The earth's atmosphere's composition is:
Nitrogen: 78%
Oxygen: 21%
Greenhouse Gases: 1%
The Greenhouse Gases are: Carbon Dioxide, Methane, Nitrous Oxide, Ozone, Water Vapour and Halocarbons
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Friday, April 25, 2008
Global Warming: Greenhouse Effect
Effectively, the earth and its atmosphere are warmed as a result of the actions of the greenhouse gases.The solar rays as well as the heat generated by the earth are not dissipated entirely and instantaneously into space vacuum because of the gasses which trap them into the earth's atmosphere.This is needed because if there were no heat being trapped,the earth would overall be about 30 Celsius cooler and life would not be as we know it. After millions of years the delicate balance has been fractured, perhaps irreparably in the last 100 years.In the last century humanity's technological advances and the resulting lifestyle choices have increased the production of greenhouse gasses. As more greenhouse gasses are trapped in the atmosphere, more heat is generated. And too much heat causes climate change.
The earth's atmosphere's composition is:
Nitrogen: 78%
Oxygen: 21%
Greenhouse Gases: 1%
The Greenhouse Gases are: Carbon Dioxide, Methane, Nitrous Oxide, Ozone, Water Vapour and Halocarbons
The earth's atmosphere's composition is:
Nitrogen: 78%
Oxygen: 21%
Greenhouse Gases: 1%
The Greenhouse Gases are: Carbon Dioxide, Methane, Nitrous Oxide, Ozone, Water Vapour and Halocarbons
Gaia—Science of a Goddess
Gaia in classical Greek mythology is the source.In the beginning was chaos and from this chaos arose Gaia.And she produced of her own body and self Uranus.And from her union with Uranus arose creation.While the meaning of myths remains ambiguous,the deities become a part of the collective folklore and customs.So thousands of years later,Gaia is still associated with the earth and depending upon the etymological version followed,is the grandmother earth or earth goddess of the very earth itself.Nearly all cultures have some version or the other of a goddess who is the personification of earth.From the Celtic - Iris Danu to the Sumerian Tiamat and the Hindu Adya Shakti, with the sole exception of the Egyptian mythology,earth is always a feminine power.In the 1960s,while working for NASA Dr.James Lovelock formulated and put forward the Gaia Hypothesis.According to this the whole planet and all its organisms were a part of the self regulating mechanism of Gaia.From phytoplanktons on the surface of the sea to the colour of the daisy,the Gaia Hypothesis sees all earth systems- biological,chemical, human- as interlocked and interdependent.Till recently, the balance was being maintained,whereby Gaia could self regulate.Thus excessive carbon dioxide emission was balanced by greater algae bloom,which absorbed excess carbon dioxide and locked it onto the ocean floor.
But finally,human activities now threaten to strain Gaia's self regulation capacity to a critical threshold,triggering an abrupt change,which will make the earth far less hospitable for wide spread human habitation.
But finally,human activities now threaten to strain Gaia's self regulation capacity to a critical threshold,triggering an abrupt change,which will make the earth far less hospitable for wide spread human habitation.
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Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Climate Change: Preserve or Perish
By 2009, 180 countries will meet in Copenhagen, under the aegis of UN, to strike a global deal that would help settle the matter of climate change. Hopefully, it would provide the breakthrough for all countries to solve the problem collectively.
Climate change has the potential of shaking the ground beneath our feet and has already shocked the powers that govern us into serious concern. It has got more than 180 countries grappling for a solution and the solution has to be found by 2009 when all these countries meet in Copenhagen under the aegis of UN.
Literally thousands of scientists have collaborated for years. All of them have worked in an unprecedented fashion to comprehend and inform the world how real and calamitous are the risks from increasing emissions of carbon dioxide and other heat trapping gasses. They are unequivocal. The threat is as real.
Accumulating greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere can wreak unprecedented havoc with nature. India, with its 8000 kilometres of coastline and 60 per cent of population still dependent on rain-fed agriculture, becomes especially vulnerable to such changes. The world is required to act now. This much we have more or less learnt since the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change - the body with these thousands of acclaimed scientists on board - over the past year submitted its four reports. But what is to be done to solve this overwhelming crisis? With the world going through the decade's worst food crisis and oil prices spiraling towards the $150 a barrel mark fast, the signs are clear. T h e w o r l d has to act decisively. But an i n c o r r e c t and badly judged answer can only deepen the hole humanity has continued to dig for itself since the industrialization era.
The problem began when countries in the west rapidly developed their economies using fossil fuels and spewing out thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide each year and other harmful gases into the atmosphere. These gases accumulated, trapping heat, changing the world's climate. As economic activity and consumption patterns in these countries heated up so did the atmosphere.
Other countries were slow to follow on the same path. But by the time they had reached an economic level to make the people better off, reduce poverty through economic growth, the carbon pie, if one may call it that, had been eaten up. If the atmosphere is a cake that is to be cut equally between each individual on the planet, the rich countries have eaten more than their fair share. At least, this is what the developing countries, like India, China and Brazil contend. A US citizen, they often cite as example, has twenty times the footprint of an average Indian.
But the developed countries contend that the time to hark on history is past. They also argue that countries like China are fast reaching the same levels of emissions and when looked at as a sum would outpace even some rich countries. They demand that regardless of the historic burden, all large economies must act together and cut their emissions even if they are disproportionate to their per-capita emissions.
If it is a crisis as all scientists tell us it is, then the first instinct is to listen to the latter group. After all, it is not worth harking back to the past when the future is imperiled.
But, there is a hitch. Reducing future emissions and cutting down on existing ones can take a toll on the economy, believe the developing countries. Industrial processes would slow down. Some sectors like steel and power that are yet to reach the best standards would suffer a hit. Worse still, the smaller players in these sectors, unable to afford the new technologies that emit lesser carbon, would suffer the most. With the small sector being the employment generator for developing countries, country's entire economy could take a hit.
While there might be a handful in countries like India that come close to the lifestyle of the rich and famous of the west, a large part of the country still lives if not in abject poverty, then on edge. An edge where only greater economic development can provide social security.
The battle lines are today drawn at this point. The West wants India and China to commit to time bound, supervised emission reductions. India, for its part, is ready to take action at home under purely domestic regulations - it is after all going to help reduce dependence on fuel and save India on the oil import bill. But it wants the west to provide the technologies they already have. In most cases, the West would rather sell these technologies.
Countries like India also demand that the guilty nations provide funds to poorer nations to adapt to what are now the inevitable impacts of climate change. By 2009 all the countries will meet in Copenhagen to hammer out a global deal that should help settle these matters for some decades and provide the breakthrough for all countries to solve this problem collectively. And, equitably. If the world fails its poor and is unable to string together an equitable deal that allows poor countries sustainable economic development, the world might be saved from the perils of climate change but it could get caught in a poverty trap that may leave many of its poor and vulnerable worse off than before.
Climate change has the potential of shaking the ground beneath our feet and has already shocked the powers that govern us into serious concern. It has got more than 180 countries grappling for a solution and the solution has to be found by 2009 when all these countries meet in Copenhagen under the aegis of UN.
Literally thousands of scientists have collaborated for years. All of them have worked in an unprecedented fashion to comprehend and inform the world how real and calamitous are the risks from increasing emissions of carbon dioxide and other heat trapping gasses. They are unequivocal. The threat is as real.
Accumulating greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere can wreak unprecedented havoc with nature. India, with its 8000 kilometres of coastline and 60 per cent of population still dependent on rain-fed agriculture, becomes especially vulnerable to such changes. The world is required to act now. This much we have more or less learnt since the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change - the body with these thousands of acclaimed scientists on board - over the past year submitted its four reports. But what is to be done to solve this overwhelming crisis? With the world going through the decade's worst food crisis and oil prices spiraling towards the $150 a barrel mark fast, the signs are clear. T h e w o r l d has to act decisively. But an i n c o r r e c t and badly judged answer can only deepen the hole humanity has continued to dig for itself since the industrialization era.
The problem began when countries in the west rapidly developed their economies using fossil fuels and spewing out thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide each year and other harmful gases into the atmosphere. These gases accumulated, trapping heat, changing the world's climate. As economic activity and consumption patterns in these countries heated up so did the atmosphere.
Other countries were slow to follow on the same path. But by the time they had reached an economic level to make the people better off, reduce poverty through economic growth, the carbon pie, if one may call it that, had been eaten up. If the atmosphere is a cake that is to be cut equally between each individual on the planet, the rich countries have eaten more than their fair share. At least, this is what the developing countries, like India, China and Brazil contend. A US citizen, they often cite as example, has twenty times the footprint of an average Indian.
But the developed countries contend that the time to hark on history is past. They also argue that countries like China are fast reaching the same levels of emissions and when looked at as a sum would outpace even some rich countries. They demand that regardless of the historic burden, all large economies must act together and cut their emissions even if they are disproportionate to their per-capita emissions.
If it is a crisis as all scientists tell us it is, then the first instinct is to listen to the latter group. After all, it is not worth harking back to the past when the future is imperiled.
But, there is a hitch. Reducing future emissions and cutting down on existing ones can take a toll on the economy, believe the developing countries. Industrial processes would slow down. Some sectors like steel and power that are yet to reach the best standards would suffer a hit. Worse still, the smaller players in these sectors, unable to afford the new technologies that emit lesser carbon, would suffer the most. With the small sector being the employment generator for developing countries, country's entire economy could take a hit.
While there might be a handful in countries like India that come close to the lifestyle of the rich and famous of the west, a large part of the country still lives if not in abject poverty, then on edge. An edge where only greater economic development can provide social security.
The battle lines are today drawn at this point. The West wants India and China to commit to time bound, supervised emission reductions. India, for its part, is ready to take action at home under purely domestic regulations - it is after all going to help reduce dependence on fuel and save India on the oil import bill. But it wants the west to provide the technologies they already have. In most cases, the West would rather sell these technologies.
Countries like India also demand that the guilty nations provide funds to poorer nations to adapt to what are now the inevitable impacts of climate change. By 2009 all the countries will meet in Copenhagen to hammer out a global deal that should help settle these matters for some decades and provide the breakthrough for all countries to solve this problem collectively. And, equitably. If the world fails its poor and is unable to string together an equitable deal that allows poor countries sustainable economic development, the world might be saved from the perils of climate change but it could get caught in a poverty trap that may leave many of its poor and vulnerable worse off than before.
Tags:
Monday, April 21, 2008
Evergreen revolution merely a dream?
The current food crisis resulting from agricultural stagnation at home and escalating energy prices abroad, will lead to the birth of an ever-green revolution
Sustainable Food Security involves physical, economic and social access to a balanced diet and clean drinking water to every child, woman and man in the country. For achieving physical access, production and productivity of major crops should go up, so that there is a proper match between demand and supply. For economic access, there is need for adequate purchasing power, which in turn can be achieved through work and income security. Social access involves attention to the gender, class and caste dimensions of food security.
Climate change could result in higher temperatures and droughts that are more frequent, heavy floods in the Indo-gangetic plains, un-seasonal rainfall posing a threat to crops nearing maturity, and a rise in sea level along the coast and in the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep group of islands. Physical access to food can be endangered by such changes, while economic access will be further eroded due to damage to livelihood security caused by adverse changes in temperature and precipitation. The rise in the prices of staple foods now occurring nationally and globally will further enhance poverty related endemic hunger.
How can we face such challenges? The climate change calamity also presents opportunities for developing strategies, which can help to mitigate the adverse impact of aberrant weather. In the early 1960s, India was leading a "ship to mouth" existence and there would have been a serious famine in Bihar, like the Bengal famine of 1942-43, but for the import of as much as 10 million tonnes of wheat in 1966 from North America largely under the US PL 480 programme. This crisis led to the birth of Green Revolution in 1968, resulting from a synergy between technology and public policy. The Green Revolution gave rise to a climate of confidence in India's agricultural capability.
It is my hope that the current food crisis resulting from agricultural stagnation at home and escalating energy prices abroad will lead to the birth of an ever-green revolution movement designed to improve productivity in perpetuity without associated ecological harm. The climate change calamity can then become a blessing in terns of reorientation of our agricultural research and development strategies based on the principles of ecology, economics, equity, employment, and energy security. The pathways to an ever-green revolution are organic farming and/ or green agriculture.Organic farming precludes the use of mineral fertilizers or synthetic pesticides, and genetically modified crops. Green agriculture is based on integrated pest and nutrient management, crop-livestock integration, use of the most appropriate and productive genetic strains irrespective of the method breading, and the adoption of more crop and income per drop of water techniques. Both organic farming and Green Agriculture are environment friendly and will help prevent damage to the basic life support systems of soil, water, biodiversity, forests and the atmosphere.
Global warming will present an opportunity to enlarge the food basket by including jowar, bajra, ragi and a wide range of millets and pulses. Today, it is the poor, mostly tribal and rural women who are conserving the agro-biodiversity for public good at personal cost. They will not be able to continue these traditions, unless steps are taken to create an economic stake in conservation. The government has introduced a Genome Saviour Award to recognize and reward the contributions of tribal and rural families to genetic resources conservation and enhancement.
To illustrate that "good ecology is also good business," a bio-valley is being established in a watershed area in the Koraput district of Orissa. A bio-valley is to biotechnology, what the Silicon Valley is to information technology. It will help to link bio-resources, biotechnology (non GMO technology) and business in a mutually reinforcing manner. This could lead to an era of bio happiness arising from the conservation and sustainable and equitable uses of bio-resources.
If management of climate change becomes everybody's business, we can safeguard ecological, food and livelihood security to the maximum extent possible.
Sustainable Food Security involves physical, economic and social access to a balanced diet and clean drinking water to every child, woman and man in the country. For achieving physical access, production and productivity of major crops should go up, so that there is a proper match between demand and supply. For economic access, there is need for adequate purchasing power, which in turn can be achieved through work and income security. Social access involves attention to the gender, class and caste dimensions of food security.
