tudor features many period details: casement, boxed-out windows; stone parapet walls; exposed-beam ceilings; preserved hardwood flooring; and even a window seat.
Offering five bedrooms, this petite castle was built in the 1930s. The living room comes with a stone fireplace and built-in seating.
On the market for just 11 days, the home is already pending sale.
Realtor.com
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Price: $210,000
Why it’s here: This adorable and affordable tiny home boasts a modern interior.
Built in 2021, this two-bedroom abode is part of a small-home community. Offering just 670 square feet of living space, the home is bright and airy and features many modern amenities. A floor-to-ceiling electric fireplace can be found in the combined living-dining area.
The first-floor primary bedroom has direct access to a patio. A spiral staircase leads to a second bedroom/loft area. The property is pending sale.
Realtor.com
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Price: $149,000
Why it’s here: What a deal! This modestly priced farmhouse needs some TLC, but there’s a lot of charm and character.
The three-bedroom home was built in 1878. Period details include wide-plank floors and arched ceilings. Recent updates include a new metal roof and a modernized kitchen with lots of cabinet space.
The 2.6-acre lot comes with a detached barn with a workshop. The property is pending sale.
Realtor.com
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Price: $499,000
Why it’s here: The bland exterior of this home hides a surprising log cabin interior.
The three-bedroom home was custom-built in 2015 on a 10-acre wooded parcel. The two-story living room features a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and the large windows let in plenty of natural light. Out back, there’s a hot tub.
The home is pending sale.
Realtor.com
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Price: $4,900,000
Why it’s here: This enormous, seven-bedroom estate comes with a brick-walled wine cellar, cozy bar, spa with indoor lap pool, fitness center, and home theater.
The 10,159-square-foot floor plan boasts custom millwork and six fireplaces. The wood-paneled library has a coffered ceiling, built-in bookshelves, and a fireplace with an ornate mantelpiece.
The 16-acre lot also features six garages, a carriage house with two apartments, and a tennis court.
Realtor.com
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Price: $625,000
Why it’s here: Inspired by midcentury modern style, this home was designed by architect Charles Marks.
The home was built in 1974 on a 14-acre parcel in the Green Mountain State. The bright living room is lined with windows and built-ins, and features a fireplace. The 3,000 square feet of living space includes a dining area with a raised ceiling and sliders that open to a bluestone terrace with an in-ground pool.
The primary suite has a fireplace, built-in bed, and bathroom with cedar walls. The property is pending sale.
Realtor.com
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Price: $510,000
Why it’s here: This large, log cabin comes with a matching, four-car garage.
The three-bedroom home features vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors. The great room boasts a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and the spacious kitchen comes with a curved island with seating. Two en suite bedrooms are upstairs, and the third is located on the lower level.
The 1.4-acre lot is private and wooded.
Realtor.com
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Price: $799,900
Why it’s here: This fabulous farmhouse on 6 waterfront acres overlooks the Clinch River. The spot is ideal for launching a boat, kayaking, or fishing.
The three-bedroom, 1,857-square-foot home boasts a two-story family room with a stone fireplace and a kitchen with custom cabinets. Two bedrooms are located on the main level, and the primary suite with a private balcony can be found upstairs.
Realtor.com
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Price: $799,500
Why it’s here: Here comes the chance to live at the former site of the Galveston Wedding Chapel!
While the wedding business itself is not for sale, all of the furnishings of the turnkey place are negotiable, according to the listing.
The waterfront property offers Gulf views from the top floors. The chapel is on the main level, and two bedrooms are upstairs.
The 2,211-square-foot interior also includes a formal parlor for cocktails, an elevated area for ceremonies, and an outdoor gazebo for photos.
There are also multiple terraces and patios to take in the views.
Realtor.com
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Price: $497,000
Why it’s here: The innovative Cedar Bridge House, designed by architect Wilfred Armster, appears to float among the trees.
Built in 1983, the two-bedroom residence has been on and off the market over the past three years, with an original list price of $530,000. As several calls to the listing agent have gone unreturned, we (and social media) are left wondering why this modern marvel hasn’t sold.
The unconventional, bridge-like design features 2,118 square feet of living space filled with skylights and windows. The stylish kitchen has granite counters, a wine cooler, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, according to the listing. The minimalist living room offers a sleek fireplace.
The primary bedroom includes access to one of two decks. A third deck boasts a hot tub and views of the 3-acre lot.
Realtor.com
The post Hover Home: Connecticut ‘Bridge House’ Suspended Among the Trees Is the Week’s Most Popular Home appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
]]>The Dezeen team are reporting live from the 10th edition of 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen (7-9 June). Read on for all the coverage from the first day (Wednesday 7 June)
5:30pm The Ukurant exhibition, which was founded by young designers for young designers, chose to showcase its third exhibition at 3 Days of Design in a functioning carpentry workshop on the Refshaleøen peninsula.
Here, works by 18 emerging designers from all over the world mingled with woodwork machines and raw materials.
Each contributor was chosen by Ukurant from around 200 applicants and pieces ranged from lights made from egg protein to Paperwork, an artwork and lighting design made from paper, thread, steel weights and artificial lights that was suspended from the high ceiling – Cajsa Carlson
5:00pm Le Corbusier's Lampe Cabanon and the Lampe de Bureau collection by Charotte Perriand are on show in Nemo Lighting's Copenhagen showroom during 3 Days of Design.
"Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand's lamps were conceived as absolute projects, made exclusively for the architectures for which they were designed," Nemo CEO Federico Palazzari told Dezeen.
Read more about Nemo Lighting's "abandoned" Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand lamps
4:00pm Zurich-based designer Alfredo Häberli and Max Fraser are being filmed for 3 Days of Design "Walk and Talk" series.
Community is central to the culture of design
Häberli, an established designer of furniture and products, stressed the importance of physical events post-Covid and the need "for human connection again".
He continued "we can't only exist digitally. We need interaction, to discuss and debate, to enjoy some drinks together. Community is central to the culture of design" – Max Fraser
3:30pm Dezeen events guide editor Sophie Chapman has been to see Mater's What a Waste exhibition, which explores the material cycle and presents Mater's furniture alongside how many grams of waste – predominantly coffee shells – are included in the material composition of each one.
The exhibition begins outside of the venue, with visitors invited to follow a path highlighting environmentally-related facts, reminding the visitor of the global impact of consumption.
The brand revealed it uses more than four kilograms of coffee shells in the production of their Eternity Chair model, and almost two kilograms in the Edge shelf.
What a Waste also spotlights the brand's collaboration with Arla and Holmris B8, using surplus plastic from Arla's milk cartons to make its Matek material – Sophie Chapman
2:00pm At the Conversations in Sound exhibition at 3 Days of Design, design duo GamFratesi (Stine Gam and Enrico Fratesi) spoke to Dezeen about their tactile speaker design for Bang & Olufsen and about how the festival has grown since it started a decade ago.
After Milan, 3DD is the second biggest destination for design
"We started this adventure and after ten years, it's becoming probably, after Milan, the second biggest destination for design," Fratesi told Dezeen.
"We have clients and press coming from the US, coming from the Far East; everybody that we met in Milan is basically travelling again to be in Copenhagen," Fratesi continued.
The speaker, Beosound A5, features modular covers made from paper raffia and oak lamellas.
It was presented together with a table from GamFratesi's studio featuring the different materials and components of the speaker and the design process of the project, as well as a room clad entirely in paper raffia – Cajsa Carlson
Read more about the project on Dezeen later this week.
1:00pm Danish furniture brand Fredericia has announced it has just attained B Corp certification, one of only a few furniture companies in Denmark to do so.
B Corp is the good side of capitalism
Owner Thomas Graversen explained "being a family-owned business, you feel more responsibility when you put new products into the world. For us, it was important to express this through our commitment to the stringent environmental and social principles adhered to by B Corp".
Other Danish companies awaiting B Corp certification include lighting brand Astep.
"B Corp is the good side of capitalism," Astep founder Alessandro Sarfatti told Dezeen – Max Fraser
12:00pm French designer Inga Sempé has collaborated with Kvadrat creative director Isa Glink to create a collection of fabrics that translate continuous and rhythmic lines drawn by Sempé into yarn and fabrics.
"It's not a boring grid, as if you were in jail," said Inga Sempé at Kvadrat's showroom when discussing the design of one of the fabrics that forms part of the new collection – James Parkes
11:30am Dezeen editorial director Max Fraser has caught up with 3 Days of Design co-founder Signe Byrdal Terenziani.
We are here to celebrate passionate designers, to share ideas, and explore new things
She reflected on ten years of the citywide event. "Now more and more people know and have experienced 3 Days of Design but the concept remains the same ten years on: we are here to celebrate passionate designers, to share ideas, and explore new things."
"It's not just a regular fair where you have to sell, sell, sell. The fact that you can easily walk from showroom to showroom in Copenhagen makes a difference to the experience. You wouldn't experience that in a fairground," Byrdal Terenziani continued.
11:00am Dezeen reporter James Parkes has been to see Spanish artist and designer Jaime Hayon's installation at &Tradition's headquarters-turned showroom for the launch of its Momento and Fomakami collection.
The installation comprises two spaces including a "cabinet of curiosities" and a decorative vignette (pictured above), which serves as the backdrop for the product launches.
10:30am Dezeen deputy editor Cajsa Carlson has had a sneak peak of Finnish pine furniture brand Vaarni's exhibition at Tableau and spoke with the brand's founder.
The way that we consume stuff is broken
Vaarni founder Antti Hirvonen told Dezeen "we originally started the brand with the idea that the way that we consume stuff is broken".
"We wanted to do things that actually last a hundred years."
Vaarni’s "brutal and sophisticated" furniture is juxtaposed against sculptural pieces by other artists and designers that are part of the display at multidisciplinary studio Tableau's gallery space in Copenhagen during 3 Days of Design.
The exhibition at Store Kongensgade 50 is on view from 7 to 9 June.
10:00am Also from yesterday, Dezeen editor-at-large Amy Frearson was the first journalist to see an exhibition by glassware design studio Helle Mardahl Studio for The Sensory Society and spoke to the designer.
I love being an artist as well as a designer – it's a playground and there are no limits
Mardahl's work spans lighting and homeware. Her designs are all mouth-blown glass objects and typically have a candy-like aesthetic, with bold colours and round shapes.
For 3 Days of Design Mardahl is presenting in her studio's apartment showroom. Each room has a different installation, including one designed to look like a grand dressing room, and another set up with an incredible circular bar counter.
Across the rooms new and recent products are displayed, including her Candy Series One collection, which launches today (7 June). The new products include wine glasses and her take on the perfect bowl.
In a presentation to a room of special preview guests – mostly interior designers – she said "I love mixing art and functionality; I love being an artist as well as a designer. To me, it's a playground and there are no limits".
"This year we named the exhibition The Sensory Society. We transformed this old amazing apartment into a world of imagination.
I was inspired by Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel when I implemented the colours from our newest additions to the Candy Collection, such as grapefruit, blue jelly and champagne – absolutely yummy.
9:30am Ahead of the official launch later this morning, yesterday afternoon Dezeen reporter James Parkes attended the unveiling of House of Finn Juhl's latest project, the 77 chair.
Founder Ivan Hansen (pictured above, left) described the new chair as "a piece of Lego" and named it "perhaps the brand's least iconic chair".
"You won't believe how difficult it is to make something this simple," he said.
The 77 chair is available in textile or leather upholstery (pictured) with burnished steel legs and wooden toes in oak or walnut.
9:00am Dezeen's editorial director Max Fraser, editor-at-large Amy Frearson, deputy editor Cajsa Carlson, events guide editor Sophie Chapman and junior reporter James Parkes are on the ground in Copenhagen reporting from the 10th edition of 3 Days of Design.
Dezeen Events Guide has created a 3 Days of Design guide, highlighting the key events at the festival this year.
As the 2023 event gets under way, look back at of some of our coverage from last year – including architects Frank Maali and Gemma Lalanda's "sacral feeling" steel-clad 1950s garage event space for Vipp and a translucent pavilion by Henning Larsen Architects for Fritz Hansen's 150th anniversary.
To stay up to date, follow Dezeen live: 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen, taking place from 7 to 9 June 2023. Dezeen Events Guide has created a 3 Days of Design guide, highlighting the key events at the festival. See Dezeen Events Guide for all the latest information you need to know to attend the event, as well as a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.
All times are Copenhagen time.
The lead image is by Cajsa Carlson.
The post Day one from 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>Today, we’re celebrating all of those purchases that ended up becoming life-long commitments thanks to quality and durability, pandas. We’ve taken a trip to the Buy It For Life subreddit and gathered some of our favorite pics from the community down below. From indestructible household appliances to pens that have written countless notes, enjoy viewing these purchases that were certainly worth the investments!
