Diy News Bulletin

. It may only be the end of September, but Moben, Sharps and Dolphin have issued their predictions for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom trends in 2011, as interpreted by interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, who's their ambassador. He predicts that next year will be all about the living kitchen: A cooking and living space in one, with practical, furniture-inspired breakfast bars and island units taking centre stage - especially curved ones. While he expects white and ivory kitchens to remain popular, he sees strong colours making an impact, too, along with textures. In the world of bedrooms, Llewelyn-Bowen believes glamour will be big news, with fitted wardrobes - and innovative storage solutions inside - key to achieving this look. White high-gloss wardrobes will set the trend, warmed up with rich colours, textures, carpets and wallpapers.Finally, the bathroom is expected to feel more like an extension of the bedroom in 2011, thanks to glamorous personal touches - such as tile feature walls and adaptable mood lighting. The trend for bathroom storage will be attractive but practical pieces, used in a stunning way. And if you have room, Llewelyn-Bowen expects second bathrooms to be more popular than ever.

Our Indian summer seems to have disappeared, but if you are creating a deck or patio in hope of it returning, check out the new deckchair-printing service from Artylicious. The deckchair frame is made of beech and you can choose any photo from the company's collections for the digitally printed canvas sling. The chairs cost pounds 140 each. Visit www.artylicious.co.uk/to browse the images - then email them with your choice to see if it's suitable for the sling.

pounds 1.9m revamp on ward

WORK is under way on a major pounds 1.9m ward refurbishment at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

The ward will also be one of the first hospitals to trial new hospital furniture designed by the Design Council. The new space-age furniture is designed to be easily cleaned and reduce the risk of infection.Ward 21 is an L-shaped ward with separate wings for male and female patients with 18 beds in single room and small room accommodation. There will be ensuite bathroom facilities and ward furniture and furnishings which comply with the highest infection prevention and control standards.A project, to upgrade ward 21, a stroke rehabilitation ward, into a state-of-the-art unit is now under way. It follows a similar transformation on wards 10 and 17 and all three represent a major investment totalling nearly pounds 6m.The work is expected to take six months.Frank Gibbons, director of estates and facilities, said: "This is a very exciting project for both patients and staff. This is part of our rolling programme of major and minor upgrades on wards right across the hospital aimed at creating a better environment for everyone."There will also be extra specially-adapted physiotherapy rooms for the rehabilitation care for patients.

Frank Gibbons, director of estates and facilities, said: "This is a very exciting project for both patients and staff. This is part of our rolling programme of major and minor upgrades on wards right across the hospital aimed at creating a better environment for everyone."

WIN pounds 1,000 CASH PLUS pounds 1,000 of cleaning products

TO celebrate the launch of Ozkleen's Oz Factor search we have pounds 1,000 in CASH to give away plus another pounds 1,000 worth of Ozkleen eco cleaning products!

CORRECTLY answer this question for a chance to win: Q Who won last year's X Factor?If you live in a hard-water area and have tried every product on the market to remove limescale without success, then it's time to try Ozkleen Bathroom Power.You'll be amazed at how effective the Ozkleen range of products are.DO you have what it takes to sparkle? Ozkleen are offering another pounds 1,000 and the chance to appear in the next Ozkleen ad for their Oz Factor competition.For kitchens, Ozkleen Kitchen Power cuts through grease for a sparkling finish. And it also works great on light fittings, window frames, barbecues, outdoor furniture, metals, jewellery, bins and hard floors.Forget the X Factor... it's time for the OZ FactorC .......... Gareth GatesService Provider: Telecom Express Ltd, call 0870 487 4870B .......... Same DifferenceTERMS & CONDITIONSA .......... Joe McElderry1. Lines close 6pm Friday, October 15, 2010. BT landline calls cost 60p/min, max two mins. Other landline operators/ payphones/ mobiles may vary. Text/Internet entries pounds 1 each plus standard network rate. 2. One winner and 20 runners-up selected at random after lines close from all correct entries received. 3. Winner: pounds 1,000 awarded as cheque, plus 13 bottles of Ozkleen cleaning products. 4. Runners-up: each 13 bottles of Ozkleen cleaning products only. 5. Prizes published in other Trinity Mirror titles, not transferable, no whole/ part cash alternatives, awarded within 28 days of competition closing. 6. Trinity Mirror plc accepts no liability whatsoever in winner's subsequent use of these products. 7. Standard Trinity Mirror Rules apply - see www.sundaymirror.co.uk/ rulesCALL 0901 609 2902 and follow instructions. Or text SMHOME followed by a space and then your answer (a, b or c), name, address and postcode to 84080. To receive details of goods and services which may be of interest to you start your text entry SMHOMEIN. Or visit www.sundaymirror.co.uk/competitions and enter online.HOW TO ENTEROzkleen products are sold at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Co- op, Morrisons, Robert Dyas and Costco.And for carpeted floors there's Ozkleen Carpet Power, which removes stubborn stains such as coffee, grease, red wine, make-up, pet stains... and even shoe polish!Ozkleen products are easy to use, smell fab - and not only are they kind to the environment, they really do work!