Climate change could result in higher temperatures and droughts that are more frequent, heavy floods in the Indo-gangetic plains, un-seasonal rainfall posing a threat to crops nearing maturity, and a rise in sea level along the coast and in the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep group of islands. Physical access to food can be endangered by such changes, while economic access will be further eroded due to damage to livelihood security caused by adverse changes in temperature and precipitation. The rise in the prices of staple foods now occurring nationally and globally will further enhance poverty related endemic hunger.
How can we face such challenges? The climate change calamity also presents opportunities for developing strategies, which can help to mitigate the adverse impact of aberrant weather. In the early 1960s, India was leading a "ship to mouth" existence and there would have been a serious famine in Bihar, like the Bengal famine of 1942-43, but for the import of as much as 10 million tonnes of wheat in 1966 from North America largely under the US PL 480 programme. This crisis led to the birth of Green Revolution in 1968, resulting from a synergy between technology and public policy. The Green Revolution gave rise to a climate of confidence in India's agricultural capability.
It is my hope that the current food crisis resulting from agricultural stagnation at home and escalating energy prices abroad will lead to the birth of an ever-green revolution movement designed to improve productivity in perpetuity without associated ecological harm. The climate change calamity can then become a blessing in terns of reorientation of our agricultural research and development strategies based on the principles of ecology, economics, equity, employment, and energy security. The pathways to an ever-green revolution are organic farming and/ or green agriculture.Organic farming precludes the use of mineral fertilizers or synthetic pesticides, and genetically modified crops. Green agriculture is based on integrated pest and nutrient management, crop-livestock integration, use of the most appropriate and productive genetic strains irrespective of the method breading, and the adoption of more crop and income per drop of water techniques. Both organic farming and Green Agriculture are environment friendly and will help prevent damage to the basic life support systems of soil, water, biodiversity, forests and the atmosphere.
Global warming will present an opportunity to enlarge the food basket by including jowar, bajra, ragi and a wide range of millets and pulses. Today, it is the poor, mostly tribal and rural women who are conserving the agro-biodiversity for public good at personal cost. They will not be able to continue these traditions, unless steps are taken to create an economic stake in conservation. The government has introduced a Genome Saviour Award to recognize and reward the contributions of tribal and rural families to genetic resources conservation and enhancement.
To illustrate that "good ecology is also good business," a bio-valley is being established in a watershed area in the Koraput district of Orissa. A bio-valley is to biotechnology, what the Silicon Valley is to information technology. It will help to link bio-resources, biotechnology (non GMO technology) and business in a mutually reinforcing manner. This could lead to an era of bio happiness arising from the conservation and sustainable and equitable uses of bio-resources.
If management of climate change becomes everybody's business, we can safeguard ecological, food and livelihood security to the maximum extent possible.
Tags:
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Ornamental grass in garden decor
You can combine it with flowering plants to beautify your outdoor spaces
For those of us who have gardens that are beautifully maintained, a lawn that is well-manicured and looking like a luscious green carpet, sometimes there is also a need for change in the way it looks. There are many ways of making your garden look different and varied from the usual.
Planting ornamental grass is a practical and charming option to give a facelift to your garden. Ornamental grass is very different from regularly grown grass. It works great as a vertical design element and adds an additional charm to the existing green patch in your garden. Another objective is that it can be planted so as to provide privacy for the rooms at the ground floor level. Its dried foliage can be used to create a bonfire for those special evenings. The swaying and dancing of ornamental grass in the gentle breeze creates a beautiful and picturesque view of the garden. It also attracts less pests and gentle watering can easily shoo away insects, if any.
Use
Ornamental grass is used in combination with flowers and shrubs to fill planting beds, to create new forms and textures. It can be used to differentiate spaces in the garden and also can act as a crowning rim for a lawn or a lotus pond. You should carefully decide on the amount and quality of grass used. Too much ornamental grass could even spoil the neat look. Use it with a minimalist theme in mind and co-ordinate the hues of the grass along with the other flora for a refreshing and rejuvenating pattern.
Types
There are different varieties of ornamental grass depending on the height, foliage, hue, and type of climate to which it is suited. Tall grass like bamboo and plume grass is best suited to demark easily exposed rooms. Plant it alongside large windows. Its tall, thin shafts lend a touch of exquisite charm to the overall landscape.
Intermediate or moderately tall ones of the blue oat grass variety are loose clumps of green foliage and work great to break the monotony of a huge lawn. This can be planted to demarcate areas in the garden and is useful during an open-air party.
Short ornamental grass is the ultimate option for small plots of land. So, in case you have a barren area in the backyard and you do not know what to do with it, plant small shrubs like Pennisetum to pep it up.
Vetiveria zizanioides, better known as 'lavancha' or khus grass is a wonderful way of keeping your pond clean from toxins. This grass absorbs the toxins in the water and lends a fragrant smell to the surroundings.
Care
Ornamental grass is not supposed to be mowed or tread upon, thus making it simple and easy to maintain. It is easily adaptable and can grow in poor soil, better than any other garden plant. Care should be taken to remove the dried leaves to maintain the aesthetics of the garden.
For those of us who have gardens that are beautifully maintained, a lawn that is well-manicured and looking like a luscious green carpet, sometimes there is also a need for change in the way it looks. There are many ways of making your garden look different and varied from the usual.
Planting ornamental grass is a practical and charming option to give a facelift to your garden. Ornamental grass is very different from regularly grown grass. It works great as a vertical design element and adds an additional charm to the existing green patch in your garden. Another objective is that it can be planted so as to provide privacy for the rooms at the ground floor level. Its dried foliage can be used to create a bonfire for those special evenings. The swaying and dancing of ornamental grass in the gentle breeze creates a beautiful and picturesque view of the garden. It also attracts less pests and gentle watering can easily shoo away insects, if any.
Use
Ornamental grass is used in combination with flowers and shrubs to fill planting beds, to create new forms and textures. It can be used to differentiate spaces in the garden and also can act as a crowning rim for a lawn or a lotus pond. You should carefully decide on the amount and quality of grass used. Too much ornamental grass could even spoil the neat look. Use it with a minimalist theme in mind and co-ordinate the hues of the grass along with the other flora for a refreshing and rejuvenating pattern.
Types
There are different varieties of ornamental grass depending on the height, foliage, hue, and type of climate to which it is suited. Tall grass like bamboo and plume grass is best suited to demark easily exposed rooms. Plant it alongside large windows. Its tall, thin shafts lend a touch of exquisite charm to the overall landscape.
Intermediate or moderately tall ones of the blue oat grass variety are loose clumps of green foliage and work great to break the monotony of a huge lawn. This can be planted to demarcate areas in the garden and is useful during an open-air party.
Short ornamental grass is the ultimate option for small plots of land. So, in case you have a barren area in the backyard and you do not know what to do with it, plant small shrubs like Pennisetum to pep it up.
Vetiveria zizanioides, better known as 'lavancha' or khus grass is a wonderful way of keeping your pond clean from toxins. This grass absorbs the toxins in the water and lends a fragrant smell to the surroundings.
Care
Ornamental grass is not supposed to be mowed or tread upon, thus making it simple and easy to maintain. It is easily adaptable and can grow in poor soil, better than any other garden plant. Care should be taken to remove the dried leaves to maintain the aesthetics of the garden.
Plants for your office space
Ornamental and functional plants beautify office spaces and lend an aesthetic touch to surroundings.
According to Feng Shui, plants in the office bring better luck to your career. Scientifically, they purify the air and help create a greener ambience. There are two kinds of plants you can introduce in your office space - ornamental and functional. While ornamental plants brighten up a dull decor, functional plants remove toxins from the environment and add oxygen to stale air. You can display a combination of both types of plants to achieve the right balance.
Before you bring any plant into your office, consider the following:
Sunlight:
See if the windows in your office allow sufficient sunlight to come in. No plant can survive without sunlight. There are certain shade-loving plants that may do well in limited sunlight and under fluorescent lamps. But there is no effective substitute to adequate sunlight. If you cannot find a spot where the plant can get sufficient sunlight, keep it outside in the balcony or terrace for three to four hours everyday.
Time:
How much time are you willing to dedicate to plant-care? Do you have someone who can care of them? Most plants in offices end up covered in dust or die after a couple of months. Make a conscious effort not to let that happen if you choose to introduce plants in your office. In case you cannot spend much time tending to the plants, opt for low-maintenance functional plants instead of flowering ones.
Space:
If you have limited floor space, you can get fixtures on the walls that can hold pots. Don't clutter up your space with big pots.
Choosing the right plant
If your purpose is to brighten up the office space, go in for flowering plants or those with colourful leaves. Crotons are easy to grow and good to look at. There are more than 750 types of crotons available in India. The leaves range from vibrant yellows, oranges, shades of reds to purple, and some incredible shades of green. Variegated patterns on the leaves are spots, stripes, streaks, and blotches. These plants require fertile soil and adequate sunlight.
Some of the popular crotons include the banana croton that has eight-inch long leaves, gold dust crotons that have dark green leaves with scattered brilliant yellow dots, and mammy or fire crotons with leaves that have beautiful waxy colours of the rainbow.
Flowering plants like Anthurium, button roses, Cat's tail, Fire cracker, and orchids can be grown in pots. All these plants require plenty of sunlight. Creepers like the money plants, Trailing Myrtle, Plumbago, Golden Star, and Creeping thyme can be allowed to grow on door archways or along window grills. Climbers such as Asarina, Hydrangea Petiolaris, and Morning Glory are beautiful to look at and easy to tend to. You can grow climbers on any kind of surface, especially the Hydrangea Petiolaris which can climb on walls, wires, pipes, etc.
When it comes to functional plants, go for low-maintenance ones.
The Philodendron Selloum does well in low lighting conditions.
The Ficus Benjamina can grow in any type of soil.
Monstera is an ideal choice for indoors as it needs less water.
The Dracaena plant is an excellent cleanser of impurities in the air.
Cane bamboo, Areca Palm, Philodendron, and Dieffenbachia are other indoor plants that grow easily.
Besides these, cacti and bonsai are great options for indoor foliage. Certain types of cacti even bear flowers. They are easy to take care of and look impressive in an office space. Bonsai, on the other hand, needs a lot of care and sunlight. They are essentially not indoor plants but can be placed indoors occasionally.
If you have the space, you can create a plant-scape within your office with a combination of plants. Consult an architect for options that suit your space.
According to Feng Shui, plants in the office bring better luck to your career. Scientifically, they purify the air and help create a greener ambience. There are two kinds of plants you can introduce in your office space - ornamental and functional. While ornamental plants brighten up a dull decor, functional plants remove toxins from the environment and add oxygen to stale air. You can display a combination of both types of plants to achieve the right balance.
Before you bring any plant into your office, consider the following:
Sunlight:
See if the windows in your office allow sufficient sunlight to come in. No plant can survive without sunlight. There are certain shade-loving plants that may do well in limited sunlight and under fluorescent lamps. But there is no effective substitute to adequate sunlight. If you cannot find a spot where the plant can get sufficient sunlight, keep it outside in the balcony or terrace for three to four hours everyday.
Time:
How much time are you willing to dedicate to plant-care? Do you have someone who can care of them? Most plants in offices end up covered in dust or die after a couple of months. Make a conscious effort not to let that happen if you choose to introduce plants in your office. In case you cannot spend much time tending to the plants, opt for low-maintenance functional plants instead of flowering ones.
Space:
If you have limited floor space, you can get fixtures on the walls that can hold pots. Don't clutter up your space with big pots.
Choosing the right plant
If your purpose is to brighten up the office space, go in for flowering plants or those with colourful leaves. Crotons are easy to grow and good to look at. There are more than 750 types of crotons available in India. The leaves range from vibrant yellows, oranges, shades of reds to purple, and some incredible shades of green. Variegated patterns on the leaves are spots, stripes, streaks, and blotches. These plants require fertile soil and adequate sunlight.
Some of the popular crotons include the banana croton that has eight-inch long leaves, gold dust crotons that have dark green leaves with scattered brilliant yellow dots, and mammy or fire crotons with leaves that have beautiful waxy colours of the rainbow.
Flowering plants like Anthurium, button roses, Cat's tail, Fire cracker, and orchids can be grown in pots. All these plants require plenty of sunlight. Creepers like the money plants, Trailing Myrtle, Plumbago, Golden Star, and Creeping thyme can be allowed to grow on door archways or along window grills. Climbers such as Asarina, Hydrangea Petiolaris, and Morning Glory are beautiful to look at and easy to tend to. You can grow climbers on any kind of surface, especially the Hydrangea Petiolaris which can climb on walls, wires, pipes, etc.
When it comes to functional plants, go for low-maintenance ones.
The Philodendron Selloum does well in low lighting conditions.
The Ficus Benjamina can grow in any type of soil.
Monstera is an ideal choice for indoors as it needs less water.
The Dracaena plant is an excellent cleanser of impurities in the air.
Cane bamboo, Areca Palm, Philodendron, and Dieffenbachia are other indoor plants that grow easily.
Besides these, cacti and bonsai are great options for indoor foliage. Certain types of cacti even bear flowers. They are easy to take care of and look impressive in an office space. Bonsai, on the other hand, needs a lot of care and sunlight. They are essentially not indoor plants but can be placed indoors occasionally.
If you have the space, you can create a plant-scape within your office with a combination of plants. Consult an architect for options that suit your space.
For a clutter-free home…..
Create storage spaces, and dispose off old and unused items, for clutter-free spaces.
Asmall home is filled with a lot of clutter due to scattering things in different places and not enough storage space. Often, we tend to dump things like car keys, glasses, shoes, purses, helmets, and letters immediately after entering the home and then spend time looking for them. You can resolve this problem by mounting hooks to hang keys, bags, purses, coats and hats. Keep a free-standing shelf beside the door for shoes, glasses, and other things. Hang mail holders, preferably with two pockets, to hold bills and mail, and a bin to throw the junk mail immediately along with other trash such as empty cans, wrappers, and envelopes.