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We all want to make smart purchases and keep our belongings around for as long as possible, but nowadays, there’s a lot of pressure from corporations and society to keep up with the latest trends. "If you don’t have the newest phone or the fanciest earbuds, you’re missing out! Technology is advancing incredibly rapidly, so there’s no need to use things until they give up on you. Just purchase something new as soon as you have the chance! Right?" This “newer is better” mindset can be detrimental to our mental health and our wallets, so sometimes, it’s refreshing to have a reminder that taking care of things and making sure they last forever is actually very cool.
That’s where the Buy It For Life subreddit comes in. This group is dedicated to sharing “practical, durable and quality made products that are made to last,” and thankfully, many people have gotten on board with the group’s mission. The community has amassed an impressive 1.5 million members over the past 12 years, and users are incredibly active in sharing the purchases they’re most proud of. Keeping items around for life is economic, sustainable and honestly, pretty impressive, so we’re happy to showcase some of the group’s best finds.
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12 years ago, the creator of Buy It For Life shared their mission statement in the subreddit to make it clear what the group’s goals are. They explained that the community was inspired by the subreddit r/ShutUpandTakeMyMoney, which shares great purchases members have found. However, not every item shared in that group will last a lifetime, so BIFL was created “to fill a niche for only high quality and durable products.”
Today, BIFL is a thriving community which shares suggestions for a wide range of products. The group even has a “Request Series” featuring clothing (headwear, gloves, shirts, jackets, belts, underwear, pants, socks and footwear), bags (luggage and backpacks), kitchen appliances, tools (knives and flashlights), beverage containers, music players, items specifically for women, gifts, a wallet compilation and even brands that are not BIFL approved. If you’re looking to make a big purchase, it might be wise to consult this community first!
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We’re big fans of the Buy It For Life community here at Bored Panda, so it’s actually not the first time we’ve featured the group. And lucky for us, we were previously able to get in touch with one of the subreddit’s moderators, Robot_ninja_pirate, who shared how keeping the group’s goals a priority becomes tricky with so many members.
“On one hand, we want to promote sustainability and buying higher-quality products, which means buying things less often. But since we have [over a] million subscribers, it means new people are sharing new products every day,” they explained. “There are products that many people never knew existed and might then want to go out and buy. It can almost conflict with the point.”
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The moderator noted that their team has to be “quite vigilant to promote grassroots efforts from the real users sharing items with real-world use,” as advertisers often want to take advantage of the community by disguising themselves as real members.
But the group can be incredibly useful for those of us who have been impacted by inflation. “[The rise of living costs] has certainly made people become aware of their purchasing habits and what is and isn't frivolous spending as budgets get tighter,” Robot_ninja_pirate told Bored Panda.
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“However, [increased living costs] might also cause people to have to skimp on things and really evaluate what truly is BIFL and what they are just overspending on,” the moderator continued. “Channels like Project Farm, for example, do an excellent job showing where spending more money does not always mean a better product.”
Project Farm is a channel where “all sorts of things” are tested “to help viewers make informed purchasing decisions and avoid getting ripped off.”
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While BIFL is incredibly popular at the moment, Robot_ninja_pirate did admit to Bored Panda that he worries it might not last forever. He fears it might simply “[become] trendy and that people will hop on the bandwagon and then jump off when it's not as current anymore, rather than committing to the ideology. (An extreme example, but think like the miniature pig trend for a few years).”
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Apparently, the group had a huge influx of new members during the beginning of 2023, but it has started to slow down to its usual numbers in recent months. “We let our community sort of dictate the flow of the subreddit rather than us,” the moderator explained. “However, we are always looking for feedback and how we can improve the subreddit.” So if you all have any suggestions, pandas, the moderators are happy to hear them!
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In today’s world of planned obsolescence and fast fashion, it may not be trendy to hold onto your possessions forever, but it certainly is wise. Your wallet and the planet will thank you, plus vintage furniture and clothing is totally in. So if you’ve been thinking about replacing that 30-year-old dresser or you have your eye on a new car, despite the fact that yours is working just fine, you might want to reconsider. And the BIFL community will certainly welcome you with open arms!
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We hope you’re enjoying these photos of great purchases that have lasted a lifetime, pandas. If you are still using appliances or tools you bought decades ago, be sure to pat those items on the back and let us know in the comments below what they are! Remember to think in the long term when making new purchases, and if you’re looking for even more pics that will inspire you to make commitments when you buy something new, you can find Bored Panda’s last article featuring the Buy It For Life subreddit right here!
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]]>For our latest lookbook, we've picked eight interiors that are blanketed in shades of red that include an office in Belgium, a bar toilet in London and a mansion in Mexico.
The colour red is most commonly associated with activity, passion, sexuality, love and joy. In this lookbook Dezeen has highlighted ways in which interior designers and architects have used the colour in different interior settings.
Red terracotta tiles cover the interior of a home in Barcelona and red-tinted glass creates a glowy magma-like hue within the interior of a home located at the base of a volcano.
This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen's archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring terraces and balconies, marble-lined bathrooms and cave-like interiors.
Barn House, Norway, by Jon Danielsen Aarhus
Oslo based-architect Jon Danielsen Aarhus designed a gabled shed that sits on the grounds of a retired couple's home in Lillehammer, Norway, which is used for painting, sculpting, craft and as additional living space.
The entrance hall of the gabled shed was covered entirely in red, including its window frames. The colour was chosen specifically to contrast against the structure's raw timber exterior.
Find out more about Barn House ›
AEtelier office, Belgium, by Studio Anton Hendrik Denys
In Belgium, Studio Anton Hendrik Denys and Steen Architecten transformed an industrial office building and added colourful graphics and bold hues to define areas across the interior.
The kitchen-cum-bar of the office was blanketed in an orangey-red hue, including its floor, walls, ceiling, fixtures and furnishings, which signifies and zones areas of the interior without the need for partition walls.
Find out more about AEtelier office ›
Social House, Brussels, by WAW Architects
A vibrant red covers cabinet doors, drawers, floors, walls and the ceiling of a shared staff kitchen at a social services centre in Brussels, which was designed by WAW Architects.
The centre is located within a former orphanage and was converted into offices by the architecture studio. Bright hues were used throughout the interior to colour code the office space with red extending from a kitchen to an adjoining corridor.
Find out more about Social House ›
SOMA, UK, by Cake Architecture and Max Radford
Located within a basement in London's Soho, speakeasy-style bar SOMA was designed by Cake Architecture and Max Radford.
The restroom of the underground bar was painted bright red and paired with wooden fixtures and trimmings that were used to surround doorframes and recessed shelving in each of the cubicles.
House in Sant Antoni de Vilamjor, Spain, by Arquitectura-G
Red was used as a running theme across this family home on the outskirts of Barcelona. It was designed by local studio Arquitectura-G and sits directly on top of a pre-existing garage.
Red features both inside and outdoors with many materials used across the exterior similarly used to decorate the interior, such as red bricks, red corrugated panelling and clay tiles.
Find out more about House in Sant Antoni de Vilamjor ›
Collective/Collectible, Mexico, by Masa
Rich tones of red blanket the walls and floors of this abandoned mansion in the Lomas neighbourhood of Mexico City, which was used as the setting for an exhibition by gallerist Masa.
The 1970s home was decorated with furniture designed by 16 Mexico City-based designers and architects, including Esrawe, EWE Studio and Frida Escobedo. The interior features a grand staircase that was topped with a red runner.
Find out more about Collective/Collectible ›
Lookout House, US, by Faulkner Architects
Although this room has no physical red elements Lookout House was fitted with red-tinted glass that provides the interior with a glowing red hue when light penetrates through the home.
The home is located in Truckee, California at the foot of Lookout Mountain volcano. It was designed by Faulkner Architects who wanted to mimic the colour of cooling magma within the home.
Find out more about Lookout House ›
Fox Head Inc, US, by Clive Wilkinson Architects
A bright red interior was selected as a focal feature for the offices of a motocross apparel company in California. The headquarters was designed by Clive Wilkinson Architects which transformed a 7,600-square-metre warehouse into a flexible workplace.
A conference room at the headquarters was enclosed with red-tinted glass and fitted with a deep red carpet. A large white table and matching chairs, which have a bright red upholstered seat, were placed at the centre of the space.
Find out more about Fox Head Inc office ›
This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen's archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring terraces and balconies, marble-lined bathrooms and cave-like interiors.
The post Eight cherry red interiors that make colour their primary focus appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>It’s approaching my favorite time of year…Father’s Day! The time of year where I get to show off to Dan all the great stuff my wife and kids got me – just kidding! But I do love this time of year. It’s a fun opportunity to reflect on some of the great tools we have reviewed here at Tools in Action, and check out some other great stuff to include in our 2023 Father’s Day Gift Guide.
We have a great list this year. We also tried to make it easier to navigate by dividing the list up into interests. So whether you’re shopping for your dad, an uncle, a spouse shopping for your husband (or even shopping for yourself), you can jump to whatever list sounds like the person you are shopping for.
Gift ideas for dads who always “need” a new tool and their garage is their sanctuary (we know the type). Some of the tools mentioned are perfect for those doing framing for home additions, and electric and plumbing installations.
For the Dad who likes to entertain with his superb cooking and grilling abilities.
Gift ideas for the dad who takes pride in his cookouts and backyard parties, wants everyone to have a good time, and believes “the more the merrier” when inviting people over.
Gift ideas to keep his man cave sleek, organized, and a fun time for everyone he invites into his space.
Gift ideas for the dad who feels most in his element when he’s out-and-about in the great outdoors and always planning the next great adventure.
So there you have it! COMMENT to let us know which gifts you’re buying this year or adding to your wish list.
The post 2023 Father’s Day Gift Guide appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.
]]>Investing in a cardio machine for your physical and mental health comes at a very real financial cost, too. These sweat-inducing workout devices can cost a pretty penny, so the list below is meant to narrow the scope of the search. We’ve done our research and tested a wide range of machines in every category to guide you on your path and make picking the right one for you just a bit easier.
To be named the best treadmill, a company has to make a product that offers a variety of features at a reasonable price without sacrificing quality. The Sole F80 does all that and then some, making it our go-to treadmill.
Sole packed the features in when designing the F80, producing a treadmill that can make your workouts as enjoyable as they are sweaty. The treadmill features a cushioned deck which may reduce impacts by up to 40 percent when compared to running outdoors — great for long-distance running and for keeping your joints happy in general. Tech-savvy people will like the 10.1-inch touchscreen with its integrated entertainment apps, wireless charging pad, Bluetooth/WiFi capabilities, and built-in heart rate sensors.
The Sole F80 treadmill is full of modern touches. It can withstand long runs, offers an incline range up to 15 percent and speed range up to 12 mph, and has a cushioned deck that makes running 40 percent less impactful on your joints than the outdoors.
You can really challenge yourself with the F80’s 3.5 HP (horsepower) motor, as it can ramp up to a 15-percent incline and has a top speed of 12 miles per hour (MPH). The frame is rock solid with a weight capacity of 350 pounds, so it can handle a wide range of body types. When you’re finished with your workout, you can fold the treadmill up with hydraulic easy-assist folding to create space for off-treadmill workouts. The F80 retails for around $1,900, but it provides a ton of value for its cost.
The Sole F80 can fulfill most runners’ needs thanks to its durable build, high-tech features, and powerful motor. Being able to fold up and out of the way is a nice bonus as well.
Read our full review of the Sole F80 Treadmill.
If you’re in the market for an elliptical machine, you need to take a good look at the NordicTrack Commercial 14.9. It offers streaming workouts on a crisp display, is nearly silent during use, and features a sleek and stylish design.
The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9’s large 14-inch touchscreen display and high-fidelity sound system create an immersive experience for users. These features can transport you from your garage or spare room to thousands of scenic locations around the globe with a subscription to the integrated iFit app (about $39 per month after a free 30-day trial). The iFit subscription also lets you do elliptical workouts where trainers can automatically adjust your incline (up to a grade of 20 percent) and resistance levels.
This sleek elliptical offers a host of premium features like automatic adjustments, trainer-led workouts, silent magnetic resistance, and cushioned pedals for an elevated user experience. A modest footprint, strong build, and 10-year warranty mean this machine will be used for many years to come.