Ozkleen products are sold at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Co- op, Morrisons, Robert Dyas and Costco.

-Swedish Nobia says new CEO to step in today

NORDIC BUSINESS REPORT-October 6, 2010--Swedish Nobia says new CEO to step in today(C)2010 M2 COMMUNICATIONS http://www.m2.com

6 October 2010 - Swedish kitchen and bathroom furniture group Nobia AB (STO: NOBI) said Wednesday its new CEO, Morten Falkenberg, will take up office today, replacing Preben Bager who is retiring.Before joining Nobia, Falkenberg was executive vice president for floor care and small appliances at Swedish electronic appliances maker AB Electrolux (STO: ELUX B).The appointment of Falkenberg was announced in April 2010. He was supposed to take over as CEO not later than 15 October 2010.

((Comments on this story may be sent to info@m2.com)).END.PUB430>PDOctober 6, 2010>JNNORDIC BUSINESS REPORT.PRICEDATENOT APPLICABLE.DAY

Introducing The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui Resort Version 20.11

Having recently completed extensive renovations, The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui resort is in the enviable position of providing freshly remodeled guestrooms and renovated swimming pools for 2011.

Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=1402368Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to NewsvineThe resort's three main swimming pools have also received dramatic enhancements. The decks surrounding the adults-only pool, and upper and lower lagoon pools have been replaced with quartzite, a naturally beautiful heat-resistant stone that is kinder to the touch than other materials. This durable stone also has a high-traction surface to ensure safer footing.Fairmont is owned by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, a leading global hotel company with 94 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com .Each of the resort's 413 one-bedroom suites have been renovated with new furniture, paint and décor, new linens, draperies, HD flat-screen TVs, and new woodworking, including interior doors and cabinets. New outdoor furniture graces the private lanai (balcony) of every guest room. At 840 square feet, these spacious one-bedroom suites also boast expansive marble bathrooms with double pedestal sinks, a deep soaking tub, and open shower.About The Fairmont Kea Lani Located on the pristine white sands of Wailea, The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui is Hawaii's only luxury oceanfront resort featuring spacious suites and villas. This distinctive hotel encompasses 22 acres of tropical landscape and offers authentic Hawaiian cultural experiences and warm and personal service which portray the essence of aloha. For reservations or more information, call 800-659-4100 or log on to www.fairmont.com/kealani .The Kea Lani features three swimming pools, a children's program, casual and fine dining in four restaurants, a gourmet bakery and deli, boutique shopping, a luxurious spa, 24-hour fitness center and full wedding coordination services. The resort is adjacent to Wailea's tennis courts and three championship golf courses. With all these amenities, it's no wonder this distinctive Maui hotel is popular with both families and couples.

Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine

Keep bedbugs out of your office

Bedbugs are back with a vengeance. Retailers Nike and Abercrombie & Fitch recently shuttered two Manhattan locations because of bedbug infestation. Other recent victims included the Brooklyn district attorney's office, the Empire State Building and XM radio disc jockey Howard Stern's offices. Follow these tips from the National Pest Management Association in Fairfax, Va., to prevent bedbugs from coming into your workplace:

* Be aware that bedbugs have been known to inhabit electrical sockets, surge protectors and picture frames.* Eliminate clutter as much as possible, especially in storage areas, which are excellent hiding spots.By Pamela Babcock, a freelance writer based in the New York City area.* Inspect your business regularly for signs of infestations. Pay close attention to furniture seams and upholstery, looking for telltale brownish or reddish spots. Adult bedbugs are typically a quarter of an inch long and look like an apple seed.* Vacuum and clean all areas, including offices, hallways, lobbies, kitchens, storefronts and public bathrooms, daily.