Use baskets to store papers, files, books, toys, and much more. Keep your files safe in a wicker box. Use hanging baskets to keep toys and children's things.
Homes with one bathroom and a large family are often a mess, especially around the bathroom area. You can minimise the pressure on the area by appointing other areas for some of the activities that can be managed outside the bath. Install hooks to hang wet towels and a big laundry bag for dirty laundry. You can keep clean towels and makeup outside in a shelf. A tall mirror outside will help people get ready, apply makeup, and reach for the towel without entering the bath. If many members are sharing one room and use the bathroom to change clothes, you may like to hang a curtain that can allow them a private area for the purpose.
Tripping over toys all over the house is the major occupation of mothers. Give away toys that do not attract your child any longer. Small children do not like to be restricted to one room, so it is wiser to have a drawer or hidden storage area for their toys wherever they play most often.
Your bedroom should be a place where you can rest. It is not the place to work or do other stressful activities. Do not allow things to accumulate there. This room should contain a bed, dresser, nightstands, lamps, and maybe a chair or bench. Do not overcrowd your bedroom with furniture as this will make it feel small. Your nightstand should be clear except for reading glasses, a book or magazine, an alarm clock, and maybe some tissues. Start by clearing the room of all extra items and store them elsewhere.
Asmall home is filled with a lot of clutter due to scattering things in different places and not enough storage space. Often, we tend to dump things like car keys, glasses, shoes, purses, helmets, and letters immediately after entering the home and then spend time looking for them. You can resolve this problem by mounting hooks to hang keys, bags, purses, coats and hats. Keep a free-standing shelf beside the door for shoes, glasses, and other things. Hang mail holders, preferably with two pockets, to hold bills and mail, and a bin to throw the junk mail immediately along with other trash such as empty cans, wrappers, and envelopes.
Use baskets to store papers, files, books, toys, and much more. Keep your files safe in a wicker box. Use hanging baskets to keep toys and children's things.
Homes with one bathroom and a large family are often a mess, especially around the bathroom area. You can minimise the pressure on the area by appointing other areas for some of the activities that can be managed outside the bath. Install hooks to hang wet towels and a big laundry bag for dirty laundry. You can keep clean towels and makeup outside in a shelf. A tall mirror outside will help people get ready, apply makeup, and reach for the towel without entering the bath. If many members are sharing one room and use the bathroom to change clothes, you may like to hang a curtain that can allow them a private area for the purpose.
Tripping over toys all over the house is the major occupation of mothers. Give away toys that do not attract your child any longer. Small children do not like to be restricted to one room, so it is wiser to have a drawer or hidden storage area for their toys wherever they play most often.
Your bedroom should be a place where you can rest. It is not the place to work or do other stressful activities. Do not allow things to accumulate there. This room should contain a bed, dresser, nightstands, lamps, and maybe a chair or bench. Do not overcrowd your bedroom with furniture as this will make it feel small. Your nightstand should be clear except for reading glasses, a book or magazine, an alarm clock, and maybe some tissues. Start by clearing the room of all extra items and store them elsewhere.
Living room makeover
Simple changes on a small budget add colour to the living room.
The living room is the area which is perhaps, the most frequented room in the house. While this room may need a regular makeover to keep it looking bright, cheerful, and different, you need not spend a lot to give it a new look.
Paint
You can add a real punch of colour by painting just one wall of your living room. This will really change the focal point of the living room without getting into a major decorating project. If your room has a niche, that's the perfect choice for extra colour. You can choose a bold, contrasting colour picked from a floral fabric, or a subtle tone darker than the tone of the other walls.
Pillow
Nothing adds colour like pillows strategically placed on furniture. Whether you choose plain colours for a floral sofa or chair, or colourful, patterned pillows for a plain chair or sofa, these simple additions will add comfort and a splash of colour.
Plants
Green plants or flowering ones add colour, fragrance, personality, and a soothing touch to the living room. If you really don't have a green thumb, choose plants that require little or no care. If you travel a lot, settle for artificial ones. You can find nice-looking plants, foliage, and flowers that only need to be dusted and maybe vacuumed once in a while.
Lighting
Even if you have a traditional classic living room, you can add a point of interest by selecting a lamp or shade that is colourful or unusual. You can also have a pot or sculpture and light it up in the evenings by having the electrical components installed. Then, select a shade that has a unique shape, and glue a trim of fringe, beads, or ribbon around the top and bottom to add colour.
Floors
A colourful throw rug, an antique shawl or piece of brocade strategically placed in front of a chair or under a coffee table can add colour and texture to a living room. It can be put on top of hardwood flooring, painted floors, or a carpet. You can choose a contrasting colour, chosen from fabric you're using in the room, or look for one with an interesting pattern that goes well with the decor theme.
Cushions
If you have a small chair, such as a desk chair or side chair, consider changing the covers of the seat cushion. Fresh colour on even this small area will offer interest and bring life to a dreary corner. A handmade quilt, woven throw, or cosy, colourful blanket adds interest when draped over the back or arm of a neutral sofa or chair. Choose a colour that accents other pieces in the room as well.
Mirrors
Try placing a large mirror on a bare wall. Choose an interesting frame or decorate a piece of mirror with cording or braid. If you have an old frame, consider painting it a bright colour. The mirror will reflect the colour from around the room and add light to the space.
Artwork
A colourful piece of art placed in a living room not only adds a decorative touch, but also introduces colours and shapes you might not be able to use in a larger area. Try framing simple photos with colourful mats and eyecatching frames.
The living room is the area which is perhaps, the most frequented room in the house. While this room may need a regular makeover to keep it looking bright, cheerful, and different, you need not spend a lot to give it a new look.
Paint
You can add a real punch of colour by painting just one wall of your living room. This will really change the focal point of the living room without getting into a major decorating project. If your room has a niche, that's the perfect choice for extra colour. You can choose a bold, contrasting colour picked from a floral fabric, or a subtle tone darker than the tone of the other walls.
Pillow
Nothing adds colour like pillows strategically placed on furniture. Whether you choose plain colours for a floral sofa or chair, or colourful, patterned pillows for a plain chair or sofa, these simple additions will add comfort and a splash of colour.
Plants
Green plants or flowering ones add colour, fragrance, personality, and a soothing touch to the living room. If you really don't have a green thumb, choose plants that require little or no care. If you travel a lot, settle for artificial ones. You can find nice-looking plants, foliage, and flowers that only need to be dusted and maybe vacuumed once in a while.
Lighting
Even if you have a traditional classic living room, you can add a point of interest by selecting a lamp or shade that is colourful or unusual. You can also have a pot or sculpture and light it up in the evenings by having the electrical components installed. Then, select a shade that has a unique shape, and glue a trim of fringe, beads, or ribbon around the top and bottom to add colour.
Floors
A colourful throw rug, an antique shawl or piece of brocade strategically placed in front of a chair or under a coffee table can add colour and texture to a living room. It can be put on top of hardwood flooring, painted floors, or a carpet. You can choose a contrasting colour, chosen from fabric you're using in the room, or look for one with an interesting pattern that goes well with the decor theme.
Cushions
If you have a small chair, such as a desk chair or side chair, consider changing the covers of the seat cushion. Fresh colour on even this small area will offer interest and bring life to a dreary corner. A handmade quilt, woven throw, or cosy, colourful blanket adds interest when draped over the back or arm of a neutral sofa or chair. Choose a colour that accents other pieces in the room as well.
Mirrors
Try placing a large mirror on a bare wall. Choose an interesting frame or decorate a piece of mirror with cording or braid. If you have an old frame, consider painting it a bright colour. The mirror will reflect the colour from around the room and add light to the space.
Artwork
A colourful piece of art placed in a living room not only adds a decorative touch, but also introduces colours and shapes you might not be able to use in a larger area. Try framing simple photos with colourful mats and eyecatching frames.
Design Your Home around Your Hobbies
Have you every considered creating an exclusive space to indulge in your hobbies? As rewarding a pastime as it may be, a hobby also offers sweet escape and scope for rejuvenation in a stressful world. Individuals of all ages can pamper themselves into something they enjoy doing, be it art or music, photography or multi-media, embroidery, reading or creative writing. A hobby home can be as small as a corner with sufficient work surface and storage spaces to organize and spend time on your hobbies, or as large as a common family room, if there are others in the family who would also like to spend time there.
A hobby can have you accumulate a lot over the years. Sundar, a techie by profession, took to nature photography long before the era of digital cameras, and has albums that quite literally, 'speak volumes' about his passion. "My first goal was to be able to organize all the photos that my hobby was generating, and I looked for ways to exhibit them in a small corner of my room," he says. This forced him to consider a hobby home. He chose neutral shades in wall colours and hung up smart canvases to pin up his spoils. The best of his creations were elegantly framed and took up the pride of place in his living room. The large number of albums that were generated before he made the transition to digital photography are neatly catalogued and tucked away into hidden racks on his shelf. The others are neatly organised on his desktop computer.
No hobby should have you feel burdened by your collections, and you can think of creative ways to exhibit them and enhance the look and feel of your room. Shilpa, a 15-year-old philatelist, chose to display her stamps in an innovative collage displaying the world map. Each country was filled in with a delightful melange of colour and pattern using stamps. The outcome was spectacular.
Your hobbies are in one sense, an extension of yourself, and can speak of how interesting you are. A hobby as simple as collecting shells on the beach can be fashioned into exquisite arrangements for tabletops and windowsills. A collection of coins can make an interesting display under the glass top of your table, and embroidery can be used to customize tablemats or make a tea cosy. Those that enjoy gardening have ample creative expression opportunities. Indoor plants, hanging gardens, dry floral arrangements, and cactus gardens - the list is endless. As always ensure that the arrangements flow with the decor of the room, and stick to keeping it as aesthetically appealing as you can. It's the little changes that can make big differences and overdoing your room with too many of these objects would only destroy the ambience.
If music is your passion, toss a little of it onto your walls in the form of portraits of your favourite groups or musicians. Try and arrange your CDs into interesting looking racks to give a contemporary flavour to your room. Let your room speak of the activities that you love, and enjoy the exclusive privileges it offers you as you indulge in your varied interests.
A hobby can have you accumulate a lot over the years. Sundar, a techie by profession, took to nature photography long before the era of digital cameras, and has albums that quite literally, 'speak volumes' about his passion. "My first goal was to be able to organize all the photos that my hobby was generating, and I looked for ways to exhibit them in a small corner of my room," he says. This forced him to consider a hobby home. He chose neutral shades in wall colours and hung up smart canvases to pin up his spoils. The best of his creations were elegantly framed and took up the pride of place in his living room. The large number of albums that were generated before he made the transition to digital photography are neatly catalogued and tucked away into hidden racks on his shelf. The others are neatly organised on his desktop computer.
No hobby should have you feel burdened by your collections, and you can think of creative ways to exhibit them and enhance the look and feel of your room. Shilpa, a 15-year-old philatelist, chose to display her stamps in an innovative collage displaying the world map. Each country was filled in with a delightful melange of colour and pattern using stamps. The outcome was spectacular.
Your hobbies are in one sense, an extension of yourself, and can speak of how interesting you are. A hobby as simple as collecting shells on the beach can be fashioned into exquisite arrangements for tabletops and windowsills. A collection of coins can make an interesting display under the glass top of your table, and embroidery can be used to customize tablemats or make a tea cosy. Those that enjoy gardening have ample creative expression opportunities. Indoor plants, hanging gardens, dry floral arrangements, and cactus gardens - the list is endless. As always ensure that the arrangements flow with the decor of the room, and stick to keeping it as aesthetically appealing as you can. It's the little changes that can make big differences and overdoing your room with too many of these objects would only destroy the ambience.
If music is your passion, toss a little of it onto your walls in the form of portraits of your favourite groups or musicians. Try and arrange your CDs into interesting looking racks to give a contemporary flavour to your room. Let your room speak of the activities that you love, and enjoy the exclusive privileges it offers you as you indulge in your varied interests.
Children Bathroom: Themes for Child Bathrooms
Decorating your children's bathroom can be a simple and enjoyable process if you get the basics right and it needn't burn a hole in your pocket. It all depends on your choice - whether you want to decorate the bathroom in a themed manner or just generally keep the decor lively, if you have slightly older children.
First of all, pick a theme for the bathroom. If you have a girl, then decorate it in colours from her favourite fairytale. Or else, if you have a boy, pick a jungle theme or even a car racing theme. If you wish to have a neutral theme, opt for an undersea theme or even an animal kingdom theme. You can even mix two themes or come up with ideas of your own. Once you have the theme in mind, paint the bathroom walls keeping the theme in mind. This works best as changing wall colours won't cost too much in later years as well. But, remember to keep the paint in light colours as this will make the room appear larger. Also, dark colours tend to narrow down the space, often making children uncomfortable. Once you have the paint colour in mind and you're willing to tile the bathroom in keeping with the theme, select from a variety of coloured tiles. You can choose from solid colours to even scenes from your children's favourite cartoons and stories.
The next step is to select matching non-slip bathmats, shower curtains, and towels. Often, a bright shower curtain acts as the focal point of the bathroom and can perk up the space significantly. Add a laundry hamper in a bright colour and teach your children to use that for dirty clothes and towels.
If you have very young children, you can install the wash basin or WC at a low height to make it easier for them to reach it. But an easier option is to provide them a non-slip step stool which they can climb on to reach the basin and the WC. But ensure that children are supervised.
Safety is of prime importance in a children's bathroom and hence you must ensure that all electrical equipments are stored away from their reach. Make sure that they are not in contact with water and are unplugged before the kids use the bathroom. If possible, install shelves out of the reach of children. To make bath time safe for your kids, allow them to bring their bath time supplies and toys in a bath caddy or a small plastic bucket. This will also help keep the bath area neat. Another must for safety is installing grab bars. Install them to ensure that children grab the bars while washing those out of reach areas or while just playing in the water.