People up to about 6’3” tall should be fine with the stride length, which can be -adjusted using controls on the handles. The Commercial 14.9 makes use of NordicTrack’s famous silent magnetic resistance (SMR) tech for a quiet stride so you don’t wake up anyone else in the house during early morning workouts or late-night strides. You can pick this elliptical up for around $1,799 before the optional iFit membership, but NordicTrack does offer financing options, pending credit approval if the price is too much upfront.
This elliptical is packed with high-tech features and an array of automatic adjustments to aid in stride length, resistance, and incline changes. It also excels in the durability category thanks to its steel construction, making this an all-around great elliptical.
An exercise bike has to be versatile and have the ability to accommodate riders that want to stream classes as well as those who prefer to chart their own workouts. The Sole SB900 works well either way and has a ton of comfort extras to boot.
The SB900’s screen is admittedly on the small side compared to other exercise bikes. However, a smaller screen means that your wallet can stay bigger. Rather than including a screen that can jack up the price, the SB900 has a tablet holder so you can stream whatever online workout programs or content you like best. Beginners can access over 3,000 classes with the included 90-day free trial of Studio to see if they like it. While slightly basic, the three-by-four-inch LED display serves its role in providing key info about your workouts, such as RPMs, distance traveled, speed, and time elapsed.
The Sole SB900 is a durable and high quality addition to any home gym, featuring stat tracking, an adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet magnetic resistance and front wheels for easy portability. Its display is simple and you won’t find any added technological distractions within its console.
Should you be an avid cycler looking for some indoor pedaling time, you’ll be happy to learn that the pedals work with either regular trainers or clip-in cycling shoes for a more authentic riding experience. The SB900 has a sturdy construction with a steel frame, while the 48-pound flywheel provides ample resistance for even experienced riders. The SB900 is available for $899.
Though it might not have a big touchscreen display or the most advanced tech, the SB900 does what it’s intended to do and can provide seriously challenging workouts for people of all fitness levels. If you do want to stream workout classes, then the 90-day free trial of Studio will let you try it out before you commit to a subscription.
Read our full review of the Sole SB900.
A large touchscreen display and a host of high-tech features make the Hydrow Rower one of the most interactive and advanced rowing machines on the market. If you want to add rowing to your daily routine, it’s worth checking out the Hydrow Rower.
The Hydrow provides a top-notch user experience thanks to a buttery smooth electromagnetic drag mechanism that’s designed to feel like rowing water. Each stroke is virtually silent, so you can row at any time of day or night without making a ton of noise like you might with air- or water-resistance rowers. Also, the seat is ergonomic and softer than other rowers, so your muscles or lungs will probably call it quits before your behind does.
The Hydrow is a high-tech rower with a library full of live and on-demand workouts, a smooth drive and electromagnetic resistance. It’s a quiet machine and provides a great full-body workout for both beginning and advanced rowers.
With an optional monthly membership of around $44 per month, Hydrow’s app gives users access to over 4,000 live and on-demand workouts that take place both on and off of the machine. For off-machine workouts, the rower’s 22-inch HD display can pivot so you can follow the workout from wherever you work out. These features do come at a premium, as the Hydrow Rower costs about $2,495 before the membership fees. They offer financing (pending credit approval), so you can break the payment up into monthly installments.
This would be a great addition to your home gym equipment if you’re in the market for a quiet, tech-loaded rower. The interactive technology, smooth resistance, and thousands of classes ensure your rowing experience will be as enjoyable as it is exhausting.
Read our full review of the Hydrow Rower.
Smart home gyms have exploded in popularity, and there are a ton of options available on the market. But which one is the right one for you? The NordicTrack Vault is a mirror-based smart gym that has everything you need for a variety of fun and engaging workouts.
Unlike other fitness mirrors, the Vault features a self-contained equipment storage area in its “vault” — essentially a cabinet that slides open behind the 61.5- inch oversized mirror. You can purchase the Vault on its own without any equipment included. If you want the total package, you can add equipment such as a mat, towel, dumbbells, kettlebells, and resistance bands for an additional charge. On the mirror, you can work out along with any of the thousands of trainer-led iFit classes, tracking your stats, watching your form, and pacing along with the class.
The NordicTrack Vault is a high-tech smart gym that features iFit classes on a 6-foot mirror display. As you workout, you can watch your form and your trainer in the mirror and gauge your progress with on-screen stats. The Complete option comes with a closet full of dumbbells, kettlebells, bands and a yoga mat, so your gym equipment can all be stored inside the Vault.
iFit is a separate monthly subscription fee of around $39, though you do get a free 30-day trial. While the Vault functions more or less like many other smart home gyms, the added advantage of storing your entire gym setup in a well-organized cabinet is a huge perk. The Vault on its own costs around $1,499, while the complete package with equipment will run you about $1,999.
People who are building their home gym from the ground up or those who don’t have a ton of space will appreciate that everything tucks away neatly into the Vault. The design allows it to look good as a standalone fixture rather than being an obvious piece of workout equipment, while the online classes are varied and comprehensive.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack Vault.
Treadmills can be pricey, with some of them costing thousands of dollars. The Sole F63 is durable, has an adequate range of adjustments, and cost just under a grand, making it a great choice for people who want a budget treadmill without sacrificing quality.
While the Sole F63 may not seem special at first glance, it’s rich with features and budget-friendly at about $999 before tax, shipping, and optional streaming services. The streaming service that accompanies it with thousands of on-demand classes, Studio, is priced well at around $19.99 per month after a 30-day free trial. Sole didn’t skimp on the quality, however. The F63 houses a powerful 3.0 HP motor with a top speed of 12 miles per hour and is capable of inclines up to 15 degrees — on par with most treadmills that cost double the price.
The Sole F63 is a high-quality, no-frills treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor can support up to 325 pounds, and the foldability is ideal for those tight on space.
A modest 6.5-inch display shows you key stats such as speed, pace, pulse from heart rate sensors, incline, and distance traveled so you can keep track of your progress. Should you like Studio and want to take classes, the integrated tablet holder will be handy. After your workouts, the F63 has easy-assist folding to store neatly away and free up space — making it an excellent treadmill for home.
The Sole F63 is a solid budget treadmill that doesn’t give off “cheap” vibes and has an array of convenience and performance features. It’s an all-around good tread, especially given the cost-effective price and overall quality.
Read our full review of the Sole F63 Treadmill.
Though this is a budget elliptical, it packs a ton of versatility into its durable build. The Sole E25 has a ton of features, many of which you’d expect to be relegated to only ellipticals that cost double the price or more.
The newest iteration of the E25 has seen a relatively recent overhaul of the design that includes lots of new features and makes it one of the top ellipticals out there. A new console featuring a 7.5-inch LCD display and integrated Bluetooth speakers are great for playing music or streaming workouts. There’s also a tablet holder for your smart device so you can capitalize on the 90-day free trial of Studio (about $19.99 per month after), which provides access to over 3,000 classes to keep you striding.
The E25 is a high-quality, no-frills elliptical. It features a budget-friendly price tag, a 350-pound weight limit, and a 20-pound flywheel.
The E25 is no slouch with resistance either, thanks to a heavy 20-pound flywheel and a high gear ratio that makes for a smooth yet challenging stride. A micro-adjustment dial allows you to achieve the perfect amount of difficulty for your workout, and there are 20 different incline levels to take your workouts to new heights (ahem). The stride length of 20 inches and a weight capacity of 350 pounds allows the E25 to accommodate most body types. You can purchase the Sole E25 for around $1,099, though there are financing options available pending credit approval.
The Sole E25’s sturdy build and large flywheel allow for the vast majority of people to comfortably and confidently achieve a solid workout. There are a ton of features, some of which are often only available on more expensive elliptical machines, so the value provided for the cost is great.
Read our full review of the Sole E25.
You don’t have to drop thousands of dollars to purchase a cardio machine. The ProForm Carbon T10 treadmill might sound like a Terminator, but instead of eliminating Sarah Connor, it’s out to destroy the misconception that high-tech and well-built cardio machines can’t be cost-effective.
ProForm was able to stuff a surprising amount of high-tech and premium features in the Carbon T10 while keeping the retail price reasonable at around $1,299. The value comes in the form of a sharp 10-inch HD display for streaming and a shock-absorbing running surface — features that many other, more expensive treadmills don’t even have. You can try iFit with a 30-day free trial to stream thousands of workouts, though membership is around $39 per month after your trial period ends.
This treadmill offers a 10-inch touchscreen display, and comes with a free month of iFit. You'll also find incline up to 12 percent, speed up to 12mph, solid shock absorption, and foldability.
This treadmill’s motor and performance capabilities are pretty comparable to most other options around the same price point. The T10 can ramp up to an incline of 12 percent with a max speed of 12 miles per hour. Another great feature is the easy-assist folding to free up extra space when the tread isn’t in use. ProForm priced this treadmill fairly, though you can finance it to break up the payments if the up-front price is too much, pending credit approval.
The ProForm Carbon T10 comes with features that would normally cost hundreds of dollars more, like a shock-absorbing running surface and a large touchscreen display for streaming. Couple that with the reasonable price and folding capabilities, and this tread provides a ton of value.
Many of us have to try to fit our workout equipment into a smaller space than we’d like. Having a huge cardio machine in a spare bedroom doesn’t leave much real estate for anything else, so a compact piece of equipment is key. The Schwinn IC4 is our go-to for small spaces thanks to its compact design and excellent features.
This bike makes great use of the small space it occupies, making it a great option for small spaces. At 48.75 inches long, 21.25 inches wide, and 52 inches tall, the IC4 can essentially fit into a coat closet when not in use, though it may be uncomfortable to work out if you’re not Harry Potter. Despite its small size, it still offers a great workout with 100 levels of silky smooth magnetic resistance to cycle through. The dual-sided pedals are capable of accepting clip-in cycling shoes if you don’t want to pedal in cross trainers.
The Schwinn IC4 combines upper and lower body work with its included set of dumbbells and 100 levels of cycling resistance for a complete upper and lower body burn. Dial up your favorite streaming app and hop on, this bike is compatible with JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift.
Users can make use of the integrated tablet holder to stream workouts with the two-month free trial of JRNY (about $11.99 per month after), though the IC4 is also compatible with Peloton and Zwift programming. You’ll also receive a three-pound pair of dumbbells with easy-to-reach cradles under the handlebars for upper-body exercising as well. You can pick up the Schwinn IC4 for around $999, which is a bit higher than similar bikes, but the compact design and included features make it worth the price.
Schwinn made the IC4 an all-around solid exercise bike with features to provide challenging and complete workouts no matter your experience level. The compact design allows you to get a good cardio workout without taking up a whole room.
Air bikes provide a unique type of workout that allows you to train both your upper and lower body individually or together. If you’re looking for an intense cycling session or you like to participate in CrossFit workouts, the Assault Airbike is a great choice.
The Assault Airbike is different from most exercise bikes because of its moving arms instead of stationary handlebars, allowing you to use both your upper and lower body to cycle. Some fitness circles even refer to them as “calorie bikes,” so you can imagine that your Airbike workouts can become quite intense if you really push them. Assault’s version has a minimalist display that shows calories burned and time elapsed, among a few other pieces of information like watt output and RPMs.
The Assault AirBike is a moderately priced bike with a solid build that features a powder-coated steel frame. It’s an upright indoor bike with moving arms that’s designed to burn calories and integrate seamlessly into cross-training and interval workouts.
This bike does utilize fan resistance, and while it does sound pretty cool, things can become windy and loud very quickly. The fan allows for near-endless resistance potential — essentially, the faster and harder you go, the more resistance you’ll feel. A steel frame and front wheels allow this bike to be beefy yet mobile, so you can move it around without breaking your back. Pick up your Airbike for around $699.
This isn’t your fitness center or spin studio’s exercise bike. The moving arms and variable resistance lend the Airbike more to full-body burns and interval training rather than long-distance cardio. You can build up a good sweat quickly, though, and if you like a challenge, this is the bike for you.
Read our full review of the Assault Airbike.
If you’re the type of person who wants the best of the best, this treadmill is probably right up your alley. The Life Fitness Platinum Club Series brings a sturdy and robust commercial-quality treadmill into your home for a world-class workout experience.
Let’s get the biggest drawback out of the way right off the bat — this treadmill costs around $11,000 — but for hardcore runners and professional athletes, it’s worth the dough. It helps that Life Fitness also includes a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor. The premium components and solid steel frame make for a higher-than-average 400-pound weight capacity too. A very powerful 4.0 HP motor that can run up to 8.0 HP at peak performance in short bursts to rev up the speed quickly is great for both ultra long-distance running and high-octane interval training. The motor tops out at 12 miles per hour and a 15-percent incline.
The Platinum Club is the treadmill for you if you want a powerful motor, smart compatibility, easy stat tracking using an array of apps, cushioning for your joints, and more.