By Pamela Babcock, a freelance writer based in the New York City area.

Stores Direct

BUSY Mike Birtwhistle is fired up about business.

Stores Direct has expanded into other markets - providing bathrooms, furniture and soft furnishings with other products in the pipeline.Now his internet-based company Stores Direct is billed as the country's largest supplier of wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, flue systems and associated heating products.The company was placed 45th in the business league table which ranks Britain''s 100 private companies with the fastest growing sales over a three-year period.* ON TRACK: Mike Birtwhistle (right), of Stores Direct, with Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson celebrating the firm''s inclusion in the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 Awards"The company will continue to invest in many new products and services, further strengthening the foundations of the company to enable it to grow."Said Mr Birtwhistle: "The business development and strategy of the company always remains focused on bringing high quality products to our customers at the best possible price, whilst focusing on high levels of customer service.He said: "Using Stores Direct's well-planned business model, the company can continue to grow without the restrictive cash flow problems and overheads most conventional businesses experience.CAPTION(S):Mike began selling wood-burning stoves from the back of a Vauxhall Corsa in 2001.The company, based at Pennine Business Park in Bradley, has a strategy to continue increasing its lead in the market place and to capitalise on its expertise delivering fragile, niche products and home furnishings."Stores Direct is now in a position to continue expanding at a healthy pace without any external investment, while still maintaining good profitability."With its start from humble beginnings, with zero investment and a lot of determination and hard work, Stores Direct has become a multi-million pound turnover company that is well-respected in its industry with solid business relationships that are key to the company's success."

* ON TRACK: Mike Birtwhistle (right), of Stores Direct, with Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson celebrating the firm''s inclusion in the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 Awards

New ward marks big investment for infirmary

HUDDERSFIELD Royal Infirmary's pounds 1.9m refurbishment of Ward 21 is nearing completion.

* CUTTING THE TAPE: Performing the opening of Ward 21 at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary are former patients David Tinsley, in the chair, with Wendy Walker and Keith Walker (PC201210Dhri-01)Sister Heather Cording, said: "The new Ward 21 will mean such a lot to our patients and our staff are really looking forward to moving back. It will mean a brighter, lighter ward where we can help our patients recover from strokes with much more space and a much improved environment."The therapy area has a kitchen where patients can be assessed and re-learn domestic chores as part of their rehabilitation and the new ward furniture has smooth edges and wipe clean surfaces which comply with infection prevention measures.The new Ward 21 has separate wings for male and female patients and all the bathrooms have walk-in wet-rooms instead of baths to make access as easy as possible.Other special features include special lighting for patients whose eyesight has been affected by stroke and overhead tracking to assist patients with safer movement and to help staff to assist them.Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust is revamping several areas of the hospital. Ward 10, a general ward was recently completed at a similar cost.Officially opened on Monday, it is the single biggest ever specialist ward upgrade in the hospital's history.

* CUTTING THE TAPE: Performing the opening of Ward 21 at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary are former patients David Tinsley, in the chair, with Wendy Walker and Keith Walker (PC201210Dhri-01)

Record showing for furniture firm

A FAMILY-run kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture firm is going from strength to strength.

In all areas of the company, business is blooming - with kitchen sales up by 54% compared to 2009 and more than pounds 900,000 of potential new turnover identified. In addition, Daval is now enjoying its biggest order book in 10 months.The system also allows customers to specify a much wider range of colours, styles and finishes when they select the company's fitted bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms.* POSITIVE: Simon Bodsworth, of Slaithwaite-based DavalDaval said it had fitted 100 new dealer displays with a further 40 identified. New product launches are due in the spring - putting the company on course to another record-breaking year. The firmhas more than 150 approved dealers throughout the UK."The sales of our kitchens weren't dipping. In fact, we witnessed a growth of 16% in the sales of our traditional kitchens.CAPTION(S):Simon Bodsworth, business development and marketing manager at Daval, said: "The recession was an incredibly nerve-wracking time for everyone in the industry, but what we saw was incredibly interesting."The general feeling in the industry now is one of positivity again.This has resulted in a carefully managed strategy that allows for individual care for different dealers, including tailored product, service and marketing support. Daval saw great success in the kitchen sector during 2010 - and the growth looks set to continue.Kitchens are now 30% of the total turnover and this is expected to rise to 50% in 2011.Slaithwaite-based Daval has turned in "fantastic" results - despite experiencing one of the toughest recessions to hit the furniture industry."Our dealers have welcomed the custom of many over 60s who are deciding to invest in their homes preferring this to the disappointing return on savings."Overall, the DK63 kitchen, which featured in the Spring Summer Muted Shades Collection, has been our best selling range in 2010 which we are delighted with."As we recuperate from the recession we expect to see seasonal trends back again rather than the flatlined designs we have been used to."