Don't forget to add a clock with a cartoon face on the top of the bathroom doorframe. Also, make daily activities like hand-washing, brushing, and bathing more enjoyable for children by buying some of the child-specific products that are available in the market. Violet hand soap, flavoured toothpaste, and cartoon character-shaped soaps appeal a lot to children. You can also get them to choose the colours to match those of their bathroom.
First of all, pick a theme for the bathroom. If you have a girl, then decorate it in colours from her favourite fairytale. Or else, if you have a boy, pick a jungle theme or even a car racing theme. If you wish to have a neutral theme, opt for an undersea theme or even an animal kingdom theme. You can even mix two themes or come up with ideas of your own. Once you have the theme in mind, paint the bathroom walls keeping the theme in mind. This works best as changing wall colours won't cost too much in later years as well. But, remember to keep the paint in light colours as this will make the room appear larger. Also, dark colours tend to narrow down the space, often making children uncomfortable. Once you have the paint colour in mind and you're willing to tile the bathroom in keeping with the theme, select from a variety of coloured tiles. You can choose from solid colours to even scenes from your children's favourite cartoons and stories.
The next step is to select matching non-slip bathmats, shower curtains, and towels. Often, a bright shower curtain acts as the focal point of the bathroom and can perk up the space significantly. Add a laundry hamper in a bright colour and teach your children to use that for dirty clothes and towels.
If you have very young children, you can install the wash basin or WC at a low height to make it easier for them to reach it. But an easier option is to provide them a non-slip step stool which they can climb on to reach the basin and the WC. But ensure that children are supervised.
Safety is of prime importance in a children's bathroom and hence you must ensure that all electrical equipments are stored away from their reach. Make sure that they are not in contact with water and are unplugged before the kids use the bathroom. If possible, install shelves out of the reach of children. To make bath time safe for your kids, allow them to bring their bath time supplies and toys in a bath caddy or a small plastic bucket. This will also help keep the bath area neat. Another must for safety is installing grab bars. Install them to ensure that children grab the bars while washing those out of reach areas or while just playing in the water.
Don't forget to add a clock with a cartoon face on the top of the bathroom doorframe. Also, make daily activities like hand-washing, brushing, and bathing more enjoyable for children by buying some of the child-specific products that are available in the market. Violet hand soap, flavoured toothpaste, and cartoon character-shaped soaps appeal a lot to children. You can also get them to choose the colours to match those of their bathroom.
Move Your House Easy Ways
Planning, organising, and pre-packing help you move into a new home with ease
Moving house can be a bittersweet experience. If done with a little planning and packing, it can remove the stress involved in the process, and can make settling into your new home a pleasure.
Moving out
Once you have fixed the date that your packers are coming, think of all the things that have to get done - a trip to the bank to deposit your valuables, keeping your important documents (passport, cheque books, and house deed) in one place, trying to inform various service providers about your new address. Remember that you can physically move in a day but mentally it takes a while to disconnect with your old routine, and get used to a new habitat. So, take time to prepare yourself.
While moving into a new home, it is a huge task to do all the packing neatly and in an organised manner.
As you move
On the day of moving, keep a couple of marker pens handy, and wait for the packers to arrive. Try to keep a track of what they're throwing inside each carton. Make sure they go about each room and drawer in a co-ordinated manner so you know that which cartons emerged from which section of your home. Label the cartons with specifications, for instance, a carton with your books can be labelled 'books' or more specifically, 'books from showcase'. If any of the furniture has to be dismantled, let the packers know so that they appropriately dismantle the pieces, marking them as A, B, C or D and can put it back together just as easily.
Moving in
When you have numbered your cartons and captioned them with what's inside, it's easier to unload them in the right room, and then later, into the right space or cupboard. Supervise the unloading of all your packets, cartons, and consumer durables, and count them once done before you go indoors. Test your house locks, especially of the main entrance and the balcony doors, and see that everything works.
Seeing those cartons can frustrate you for a while, as you will want to clear up everything in a day or two days, but it usually takes one week to clear up most of the items in the cartons. First, reassemble the furniture pieces that need to be put together. Then, your husband's and children's wardrobe and clothes get set into place, and then the bed linen. Don't unpack all your child's toys. Leave it to be opened when the need arises. Then, of course, setting up the kitchen, the hub of all action, comes next.
Discard old and unused items that you may have inadvertently brought along to reduce clutter. Organise the spices, the cutlery and the crockery in convenient shelves or cabinets. Get your drapes and rugs out, and finally, set up your bedroom.
Moving house can be a bittersweet experience. If done with a little planning and packing, it can remove the stress involved in the process, and can make settling into your new home a pleasure.
Moving out
Once you have fixed the date that your packers are coming, think of all the things that have to get done - a trip to the bank to deposit your valuables, keeping your important documents (passport, cheque books, and house deed) in one place, trying to inform various service providers about your new address. Remember that you can physically move in a day but mentally it takes a while to disconnect with your old routine, and get used to a new habitat. So, take time to prepare yourself.
While moving into a new home, it is a huge task to do all the packing neatly and in an organised manner.
As you move
On the day of moving, keep a couple of marker pens handy, and wait for the packers to arrive. Try to keep a track of what they're throwing inside each carton. Make sure they go about each room and drawer in a co-ordinated manner so you know that which cartons emerged from which section of your home. Label the cartons with specifications, for instance, a carton with your books can be labelled 'books' or more specifically, 'books from showcase'. If any of the furniture has to be dismantled, let the packers know so that they appropriately dismantle the pieces, marking them as A, B, C or D and can put it back together just as easily.
Moving in
When you have numbered your cartons and captioned them with what's inside, it's easier to unload them in the right room, and then later, into the right space or cupboard. Supervise the unloading of all your packets, cartons, and consumer durables, and count them once done before you go indoors. Test your house locks, especially of the main entrance and the balcony doors, and see that everything works.
Seeing those cartons can frustrate you for a while, as you will want to clear up everything in a day or two days, but it usually takes one week to clear up most of the items in the cartons. First, reassemble the furniture pieces that need to be put together. Then, your husband's and children's wardrobe and clothes get set into place, and then the bed linen. Don't unpack all your child's toys. Leave it to be opened when the need arises. Then, of course, setting up the kitchen, the hub of all action, comes next.
Discard old and unused items that you may have inadvertently brought along to reduce clutter. Organise the spices, the cutlery and the crockery in convenient shelves or cabinets. Get your drapes and rugs out, and finally, set up your bedroom.
Reading room: Quite & Comfortable
The world is filled with readers. Young readers may be driven to habitual reading in the face of an impending examination, or for the sheer pleasure of leafing through a fresh-picked novel on the move. On the other hand, older booklovers may believe that their reading offers a secluded getaway from the feverish activity that fills their lives. As the case may be, avid readers need a reclusive retreat in their homes to indulge in this delightful passion, and small changes can provide the much-needed makeover to stoke one's love for reading.
Design
Reading requests an ambient, distraction-free environment. Keep this in mind and try and de-clutter your reading space. If reading is a family interest, it may help to assign a spare room to the growing number of books that may pour in from each member of the family, else a quiet corner should suffice. Your design may slightly vary if you want to incorporate a home office into this corner, and like always, begin by asking the basic why's and how's of a design plan.
Light and ventilation
Conducive reading spaces entail optimal light and aeration. Place your reading table strategically beside a large window for a study with a view, or create a reading sill on a bay window with comfortable cushions and a few bolsters for lounging pleasure. If you are forced into using artificial lighting, ensure that you have a table lamp or a floor standing one placed beside your corner. This may also ensure that the rest of the family is not disturbed if you read after nightfall in your bedroom or other shared family areas.
Furniture
The bottomline for all reader-friendly furniture is comfort. Keep ergonomics in mind when you pick up a chair and table for yourself, and don't cringe to spend the little extra that would ensure you are comfortable during prolonged reading spells. Older members may prefer a rocking chair to a fixed back couch for added comfort. A center coffee table and side stands would complete a casual settee. Consider incorporating a small, rotating storage area under your center table to allow easy access to frequently read books.
Storage
While most traditionalists believe in an imposing bookrack to showcase your reading, you can choose to smarten up this arrangement by introducing multiple functional storage units. The most accessed books should be easily reachable, and the lesser-read tomes can be shelved away. A family of booklovers may choose to arrange their collections differently and multiple small units help preserve their identity. At no cost should this clutter your reading space though.
Technology
Since this space is your much-deserved getaway from the noise and activity around you, feel free to incorporate some soft music through an ipod or CD player. Music can set you into the mood and help make your transitions from hustle to calm. If most of your reading is on the Internet, organize your computer or laptop with the necessary software and storage spaces to support the many hours you may spend on the net. For the final dash of indulgence, keep a cup of delicious coffee and a few crisps at arm's length to soak into your much-deserved breaks.
Design
Reading requests an ambient, distraction-free environment. Keep this in mind and try and de-clutter your reading space. If reading is a family interest, it may help to assign a spare room to the growing number of books that may pour in from each member of the family, else a quiet corner should suffice. Your design may slightly vary if you want to incorporate a home office into this corner, and like always, begin by asking the basic why's and how's of a design plan.
Light and ventilation
Conducive reading spaces entail optimal light and aeration. Place your reading table strategically beside a large window for a study with a view, or create a reading sill on a bay window with comfortable cushions and a few bolsters for lounging pleasure. If you are forced into using artificial lighting, ensure that you have a table lamp or a floor standing one placed beside your corner. This may also ensure that the rest of the family is not disturbed if you read after nightfall in your bedroom or other shared family areas.
Furniture
The bottomline for all reader-friendly furniture is comfort. Keep ergonomics in mind when you pick up a chair and table for yourself, and don't cringe to spend the little extra that would ensure you are comfortable during prolonged reading spells. Older members may prefer a rocking chair to a fixed back couch for added comfort. A center coffee table and side stands would complete a casual settee. Consider incorporating a small, rotating storage area under your center table to allow easy access to frequently read books.
Storage
While most traditionalists believe in an imposing bookrack to showcase your reading, you can choose to smarten up this arrangement by introducing multiple functional storage units. The most accessed books should be easily reachable, and the lesser-read tomes can be shelved away. A family of booklovers may choose to arrange their collections differently and multiple small units help preserve their identity. At no cost should this clutter your reading space though.
Technology
Since this space is your much-deserved getaway from the noise and activity around you, feel free to incorporate some soft music through an ipod or CD player. Music can set you into the mood and help make your transitions from hustle to calm. If most of your reading is on the Internet, organize your computer or laptop with the necessary software and storage spaces to support the many hours you may spend on the net. For the final dash of indulgence, keep a cup of delicious coffee and a few crisps at arm's length to soak into your much-deserved breaks.
Aesthetics for cosy living rooms
Make your living room warm and inviting. Know How.
Giving the living room a cosy feel and making it warm and welcoming is top priority for a person who wants the home to look different. What makes the living room alluring is the fact that it should have a comfortable ambience, a personal touch, and a creative setting.
Here's how to go about doing up this room in your home:
Balance
When you want to make your home striking, you need to take in factors like the space, amount of sunlight that comes in, upholstery that suits your family's needs, and the colour scheme of the walls. Give attention to striking the right balance between decor and functionality. You don't want your home to end up looking like a museum.
Space
Space is a major constraint while planning the interiors. You can turn it to an advantage by resourcefully making use of unused spaces, where the furniture will not fit in.
If there is a corner space, use it as your focal point to add drama to the room.
Change the theme of that space every month. If it is time for Diwali, use the space to display your antique collection of lamps or beautifully painted mud diyas with their mirrors glittering under the lights. If Christmas is round the corner, place a small Christmas tree in the space and place a crib below it. You can use this area to alternatively display your crystals, vases, sculptures, and other collections that you have acquired over time
Lighting
The amount of light that is entering your home, if bright enough, gives it a good ambience. Too bright and too dark interiors will not enhance decor objects in the room. To control the sources of light during the day, hang up curtains or blinds. They also add a touch of cosiness to the room. Use the curtains in different draping styles. In summer, make use of light fabrics and summery colours to liven up the mood. During the evenings, strategically placed lampshades and overhead illuminators accentuate the interiors. To ensure this, plan where you will place these lights - over pieces of art, in the racks that show off your fine crockery, or as accent lights.
Colour
Choose the colour scheme for your living room after taking into account the design pattern of the interiors. After the colour tone has been decided, place your wall hangings or artwork on the walls. It is better to select a neutral tone for the walls if you plan to change the colour of your room every few months. Carpets and other upholstery can then be made to complement this.
Fabrics
There's nothing like the fabulous feel of rich silk or the sheer magic of chiffon to enrich the room. When used as cushion covers, floor rugs, and table linen, they pep up the room.
Personal touch
The living space is incomplete without an identity of its own. Pictures of family vacations, the accolades won by its members, and hand-picked memorabilia collected over the years give it a personal touch.
Giving the living room a cosy feel and making it warm and welcoming is top priority for a person who wants the home to look different. What makes the living room alluring is the fact that it should have a comfortable ambience, a personal touch, and a creative setting.
Here's how to go about doing up this room in your home:
Balance
When you want to make your home striking, you need to take in factors like the space, amount of sunlight that comes in, upholstery that suits your family's needs, and the colour scheme of the walls. Give attention to striking the right balance between decor and functionality. You don't want your home to end up looking like a museum.
Space
Space is a major constraint while planning the interiors. You can turn it to an advantage by resourcefully making use of unused spaces, where the furniture will not fit in.
If there is a corner space, use it as your focal point to add drama to the room.