To keep you entertained, Life Fitness included a 21.5-inch touchscreen monitor with Bluetooth capabilities for your headphones, heart rate monitor, and streaming directly from your phone. You also gain access to Life Fitness On Demand with thousands of workouts at no charge, with new classes added regularly. The FlexDeck® shock absorption system may help reduce knee and joint stresses and prevent injury, which is crucial for continued high performance. To top it all off, the extra-wide 22-inch running surface is coupled with oversized 3.5-inch rollers to keep things moving smoothly.
If you’re a diehard runner or simply want the cream of the crop, then the Life Fitness Platinum Club Series Treadmill is the way to go. The FlexDeck® shock system is intended to soften the blow when putting in tons of miles every day, and the durable motor can keep up with you. It may be expensive, but having the right tools to maximize your performance can be priceless when competing.
Read our full review of the Life Fitness Platinum Club Series Treadmill.
Cardio machines can be a useful tool for people of all fitness levels who are looking to get their sweat on, and there are a variety of different machines available to achieve that goal. Generally speaking, even low- and moderate-intensity workouts on cardio machines may help improve cardiovascular health. (2) Most of the machines that are on this list offer some way to stream or entertain yourself during your workouts as well — you can listen to a podcast or audiobook for brain gains while making fitness gains or pass the time watching your favorite show.
Also, having a cardio machine in your home may help you negate any excuses. Scared of cars? Exercise bikes might be safer than road cycling since there usually aren’t cars in your living room. Lousy weather? Running on a treadmill prevents you from slipping on ice or a wet sidewalk. Can’t swim? It’s much harder to capsize a rowing machine than a boat. The list goes on. You might even be more dedicated because it’s just plain more convenient to have a cardio machine in your house than driving across town at rush hour to work out in a gym.
Since cardio machines come in a variety of types, the criteria we used to select the best when testing them had to apply to all machines. Here are some overarching key factors we took into consideration when making this list.
While cardio machines aren’t cheap, they don’t have to cost a fortune either. The price of any given machine had to reflect the features and quality of the product offered. If a machine was particularly expensive, then it had to be exemplary in nearly every way or have some distinct advantage over most other machines. Machines with high-tech options and extra durable construction are often worth the extra money since they provide more value and are likely to last longer. Regardless of which option you choose from this list, none of them are priced in a way that’s outlandish or unreasonable for the product you’ll receive.
Not everyone looks for the same things when purchasing a cardio machine, so we put a premium on machines that could satisfy the most amount of people. Those that can accommodate both tech-forward consumers and folks who want to simply start working out without worrying about touchscreens and settings were given more preference.
Some of the machines on this list have giant screens with high-fidelity sound arrays for immersive streaming experiences, while others house basic displays and only show mission-critical information. There are options for everyone on this list, no matter the technology you seek.
Since cardio machines are often a large investment, it’s reasonable that you’ll want your purchase to last a long time. We took care to ensure that all of the machines on this list are durable, constructed from high-quality materials, and made by reputable companies with proven track records. Even the more cost-effective options are well-made and robust.
There will obviously be some variability in the builds from one machine to another based on the type of machine and price range. That said, most of the machines on this list have great warranties of anywhere from three to 10 years, while some offer lifetime warranties. Check out the warranty before finalizing your purchase to see how long the company expects its products to last without issue.
The price of cardio machines can vary wildly from one type of machine to the next. The low end of the spectrum is usually somewhere just under $1,000, while the high-end machines’ prices tend to have more variance. It’s important to consider not only the price of the machine itself but the monthly or yearly cost of the associated streaming service as more and more machines put a bigger emphasis on streaming workouts.
Best Treadmill | Sole F80 | $1,899.99 before optional streaming membership |
Best Elliptical | NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 | $1,799 before optional streaming membership |
Best Exercise Bike | Sole SB900 | $899.99 before optional streaming membership |
Best Rowing Machine | Hydrow Rower | $2,495 before optional streaming membership |
Best Cardio Smart Home Gym | NordicTrack Vault | Starting at $1,499 before optional streaming membership |
Best Treadmill Under $1,000 | Sole F63 | $1,099.99 before optional streaming membership |
Best Elliptical Under $1,000 | Sole E25 | $1,099.99 before optional streaming membership |
Best Value Cardio Machine | ProForm Carbon T10 | $1,299 before optional streaming membership |
Best Cardio Machine for Small Spaces | Schwinn IC4 Indoor Bike | $999 before optional streaming membership |
Best Air Bike | Assault Airbike | $699 |
Best High End Cardo Machine | Life Fitness Platinum Club Series Treadmill | $11,659 |
Services can range from around $10 to $50 per month, though you may receive a discount for purchasing annual subscriptions. Cardio machines can be purchased for as little as about $699, whereas the higher-priced ones can run as much as $2,500. Outliers and specialty machines can range as high as $12,000.
You’ll want to consider some important points before dropping hard-earned cash on a shiny new machine. Here are a few things you should take into account when shopping for cardio machines.
Any time we talk about home gym equipment, one of the first things that needs to be considered is the size available for said equipment. Gauging how much room you have will inform you if you will need an option with storage capabilities like folding or easy disassembly or if the machine will have to be moved often. The footprint is usually disclosed, but a quick search can help if it’s not readily available on the company’s website. Measure and measure again to ensure that you’re not stuck with a brand new machine and nowhere to put it.
The type of machine that you purchase will likely be informed by your preferences and fitness goals, but it’s still important to think about it before finalizing your purchase. We like to envision how we will use the cardio machine and think through what a typical week of workouts will look like.
If you’re not excited and looking forward to it, then maybe another option is best for you. Whether you select a treadmill, elliptical, rower, bike, or something else, you never want to dread your next workout. Remember, it’s a lot easier to stick to a fun routine than one you hate.
You’ll find a lot of different features in cardio machines. Some have more than others, though, and some even have optional add-ons. Look at all of the features of whatever machine you’re interested in, and don’t compromise if you don’t have to. If you really want to be able to stream with a built-in screen, but the machine you’re looking at doesn’t have that capability, it might not be worth making that concession. On the other hand, if the feature you want is only available on a machine that’s double your budget, it might be worth considering other options.
Purchasing a cardio machine is a big decision and commitment whether you go for a cost-effective option or a premium machine with all the bells and whistles. Considering all of your options and the variety of cardio machines available, it may help to rank them in a list from most enjoyable to least. Let’s be honest — not all types of cardio are fun for everyone.
Once you’ve decided on a type of cardio machine, it’s usually a good idea to create a checklist of must-haves and give priority to options that have the most features you’re looking for. That will help narrow your search and use this list as a helpful guide. Whether you’re looking to walk, run, stride, row, pedal, or high-knee your way to fitness, there are cardio machines on this list for you.
That depends on what type of machine you are looking for. If you’re looking for a treadmill, we’re big fans of the Sole F80 because of its strong motor and crisp touchscreen display. If you want an elliptical, we’re big on the NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 because of the world-class streaming experience. The Sole SB900 is our favorite exercise bike because of its versatility and robust build at a great price. There’s not one “best” cardio machine, it’s more about what’s best for you.
Cardio machines can be pricey, with even cost-effective ones going for around $700, and the sky’s the limit from there — most high-end consumer machines usually top out at around $2,500. If you plan on using a streaming service, it’s a good idea to factor that monthly or yearly cost into your budget too.
The category of cardio machines is so broad that it’s hard to nail down just one definition. There are different types of them, and they all excel at different things. Treadmills are great for walking and running training, while rowers give a nice full-body workout. Exercise bikes mainly train the lower body, but air bikes can work the upper body too.
The post The 11 Best Cardio Machines of 2023 (Tested & Reviewed) appeared first on BarBend.
]]>If you are an experienced prepper or you’re just starting to prep, one of the most important things you may need for various reasons is gas. Learning how to store gasoline at home is easier than you think. It’s not wise to try and run to a gas station when something bad has happened. Whether it’s a natural disaster or an unexpected emergency, having gas on hand is one of the smartest things you can do. You may know the basics about plastic gas containers, but do you know how to store has at home? Check out these tips and put them to good use! If you’re going to spend money on gas, it’s important that you know how to utilize the proper storage techniques!
Not everyone knows the answer to critical issues, especially when it comes to fuel. I wanted to do some research on what tips you could use for storing gallons of gasoline. I know many of us have been storing gasoline for years, but I always want to make sure I’m doing things the best and safest way possible!
I can guarantee you that there is at least one local law in your area that has something to do with storing gasoline containers. Always check with the local government before storing any type of fuel product, including gasoline. Most city and state laws are listed online, so all you have to do is do a little research.
If you live in an HOA, condo complex, or apartment building, there are most likely even more strict rules on gasoline storage. Feel free to call your local fire department too. They most likely are up to date on what you can or can’t do when it comes to how to handle gasoline and can make a recommendation or two about proper gas storage. 7 General Hunting Laws You Should Know
I know this seems like a tip that everyone should know, however, it’s well worth repeating. You should never store gas cans anywhere where kids can have access to them. This is a fact of life. It can cause a dangerous situation, particularly with kids’ inquisitive nature and fascination with matches. Never put your containers where young children can get to them easily. It may take a little creativity to figure out where you can store extra gasoline, but you can do it! Survival Skills to Teach Young Children
Pets can also be an issue to consider. Don’t store the gasoline where pets can breathe in the gasoline vapors or where a large pet may knock the container over.
When it comes to storing gallons of gasoline, safety is the biggest concern. There are strict safety practices for storing gasoline for a reason. The best advice would be to treat the gasoline around your home the same way you would treat a weapon. Gasoline, including the vapor and gas fumes, is very powerful, which is why it’s used for your car’s gas tank. Safety Information For Short-Term Rolling Blackouts
Where do I store gasoline? Here are some tips for helping you accomplish this task:
The first step in storing gasoline is “Gasoline must be stored in an approved container or tank.” source This is the most important thing to remember! You can’t just put gas into any storage container, it has to be a certified fuel container. Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Type
Gasoline changes composition over time. It isn’t designed to be stored long-term, even in large fuel tanks. Whether it’s your lawn mower, tiller, or other small engine machines, it’s best to drain the gas at the end of the season or put in special gasoline additives as suggested by the manufacturer so the gasoline maintains its proper composition. This also applies to your vehicle if you expect it to be parked for an extended period.
Another important step to remember is gasoline is flammable. It should be stored in approved sealed containers away from any heat sources, ignition sources, or anything that may cause sparks. Don’t store it near your furnace, hot water heater, or even out in the sun. It’s also important to not smoke near gas containers. Store gas away from pilot lights, even those that require an electrical igniter. A space heater is a “no-no” for sure!
Your local fire department should be able to explain any local fire codes that restrict the storage of gasoline or other fuels.
In my opinion, it’s best to handle gas outside. This way, if it spills, even if it’s a small amount, it’s outside and then you can handle the cleanup fairly easily. If there is a spill, the gas should be cleaned up with rags, paper, or even sawdust. Larger spills can prove to be more of a challenge. Check with local regulations to see how they would like gasoline disposed of. Don’t EVER put gas in the residential trash can to be carried off to the landfill or poured down local street drains!
When cleaning up the spill, try not to create any static electricity. It’s best to lay the absorbing materials on the spill and then gather them up rather than “wiping” things down since that can create some static electrical results.
Again, some of these tips are common sense, but not everyone grew up with someone telling them what to do with things like gasoline. Don’t ever mix gas with anything like kerosene or diesel fuel. Gas is a very flammable liquid that can easily be struck into flames. Proper disposal is important because it’s one of the most dangerous liquids.
Storing gasoline is an important safety measure to take, as it can be extremely hazardous if not done properly. Here are some frequently asked questions about how to store gasoline safely:
When storing gasoline, it is important to only use containers that have been approved for that purpose by the Department of Transportation. These containers will usually be labeled or have a DOT symbol on them. It is also best to choose containers that are 5 gallons or less in size.
Gasoline has a relatively short shelf-life and starts degrading after one month. Most people avoid using gas once it’s 6-12 months old. To extend the life of your stored gasoline, you can add a fuel stabilizer to it. A 10-ounce bottle of stabilizer will keep 25 gallons of gasoline fresh for a whole year.
“PRI-G is the best I’ve found. I’ve tested it for 5 years. CP122 Pri-G Gasoline Treatment – 32 oz.
They make a PRI-D for diesel too, though I’ve not used it. PRI 32-D -D Fuel Stabilizer- for Diesel
STA-Bil is only good for a year.” STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer
It is best to store your gasoline in a well-ventilated area separate from the house and away from any electrical equipment, open flames, or other sources of ignition. Don’t store it in your garage, if possible. Consider a shed if it has some separation from your home and can be properly ventilated.