* POSITIVE: Simon Bodsworth, of Slaithwaite-based Daval

21 Birch Park, Brockholes

THIS stone built four-bedroomed detached home is set on a generous corner plot and has spectacular views across open countryside.

To the first-floor the master bedroom has an en-suite shower room and a range of fitted furniture.There are three further double bedrooms, two of them having a range of fitted furniture, and the family bathroom.The house is tucked away at the end of the cul de sac with a woodland banking and extensive grounds to all sides.The property comprises an entrance hallway, large lounge, conservatory, dining room, breakfast kitchen, study, downstairs cloakroom, utility room and double garage.It has a summer house, greenhouse and garden shed and would make an ideal purchase for a growing family.

It has a summer house, greenhouse and garden shed and would make an ideal purchase for a growing family.

3 easy bathroom updates: can't swing a full-on renovation? No worries—here, 3 quick ways to spruce up your space

LIGHT IT UP

GO LOW-FLOW YET LUXEOne of the simplest, low-cost-but-high-impact upgrades you can do is replace your showerhead. The options for eco-conscious water-saving models are better-looking than ever--like this over-size, rain-can style, which features clean lines and a wide, satisfyingly powerful spray. Best yet, it can be screwed on in just seconds (no tools required!) and rings in at less than $30. Opella by DeNovo Rain 6-in. Chrome Showerhead, $27; overstock.comThink beyond the same old inset canisters: Adding an offbeat fixture can help redefine a space, as seen here in furniture designer Susan Hornbeak-Ortiz's San Juan Capistrano, California, bathroom. "The rest of the room is so modern and clean, it needed an exclamation point," she says. Lush potted orchids (the plants thrive in moist, well-lit quarters) next to the sink add a dynamic finishing touch.HANG BOLD ARTWORK

For this L.A.-area master bath, designer Melissa Warner of Massucco Warner Miller Interior Design brought in a massive abstract photograph, mounting it in acrylic plastic to protect the image from splashing water. Still, steam might get in, so don't use anything irreplaceable. "And if space permits, go big; it'll make the bathroom feel like more of a destination," advises Melissa.

Bath Furnishings Supplier Acquired by Artistic Tile

Secancns, NJ - Artistic Tile, a major wholesale distributor of luxury tile and stone, has acquired Waterfall Bathroom Furniture, a privately held manufacturer of bathroom furnishings crafted in Canada, and formerly headquartered in New York.

Waterfall by Artistic Tile's product portfolio is being made available through the company's network of more than 150 authorized dealers, in addition to Artistic Tile's eight retail showrooms across the country."The acquisition of Waterfall is a natural fit with our mission of offering beautifully designed, superbly crafted products that appeal to designers and homeowners," said Nancy Epstein, founder and CEO of the Secaucus, NJ-based Artistic Tile.Terms of the acquisition, which was announced last month, were not disclosed.Waterfall Bathroom Furniture will be marketed under the name Waterfall Bathroom Furniture by Artistic Tile, and day-to-day operations will be operated out of Artistic Tile's headquarters here, corporate officials said."Waterfall has a best-in-class reputation and it's exciting to see this company become part of the Artistic Tile family," Epstein added.

Waterfall Bathroom Furniture will be marketed under the name Waterfall Bathroom Furniture by Artistic Tile, and day-to-day operations will be operated out of Artistic Tile's headquarters here, corporate officials said.