Change the theme of that space every month. If it is time for Diwali, use the space to display your antique collection of lamps or beautifully painted mud diyas with their mirrors glittering under the lights. If Christmas is round the corner, place a small Christmas tree in the space and place a crib below it. You can use this area to alternatively display your crystals, vases, sculptures, and other collections that you have acquired over time
Lighting
The amount of light that is entering your home, if bright enough, gives it a good ambience. Too bright and too dark interiors will not enhance decor objects in the room. To control the sources of light during the day, hang up curtains or blinds. They also add a touch of cosiness to the room. Use the curtains in different draping styles. In summer, make use of light fabrics and summery colours to liven up the mood. During the evenings, strategically placed lampshades and overhead illuminators accentuate the interiors. To ensure this, plan where you will place these lights - over pieces of art, in the racks that show off your fine crockery, or as accent lights.
Colour
Choose the colour scheme for your living room after taking into account the design pattern of the interiors. After the colour tone has been decided, place your wall hangings or artwork on the walls. It is better to select a neutral tone for the walls if you plan to change the colour of your room every few months. Carpets and other upholstery can then be made to complement this.
Fabrics
There's nothing like the fabulous feel of rich silk or the sheer magic of chiffon to enrich the room. When used as cushion covers, floor rugs, and table linen, they pep up the room.
Personal touch
The living space is incomplete without an identity of its own. Pictures of family vacations, the accolades won by its members, and hand-picked memorabilia collected over the years give it a personal touch.
Alcoves add depth to design
Creating alcoves in different rooms extends the living spaces.
Every room in the house is generally complete in terms of functionality, decor and usage. However, any room will benefit with a small recess which can offer various uses. By and large, such alcoves are made to be complementary to the room. If it is an offshoot of the bedroom, the decor and usage is such that it adds functionality to the occupants of the bedroom. Sometimes, in a very large room, you may even create an alcove with some demarcations in place so as to give it a sense of privacy.
Creating an alcove
An alcove can be created in a large room with clever separations. This can be as simple as a curtain or a screen. Elaborate dividers may be columns or arches that will convey a sense of unity while creating an exclusive zone. You may also have a false ceiling or raised flooring exclusively for the alcove. Using area rugs or carpets is as effective as it is easy.
Alcoves in living spaces:
Living room
An alcove off the living room is a pleasant addition that may be used for entertaining guests or for a quiet repose. The space can be used to create exclusive seating, for a bar or for displaying souvenirs. It can also be used to house a grand piano or other musical instruments. Accordingly, the decor varies. A bar will require either customized or readymade bar unit with bar stools that should match the decor of the living room. Exclusive seating can be just one prized couch or a collection of armchairs or even relaxed floor seating with colourful cushions. The suggestion of dedicating the alcove for displaying souvenirs or artifacts will also work if there is at least one wall that can hold built-in cabinets. Use warm lighting that will cast a bright look to the area. Recessed lights are the best to give the alcove an air of exclusivity.
Dining room
An alcove off the dining can be a wonderful setting for a breakfast counter. It does make sense to have a no fuss eating area for those rushed meals. This will mean a small sturdy table and some stools or benches. However, with some easy changes, the place can also transform into a hobby corner or a games place. The first requirement will be a table with a broad tabletop. You may even have a stone table that can withstand such activities. Have a pendant light over the table for convenience. If it does not jar the aesthetic appeal, try having a small washbasin or a water dispenser to save you a few trips to the kitchen. And while at that, fit in a small television here for catching up with the news while you eat. For those who work from home, the space may also be used as an office where one can even have meetings with clients, if required. A home office has some requirements like a good writing desk, electrical points and shelving system. The last can also be an attractive bookcase which will hold files and other necessities.
Bedroom
An alcove off the bedroom is truly a delight. This place maybe used as a home office, study, children play area or a reading corner, depending on the requirement. A combination of library and study can be created by having at least one wall lined with bookshelves. An alcove off the bedroom can also be used for activities like meditation or exercising. This will require a soft flooring and space for exercise equipments like treadmill, gym ball and so on. The alcove can also be used for seating with proper armchairs or sofas. Having the television here will make it more convenient.
An alcove off the kitchen can house an extra sink, washing machine, dishwasher and other such gadgets so as to free the kitchen from clutter. This is a sound idea that can be made mandatory for all kitchens.
Every room in the house is generally complete in terms of functionality, decor and usage. However, any room will benefit with a small recess which can offer various uses. By and large, such alcoves are made to be complementary to the room. If it is an offshoot of the bedroom, the decor and usage is such that it adds functionality to the occupants of the bedroom. Sometimes, in a very large room, you may even create an alcove with some demarcations in place so as to give it a sense of privacy.
Creating an alcove
An alcove can be created in a large room with clever separations. This can be as simple as a curtain or a screen. Elaborate dividers may be columns or arches that will convey a sense of unity while creating an exclusive zone. You may also have a false ceiling or raised flooring exclusively for the alcove. Using area rugs or carpets is as effective as it is easy.
Alcoves in living spaces:
Living room
An alcove off the living room is a pleasant addition that may be used for entertaining guests or for a quiet repose. The space can be used to create exclusive seating, for a bar or for displaying souvenirs. It can also be used to house a grand piano or other musical instruments. Accordingly, the decor varies. A bar will require either customized or readymade bar unit with bar stools that should match the decor of the living room. Exclusive seating can be just one prized couch or a collection of armchairs or even relaxed floor seating with colourful cushions. The suggestion of dedicating the alcove for displaying souvenirs or artifacts will also work if there is at least one wall that can hold built-in cabinets. Use warm lighting that will cast a bright look to the area. Recessed lights are the best to give the alcove an air of exclusivity.
Dining room
An alcove off the dining can be a wonderful setting for a breakfast counter. It does make sense to have a no fuss eating area for those rushed meals. This will mean a small sturdy table and some stools or benches. However, with some easy changes, the place can also transform into a hobby corner or a games place. The first requirement will be a table with a broad tabletop. You may even have a stone table that can withstand such activities. Have a pendant light over the table for convenience. If it does not jar the aesthetic appeal, try having a small washbasin or a water dispenser to save you a few trips to the kitchen. And while at that, fit in a small television here for catching up with the news while you eat. For those who work from home, the space may also be used as an office where one can even have meetings with clients, if required. A home office has some requirements like a good writing desk, electrical points and shelving system. The last can also be an attractive bookcase which will hold files and other necessities.
Bedroom
An alcove off the bedroom is truly a delight. This place maybe used as a home office, study, children play area or a reading corner, depending on the requirement. A combination of library and study can be created by having at least one wall lined with bookshelves. An alcove off the bedroom can also be used for activities like meditation or exercising. This will require a soft flooring and space for exercise equipments like treadmill, gym ball and so on. The alcove can also be used for seating with proper armchairs or sofas. Having the television here will make it more convenient.
An alcove off the kitchen can house an extra sink, washing machine, dishwasher and other such gadgets so as to free the kitchen from clutter. This is a sound idea that can be made mandatory for all kitchens.
Legal opinion safeguards property transactions
Getting a legal opinion is important during acquisition of any property. This is an integral part of the property acquisition process. The purchase of property is a complicated process. This is compounded by the fact that each State has its own systems of acquisition and transfer of property. The land records are generally in the local language. Going through the property documents is not easy.
You need to go through a host of documents to trace out the ownership of the property. Although the purchaser can do an initial review of the documents, it is always advisable to have these documents vetted by a legal expert. The legal experts are in a much better position to review and give their opinion on the status of the property. They are generally much more aware of the local laws, and rules and regulations.
A legal opinion should cover the status of the property:
Who is the owner of the property
What has been the chain of holding and transfer of property over a period of time
Is the property free from encumbrances or has it been already offered as a security for a loan
Is there any dispute on the ownership of the property Whether the transferor or seller has complied with all the requirements to get the ownership of the property Whether the transferor or seller is competent to transfer the property
The legal expert may prepare a search report. The search report traces the history of the property - who were the original owners of the property and how it has moved over a period of time before reaching the present seller. Also, it traces out any charges or encumbrances created on the property and their present status - whether the charges have been cleared and the property has been released or if there are some charges pending to be cleared.
This search on the title of the property is taken for a period of the past 30 years. It is mandatory for the seller to annex a copy of these reports with an agreement to sell with the intended purchaser of a flat. These documents would state whether the title to the property is clear, marketable and free from encumbrance. In other words, it would state whether or not there is any existing mortgage, litigation, condition or claim, which is likely to affect the title of the buyer adversely.
In order to avail a housing loan one of the preconditions is that the title of the property should be clear and marketable. 'Clear and marketable' means the seller is genuine and the actual owner of the property. Further, the property should not be under any dispute or litigation. The search report traces this history of the property.
The title certificate would state whether the property is unencumbered and has a clear marketable title. This search report and title certificate can be obtained from the advocate who will conduct a survey of the title of the property at the office of the registrar.
Getting such an opinion reduces the chances of getting into legal disputes at a later stage. The costs of obtaining such an opinion are not very high. They generally depend on the nature of work to be done. But still, these constitute a small part of the property transaction.
In case one is opting for a housing loan from a bank, generally, the bank obtains the legal opinion before sanctioning the loan amount to the borrower. In many cases, the lending bank has its own advocates who specialise in this exercise. Usually, the cost is nominal and is built in the processing and administration charges charged by the bank for sanctioning and disbursing the loan. Others charge a nominal fee for this exercise.
You need to go through a host of documents to trace out the ownership of the property. Although the purchaser can do an initial review of the documents, it is always advisable to have these documents vetted by a legal expert. The legal experts are in a much better position to review and give their opinion on the status of the property. They are generally much more aware of the local laws, and rules and regulations.
A legal opinion should cover the status of the property:
Who is the owner of the property
What has been the chain of holding and transfer of property over a period of time
Is the property free from encumbrances or has it been already offered as a security for a loan
Is there any dispute on the ownership of the property Whether the transferor or seller has complied with all the requirements to get the ownership of the property Whether the transferor or seller is competent to transfer the property
The legal expert may prepare a search report. The search report traces the history of the property - who were the original owners of the property and how it has moved over a period of time before reaching the present seller. Also, it traces out any charges or encumbrances created on the property and their present status - whether the charges have been cleared and the property has been released or if there are some charges pending to be cleared.
This search on the title of the property is taken for a period of the past 30 years. It is mandatory for the seller to annex a copy of these reports with an agreement to sell with the intended purchaser of a flat. These documents would state whether the title to the property is clear, marketable and free from encumbrance. In other words, it would state whether or not there is any existing mortgage, litigation, condition or claim, which is likely to affect the title of the buyer adversely.
In order to avail a housing loan one of the preconditions is that the title of the property should be clear and marketable. 'Clear and marketable' means the seller is genuine and the actual owner of the property. Further, the property should not be under any dispute or litigation. The search report traces this history of the property.
The title certificate would state whether the property is unencumbered and has a clear marketable title. This search report and title certificate can be obtained from the advocate who will conduct a survey of the title of the property at the office of the registrar.
Getting such an opinion reduces the chances of getting into legal disputes at a later stage. The costs of obtaining such an opinion are not very high. They generally depend on the nature of work to be done. But still, these constitute a small part of the property transaction.
In case one is opting for a housing loan from a bank, generally, the bank obtains the legal opinion before sanctioning the loan amount to the borrower. In many cases, the lending bank has its own advocates who specialise in this exercise. Usually, the cost is nominal and is built in the processing and administration charges charged by the bank for sanctioning and disbursing the loan. Others charge a nominal fee for this exercise.
Buying Property: Documents you muct check
Are you planning to buy property?
Documentation is an essential and complicated part of a property acquisition process. Different States have different requirements. There are many laws that govern the process. However, you should have a checklist of documents to be verified before deciding on purchasing a house. These documents should be scrutinised before giving any advance to the seller. It is always advisable to have these documents vouched by a legal expert.
Here are some documents you need to have checked:
Purchase of freehold residential plot or house
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Copy of the sale deed through which the seller got his title to the property Copies of all earlier sale deeds - to verify the chain of past owners of the property
Registration details of the sale deed
Agreement to sell the property
Receipts of payments made by the purchaser to the seller
Copy of the sale deed for registration purposes
Purchase of property from original allottee of a government development authority (for example BDA)
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority
Purchase of property from power of attorney (POA) holder of original allottee of a government development authority
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Allocation letter from the authority Allotment letter from the authority Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed by the seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller
Verification of signature of seller from his bank General power of attorney Special power of attorney Will Agreement to sell the property
Purchase of flat in a group housing society from a original member of the Society
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Share certificate issued by the society Lease deed of society Registration details of the society Bye-laws of the society No objection certificate from the society Approved building plan Title of builder Undertaking from society Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed from seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller Verification of signature of seller from his bank
Purchase of flat in a group housing society from a power of attorney (POA) holder
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Share certificate issued by the society Lease deed of society Registration details of the society Bye-laws of the society NOC from the society Undertaking from society Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed from seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller Verification of signature of seller from his bank General power of attorney Special power of attorney Will Agreement to sell the property
Documentation is an essential and complicated part of a property acquisition process. Different States have different requirements. There are many laws that govern the process. However, you should have a checklist of documents to be verified before deciding on purchasing a house. These documents should be scrutinised before giving any advance to the seller. It is always advisable to have these documents vouched by a legal expert.
Here are some documents you need to have checked:
Purchase of freehold residential plot or house
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Copy of the sale deed through which the seller got his title to the property Copies of all earlier sale deeds - to verify the chain of past owners of the property
Registration details of the sale deed
Agreement to sell the property
Receipts of payments made by the purchaser to the seller
Copy of the sale deed for registration purposes
Purchase of property from original allottee of a government development authority (for example BDA)
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority
Purchase of property from power of attorney (POA) holder of original allottee of a government development authority
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Allocation letter from the authority Allotment letter from the authority Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed by the seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller
Verification of signature of seller from his bank General power of attorney Special power of attorney Will Agreement to sell the property
Purchase of flat in a group housing society from a original member of the Society
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Share certificate issued by the society Lease deed of society Registration details of the society Bye-laws of the society No objection certificate from the society Approved building plan Title of builder Undertaking from society Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed from seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller Verification of signature of seller from his bank
Purchase of flat in a group housing society from a power of attorney (POA) holder
The main documents to be verified in such a case are:
Share certificate issued by the society Lease deed of society Registration details of the society Bye-laws of the society NOC from the society Undertaking from society Allocation letter Allotment letter Possession letter Receipts of payments made to authority Permission to mortgage Authorisation letter signed from seller Receipts of payments made by purchaser to seller Verification of signature of seller from his bank General power of attorney Special power of attorney Will Agreement to sell the property
Nameplates in exterior decor
An eye-catching nameplate makes a good first impression on visitors
The unassuming nameplate that hangs faithfully outside your home does a lot more than display your name to passers-by. With a dash of creativity, you can transform it into a subtle statement that creates a lasting first impression to guests. Gone are the days when simple stone slabs with block stereotype engraving were used for nameplates. Thanks to technology, we have a wide array of materials and styles to choose from. Visit a home store and you will find a delightful display in stone or ceramic, metal or wood, glass or fibre to suit every taste and need.