There are commercially manufactured cabinets designed for storing flammable liquids. They can be a little pricey, come in various sizes, and are rated for use as required. A Google search provides a wide variety of options for you to consider based on your specific needs.
The next time you are curious about how to store gasoline at home, I hope you can use these tips! Learning how to store gasoline can be scary because it’s such a flammable liquid and you don’t want to make any mistakes. Do you have any tips to add? Preppers should be storing at least a little gasoline in case of an emergency where gasoline engines are needed. The question is, have you started this process?
The challenge of fuel storage is one of the reasons I haven’t purchased a home generator. The day may come, but I’m not ready for that major purchase at this time. May God Bless this world, Linda.
Copyright Images: Gas Can Containers AdobeStock_604973285 By MargJohnsonVA
The post How to Store Gasoline at Home appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
]]>When most people think of clutter, they imagine messy stacks and piles that they wish would just disappear. While this can certainly be the case, not all clutter is either obvious or troublesome. In fact, sometimes clutter can be hidden. At the most recent meeting of Minimal Quest – a free, monthly webinar on Minimalism – we talked about this type of clutter, and how we might identify remove it from our spaces. Would you like to pursue hidden minimalism? If so, read on for a few ideas.
First, as a reminder, I like to always revisit Joshua Becker’s very helpful definition of minimalism:
“Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it.”
~ Joshua Becker
Whenever we are working to eliminate clutter, we need to mindful about our belongings, taking the time to assess what we use, need, and love. Clutter often accumulates because we defer dealing with it, and/or because we stop paying attention to it. We stash, shove, pile, and otherwise hold onto things, rather than focus on and process them. To some extent, this is necessary. Life is about more than decluttering, and we have more important (and fun) things to think about on a daily basis. At the same time, it is necessary to incorporate “review” into our lives so that we maximize the space available to us for using and enjoying what matters most.
When it comes to hidden minimalism, the goal is to give focused attention to belongings that we may be overlooking or otherwise neglecting. This could be for a couple of reasons:
All of these reasons, and more, can cause us to mindlessly amass possessions that – at a minimum – are taking up space, and potentially are interfering with living our best lives.
Therefore, to jumpstart your decluttering efforts, here are some possible “wins” for pursuing hidden minimalism.
Let’s go space by space:
Cooking oils
These have a shelf life of four months when they are unopened. After you open them, oils will last a shorter time. Give your oils the sniff taste. They shouldn’t smell stale, fermented, or like old crayons.
Old spices
While spices don’t technically go bad, they do lose their flavor. Ground spices generally last two-three years, whole spices last up to four years. By the way, if you have any of the old Durkee red and white tins, odds are these are no longer good as they stopped making these tins years ago (with the exception of for ground black pepper).
Flour
In general, flour will stay fresh for about eight months at room temperature. Wheat flour, gluten-free, and nut-based flours don’t last as long, due to higher fat content. To extend the life of your flour, store it in the refrigerator. Again, if it smells wrong, let it go. Also be sure to check the expiration date on premade baking mixes (e.g., Bisquick and pancake mix), because they do expire.
Baking Powder, baking soda, and yeast
Unopened baking powder has a shelf life of six months, while unopened baking soda has a shelf life of up to 18 months. If opened, use both within six months. To test to see if they are fresh, add baking soda to hot water with vinegar. It should fizz. You can do the same with baking powder, but you don’t need the vinegar. Yeast usually has an expiration date. Yeast can also be stored in the refrigerator for four months, and in the freezer for a few years.
Nuts
If more than six months have passed since the nuts were purchased, there is a good chance they will have turned rancid. Freeze nuts to extend their life.
Maple Syrup
Unopened syrup lasts one year. Open syrup will also last a year if in the refridgerator. If your syrup is opened and not refrigerated, look for mold.
Food Gifts, Souvenirs, and “Try” Items
If you have received food items or purchased them as souvenirs, but you haven’t eaten them, it is wise to let them go. Just because someone gives you a gift, doesn’t mean you have to keep it. The same goes for items you bought to try, but nobody liked. Don’t keep the unopened bag or package stuffed in the back of a cabinet. It won’t become more appealing after a couple of months.
Sprinkles, Sugar, Food Dye
These items can go rancid and lose their value over time. If they have an odor or have discolored, it is probably a good idea to let them go.
*
“Freebies”
I find a lot of free items from hotels, stores, and promotions in the bedroom, such as free slippers, shampoos, makeup bags, etc. Only keep these items because you truly use them. If unopened, these make for desirable donation items.
Perfume
Perfume can go bad. Normally, it either stops smelling like anything at all (the scent fades), or it starts to have an alcohol-like odor. Test your perfume collection, and only keep the ones that have a scent you love. Remember that perfume is not wine, it is not going to get better with age, only worse.
“Uncomfortable” clothing
Most people have some items in their closet and drawers that they don’t like wearing. This may be because they don’t fit, they hurt our feet, they dig into our sides, etc. Alternatively, it could be because we don’t feel good in the clothing, perhaps because our body has changed or they have gone out of fashion. Set a limit to the space you allocate to “aspirational” clothing, which is clothing you hope to wear and feel good in at a future date.
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Old business cards
Most of us gather business cards, and these can be very helpful for connecting us with people and service providers. They might be in an old Rolodex, in a drawer with a rubber band around them, in notebooks with business card holding pages, etc. If you haven’t updated your business card collection (i.e., sorted through them and removed the ones you no longer use), odds are that you have a lot of information that is out of date. If you can’t trust the cards, they aren’t serving their purpose, and now are simply cluttering your space. Business cards, as with all reference items, should only be kept if they are reliable.
Clippings, Catalogs, and Expired Coupons
Back before Goggle and Pinterest, many of us used to collect articles, clippings, project ideas, and more. Some of us still do this today, perhaps in a folder or hanging file. We also may have collected coupons, with plans to use them on big purchases, or catalogs with plans to come back and order something. If it has been a while since you looked through your files, piles, and folders, this might produce some “easy wins.” For example, sadly, the Bed, Bath, and Beyond coupons can go.
Maps and Travel Guides
The world went through a major shift in 2020, and many businesses either closed, changed their hours, adjusted their prices, or otherwise altered their offerings. In order to rely on a travel guide, it needs to have current information, which most likely means it was published after 2020. Maps are also something that “people of a certain generation” have. If you are a map collector, enjoy your collection. However, if you kept them out of habit, but now use GPS to navigate your way, these old maps (which may also no longer be completely accurate) can go.
E-junk
We all have old electronics. We often hold onto these items because we have anxiety about letting them go. For instance, we think, “But what if I need that cable?” or “But what if there is data or photos on these devices that I want?” As with all items for which an action needs to be taken, we should focus our energy on pursuing the action, not on postponing the action. If you have a drawer or box of e-junk, begin by removing obvious clutter (e.g., how many airplane earbuds do you need?). For other items, such as old computers, charge them up, assess the contents, offload desired files onto flash drives or directly onto other devices, and then search online for instructions on how to properly “wipe clean” the device for disposal. E-junk can then be safely recycled through a local resource.
[Bonus hint: label each and every cord that comes into your life from now on. Something as simple as a piece of painter’s tape can suffice!]
Checks from Closed Accounts
If you have changed banks or closed accounts, you might have some inactive checks tucked into drawers or containers in your desk or closet. Shred the old checks if it makes you comfortable, but as long as the accounts are closed, it is probably safe to simply dispose of them.
Photo Printer Paper
This was an item that was very popular when high-quality printers became widely affordable. Vendors like Hewlett Packard used to include a packet of photo paper with their product. In the early days, many of us were excited to print photos. However, it didn’t take long to realize that printing photos uses a lot of ink. Today, most people either do not print photos at all, or send away to a service to print the few they like best. If you do print photos, by all means, keep the photo paper. But if it has been many years since you printed a photo, let that paper go.
Pens, Pencils, Markers & Highlighters
Writing implements accumulate, and often end up cluttering drawers. Next time you are on a phone call, take your stash , along with a piece of paper, and test your writing implements out. Pens don’t last forever, markers dry up, and life is too short for tiny pencils with no erasers.
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Cassette tapes, VHS tapes, CDs, and DVDs
As a society, we are shifting toward digital and streaming entertainment, so these are candidates for disposal. I recognize that you may have spent a lot of money accumulating your collection, and if you still use these items, enjoy them. However, if you are not using them, remind yourself that you probably are not listening to 8-track tapes or LPs either. This is just something that happens periodically as platforms shift. What matters most is to be able to easily access and enjoy whatever media you prefer.
Games
Many families have accumulated games over a lifetime. We buy and receive new ones, and rarely cull the old ones. If you have never played a game, or played it and didn’t like it, let it go. Most people gravitate toward a couple of favorites, and those are the ones to keep. If you have puzzles, and you didn’t work them during the lockdown, odds are you never will. Feel free to throw away games and puzzles that have been opened as charities don’t generally receive these (they must be in mint condition).
Décor
This is one type of belonging to which I encourage you to take a “keen eye.” Take a hard look at your decorative items and ask yourself, “Do I still like looking at this?” Again, we often add a lot of new items to our shelves and bookcases, and rarely go in and remove anything. The same idea applies to bulletin board and display spaces. The tendency is to add so much, and leave it there so long, that we largely stop even noticing whatever we have displayed. Refresh these spaces periodically, prioritizing them for what you like the most.
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Old Greeting Cards
Greeting cards are meant to be just that – a greeting. They are meant to be received and enjoyed, not kept. If you have cards that say something such as, “Love, Dad,” and the rest of the message comes from Hallmark®, that isn’t providing much of an emotional benefit. In contrast, if you have a card with a long, hand-written note from Grandma, that is a true memento. If you have been holding onto years of old holiday cards, perhaps with the intention of crafting with them or cutting them up into gift tags, be honest about whether you will actually do this. Certainly, there is no guilt in recycling old cards. They fulfilled their purpose the moment you opened and read them.
Empty Boxes
A few empty boxes are wonderful. I keep boxes of differing sizes for wrapping gifts, and on top of the refrigerator in my garage I have nested some boxes for shipping. However, there needs to be a limit. Boxes are mouse food, so if you are holding onto boxes in your basement, attic, or garage, beware that you are likely to attract mice.
Art on the Floor
I frequently see art stacked up, leaning up against walls, where it may have been sitting since a move or renovation. This is not great for either the art or the frame. Ask yourself, “Am I ever going to hang this up?” If the answer is no, let it go. If the piece is valuable, you might be able to sell it. Otherwise, it can be donated. If you want to hold onto the image, but are unlikely to display it, it is more memorabilia than art. Take a photo, or remove the art itself and get rid of the bulky frames.
Carpet Remnants
When we have carpeting installed, it is common for the installers to leave the remnants behind. They say, “I’ll leave these here so you can replace a section if it is gets stained or damaged.” However, in my experience, it is very rare for anyone to actually do this. Unless you experience damage shortly after installation, odds are that either the original carpet or the remnant will fade over time, and the two will no longer match. Remnants take up an enormous amount of space, so feel free to let them go.
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Even if you don’t consider yourself a minimalist, you may be able to free some space for what matters most by removing items from some of these categories.
Do you think you might have some of these items?
If so, this article will take you through the benefits, costs, and practical steps of installing your washer and dryer in the garage.
It’s packed with tips and design ideas to help you make the most of your new laundry setup.
Let’s get started.
Installing a washer and dryer in your garage gets you some immediate benefits.
First, you free up valuable indoor space, which you can repurpose for other uses like expanding your kitchen or adding a guest bathroom.
Secondly, the noise from washing cycles is usually pretty loud. That noise goes down significantly when it’s locked away in your garage.
Moving your washer and dryer into your garage could be the perfect solution if your home doesn’t have a dedicated laundry room.
However, before moving your washer and dryer to the garage, consider the following critical factors:
When selecting a washer and dryer for your garage, choose models that can handle temperature changes. High-efficiency front-load washers and dryers, compact models, and stackable units are all viable options.
Consider a gas dryer, which can be more efficient in a garage environment due to quicker drying times.
Moving your washer and dryer to the garage involves various costs, and several factors can influence the total expense:
On average, moving a washer and dryer to the garage can cost between $500 and $2,000. This cost includes labor and materials for new electrical outlets and plumbing lines. Installing a new dryer vent might cost around $100 to $500. If you require professional help to move the appliances, expect to pay about $200 extra.
If you have experience with electrical and plumbing, you can manage your costs by moving your washer and dryer into your garage yourself.