Enhance Features Of Bathroom With Bathroom Furniture And Fixtures

A minor change in your bathroom accessories can bring a greater charm to your bathroom, but the thing is choosing the right accessory for right location and placing in appropriate direction. Today bathroom suites are available in various shapes, sizes and materials. It should neither be too large nor be too short because both have its own disadvantages. If the suite is too large then it will cover most of the area of the bathroom and if it is too short then there will be a problem in taking bath, sounds funny but this is true. It should be of medium size that uses less area that gives you great comfort and relaxation while you are taking bath secondly it has to be designed in such a way that each and every member of the house feels an ease with it.

Nowadays the bathrooms are very large and have enough space which is not occupied; such space can be used for placing basins. It plays a distinctive role in changing the appearance of the bathroom, it should be of light colour and not too large and the shape should be impressive. There is a variety of basins available today in different shape, size and colors generally made up of porcelain. If your bathroom basin needs a replacement then always opt for either round shaped or oval shape which are available both in small, medium and large sizes. The porcelain which is used in basin is durable, attractive and easy to clean within anyone�s budget. You can also go for different colours that match your bathroom with unique styles and terrific paint designs that give a lightning glow.If you are hesitated in finding any idea or creative imaginations for selecting the appropriate bathroom furniture then go through some magazines that provide information on interior designs, this is the place where you can get several ideas. There are various seller websites on the internet with a huge collection of fixtures and bathroom furniture�s. Furniture made up of various materials is also available such as stainless steel, glass, granite and many marbles. Each of them has their own advantages as well as disadvantages.

If you are hesitated in finding any idea or creative imaginations for selecting the appropriate bathroom furniture then go through some magazines that provide information on interior designs, this is the place where you can get several ideas. There are various seller websites on the internet with a huge collection of fixtures and bathroom furniture�s. Furniture made up of various materials is also available such as stainless steel, glass, granite and many marbles. Each of them has their own advantages as well as disadvantages.

-Swedish Nobia outlines profit-boosting measures

NORDIC BUSINESS REPORT-May 26, 2011--Swedish Nobia outlines profit-boosting measures(C)2011 M2 COMMUNICATIONS http://www.m2.com

These initiatives, which are expected to improve the margin by 6-8 percentage points, will entail one-off costs of SEK600m-800m until 2014, the company said today.In the last 12 months, the company has managed to boost its operating margin to 4.4% from 1.1%.26 May 2011 - Swedish kitchen and bathroom furniture group Nobia AB (STO: NOBI) has started or planned measures to improve its run-rate operating profit by between SEK1bn and SEK1.3bn in a bid to achieve its 10% operating margin target by 2014.((Comments on this story may be sent to info@m2.com))"We intend to much more strongly capitalise on internal and consumer opportunities by driving efficiency and growth initiatives in parallel. These initiatives span across the entire value chain," Nobia's CEO, Morten Falkenberg, said.

((Comments on this story may be sent to info@m2.com))

-Swedish Nobia considers to close more plants

NORDIC BUSINESS REPORT-May 26, 2011--Swedish Nobia considers to close more plants(C)2011 M2 COMMUNICATIONS http://www.m2.com

At present, the kitchen and bathroom furniture group has a total 15 plants."The full effect of the plant closures will be seen in 2014 at the earliest," Falkenberg said, cited by Swedish newswire Nyhetsbyran Direkt.((Comments on this story may be sent to info@m2.com)).END.PUB430>PDMay 26, 2011>JNNORDIC BUSINESS REPORT.PRICEDATENOT APPLICABLE.DAY

((Comments on this story may be sent to info@m2.com)).END.PUB430>PDMay 26, 2011>JNNORDIC BUSINESS REPORT.PRICEDATENOT APPLICABLE.DAY

BANK ON ON ONE-DAY WONDERS

AS the last summer bank holiday of the year looms, don't spend the whole weekend on DIY - opt for just one day of the three. ANGELA MACFARLANE found that with a little bit of planning it's amazing what you can achieve...