There are a few basic traits you would need to identify before you consider options in nameplates. A nameplate is at the mercy of the elements. A weather-proof, easy-tomaintain template with lettering that does not fade despite weather changes will be best suited. While older homes stick to granite, explore other options that appear less heavy, and elegantly display information.
These days, clean lines define most interior design schemes. Ornate frills and other overtly decorative styles are on their way out, and people are looking for smart finishes to functional spaces. While deciding on the shape of your nameplate, think beyond the conservative rectangle to other interesting shapes that may reflect your persona. Couples can experiment with ovals and gentle curves that flow easily and appeal to the eye. A child's room can have a favourite cartoon character or a string of colourful beads to frame the child's name. A hobby home, on the other hand, can have a nameplate that is suggestive of what goes on within its walls. A play home in the city uses a toddler's pram to frame its name and a techie chose to do up his home's name around a ballooned out adaptation of 'www'.
When it comes to choices in lettering, never forget that the bottom line is font clarity. Draw a fine balance between artistic flow and readability for a lasting effect. The size of the font chosen should be one that is clearly visible from a few feet away, and choose to contrast your colours against the canvas of the material you choose for the nameplate. Gold and silver go well against a dark backdrop and black against a lighter one. If you decide to do it in etched glass instead, stick to colours that would highlight the font and make it easy to read. Metals such as brass would need occasional cleaning and polishing to retain the sheen. A coating of a weather-resistant polymer over synthetics would be a smart move to ensure that the nameplate lasts long and looks its best always.
The unassuming nameplate that hangs faithfully outside your home does a lot more than display your name to passers-by. With a dash of creativity, you can transform it into a subtle statement that creates a lasting first impression to guests. Gone are the days when simple stone slabs with block stereotype engraving were used for nameplates. Thanks to technology, we have a wide array of materials and styles to choose from. Visit a home store and you will find a delightful display in stone or ceramic, metal or wood, glass or fibre to suit every taste and need.
There are a few basic traits you would need to identify before you consider options in nameplates. A nameplate is at the mercy of the elements. A weather-proof, easy-tomaintain template with lettering that does not fade despite weather changes will be best suited. While older homes stick to granite, explore other options that appear less heavy, and elegantly display information.
These days, clean lines define most interior design schemes. Ornate frills and other overtly decorative styles are on their way out, and people are looking for smart finishes to functional spaces. While deciding on the shape of your nameplate, think beyond the conservative rectangle to other interesting shapes that may reflect your persona. Couples can experiment with ovals and gentle curves that flow easily and appeal to the eye. A child's room can have a favourite cartoon character or a string of colourful beads to frame the child's name. A hobby home, on the other hand, can have a nameplate that is suggestive of what goes on within its walls. A play home in the city uses a toddler's pram to frame its name and a techie chose to do up his home's name around a ballooned out adaptation of 'www'.
When it comes to choices in lettering, never forget that the bottom line is font clarity. Draw a fine balance between artistic flow and readability for a lasting effect. The size of the font chosen should be one that is clearly visible from a few feet away, and choose to contrast your colours against the canvas of the material you choose for the nameplate. Gold and silver go well against a dark backdrop and black against a lighter one. If you decide to do it in etched glass instead, stick to colours that would highlight the font and make it easy to read. Metals such as brass would need occasional cleaning and polishing to retain the sheen. A coating of a weather-resistant polymer over synthetics would be a smart move to ensure that the nameplate lasts long and looks its best always.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Upholstery for sofa
Choose the upholstery based on the kind of sofa you have.
It is often easier to buy a piece of furniture than to decide on the kind of upholstery you need, especially for sofas. This is because there is such a wide range of options in upholstery that it can leave you quite bewildered.
The choice ranges from the materials and patterns to colours. However, the size and shape of your sofa i.e. its design style also matters. Not all materials and patterns suit all types of sofas. You can also create a well-co-ordinated look yourself with the correct choice of fabric, colour, and pattern. Otherwise, consult an interior designer. The drawing room is generally the most visible and most-visited part of the home, and it pays to invest in it so that it gives a good appearance.
Regarding materials, there is plenty of choice. You can go for simple cotton handloom or rich woven silk. Or else, choose between synthetic leather and microfibre. You can even try a combination of different fabrics for different sections of the sofa. In colours too, there is a huge range - from splashes of rich hues to pure white or muted tones.
One good rule to go by while deciding on the materials is to consider what will be compatible with the overall theme of the rest of the room. If the drawing room is rich and ethnic looking with heavy furniture and traditional decor items, you could go in for upholstery in woven silk with traditional patterns. Consider richly woven jacquard if you have teakwood or mahogany furniture and Indian antiques around. Organza silk or high-quality synthetic leather upholstery also fits in. However, a simple, utilitarian kind of drawing room can do with cotton in simple prints or traditional Indian handloom cotton with colourful patterns.
An interesting option is to mix-and-match fabric, so you have different varieties on different sections of the sofa. However, this must be done with thought and care. For example, the various fabrics you use have to be more or less of equal weight. So, you have to put all the lightweight cottons on one sofa while the heavy jacquards and richly woven fabrics are compatible with each other. Also, you can keep the size of the patterns on the different fabrics being used, either consistently or a big one can be used alongside a smaller size purely to provide a contrast. A similar mix-andmatch look can be achieved by using different slipcovers together.
Then, consider the use of the sofa. Is your drawing room one of those little-used areas which is opened up only when guests come in or you are having a party? If this is the case, then delicate materials like silk, jacquard, organzas, etc. are fine. Even highquality synthetic leather is an option. On the other hand, if the drawing room is the most frequently used room, go for sturdy, durable, and darkcoloured fabric which stands frequent washing too.
The sofa design style also matters. Each kind of size and shape calls for a different treatment. Traditional sofas often have tight back cushions sewn or stitched on to the frame. However, the tuxedo one has cushions which are loose and have arms at comfortable height. The chaise lounge and the bench seat are other varieties. Popular ethnic Indian drawing room furniture includes painted wooden chairs from Gujarat, and the Rajasthani style which will take dark colours and traditional upholstery patterns in silk, jacquard, or elegant cotton handloom. Anyone wanting a traditional look in their home can check out the vast range of patterns and weaves in the market - florals, geometrics, stripes, jacquards, tapestries, etc.
Finally, check the materials for maintenance. Though most good upholstery fabrics are treated for stain resistance, you could also have them retreated or cleaned every once in a while. Each material requires a different kind of care - synthetic leather must be treated very differently from woven silk and these two are not at all comparable to sturdy handloom cotton. So, ask for advice on maintenance while purchasing.
It is often easier to buy a piece of furniture than to decide on the kind of upholstery you need, especially for sofas. This is because there is such a wide range of options in upholstery that it can leave you quite bewildered.
The choice ranges from the materials and patterns to colours. However, the size and shape of your sofa i.e. its design style also matters. Not all materials and patterns suit all types of sofas. You can also create a well-co-ordinated look yourself with the correct choice of fabric, colour, and pattern. Otherwise, consult an interior designer. The drawing room is generally the most visible and most-visited part of the home, and it pays to invest in it so that it gives a good appearance.
Regarding materials, there is plenty of choice. You can go for simple cotton handloom or rich woven silk. Or else, choose between synthetic leather and microfibre. You can even try a combination of different fabrics for different sections of the sofa. In colours too, there is a huge range - from splashes of rich hues to pure white or muted tones.
One good rule to go by while deciding on the materials is to consider what will be compatible with the overall theme of the rest of the room. If the drawing room is rich and ethnic looking with heavy furniture and traditional decor items, you could go in for upholstery in woven silk with traditional patterns. Consider richly woven jacquard if you have teakwood or mahogany furniture and Indian antiques around. Organza silk or high-quality synthetic leather upholstery also fits in. However, a simple, utilitarian kind of drawing room can do with cotton in simple prints or traditional Indian handloom cotton with colourful patterns.
An interesting option is to mix-and-match fabric, so you have different varieties on different sections of the sofa. However, this must be done with thought and care. For example, the various fabrics you use have to be more or less of equal weight. So, you have to put all the lightweight cottons on one sofa while the heavy jacquards and richly woven fabrics are compatible with each other. Also, you can keep the size of the patterns on the different fabrics being used, either consistently or a big one can be used alongside a smaller size purely to provide a contrast. A similar mix-andmatch look can be achieved by using different slipcovers together.
Then, consider the use of the sofa. Is your drawing room one of those little-used areas which is opened up only when guests come in or you are having a party? If this is the case, then delicate materials like silk, jacquard, organzas, etc. are fine. Even highquality synthetic leather is an option. On the other hand, if the drawing room is the most frequently used room, go for sturdy, durable, and darkcoloured fabric which stands frequent washing too.
The sofa design style also matters. Each kind of size and shape calls for a different treatment. Traditional sofas often have tight back cushions sewn or stitched on to the frame. However, the tuxedo one has cushions which are loose and have arms at comfortable height. The chaise lounge and the bench seat are other varieties. Popular ethnic Indian drawing room furniture includes painted wooden chairs from Gujarat, and the Rajasthani style which will take dark colours and traditional upholstery patterns in silk, jacquard, or elegant cotton handloom. Anyone wanting a traditional look in their home can check out the vast range of patterns and weaves in the market - florals, geometrics, stripes, jacquards, tapestries, etc.
Finally, check the materials for maintenance. Though most good upholstery fabrics are treated for stain resistance, you could also have them retreated or cleaned every once in a while. Each material requires a different kind of care - synthetic leather must be treated very differently from woven silk and these two are not at all comparable to sturdy handloom cotton. So, ask for advice on maintenance while purchasing.
Fabrics: Children Bathrooms
When it comes to the children's bedroom, you could explore any unique ideas because children simply love anything that's unusual and creative. Experiment with colours, fabric, and designs. Build around your child's favourite theme. It could be the jungle theme, sports theme, underwater theme, starry night theme, or even a favourite cartoon character theme. Once you choose the theme, select accessories and fabric in colours and patterns that go with the theme. The fabric should be versatile and patterns should be repeated in other items in the room such as quilts, pillows, lampshade bases, bed ruffles, and so on.
Fabric with prints of vintage trains, race cars, dinosaurs, starry nights, dragons, airplanes, animals, fire engines, boats and ships could hold the key to a successful project. Cartoons, sports, and fairly tale motifs could also be used to good effect. The colours, patterns, and textures could be co-ordinated with the theme of the bedroom. If it's a jungle theme, animal prints, plant and leafy borders could be used. Blue could be the preferred colour for an aqua theme. Patterns of flashing lights of fire engines are suited for young boys while flowers, starfish, and floral patterns could create a wonderland for the girls. Butterflies and colourful insects could add further interest to the setting. You can also add a pink accent pillow with a bow ribbon.
As far as the material is concerned, go for denims and corduroys for boys, and velvets and satin for the girls. As for patterns and designs, energise your child's bedroom with stripes. Create a visually vibrant space with either horizontal or vertical stripes. Pretty pink and white checks or navy blue and ivory checks could also add warmth and interest to a girl's room. Florals could be a favourite too, as far as girls are concerned. These could be mixed and matched with stripes or checks. A girl's room could also have floral prints combined with geometric patterns.
Corduroy, which has a fabulous texture and high durability, could be used for headboards, upholstery, and couches. Cotton could be used for drapes, curtains, and upholstery. Denim, which is a tough and practical fabric, could be used for cushions and headboards as it is long lasting. Lace borders could add a soft, delicate touch to the girl's bedroom. Velvet is another fabric that offers a luxurious feel. It's also durable. It could be used for pillows, headboards, and tablecloths too. Vinyl is a durable and affordable fabric and could be used on cushions, as table cloth and on head boards.
You could create additional storage space with fabric skirts. A colourful piece of cloth could also be used to cover an old stool or a box with fabric skirts and frills. You could also stretch an interesting piece of cloth over a wood frame and hang it on a wall as an art piece. You could add cushion covers to plain, ordinary-looking chairs and see how it's transformed. You could also wrap plain strips of fabric around curtain rods and lamp bases and chandelier chords. A variety of cushion covers and floor cushions could be thrown in for an extra splash of colour.
Another way to brighten up the children's bedroom is to use ribbons. Make a valance for the windows with dangling ribbons. Outline the edges of a pillow with colourful ribbons. Delicate lace edges, colourful ribbons, and lots of frills could turn the bedroom into an fantasy space for your child.
Fabric with prints of vintage trains, race cars, dinosaurs, starry nights, dragons, airplanes, animals, fire engines, boats and ships could hold the key to a successful project. Cartoons, sports, and fairly tale motifs could also be used to good effect. The colours, patterns, and textures could be co-ordinated with the theme of the bedroom. If it's a jungle theme, animal prints, plant and leafy borders could be used. Blue could be the preferred colour for an aqua theme. Patterns of flashing lights of fire engines are suited for young boys while flowers, starfish, and floral patterns could create a wonderland for the girls. Butterflies and colourful insects could add further interest to the setting. You can also add a pink accent pillow with a bow ribbon.