This will help you save considerably on labor costs.
If you hire professionals, get quotes from multiple service providers. Comparing these quotes allows you to choose the most cost-effective option without sacrificing quality.
Finally, consider how you can use your garage space effectively.
For example, you can repurpose existing shelves or garage cabinets for laundry supplies. That way, you can avoid purchasing new storage units.
Remember to stay safe. Cutting costs should never compromise safety – particularly when dealing with electrical and plumbing work.
Here’s a brief overview of the steps you’ll need to take to install your washer and dryer in your garage. As always, your situation may be different.
1. Measure your garage to ensure your washer and dryer fit comfortably. Remember that you’ll need extra space for ventilation and for opening the doors of your appliances. Consider proximity to water and electrical outlets, and ensure the area is safe from flammable substances.
2. Next, plan your layout. The placement of your washer and dryer should allow for easy access, proper ventilation, and efficient use of space. Remember, the dryer should be near an exterior wall for easy venting, and both appliances should be near water and electrical outlets.
3. Ensure your electrical outlets meet the requirements of your appliances (a 120-volt for the washer and a 240-volt for the dryer). For the plumbing, connect your washer to both cold and hot water lines, and make sure there’s a drain system for wastewater. Unless you use a ventless model, the dryer will need a vent leading outside.
4. Good ventilation in your garage is crucial to prevent overheating and mildew. Install a vent for your dryer if there isn’t one already, and consider a fan or dehumidifier for the garage if it’s particularly damp or lacks ventilation.
5. Finally, ensure your washer and dryer are level to prevent them from shaking or making noise during operation. Most appliances have adjustable feet to help with this. Secure any hoses and check that all connections are tight.
Doing the installation yourself can save money, but it requires a good understanding of electrical work, plumbing, and ventilation systems.
If you’re not comfortable with these tasks, hiring professionals can ensure a safe and successful installation.
Compare quotes from several service providers to find a balance between cost and expertise.
The right storage solutions can make your garage laundry setup much more efficient.
Consider installing floating shelves above the washer and dryer for storing detergent, fabric softener, and other laundry supplies.
A wall-mounted drying rack can be a real space-saver, and a rolling laundry cart tucks neatly between the appliances when not in use.
Maximizing space is essential in a garage laundry room. If possible, purchase stackable washer and dryer units. They can free-up floor space and be a real game-changer in small garages.
Install a pegboard for hanging smaller items like lint rollers, clothespins, and mesh bags. Label containers and bins to keep things organized and easy to find.
For smaller garages, you’ll need to get more creative.
A fold-down table can be a folding surface when needed and disappear when you don’t.
Consider a retractable clothesline for air-drying clothes. It extends when you need it and tucks away neatly afterward.
A tall, narrow shelving unit can make use of vertical space without taking up too much room.
If you’re renovating your garage anyway, now is a perfect time to incorporate features into your garage laundry room.
Consider installing under-cabinet lighting for better visibility or adding a utility sink for pre-treating stains and hand-washing delicate items.
Built-in storage can keep your laundry supplies neatly organized and out of sight.
Finally, a small countertop provides a surface for folding clothes or sorting laundry.
Building a dedicated laundry room in your garage can bring many benefits. It frees up interior space in your home, reduces noise from the washer and dryer, and provides a dedicated area for all your laundry needs.
This setup allows for better organization, as you can create specific storage solutions tailored for laundry supplies.
However, there are potential challenges to consider.
Garages are often subject to more temperature fluctuation, which could affect your appliances’ efficiency and longevity.
Depending on your garage’s current setup, you may face significant costs for plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation improvements. Accessibility might also be a concern, especially in inclement weather.
Determining the feasibility of a garage laundry room depends on your personal needs and the layout of your garage.
It might not be the best fit if your garage is already crowded with vehicles and storage.
Creating a laundry room in your garage can potentially increase your home’s resale value, adding a functional feature many buyers appreciate.
However, it could deter some buyers if the installation reduces parking space or the job isn’t done professionally.
Always consider the quality of the installation and its appeal to future potential homeowners.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Garage appliances might require more regular maintenance due to exposure to more dust, moisture, and temperature changes.
Clean your washer and dryer frequently and service them regularly. Keep them covered when not in use to protect them from dust and potential pests.
Energy Efficiency Tips: Always use appliances with a high Energy Star rating and follow best practices for energy use, like washing clothes in cold water when possible and running full loads.
Proper garage insulation can help maintain a more stable temperature, making your appliances more efficient.
Temperature and Humidity: Temperature and humidity fluctuations can impact your appliances’ performance.
Insulate your garage to help regulate temperature, and consider using a dehumidifier in the summer or a space heater in the winter, as needed. Continually monitor your garage’s climate and adjust accordingly.
Preventing Theft or Damage: Secure your appliances by keeping your garage locked when not in use. Most washers and dryers have locking mechanisms to prevent them from being easily moved.
Additionally, installing a security camera or alarm system can provide extra protection against theft. Regular maintenance checks can also help you promptly prevent and address any potential damage.
Can You Store a Washer And Dryer In an Unheated Garage?
Yes, you can store a washer and dryer in an unheated garage. However, it’s important to remember that exposure to extreme cold or heat can impact the appliances’ performance and lifespan. Insulating your garage or providing some form of temperature control can help protect your appliances.
How Do I Keep My Washer Pipes From Freezing?
To prevent your washer pipes from freezing, you can insulate them with foam pipe insulation. Also, keeping the garage temperature above freezing point by using a space heater can help. On extremely cold days, open the washer’s detergent drawer to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.
How Do You Store A Washer And Dryer Long Term?
Clean your washer and dryer thoroughly for long-term storage and ensure they’re completely dry to avoid mold and mildew. Disconnect them from electrical outlets and water sources. Cover the appliances with breathable fabric covers to protect them from dust. Store them in a climate-controlled space to protect against extreme temperature and humidity.
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this comprehensive guide on garage laundry setups.
From understanding the benefits and potential challenges of moving your washer and dryer into the garage to cost factors and installation steps, we’ve given you a detailed look at what this project entails.
We’ve also discussed how to maximize space and efficiency with creative design ideas and provided you with considerations for maintaining and securing your new laundry space.
Moving your laundry appliances to the garage is not a decision to be made lightly. Still, with careful planning and a little creativity, it can transform your garage into a functional and efficient space for handling your laundry needs.
The post Should You Move Your Washer and Dryer Into the Garage? appeared first on Garage Transformed.
]]>Even worse, since the closest closet is near the front door, we also have shoes stashed all over our downstairs.
If this sounds familiar, the answer may be to create a garage mudroom with a designated place for all your stuff.
In this article, I’ve gathered several practical, creative ideas to help you get your entryway organized.
But first, let’s talk about how important it is to get your family involved in designing your new garage mudroom.
Imagine this: you walk into your garage after a long day. Instead of tripping over muddy boots and rain-soaked jackets thrown everywhere, you find a neat and organized space where everything has its place.
For most people, this sounds like a dream.
To make this a reality, you must get your family involved when designing your garage mudroom or drop zone.
Here’s why.
The primary reason to involve your family when creating a garage mudroom is simple: it’s their space too.
Everybody has unique needs and habits that should be taken into account.
Your spouse may need a spot for gardening tools, or your teenager needs a dedicated place for their sports gear.
Additionally, involving your family in the project helps them feel a sense of ownership and responsibility. They’re more likely to take care of the space and maintain its organization when they’ve been part of the planning and setup process.
Brainstorming: Gather your family for a brainstorming session. Discuss what each person wants out of the mudroom. Do they need a specific place for their things? How much space does each person require?
This is also a good time to discuss the rules for the mudroom, like always hanging up coats or cleaning off shoes before placing them on the rack.
Designing: Encourage everyone, especially kids, to draw out what they envision for the space. This will give you insight into their thinking and may provide creative ideas you hadn’t thought of.
Building and Setting Up: If it’s safe, involve everyone in the building or setting up process. Most family members can safely handle simple tasks like painting walls, assembling storage units, or arranging hooks. Remember, it’s not just about getting the job done. It’s also about creating shared memories and a sense of accomplishment.
Decorating: Finally, let each person contribute a personal touch to the space. This could be anything from choosing a paint color, picking a coat hook, or adding a piece of decor.
Creating a garage mudroom or drop zone is not just about organization. It’s about making your garage a more useful space for everyone in your family.
By involving everyone in the process, you’re sure to create a space that meets everyone’s needs and, more importantly, an area everyone respects and maintains.
After all, your garage is more than just storage space. It’s a part of your home.
To help you get started, I’ve created a list of my top 10 garage mudroom ideas.
These ideas are meant to inspire and guide you, no matter the size of your garage or your budget.
From simple, cost-effective solutions to more elaborate designs, there’s something here for everyone. Remember, the best mudroom for your garage is the one that caters to your family’s needs and fits seamlessly with your lifestyle.
So, get ready to take notes, because here are 10 ideas that will turn your garage into a practical, stylish, and organized mudroom.
Let’s dive in!
Are you looking for a way to store a lot of miscellaneous overflow items? Consider a store-it-all cabinet for your garage mudroom. The right cabinet can turn a cluttered space into an organized, efficient area you’ll be proud to show off.
When choosing a cabinet, it’s not about size alone. You also want it to have the functionality you need.
Cabinets with drawers provide a concealed space to store small items like gloves or hats. You won’t need to rummage through piles of stuff. Everything will be easily accessible and well protected.
Heavy-duty cabinet shelves can take care of larger items like boots and shoes. Instead of piling them in a corner, organize them on a shelf where they will be easy to find and less likely to become damaged or worn prematurely.
Does your garage serve as a drop-off point for jackets or leashes? Cabinets with integrated hooks can provide an easy-to-reach spot that keeps these items off the floor or countertops.
What about those odd-shaped or loose items that seem to be constantly searching for a home? Baskets or open bins in the cabinet provide storage that adapts to fit your changing needs.
Ever rushed out the door only to realize you’ve left your keys or pet’s leash somewhere in the house?
A simple solution is to add hooks in your garage mudroom specifically for these items. This minimizes the chances of misplacing these items or leaving them behind in another room.
They’re always in the same spot, readily available as you head out the door or return home.
Where to place these hooks? Consider areas that are easily accessible and visible. Right next to the door leading into the house is a convenient spot.
We have a set of hooks next to our garage entry door, so our keys and dog leashes are the last things we see when leaving and the first thing we see when getting home.
Another idea could be next to where you hang your coat or store your shoes. This keeps all your outdoor essentials in one area and creates a routine that makes it easier to remember your items.
You can also create a designated key and leash area if you have more space.
This could be a small shelf or cabinet with hooks underneath for storing other outdoor essentials, like sunglasses or hats.
We’ve all performed that awkward hop on one foot while trying to pull off our boots. Adding a bench or seating area to your garage mudroom can solve that problem.
If you’re a DIY’er, building your own bench allows for complete customization. You can make the size, design, and materials match the rest of your garage mudroom’s design.
If that’s not your style, there’s no shortage of pre-built benches.
When buying one, look for a bench proportional to the space. A big bench may look great, but you don’t want it to infringe on everything else in your garage.
Consider repurposing an underused piece of furniture. An old coffee table or a sturdy shelf can be given a new lease of life in your mudroom, saving you money and being environmentally friendly.
Place your garage bench close to your door but not in the way.
You want people to be able to sit down right as they enter or leave but also have enough space to move around the bench without any hassle.
Walking into the house with your hands full of mail and no clear place to put it? Consider creating a drop zone in your garage mudroom.
It’s a dedicated spot that’s perfect for sorting and storing mail and keys as soon as you walk in. That way, you’re not wasting time searching for lost keys or that important piece of mail.
A wall-mounted organizer is a great space-saver, with pockets for mail and hooks for keys.
Or, if you prefer a minimalist design, a simple tray on a bench or shelf can serve the purpose well.
Baskets offer a rustic touch and ample storage, while a dedicated shelf can double as decor and drop zone.
Tired of tripping over shoes and boots scattered across your garage mudroom floor? Garage shoe racks can put an end to this problem by keeping your footwear organized, visible, and off the floor.
Shelves offer more than just organization. They also help protect your footwear from dirt, damage, and wear. Keeping shoes or boots off the ground reduces the chance of them being stepped on or squished together. Plus, shelving allows for ventilation, which is essential for those damp boots or sweaty running shoes.
Shelves with slats offer excellent ventilation, while dividers keep each pair separate and easily accessible. Trays can catch dirt or water from your shoes, keeping your space clean.
Tiered racks are a fantastic space-saving solution for those with a sizeable shoe collection.