Replace kitchen or bathroom taps. Small changes can make a sink look like new. Livorno pull-out kitchen tap, pounds 74.95 (www.betterbathrooms.com, 0844 484 7678). For advice go to www.handymanknowhow.co.uk/plumbing/replacingatapPut up new shelves and either paint the wall behind or cover them with old wallpaper. Boxes painted in Albany Atlantis, Salmon, Royal Pageant and Ginger Spice gloss, all pounds 26.82 per 2.5l (www.brewers.co.uk).Order your samples today and you'll still have enough time to buy your wallpaper and get cracking next weekend. Choose a fireplace, alcove or feature wall. Wallpaper from the Elegance Collection, pounds 27.95 per 10m roll (www.grandeco.co.uk, 01892 700730)Use tile stickers in the bathroom or kitchen to add interest to boring white tiles. They cost pounds 7.50 for a pack of five assorted colours and prints. Wipe-clean, waterproof, easy to apply and remove (www.lovelylovely.co.uk)Summer is the best time to get radiators painted in time for the winter. This job is easy with instant results covering chips, discolouring and rust. Radiator paint from pounds 9.49/500ml (www.hammerite.co.uk, 08444 817 817)No need to paint the entire kitchen - pick out a few doors or just the furniture. Painter's Touch in Spa Blue, pounds 6.99 per 400ml (www.rustoleumspraypaint.com)Bathroom looking a little tired? Replace your shower curtain or update your shower screen with a fun sticker of decorative glass film, from pounds 75 (www.purldeco.com, 0800 599941)Tile a small splashback behind your hob or along one wall. Have fun with this skyline design. Impact Cityscape Liquorice Etch tiles and Cityscape tiles, pounds 10 each, CP Group (0845 519 7039)Paint your front door before the cold weather arrives. Give it real impact with this Flame Red non-drip gloss, pounds 10.98 for 750ml (www.crownpaint.co.uk, 0870 240 1127)Follow this season's trend for text and create your own slogan art with sticky letters from an art shop and PlastiKote Super spray paint in Heather Violet Gloss, pounds 6.95 per 400ml (www.plasti- kote.co.uk, 01223 836400)Spray your light fitting to bring it up to date. This treatment can also be used on mirrors and frames with stunning results. Universal Gloss paint in red, pounds 11.99 per 400ml (www.rustoleumspraypaint.com, 0191 410 6611)

Order your samples today and you'll still have enough time to buy your wallpaper and get cracking next weekend. Choose a fireplace, alcove or feature wall. Wallpaper from the Elegance Collection, pounds 27.95 per 10m roll (www.grandeco.co.uk, 01892 700730)

Black Vanity Cabinet: The Perfect Bathroom Furniture For All Bathroom Designs

When it comes to bathroom design, black never goes out of style. This can be credited to such color's ability to add a hint of effortless sophistication inside the bath, not to mention that it could befit a wide palette of colors. This contemporary choice gives homeowners the opportunity to freely combine such tone with a whole range of tones and patterns. Therefore, if you would like to give your bathroom a unique look, your best choice is to pick a black vanity cabinet.

If you would like to incorporate a sophisticated minimalist design in your bathroom, the combination of black, white, and gray will certainly help you achieve such result. For instance, you could paint your bathroom walls with white paint and top it off with gray molding, then integrate your black bathroom cabinet vanity on one side of the walls in order to create a focal point inside such space. The key in this neutral minimalist concept is to highlight the lines inside your bath to make it look more spacious. Wrap-up your bathroom design by incorporating textured ornaments of similar tones like long white vases, gray rugs, and black cabinet handles.Generally, black cabinet vanities are suitable for all kinds of bathroom concepts. If you would like to buy bathroom vanities (http://www.tradewindsimports.com/bath-vanities.html) that are black in tone, always consider the bathroom style that you would like to have. Put in mind that you could be as experimental as can be with this kind of furnishing. Hence, you have to carefully plan the kind of bathroom concept that you would like to achieve and make this as the basis of your black cabinet vanity choice, so that you can be sure that it would blend well with the concept that you're thinking about.Although most of the time a black vanity cabinet (http://www.tradewindsimports.com/bathroom-vanities.html) is a mature furniture option, it can also be used to define the appearance of a kid's bathroom. To do this, you have to paint your child's bathroom walls with a light color such as baby blue or light green. Once you're able to fasten the vanity on the wall, you can paint it with cute shapes and patterns to make it more appropriate for your child's use. However, if you don't want to modify the aesthetics of your furniture, you could simply purchase decorative wall decals from your local DIY shop and affix it on the side walls of your vanity.One great bath design option that you could do using a black bathroom cabinet (http://www.tradewindsimports.com/black-bathroom-vanity.html) vanity is to choose a bright vivid color such as red or lime green and use this as the solid background of your bathroom. You could also use these colors as the main tones of your bathroom ornaments, setting them according to the look that you wish to achieve. In this kind of set up, your black furniture will function as the foothold that would tie all the colors inside your bath together.