As far as the material is concerned, go for denims and corduroys for boys, and velvets and satin for the girls. As for patterns and designs, energise your child's bedroom with stripes. Create a visually vibrant space with either horizontal or vertical stripes. Pretty pink and white checks or navy blue and ivory checks could also add warmth and interest to a girl's room. Florals could be a favourite too, as far as girls are concerned. These could be mixed and matched with stripes or checks. A girl's room could also have floral prints combined with geometric patterns.
Corduroy, which has a fabulous texture and high durability, could be used for headboards, upholstery, and couches. Cotton could be used for drapes, curtains, and upholstery. Denim, which is a tough and practical fabric, could be used for cushions and headboards as it is long lasting. Lace borders could add a soft, delicate touch to the girl's bedroom. Velvet is another fabric that offers a luxurious feel. It's also durable. It could be used for pillows, headboards, and tablecloths too. Vinyl is a durable and affordable fabric and could be used on cushions, as table cloth and on head boards.
You could create additional storage space with fabric skirts. A colourful piece of cloth could also be used to cover an old stool or a box with fabric skirts and frills. You could also stretch an interesting piece of cloth over a wood frame and hang it on a wall as an art piece. You could add cushion covers to plain, ordinary-looking chairs and see how it's transformed. You could also wrap plain strips of fabric around curtain rods and lamp bases and chandelier chords. A variety of cushion covers and floor cushions could be thrown in for an extra splash of colour.
Another way to brighten up the children's bedroom is to use ribbons. Make a valance for the windows with dangling ribbons. Outline the edges of a pillow with colourful ribbons. Delicate lace edges, colourful ribbons, and lots of frills could turn the bedroom into an fantasy space for your child.
Furnishings for guest suites
A minimalist theme with basic necessities makes an ideal guest suite.
The guest room is one that requires careful planning as it caters to different kinds of people with diverse tastes. While it is impractical to satisfy diverse preferences, it is possible to meet needs that are more or less uniform.
To begin with, decor for a guest suite would have to be neutral to address the tastes of a varied range of people. Thus, colours used should not be too strong, prints, too garish, and the arrangement within, too crowded.
Once this aspect is addressed, basic facilities should be provided first. For instance, the wardrobe should provide ample space to hang outfits rather than shelves where folded clothes can be placed, as a set of drawers would take care this. Since the guest would be living off a suitcase, some clothes may be used more than once and this calls for having shutters in the wardrobe.
It can be quite painful to have suitcases placed on the floor while packing and unpacking. Hence, having a low table next to the wardrobe for placing suitcases is an excellent idea.
It serves well to have a separate dressing area which opens on to the bathroom. This dressing area could feature next to the wardrobe, with the wardrobe providing privacy from direct view from the bedroom.
If the bedroom opens on to a lawn or a balcony, the seating arrangement should be placed next to this open area. The seating could be a couch with a couple of single chairs complemented by side tables. A sofa cum bed instead of a couch serves as an additional bed as and when the need arises. Alternatively, if the setting is ethnic, plenty of options are available starting from an ethnic rocking chair to artistic coffee tables and magazine racks.
If the seating area is next to a set of large curved windows, permanent seating with attractive cushions is a good option. This can prove very novel especially if an attractive set of cushions is used. An eye-catching vase with wood flowers can be placed on the curved section of the window sill.
A similar flower arrangement can also feature in the absence of permanent seating. A large vase with artificial flowers, preferably of the wood variety, could be placed in a corner between the sofas or chairs, acting as the focal point for this section. If flowers are not desired, an indoor plant would add a green touch to the room.
Whether the seating arrangement is contemporary, ethnic, or permanent, it should be large enough to accommodate more than a couple. Besides having coffee tables and magazine racks, it is a good idea to provide a small writing table to enable the guest to work, if need be.
Given the diverse tastes of the occupants, it is best to limit the number of artifacts in the room. The paintings displayed should not be too large and imposing. They should be of medium size, depicting scenes that are not too strong or colours too bright. Essentially, the paintings should add charm to the decor and at the same time blend into it. Again, displaying too many may not be a good idea. Placing a few in strategic locations should suffice.
Small artifacts made of metal or stone could be displayed on the side tables and writing table. If there is a mantelpiece, these could be displayed there. Placing an elegant vase with fresh flowers on the writing table will add cheer to the room.
As for the bed, too many cushions and elaborate work on the cover can prove stifling for those who prefer a simple straight line decor. The curtains too should sport cool prints with colours downplayed to match the rest of the decor.
The guest room is one that requires careful planning as it caters to different kinds of people with diverse tastes. While it is impractical to satisfy diverse preferences, it is possible to meet needs that are more or less uniform.
To begin with, decor for a guest suite would have to be neutral to address the tastes of a varied range of people. Thus, colours used should not be too strong, prints, too garish, and the arrangement within, too crowded.
Once this aspect is addressed, basic facilities should be provided first. For instance, the wardrobe should provide ample space to hang outfits rather than shelves where folded clothes can be placed, as a set of drawers would take care this. Since the guest would be living off a suitcase, some clothes may be used more than once and this calls for having shutters in the wardrobe.
It can be quite painful to have suitcases placed on the floor while packing and unpacking. Hence, having a low table next to the wardrobe for placing suitcases is an excellent idea.
It serves well to have a separate dressing area which opens on to the bathroom. This dressing area could feature next to the wardrobe, with the wardrobe providing privacy from direct view from the bedroom.
If the bedroom opens on to a lawn or a balcony, the seating arrangement should be placed next to this open area. The seating could be a couch with a couple of single chairs complemented by side tables. A sofa cum bed instead of a couch serves as an additional bed as and when the need arises. Alternatively, if the setting is ethnic, plenty of options are available starting from an ethnic rocking chair to artistic coffee tables and magazine racks.
If the seating area is next to a set of large curved windows, permanent seating with attractive cushions is a good option. This can prove very novel especially if an attractive set of cushions is used. An eye-catching vase with wood flowers can be placed on the curved section of the window sill.
A similar flower arrangement can also feature in the absence of permanent seating. A large vase with artificial flowers, preferably of the wood variety, could be placed in a corner between the sofas or chairs, acting as the focal point for this section. If flowers are not desired, an indoor plant would add a green touch to the room.
Whether the seating arrangement is contemporary, ethnic, or permanent, it should be large enough to accommodate more than a couple. Besides having coffee tables and magazine racks, it is a good idea to provide a small writing table to enable the guest to work, if need be.
Given the diverse tastes of the occupants, it is best to limit the number of artifacts in the room. The paintings displayed should not be too large and imposing. They should be of medium size, depicting scenes that are not too strong or colours too bright. Essentially, the paintings should add charm to the decor and at the same time blend into it. Again, displaying too many may not be a good idea. Placing a few in strategic locations should suffice.
Small artifacts made of metal or stone could be displayed on the side tables and writing table. If there is a mantelpiece, these could be displayed there. Placing an elegant vase with fresh flowers on the writing table will add cheer to the room.
As for the bed, too many cushions and elaborate work on the cover can prove stifling for those who prefer a simple straight line decor. The curtains too should sport cool prints with colours downplayed to match the rest of the decor.
Decor elements for the ceiling
Elaborate ceiling decor can transform the look of your rooms.
Aplain ceiling need not adorn a room when there are plenty of decor options available. The ceiling becomes a canvas for smart designing that will transform the look and feel of the room. The height of the ceiling plays a decisive role in deciding the design. The norm, in the age of apartments, is to consider 15 ft and above as high. There are more options available for a high ceiling as it can carry elaborate decor without crowding the room. The presentation must be carried out neatly so that the ceiling by itself does not gain undue attention.
Medallions
Ceiling medallions are quite popular in decor. They can be installed in high or low ceilings. Ceiling medallions can be as visible or understated as you desire. Usually, plaster of Paris, wood, or polyurethane is used to make readymade or customised medallions. Ornate medallions come with elaborate carvings that are coloured or more commonly, gilded to bring out the design. Usually, medallions are radial and serve as stylish backdrops for chandeliers, light fixtures, or fans. There are instances when a specification may require a medallion of a different shape.
To find a suitable location for a ceiling medallion is simple. They look good around a fixture, by themselves in a vast ceiling or as simple decoration in an elaborate ceiling like the tray ceiling. Another ceiling decor that is similar to a medallion is a rosette. This is a small stylised floral design that can be used across the ceiling, along the border, or in combination with a medallion.
Bas relief
When the design is a slight projection from the surrounding surface, then it is called a bas-relief. This is normally associated with temples or palaces due to its grandeur. From simple designs to elaborate figurines, bas-relief holds a lot of promise in the realms of ceiling decor. Here, bas-relief is usually done with plaster of Paris. In a small room, simple designs can adorn the ceiling, especially along the borders. For subtlety, the relief is usually painted the same colour as the ceiling. Elaborate scenes are best suited for a high domed ceiling wherein the ceiling becomes the centre of attraction. For grandeur, colours as well as gilded patterns are used with each relief in the scene, gaining prominence.
Painting
Decorative painting on the ceiling is not a new idea. Painted murals have depicted entire stories on the ceiling. For low ceilings, the trick is to paint it a light colour, if required, with designs that suggest space and height. Glossy paints are normally used to create a bright ambience. In case of painting, the techniques adopted can vary according to the location and requirement. From common scenes like blue sky with wispy white clouds to elaborate faux finishes, decorative painting can transform the look of your room. For artistic depictions of scenes and designs, hiring a professional artist is the best bet. Trompe l'oeil painting is also a fun way to add some zest to the room.
Rafters
A plain ceiling, however small, can be made to look extremely stylish with wood rafters that traverse its length. Faux rafters of wood will add the elegance of a club's lounge into the home space. This is particularly beautiful in a high ceiling room or lobby. Sometimes, a rustic look can also be created with the selection of bamboo rafters. This looks good with a cathedral ceiling.
There are other ways to beautify the ceiling with props like glass or mirrors. Both may be impractical when there kids at home. Cornices and crown mouldings, although they do not classify as ceiling decor, accentuate any ceiling with ease. Use them when you want to draw attention to the ceiling.
Aplain ceiling need not adorn a room when there are plenty of decor options available. The ceiling becomes a canvas for smart designing that will transform the look and feel of the room. The height of the ceiling plays a decisive role in deciding the design. The norm, in the age of apartments, is to consider 15 ft and above as high. There are more options available for a high ceiling as it can carry elaborate decor without crowding the room. The presentation must be carried out neatly so that the ceiling by itself does not gain undue attention.
Medallions
Ceiling medallions are quite popular in decor. They can be installed in high or low ceilings. Ceiling medallions can be as visible or understated as you desire. Usually, plaster of Paris, wood, or polyurethane is used to make readymade or customised medallions. Ornate medallions come with elaborate carvings that are coloured or more commonly, gilded to bring out the design. Usually, medallions are radial and serve as stylish backdrops for chandeliers, light fixtures, or fans. There are instances when a specification may require a medallion of a different shape.
To find a suitable location for a ceiling medallion is simple. They look good around a fixture, by themselves in a vast ceiling or as simple decoration in an elaborate ceiling like the tray ceiling. Another ceiling decor that is similar to a medallion is a rosette. This is a small stylised floral design that can be used across the ceiling, along the border, or in combination with a medallion.
Bas relief
When the design is a slight projection from the surrounding surface, then it is called a bas-relief. This is normally associated with temples or palaces due to its grandeur. From simple designs to elaborate figurines, bas-relief holds a lot of promise in the realms of ceiling decor. Here, bas-relief is usually done with plaster of Paris. In a small room, simple designs can adorn the ceiling, especially along the borders. For subtlety, the relief is usually painted the same colour as the ceiling. Elaborate scenes are best suited for a high domed ceiling wherein the ceiling becomes the centre of attraction. For grandeur, colours as well as gilded patterns are used with each relief in the scene, gaining prominence.
Painting
Decorative painting on the ceiling is not a new idea. Painted murals have depicted entire stories on the ceiling. For low ceilings, the trick is to paint it a light colour, if required, with designs that suggest space and height. Glossy paints are normally used to create a bright ambience. In case of painting, the techniques adopted can vary according to the location and requirement. From common scenes like blue sky with wispy white clouds to elaborate faux finishes, decorative painting can transform the look of your room. For artistic depictions of scenes and designs, hiring a professional artist is the best bet. Trompe l'oeil painting is also a fun way to add some zest to the room.
Rafters
A plain ceiling, however small, can be made to look extremely stylish with wood rafters that traverse its length. Faux rafters of wood will add the elegance of a club's lounge into the home space. This is particularly beautiful in a high ceiling room or lobby. Sometimes, a rustic look can also be created with the selection of bamboo rafters. This looks good with a cathedral ceiling.
There are other ways to beautify the ceiling with props like glass or mirrors. Both may be impractical when there kids at home. Cornices and crown mouldings, although they do not classify as ceiling decor, accentuate any ceiling with ease. Use them when you want to draw attention to the ceiling.
Interior Decor: Indian, African & Oriental theme Series 3
Themes are an interesting way to spice up your home decor. While a single theme for the entire house is a simple choice, consider different themes for different rooms as a refreshingly unique option. Your home decor is a reflection of your personality and each theme could reflect a different shade of your persona. From your kitchen to your bathroom, you can find themes to match any space.
Cultural
Indian Theme: To start with, introduce cane and jute furniture in your living room. Use several brightly coloured cushions and pillows to make them comfortable. Hand-woven Indian floor mats with ethnic designs and in vibrant colours, will add flavour to this theme. Suspend oil lanterns from the roof to add an old-world charm to the room. You can have electric bulbs in lanterns for ease of use. Adorn the walls with paintings and prints that reflect Indian culture and artistic talent. Hand-woven silk fabrics from Rajasthan make for excellent wall art.
African Theme: This is a great theme for the bedroom. Animal prints and tribal designs are the primary patterns. Tiny hand-made African instruments and African-style trinkets and statuettes add to the theme. Floor rugs with animal prints will add authenticity to the decor. Use tribal art and colourful masks to embellish the roof and walls.