Adding mats for wet shoes in your garage mudroom can make coming home a little less messy. Mats provide a dedicated place for those soggy shoes, saving your floors from water and dirt.
More than a barrier against mess, mats serve a crucial safety role. Wet shoes can easily slide on hard floors, but a mat absorbs moisture and provides grip, helping prevent slips and falls.
When choosing a mat for your wet shoes, there are a few key factors to consider. Durability is a must, so look for materials like rubber or vinyl that can withstand the moisture and wear and tear of heavy boots or shoes.
Easy-to-clean should also be on your checklist. Garage mats that can be easily vacuumed, shaken out, or hosed down make maintenance a breeze.
Have you ever considered adding a utility sink to your garage? This might sound extravagant, but it’s a game-changer for creating a practical garage mudroom.
Think about it: a sink in the mudroom means no more walking into the house with dirty hands or shoes.
Rinsing muddy shoes or tools, washing hands, filling water bottles, or even soaking clothes before washing can be done right there.
Consider the following things when choosing the right sink.
First, think about how much space you have available and how much you’ll need for other things. A large basin might be ideal for soaking clothes or cleaning big tools, but a compact sink can still do the job if space is tight.
Second, consider how you’ll install it. You’ll probably need a plumber to ensure the water and drain lines are correctly set up.
Finally, style is important. You want a sink that matches the aesthetic of your mudroom, whether that’s sleek stainless steel or vintage farmhouse.
Have you thought about giving each family member their own personal storage in your garage mudroom? Installing lockers or cubbies might be the perfect solution.
Lockers and cubbies offer individualized storage spaces, keeping everyone’s belongings separate and easy to find. No more hunting for lost gloves or mismatched boots!
Many lockers include doors or locks that provide an extra layer of security and privacy. That’s a plus if you’re storing valuable items like helmets or sports equipment.
To add a personal touch, consider customizing your lockers or cubbies. A fresh coat of paint in each person’s favorite color or labels with names can make the space feel more personal and fun.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to encourage everyone to take responsibility for their items and keep their spaces tidy.
The floor area in your garage mudroom has to work incredibly hard. It’s the first line of defense against moisture, dirt, and the general wear and tear that comes with being a high-traffic area.
Even if you don’t upgrade the flooring in the rest of your garage, you’ll want something that’s durable and easy to clean in your mudroom.
Some materials, like rubber or PVC, help make cleaning up a breeze.
Instead of scrubbing stubborn dirt or stains, you can sweep or mop it up.
Vinyl and tile are stylish and resilient, offering plenty of different colors and styles. Concrete, while not the most glamorous, is exceptionally durable and can be painted or stained to elevate its look. Rubber is another practical choice, known for its shock-absorption and non-slip qualities.
I’m lucky with my dog. She’s a little bit of a princess, so she doesn’t come in from outside muddy or wet.
If your dog does, consider incorporating a dog wash station into your garage mudroom to help keep the rest of your house free from muddy paw prints.
A dog wash station usually consists of a tub that’s at a comfortable height to save you from bending over.
You’ll want a faucet and hose for easy rinsing and a drain to remove the water. Add a towel rack for quick drying and storage for pet shampoos, brushes, and other grooming essentials.
Creating a garage mudroom can go a long way to help keep the rest of your house organized.
By providing a dedicated area for those muddy boots, rain-soaked jackets, and other items, your garage can become more than just a parking spot or storage area.
It truly becomes part of your home.
Whether you opt for a simple setup with a few hooks and a shoe rack or go all out with built-in lockers, benches, and custom storage, remember the goal is to create a functional space that suits your family’s needs and lifestyle.
And remember, involving your family in the process isn’t just about building a more practical mudroom. It’s also about fostering a sense of shared responsibility and care for the space.
By working together, you’ll end up with a mudroom that helps keep your home cleaner and more organized and brings your family closer together.
Your dream garage mudroom is just a few steps away.
Go ahead and make it happen!
The post Garage Mudroom Ideas to Enhance Your Home’s Entryway appeared first on Garage Transformed.
]]>Organizing clutter and evaluating our storage strategy is a constant—we are always adapting to our ever-changing lifestyles and schedules, like the demands of a new school year or the crazy tumult of the holidays. Winter is just another time for us to take stock of how our household reacts to the season of bulky winter coats, wet and dirty boots, and errant mittens taking over the whole house.
Luckily, we are always up to the challenge of finding the best way to store and keep our winter clothing, lest we get overrun! Here are some great ideas I’ve found. I hope they inspire you to tackle your winter storage dilemma.
There’s always another way to maximize your mudroom! You can fit your winter shoes into the space beneath the built-in bench. It’s a no-brainer and a breeze to make.
Yet another reason why you need to stock up on a clear plastic shoe organizer. These little pockets are everything! Hung up inside a cabinet door or in your mudroom, you and your family can easily stash away scarves, hats, and gloves while still keeping them visible.
How cute is this? But it’s also pretty useful—clip up your mittens and scarves and hang the whole rack near the door, so everything you need is a grab away as you head out the door on cold mornings.
Try mounting old drawers on casters to store all your sweaters and winter coats. This way, they’re rolled away and out of sight beneath your bed, but ready to be thrown on once the air starts getting crisp and chilly.
If there’s one thing I hate, it’s melted snow and mud getting tracked all over my clean kitchen floor! Avoid the hassle with this pretty and functional DIY drip tray.
It’s so easy to make you’ll probably end up making one for each member of the family (now there’s an idea—why not personalize it?)
If you have kids who constantly leave mittens and hats everywhere, consider giving them a “dump zone” by way of this wire magazine rack mounted inside the hall closet. They’ll never lose anything—how’s that for amazingly useful winter storage?
Good-quality leather boots are an investment. Make sure you keep yours in tip-top shape ready to take on the harsh weather outside by storing them properly. Cut a pool noodle to size and use them to maintain your boots’ structure.
Sometimes the best winter storage hacks are the simplest: Have you ever considered knotting your scarves and tights this way on a large hanger? Pull it out from the back of your closet when winter comes and you have your entire collection within arm’s reach.
If you're into the rustic look and recycling is your thing, why not assemble old crates into a functional shoe storage system that's full of vintage vibe?
Bonus: Old beverage crates with compartments work for scarves, too!
Large empty cans get a new life as mudroom storage center! When mounted on the wall, they become great little cubbies perfect for storing anything like crocheted headwear and other snow gear.
Aren't all of these winter storage ideas so easily DIY-able? I hope these ideas help you keep your cool despite the stress and mess of the cold weather season! There's no reason to dread the dreary weather because you have all the clutter under control.
Which winter storage idea do you need in your home right now? Let me know in the comment section below.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on January 26, 2017, updated for quality and relevancy.
]]>In this guide, we’ll walk you through transforming your garage into a home office.
Let’s dive in and start with planning your garage office layout.
Your garage office layout will depend on a few factors.
Obviously, your garage’s size and shape play a huge role. You want to make sure there’s enough room for your office without making everything feel cramped.
It helps to sketch out the floor plan to help visualize the space you have to work with.
Next, think about what type of furniture and equipment you’ll need.
Most people need at least a desk and a chair, but you may need a whole workspace setup with shelves, cabinets, and storage. You might need a second monitor or a printer.
Make a list of everything you think you’ll need before you start.
Lastly, consider the style and mood you want to set in your garage office. Next, think about the potential layout of your garage office.
Are you going for a minimalistic look or a vibrant, creative vibe with wall art and unique furniture?
To get your creative juices flowing, here are a few layout examples:
Remember, your garage office should suit your work needs.
Take time to plan, and you’ll soon have a workspace you’re proud to show off to your buddies.
Insulation and ventilation become non-negotiable as soon as you convert your garage to an office.
Insulation keeps your workspace comfortable by maintaining a steady temperature, preventing moisture and mold, and reducing noise and dust levels.
Similarly, proper ventilation ensures fresh air circulation, reducing the risk of indoor air pollution and helping you stay focused and productive.
Here are some practical ways to insulate and ventilate your garage office:
Insulation: This is necessary for walls, ceiling, floor, and even the garage door. Materials like spray foam, fiberglass, or cellulose are commonly used.
Heating and Cooling System: Consider a mini-split unit for heating and cooling, or if you’re on a tighter budget, a portable heater or fan can do the trick.
Vents or Windows: Incorporate vents or windows in your garage office design. It helps promote fresh air circulation and lets natural light stream in, creating a bright and airy workspace.
Energy-Efficient Fixtures: Opt for energy-efficient lighting fixtures and appliances. Not only will they help maintain a comfortable environment, but they’ll also help you save on electricity bills.
Remember, a well-insulated and ventilated space helps create a comfortable, healthy workspace.
So, don’t skip this step in your garage office upgrade.
When it comes to your garage office, security and protection are crucial.
If you think about it, you probably store valuable equipment, important documents, and potentially sensitive information in your office.
They’re typically more valuable than the tools and boxes you usually keep in your garage, so you want those documents to be kept safe.
Besides, proper security precautions can help prevent one-off events like theft, vandalism, fire, or water damage.
Here’s how you can ensure your garage office is secure and protected:
1. Install Security Devices: Secure your garage doors and windows with locks, alarms, cameras, or motion sensors. These days, a whole host of smart security options can be controlled from your phone or computer, providing peace of mind while you’re away.
2. Store Valuables Safely: Keep expensive items or sensitive documents in a safe or locked cabinet.
3. Protect Your Electronics: Surge protectors can guard your electronics against voltage spikes. Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are non-negotiables for any workspace. Finally, water sensors can alert you to leaks before they cause major damage.
4. Have a Backup Plan: Power outages happen. Having a backup plan, like an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for your computer, can prevent loss of work. Additionally, a recovery system, like digital backups for your files, can help you bounce back if the unexpected occurs.
Securing your workspace is just as important as organizing and decorating it.
Decoration and furnishing aren’t just about looks. It can directly impact how you use your garage office.
A well-designed office makes you more productive, stimulates creativity, and sets the mood for your workday.
Here’s how you can turn your garage into a workspace that’s both stylish and efficient:
1. Color Scheme: The color palette can significantly affect mood and productivity. Do some research and choose colors that resonate with your personality and work style.
2. Accessories: Personalize your space with accessories that bring you joy. Rugs and curtains can add warmth, plants can bring life and improve air quality, and artwork can inspire creativity.
3. Furniture: Prioritize ergonomics for your health and durability for your wallet. Consider materials that are easy to clean, especially if your garage is prone to dust or moisture.
4. Space-saving Furniture: Wall-mounted shelves or foldable furniture can save you space while offering flexibility. Plus, a less cluttered environment often means a less cluttered mind.
In the end, your garage office should be a place that you’re excited to work in. So take some time to find the right decor and furnishings. You’re creating an environment where great ideas will be born!
Maintaining and truly enjoying your garage office can significantly enhance your work-from-home experience. An organized and pleasant workspace not only promotes efficiency but also sparks joy in your daily routine.
Here are some tips to ensure your garage office remains a space you love:
1. Regular Cleaning and Organizing: Regular upkeep prevents clutter and dust build-up. By investing a little time each week into tidying up, you’ll maintain a fresh environment that’s conducive to productivity.
2. Personal Touches: Your workspace should reflect you. Whether that’s photos of loved ones, a favorite piece of artwork, or even a themed mouse pad, these elements can make your space more enjoyable and inspiring.
3. Take Breaks: Remember to take short breaks for stretching or a quick stroll around the block. A well-rested mind is a productive mind, and your body will thank you for the movement.
4. Share Your Space: Once your garage office is all set up, invite family, friends, or clients over. It’s a great opportunity to share your achievements, gain new perspectives, or simply enjoy the company.
At the end of the day, your garage office should be more than just a place to get work done – it should be a place you take pride in and enjoy. Regular maintenance paired with personal touches will make it just that.
And there you have it! Upgrading your work-from-home game with a garage office doesn’t have to be daunting. Remember the key steps: Plan your layout, insulate and ventilate, secure and protect, decorate and furnish, and finally, maintain and enjoy your space.
Your garage has the potential to be more than just a storage space – it could be your next productivity powerhouse. Just take it step by step, and remember, you don’t need to do it all at once. Progress is progress, no matter how small.
We hope these tips have provided you with the inspiration and guidance you need to kick-start your garage office transformation. Trust us; your future self, boasting a fantastic workspace right in your garage, will thank you.
The post Working From Home? A Garage Office May Be What You Need appeared first on Garage Transformed.
]]>In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to transform your small garage into a well-organized, efficient space, regardless of how little room you have.
We’ll cover how to effectively plan out your garage space, sort and purge your items, install and utilize storage systems and accessories, and even carve out a little corner for your hobbies or workbench.