Generally, black cabinet vanities are suitable for all kinds of bathroom concepts. If you would like to buy bathroom vanities (http://www.tradewindsimports.com/bath-vanities.html) that are black in tone, always consider the bathroom style that you would like to have. Put in mind that you could be as experimental as can be with this kind of furnishing. Hence, you have to carefully plan the kind of bathroom concept that you would like to achieve and make this as the basis of your black cabinet vanity choice, so that you can be sure that it would blend well with the concept that you're thinking about.

BANK ON ON ONE-DAY WONDERS

AS the last summer bank holiday of the year looms, don't spend the whole weekend on DIY - opt for just one day of the three. ANGELA MACFARLANE found that with a little bit of planning it's amazing what you can achieve...

Use tile stickers in the bathroom or kitchen to add interest to boring white tiles. They cost pounds 7.50 for a pack of five assorted colours and prints. Wipe-clean, waterproof, easy to apply and remove (www.lovelylovely.co.uk)Tile a small splashback behind your hob or along one wall. Have fun with this skyline design. Impact Cityscape Liquorice Etch tiles and Cityscape tiles, pounds 10 each, CP Group (0845 519 7039)Replace kitchen or bathroom taps. Small changes can make a sink look like new. Livorno pull-out kitchen tap, pounds 74.95 (www.betterbathrooms.com, 0844 484 7678). For advice go to www.handymanknowhow.co.uk/plumbing/replacingatapPaint your front door before the cold weather arrives. Give it real impact with this Flame Red non-drip gloss, pounds 10.98 for 750ml (www.crownpaint.co.uk, 0870 240 1127)Put up new shelves and either paint the wall behind or cover them with old wallpaper. Boxes painted in Albany Atlantis, Salmon, Royal Pageant and Ginger Spice gloss, all pounds 26.82 per 2.5l (www.brewers.co.uk).Order your samples today and you'll still have enough time to buy your wallpaper and get cracking next weekend. Choose a fireplace, alcove or feature wall. Wallpaper from the Elegance Collection, pounds 27.95 per 10m roll (www.grandeco.co.uk, 01892 700730)Summer is the best time to get radiators painted in time for the winter. This job is easy with instant results covering chips, discolouring and rust. Radiator paint from pounds 9.49/500ml (www.hammerite.co.uk, 08444 817 817)Re-cover an old chair or get www.bemz.com - which specialises in Ikea furniture - to do it for you from as a little as pounds 29, depending on your chosen fabric and furniture you wish to cover.Bathroom looking a little tired? Replace your shower curtain or update your shower screen with a fun sticker of decorative glass film, from pounds 75 (www.purldeco.com, 0800 599941)Follow this season's trend for text and create your own slogan art with sticky letters from an art shop and PlastiKote Super spray paint in Heather Violet Gloss, pounds 6.95 per 400ml (www.plasti- kote.co.uk, 01223 836400)Spray your light fitting to bring it up to date. This treatment can also be used on mirrors and frames with stunning results. Universal Gloss paint in red, pounds 11.99 per 400ml (www.rustoleumspraypaint.com, 0191 410 6611)

Order your samples today and you'll still have enough time to buy your wallpaper and get cracking next weekend. Choose a fireplace, alcove or feature wall. Wallpaper from the Elegance Collection, pounds 27.95 per 10m roll (www.grandeco.co.uk, 01892 700730)

Author: ANGELA MACFARLANE

The Origins Of Japanese Door Curtains

A Japanese door curtain, or Noren as it is called by the Japanese, is great if you want to add a ZEN accent to your home's interior. What�s more, it could help with the design of your home according to the principles of Feng Shui. Harmful energy is likely to be blocked by door curtains, according to the principles of this ancient decorating art. It can also turn out to be a solution to difficult Feng Shui situations, especially when remodeling is out of question.

As suction is just a matter of reducing the amount of air in a space, the amount of suction a vacuum cleaner has is severely limited. No vacuum cleaner ever made could have more suction that fifteen ponds per square inch.Canister vacuums generally have more suction than upright vacuums, because the motors are designed differently. Most upright motors are designed to move air rapidly. The more rapidly the airflow, the more expensive the vacuum picks up the dirt. The more suction the vacuum has, the more mass it will pull if you seal the end of the nozzle.