Oriental Theme: A theme that demands a lot of red and golden, it will make the guest room look really unique. You can have low Chinese-style seating in the room. From hand fans and kimonos to Chinese dragons and chopsticks, you can do a lot with this theme.
There are several other themes you can opt for to make your home really interesting. Whatever interests you, can turn into a theme for your home. Music, motorcars, bikes, planes, ships, painting, photography, travel, technology, history - all of them can be effective themes for the various rooms of your home.
Cultural
Indian Theme: To start with, introduce cane and jute furniture in your living room. Use several brightly coloured cushions and pillows to make them comfortable. Hand-woven Indian floor mats with ethnic designs and in vibrant colours, will add flavour to this theme. Suspend oil lanterns from the roof to add an old-world charm to the room. You can have electric bulbs in lanterns for ease of use. Adorn the walls with paintings and prints that reflect Indian culture and artistic talent. Hand-woven silk fabrics from Rajasthan make for excellent wall art.
African Theme: This is a great theme for the bedroom. Animal prints and tribal designs are the primary patterns. Tiny hand-made African instruments and African-style trinkets and statuettes add to the theme. Floor rugs with animal prints will add authenticity to the decor. Use tribal art and colourful masks to embellish the roof and walls.
Oriental Theme: A theme that demands a lot of red and golden, it will make the guest room look really unique. You can have low Chinese-style seating in the room. From hand fans and kimonos to Chinese dragons and chopsticks, you can do a lot with this theme.
There are several other themes you can opt for to make your home really interesting. Whatever interests you, can turn into a theme for your home. Music, motorcars, bikes, planes, ships, painting, photography, travel, technology, history - all of them can be effective themes for the various rooms of your home.
Interior decor: Seasonal Theme - Series 2
Themes are an interesting way to spice up your home decor. While a single theme for the entire house is a simple choice, consider different themes for different rooms as a refreshingly unique option. Your home decor is a reflection of your personality and each theme could reflect a different shade of your persona. From your kitchen to your bathroom, you can find themes to match any space.
Seasonal Theme:
Another option could be 'seasons'. You can go from spring to winter as you walk from your living room to your bedroom. Wall colours play an important role in bringing about this change. For summer, use light and bright shades like pastel yellow, blue, and beige. Team it up with upholstery that matches the summery mood. To sum it up, introduce wall art that shows clear blue skies, sandy beaches, and green hilltops. For winter, you could go for darker shades on the walls, like deep blues, maroons, and greens. Use woollen floor rugs and soft silk upholstery in shades of white and brown. For spring, floral shades and natural colours are the right choice. Introduce several potted plants and pictures of flowers and trees in the room. Monsoons demand shades of grey and green, while autumn brings with it different hues of orange and brown.
Seasonal Theme:
Another option could be 'seasons'. You can go from spring to winter as you walk from your living room to your bedroom. Wall colours play an important role in bringing about this change. For summer, use light and bright shades like pastel yellow, blue, and beige. Team it up with upholstery that matches the summery mood. To sum it up, introduce wall art that shows clear blue skies, sandy beaches, and green hilltops. For winter, you could go for darker shades on the walls, like deep blues, maroons, and greens. Use woollen floor rugs and soft silk upholstery in shades of white and brown. For spring, floral shades and natural colours are the right choice. Introduce several potted plants and pictures of flowers and trees in the room. Monsoons demand shades of grey and green, while autumn brings with it different hues of orange and brown.
Interior Decoration: chronological theme-Series-1
Themes are an interesting way to spice up your home decor. While a single theme for the entire house is a simple choice, consider different themes for different rooms as a refreshingly unique option. Your home decor is a reflection of your personality and each theme could reflect a different shade of your persona. From your kitchen to your bathroom, you can find themes to match any space.
Chronological Theme
You can even build themes within themes. For example, if your theme is 'transition,' then each room can reflect a different era. You can progress from the 1900s to the 21st century within the walls of your home. With wall art, wall colours, and accessories, this transition is not difficult. If you start with contemporary decor for your living room, move backwards in time as you progress to the other rooms. Your bedroom can reflect authentic royalty, complete with antique wood furniture, an ornamental king-size bed, and silk upholstery. Your bathroom can be straight out of the 70s, with polka-dotted tiles and bright, colourful walls. Your kitchen can be futuristic, with minimalist furniture and modern accessories. Each decade has a lot of interesting design elements to offer. Do some research on each to unearth ideas that will suit your spaces.
Chronological Theme
You can even build themes within themes. For example, if your theme is 'transition,' then each room can reflect a different era. You can progress from the 1900s to the 21st century within the walls of your home. With wall art, wall colours, and accessories, this transition is not difficult. If you start with contemporary decor for your living room, move backwards in time as you progress to the other rooms. Your bedroom can reflect authentic royalty, complete with antique wood furniture, an ornamental king-size bed, and silk upholstery. Your bathroom can be straight out of the 70s, with polka-dotted tiles and bright, colourful walls. Your kitchen can be futuristic, with minimalist furniture and modern accessories. Each decade has a lot of interesting design elements to offer. Do some research on each to unearth ideas that will suit your spaces.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Office interior decoration on a shoe-string budget
Clinical tests show that people crave for more change and novelty today than ever before. This is attributed to the electronic media. Is your office decor boring? Has it been the same for years? If yes, it could be having a negative effect on your staff. Some new decor ideas will keep their interest levels fresh.
It is now accepted that novel concepts in design can stir some interest in your workplace. Consider the idea of dining tables with rotating containers. Different parts can become accessible to you. Applying a similar concept, you can have an interior design for your office, which incorporates features, which can be changed or slid out of sight. New designs will be a welcome change every few months or so.
Walls
Partition walls can slide into the walls. For instance, a set of four cubicles can be turned into a reading room and vice versa. By creating sliding wall panels, the design can be changed as and when required.
Colour schemes
A colour scheme is a design concept that can be interesting to change. And easy too. Any colour will appear to be a certain shade based on other colours used in the design. If it is placed next to bright red it will look lighter and if placed next to pale blue or white, a different shade. Optical illusions with colour schemes are a great way to be innovative. Selectively change the focal point in the design. By changing some colours you can modify the decor within a small budget.
Another idea is to have a versatile colour scheme. For instance, you can pick a range of complementary colours. For example, say a grey base for carpeting, floors, walls and windows, with upholstery in purple. You can change one highlighting colour by replacing the purple with red or burgundy red, and the look of the office changes. Each colour in a scheme 'brings out' another colour or masks it.
Change with seasons
Consider a decor that will change with the seasons. Reversible upholstery is a good idea. In summer you can go for cool lavender and in winter a sunny yellow. By changing only parts of an interior in a focused way, you can change the whole office.
Wallboards can be changed every few months using different materials and colours. Sliding panels can make a big change in your office. You can select a design that is open to change. To make the workplace interesting, your decor should change. New looks every few months by design are a good idea with minimum expense.
Lighting
Changing the lighting fixtures will also change the appearance dramatically in an office. Golden incandescent lights will create warm colours and fluorescent fixtures, bluish or cold colours. This can be coordinated with the colour scheme of carpets and partition boards. Wall hangings and contemporary paintings on the walls may be changed. Landscaping can be changed too, matching your other changes.
It is now accepted that novel concepts in design can stir some interest in your workplace. Consider the idea of dining tables with rotating containers. Different parts can become accessible to you. Applying a similar concept, you can have an interior design for your office, which incorporates features, which can be changed or slid out of sight. New designs will be a welcome change every few months or so.
Walls
Partition walls can slide into the walls. For instance, a set of four cubicles can be turned into a reading room and vice versa. By creating sliding wall panels, the design can be changed as and when required.
Colour schemes
A colour scheme is a design concept that can be interesting to change. And easy too. Any colour will appear to be a certain shade based on other colours used in the design. If it is placed next to bright red it will look lighter and if placed next to pale blue or white, a different shade. Optical illusions with colour schemes are a great way to be innovative. Selectively change the focal point in the design. By changing some colours you can modify the decor within a small budget.
Another idea is to have a versatile colour scheme. For instance, you can pick a range of complementary colours. For example, say a grey base for carpeting, floors, walls and windows, with upholstery in purple. You can change one highlighting colour by replacing the purple with red or burgundy red, and the look of the office changes. Each colour in a scheme 'brings out' another colour or masks it.
Change with seasons
Consider a decor that will change with the seasons. Reversible upholstery is a good idea. In summer you can go for cool lavender and in winter a sunny yellow. By changing only parts of an interior in a focused way, you can change the whole office.
Wallboards can be changed every few months using different materials and colours. Sliding panels can make a big change in your office. You can select a design that is open to change. To make the workplace interesting, your decor should change. New looks every few months by design are a good idea with minimum expense.
Lighting
Changing the lighting fixtures will also change the appearance dramatically in an office. Golden incandescent lights will create warm colours and fluorescent fixtures, bluish or cold colours. This can be coordinated with the colour scheme of carpets and partition boards. Wall hangings and contemporary paintings on the walls may be changed. Landscaping can be changed too, matching your other changes.
Documents needed for purchase of property
Some documents that those intending to purchase a property should ensure are in order.
A great deal of scrutiny is required before buying property. You should be diligent and check on the title of the property thoroughly. You should also check the mortgage status of the property. A clear title is also a pre-requisite for getting loans from banks or housing finance companies. In case the title of the seller is not clear, complications arising in future may be numerous. Banks will not provide loan for such a property. It will not be possible to re-sell the property too.
These documents and points should be kept in mind by a purchaser in order to minimise risks:
Conveyance or sale deed
This refers to the deed document by which the title of property is conveyed by the seller to the purchaser. Conveyance is the act of transferring ownership of the property from a seller to the buyer. This document helps the purchaser ascertain whether the property proposed to be bought is on the land belonging to the seller.
Search report and title certificate
A lawyer prepares the search/title report. This certificate is issued after conducting a search on the title of the property, which is intended to be purchased. The title certificate would state whether the property is unencumbered and has a clear marketable title. A search report on the title of a property is taken for the past 30 years. This document would state whether there is any existing mortgage, litigation, condition or claim, which is likely to affect the title of the buyer adversely. In case a buyer is intending to take a housing loan, the bank/housing finance company gets this report prepared.
Extract
This extract is issued by a Tahsildar or the land authorities concerned. It gives details of the property including survey numbers, location, area, date from which current owner is registered as owner etc.
Permission for non-agricultural use
This is very important. In case the land proposed to be bought is an agricultural land, and if one intends to develop the land for residential/commercial/industrial use, the land has to be first converted to non-agricultural land. In order to do so, a non-agriculture order has to be obtained from the District Collector in whose jurisdiction the property is located.
Along with this, one also needs the receipt for payment of non-agriculture tax. In cases where conversion from agricultural use to nonagriculture use is not done within the stipulated period, there should be an order from the authority concerned extending the period.
A great deal of scrutiny is required before buying property. You should be diligent and check on the title of the property thoroughly. You should also check the mortgage status of the property. A clear title is also a pre-requisite for getting loans from banks or housing finance companies. In case the title of the seller is not clear, complications arising in future may be numerous. Banks will not provide loan for such a property. It will not be possible to re-sell the property too.
These documents and points should be kept in mind by a purchaser in order to minimise risks:
Conveyance or sale deed
This refers to the deed document by which the title of property is conveyed by the seller to the purchaser. Conveyance is the act of transferring ownership of the property from a seller to the buyer. This document helps the purchaser ascertain whether the property proposed to be bought is on the land belonging to the seller.
Search report and title certificate
A lawyer prepares the search/title report. This certificate is issued after conducting a search on the title of the property, which is intended to be purchased. The title certificate would state whether the property is unencumbered and has a clear marketable title. A search report on the title of a property is taken for the past 30 years. This document would state whether there is any existing mortgage, litigation, condition or claim, which is likely to affect the title of the buyer adversely. In case a buyer is intending to take a housing loan, the bank/housing finance company gets this report prepared.
Extract
This extract is issued by a Tahsildar or the land authorities concerned. It gives details of the property including survey numbers, location, area, date from which current owner is registered as owner etc.
Permission for non-agricultural use
This is very important. In case the land proposed to be bought is an agricultural land, and if one intends to develop the land for residential/commercial/industrial use, the land has to be first converted to non-agricultural land. In order to do so, a non-agriculture order has to be obtained from the District Collector in whose jurisdiction the property is located.
Along with this, one also needs the receipt for payment of non-agriculture tax. In cases where conversion from agricultural use to nonagriculture use is not done within the stipulated period, there should be an order from the authority concerned extending the period.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Bagan: Myanmar city with 4 million Pagodas
Bagan, a historic capital of Myanmar, known as the City of 4 Million Pagodas, is the richest archaeological site in Asia. It is in Bagan that Buddhism struck deep roots, and art and architecture attained peaks of achievement. Located some 300 miles from Yangon, Bagan stands on the east bank of the Ayeyawaddy, commanding the central plain of Myanmar in a setting which includes the great river flowing north to south and a network of paths and tracks. There are sandstone hills, an abundance of sand and river shingle, and a firm soil of stable bearing capacity. Bagan's climate is tropical and is generally hot and dry throughout the year. Winter time is ideal to visit as from November to February, day temperatures hover round 30°C and falls to 10°C at night. Rain is heavy and frequent between June and October. Its early history is unclear although chronicles relate that Bagan was formed from 19 villages. The most outstanding figure in its history is Anawrahta (1044-1077) who unified the country politically and culturally. He brought back to Bagan the Pali scriptures of Theravada Buddhism and set about building the awe-inspiring pagodas and temples which we still see today. His successors upheld this tradition for more than 290 years, covering an area of 16 sq miles with religious structures which number 2,217 in a recent list of the Department of Archaeology. Bagan's inscriptions mention congregation halls, ordination halls, libraries, monasteries and others, generally of timber or brick, occasionally of sandstone.
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