Then, we’ll cover how to make your garage more comfortable and look good while improving your lighting and ventilation.
Let’s get started.
Organizing a small, one-car garage can feel overwhelming. But…proper planning (and a lot of measuring) can make it much more manageable.
That revolves around three core ideas: evaluating your needs, creating garage zones, and continually reassessing as things change.
No matter how you use your garage, its primary function is to store vehicles. Any small garage organization plan needs to factor in ample space for parking.
For the rest of this article, we’ll make some assumptions based on the dimensions of a typical one-car garage and the size of an average car in the US.
Let’s assume you want an additional 2′ on each side of your car so you don’t have to squeeze in and out. We’ll also leave an extra foot in front and behind your car to make parking easier.
That leaves us with three feet of space along one side wall and two feet along the back wall. This will vary depending on the dimensions of your vehicle.
In a later section, we’ll cover solutions to help maximize that limited amount of space in your small garage.
Next, think about how you want to use your garage.
Is it solely for car parking, or does it also need to accommodate storage, workshop areas, or even a home gym?
The answers will give you a clearer picture of what your garage should look like.
Once that’s done, the concept of ‘zone planning’ comes into play.
The idea is to partition your garage into zones dedicated to a specific purpose.
For example, you might create zones for car maintenance, gardening, sports gear, or a hobby. This deliberate planning ensures every inch of your garage is used effectively and items are easy to locate.
Remember, your garage is not static, so expect your needs to evolve over time.
Don’t be afraid to consistently reassess your garage layout.
For example, if you’ve picked up a new hobby or your kids have outgrown their sports equipment, it’s OK to change things up.
This way, you’re ensuring that your garage adapts to the changing needs of your household.
Statistics suggest that 15%-25% of Americans can’t park their car inside their garage because of excessive clutter.
So no matter what small garage storage solutions you end up with, you need to start by decluttering your garage.
I have an entire article on my “No-Stress” method of decluttering your garage, breaking it down into manageable tasks.
Here are some of the highlights:
Stage 1: Clearing Floor Space: Start with disposing of large items such as old mattresses, outdated computers, piles of recycling, unused paint cans, empty boxes, and stacks of old newspapers or magazines.
This initial step creates workable space and delivers quick, visible results.
Stage 2: Sorting Items: Next, categorize all items into piles of similar products. Maintain clear space between piles to prevent a sense of being overwhelmed.
Your garage should be tidier by the end of this stage but don’t worry if it’s not fully organized yet.
Stage 3: Determining Their Fate: Pick a pile and sort items into three categories: discard, donate/sell, or keep. Dispose of things you haven’t used within the last year and anything that no longer serves a purpose in your life.
For items of potential value, use platforms like eBay to decide whether to sell, donate, or discard them.
Stage 4: Implement Storage Solutions: Once your clutter is under control, it’s time to introduce storage solutions.
In the next section, we’ll look at some of the best small garage storage solutions to help you make the most of your limited space.
This approach emphasizes breaking down the decluttering process into small, manageable tasks, taking regular breaks to maintain motivation, simplifying wherever possible, and finding intelligent storage solutions.
Once you’ve sorted and purged your items, the next step is to make the best use of the available space.
Small garages like yours can become functional and organized with the right storage systems and accessories. Let’s explore some options suitable for your one-car garage.
Finding the right cabinets is crucial if you have a small one-car garage. You need to look at factors such as depth, options, construction quality, and price.
I looked at the off-the-shelf garage cabinet brands to see which ones were best suited for small garages.
I could rule out most cabinets quickly, as they were just too deep. This included the NewAge Pro (24″ deep), Ulti-Mate 2.0 (21″), Gladiator Flex (19″), and the Husky Regular Duty (20″) and Heavy Duty cabinets (24″).
That leaves us with four brands: Craftsman, Seville Classics UltraHD, Gladiator RTA and Premier, and NewAge Bold.
Craftsman offers 18″ deep cabinets in their Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) line, but the options are limited. They also have sturdier, welded cabinets, but these are 21″ deep, possibly too big for smaller garages.
Seville Classics UltraHD has 18″ options too. However, they don’t feel as solid or durable as other brands.
Then we have Gladiator and NewAge.
Both brands provide plenty of 18″ options, which is perfect for smaller spaces.
Gladiator’s RTA and Premier cabinets let you mix and match to your heart’s content.
NewAge’s Bold series also has a wide model range but with a higher price tag. That said, they offer a ton of pre-configured sets, often at a discount to purchasing individual pieces.
At the end of the day, while all four brands have something to offer, Gladiator and NewAge stand out for small garages due to their size, flexibility, solid construction, and option variety.
Every inch counts in a small garage.
I love my Gladiator workbenches, but they’re 25″ deep. That’s too much wasted space when you’re not using them.
That’s where a folding workbench can really shine. It’s there when you need it and tucks away when you don’t.
Surprisingly, there aren’t many off-the-shelf solutions to choose from, but my favorite is the Husky WSH72FWB. It’s an adjustable height, 6′ long workbench with a solid wood top.
Because it’s height-adjustable, it lets you work standing up or sitting down. You set the workbench to fit you, not the other way around.
Then, when your project is finished, it folds up flat against the wall, giving you space to park your car.
It’s heavy-duty, supporting up to 800 lbs. Despite its strength, it’s easy to move around, thanks to the built-in casters. That means you can shift your workspace around the garage as needed.
So if you’re trying to make the most out of your small garage, this Husky 6′ folding workbench is definitely worth a look.
In a small garage, every square foot matters, especially when you’re trying to squeeze in a car or two.
That’s why wall storage is such a great option. It frees up valuable floor space, keeping your garage uncluttered and easy to navigate.
Let’s start with pegboards. When you don’t have room for a rolling tool chest, pegboards are the perfect solution for hanging up hand tools, brushes, and other small items.
Pegboards let you see all your tools at a glance. Plus, they’re customizable, so you can easily rearrange hooks and bins as your tool collection grows.
For larger tools, I like track systems like the Gladiator GearTrack. It’s a heavy-duty solution ideal for lawn tools and equipment.
With various hooks and bins designed to slot into the track, you can hang everything from bikes to ladders while keeping them easy to reach.
Finally, there are wall-mounted cabinets. These are ideal for storing items you want to keep out of sight and out of the way. Whether it’s paint cans, hardware assortments, or automotive supplies, wall-mounted cabinets can hold it all without eating up any floor space.
When organizing a small garage, we often forget to look up.
Taking advantage of your garage’s ceiling height can help you store more without sacrificing floor or wall space.
Overhead storage racks, ceiling-mounted tote storage, and wall shelves are excellent solutions for leveraging vertical space in your garage.
Overhead storage racks make good use of the typically unused space above your head. They’re great for storing seldom used or seasonal items. They also free up your garage floor for essentials such as parking your car or a workspace.
Ceiling-mounted tote storage offers a neat, organized way to store items in totes above your car. Like ceiling racks, it’s a great way to store seasonal or rarely used items.
You’ve probably got shelves in your garage already. But, many homeowners with small garages make the most out of their vertical space by stacking shelves above garage cabinets, slatwall, or pegboard.
That provides additional storage and quick access to frequently used tools or supplies while keeping your garage neat.
Your garage can take on a lot of different roles: workspace, storage spot, or hobby center. You might want to spend more time there if it feels comfortable and inviting.
Identify the vibe you want – modern, rustic, or eclectic. Consider your budget and the necessary materials for your garage revamp.
Adding a small rug or garage mat is a straightforward way to improve your garage’s comfort. They help cushion your hard concrete floor and provide additional insulation.
Rugs or mats can brighten the concrete floor and distinguish areas like workspace, storage, or seating.
Next, art or plants can make your garage feel more appealing. Artwork, posters, or murals bring personality, and plants enhance air quality while adding a natural touch, making the space feel vibrant.
Lastly, consider adding furniture or accessories.
A comfortable chair, a practical table, or a mini fridge make the space more functional. It provides seating, storage, and a place for guests, making your small garage the perfect place to hang out with friends.
Improving your small garage’s lighting and ventilation can take it to the next level.
Enhanced lighting can significantly improve the visibility within your small garage. This becomes important for tasks requiring precision, such as vehicle repairs or DIY projects.
Better lighting also helps improve efficiency. You’ll be able to navigate and work in your space more effectively, reducing the time spent searching for tools or other items.
Better lighting also contributes to safety and reduces the likelihood of accidents.
Finally, lighting has a huge impact on the look and feel of your garage. With strategic lighting, you can create a pleasant atmosphere and highlight certain features you wish to emphasize.
Installing proper ventilation is especially important if you use your garage for activities that generate harmful substances like chemical fumes or car exhaust. Ensuring adequate ventilation can effectively clear these potential hazards from the air.
More importantly, a well-ventilated garage helps control the temperature.
In the summer, ventilation works to circulate air around your garage so you feel cooler. In winter, it can help to reduce condensation and dampness.
Finally, ventilation can help to control odors. Good ventilation can clear the air and keep the space smelling fresh if your garage is used for projects that produce strong smells, such as painting or staining wood.
Whether your cozy, one-car garage serves as a haven for your hobbies, a central storage hub, or simply a shelter for your car, the right tweaks and additions can significantly enhance its functionality.
We’ve guided you through essential steps of this transformation journey, sharing some of my favorite products to help maximize the space in small garages.
But remember, the ultimate goal isn’t just about maximizing space.
It’s about creating a garage that reflects your lifestyle, caters to your unique needs, and fills you with satisfaction every time you walk through the door.
The post Squeeze More Into Less: Your Guide to Small Garage Organization appeared first on Garage Transformed.
]]>My porch makeover has been in progress for a while and today I’m sharing the second phase of the DIY project. Check out the ‘before’ photos in my first porch makeover blog post, where we upcycled an ancient door frame to enclose the open porch.
Enclosing the open porch has created a kind-of entryway from the garden before you come into the kitchen. This, therefore, lends itself perfectly to being a mud room or boot room, with storage for wellies, coats and other outdoor items. So, in this space, I’m considering different shelving and cabinet options to make the most of every inch of space across the back wall of the porch.
I’ve previously used heavy-duty garage shelving in the brick outbuilding, which has proven to be an excellent storage option. It’s sturdy enough to take the weight of heavy boxes and tools but it doesn’t look excessively bulky or block the light, which is important when you’re adding storage to a small utility space, shed or tool store.
I liked the idea of keeping the exposed brickwork but painting over it with a minty aqua colour to match the kitchen, which adjoins the porch. So, the first thing to do was prepare the brick walls and the ceiling for painting.
I used an old wire brush to gently scrub away any flaking bits of mortar and then used a broom to get rid of any dust and cobwebs. Inevitably, there were a few old holes and cracks in the mortar so we used filler to patch up any uneven areas.
Then came the moisture-proofing. We painted on a coat of a concrete-like substance that prevents dampness from penetrating the exterior wall. This was also used on the concrete floor to prevent the damp from rising up.
If you want to see the painting process, I’ve shared a video on Instagram (below). We used a masonry decorating kit by Harris Brushes, which made it easy to brush the paint into the mortar grooves. I then used the fluffy masonry roller to paint a couple of coats of onto the brickwork until it was completely covered.
My top tip for painting onto brick and getting a solid colour is to use an undercoat of white paint. It doesn’t have to be anything special, just a basic cheap white emulsion will do nicely. Roller it onto the walls and allow it to dry completely before doing a second and third coat using the colour of your choice.
If you’re using a darker colour for the top coat, you can use a darker undercoat using a cheapie grey colour. Doing the first coat with a cheaper paint means you’re not wasting your (possibly more expensive) top coat paint on an undercoat to cover the redness of the bricks. The basic paint will cover this up nicely and then you’ll have a blank canvas to add the colour on top.
When I started running low on the aqua kitchen paint, I decided to paint the back wall of the porch with leftover grey paint. This wall will be entirely hidden behind the storage units so it didn’t need to be the same colour as the side walls. That’s another tip for saving money on paint – if the wall is hidden, does it really need to be the same colour?
There’s a small side door/window in the porch but this would also be covered by the cabinets so we decided to seal up the door completely. But not before I gave it a makeover with a lot of sanding, some black exterior paint to match the door and a coat of grey paint on the inside.
The next phase will be doing the flooring and fitting useful storage across the back wall. Be sure to check back soon for more updates on my porch makeover project! And please share your own experiences of incorporating outdoor spaces into your home, I’d love to hear your advice in the comments below.
This article is sponsored collaboration. The pink links in the content indicate a sponsored link or information source. The blog post reflects my own experience and the sponsor hasn’t had any control over my content
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