Other traditional designs that can often be found on the Japanese Noren include Koi fish, waves, waterfalls, bamboo or dragons. If you are willing to incorporate Noren door curtains into your home's interior, it would be good to familiarize yourself with the Feng Shui principles. Only then will you be able to achieve the desired effect not only in terms of visual design, but also in shaping your interior according to the ancient Japanese rules.

Author: Jim Sauerwegg

How To Adjust or Replace Garage Door Weather Stripping

Our garages have fast become one of the most important places in our homes.Just like the basement,the garage has gone from a place where we might store a few things,but otherwise neglect,to becoming a vitally important workshop,TV room, and laundry room.Keeping our garage warm is much more important today than it used to be.If you are looking for ways to save on your energy bill,you may want to consider installing some weather stripping.It should only take you a few minutes and you will not need a hardware store full of tools,either.

There are a number of original Japanese door curtain design ideas available on the market. Depending on the Feng Shui effect that you want to achieve an appropriate design should be chosen. All sorts of prosperity designs are a common option among the non-Japanese. A common symbol that appears on a lot of Noren curtains is the Wealth Cat. The Beckoning Cat, as it is often called, is believed to attract good luck to the property owners as well as attract customers into a shop. This symbol originates from Tokyo�s Gotokuji temple, where a shrine dedicated to it was built centuries ago.And at sea level, air pressure is fifteen pounds per square inch.Measuring amps in a vacuum cleaner is like measuring milage in a car. The milage doesn't tell you about the quality of the car, or its performance. It only tells you how much gas the motor needs to run.

Here are some final tips before you finish up.Make a point of checking on your garage door weather stripping in a few days after installation.You want to make sure that nothing is getting in the way of the garage door opening or closing.It is not that weather stripping is so expensive you cannot just replace a piece if you have a problem,but you need to look out for the motor so that you are not putting too much stress on it every time you leave your home.Done correctly,good garage door weather stripping can save you considerable cash on your next heating bill.

Author: Doron Kim

Vacuums: Suction VS Airflow

This information is concerning vacuums, but it is true for any piece of equipment what has an electric motor.

When looking for a vacuum cleaner, ask about the airflow swiftness and volume. This will tell you whether the sweeper will clean or not.There is an old legend about a priest from this temple and his cat that had the ability to bring good fortune to his owner and the temple. A feudal lord named Naotaka was passing by the temple and noticed the cat that began backoning him inside. The lord and his people decided to stop there and rest. When a thunderstorm broke, the lord was safe in the temple. In order to express his appreciation, Naotaka started paying tribute to the temple. Nowadays, a picture of the cat with a paw raised in the air can be found in many places and on countless products including Noren door curtains.Have you ever viewed a vacuum cleaner pick up a bowling ball? It reveals great suction, but no airflow. The airflow is what picks up the dirt.If your garage door has a bottom channel that allows for old weather stripping to be slid out and new weather stripping to be slid in,it only takes a second to replace the old with the new.If your door does not have such a channel,open your door to a comfortable working height and use a 2x4 to keep it open.If your door is made out of wood,you want to seal it,so consider adding a coat of sealant before you nail on the new stripping.Cut out the piece of stripping and be sure that you attach it with the thick side out.Use roofing nails to attach the stripping,or just use the nails that come with the kit you bought.Suction is about how vigorously the motor can extract air from a space.Other traditional designs that can often be found on the Japanese Noren include Koi fish, waves, waterfalls, bamboo or dragons. If you are willing to incorporate Noren door curtains into your home's interior, it would be good to familiarize yourself with the Feng Shui principles. Only then will you be able to achieve the desired effect not only in terms of visual design, but also in shaping your interior according to the ancient Japanese rules.I hope this helps.Here are some final tips before you finish up.Make a point of checking on your garage door weather stripping in a few days after installation.You want to make sure that nothing is getting in the way of the garage door opening or closing.It is not that weather stripping is so expensive you cannot just replace a piece if you have a problem,but you need to look out for the motor so that you are not putting too much stress on it every time you leave your home.Done correctly,good garage door weather stripping can save you considerable cash on your next heating bill.You observe vacuums advertised as making use of twelve amp motors. The fact is, this only means that the motor makes use of twelve amps of electricity. This amperage measurement does not notify you if the motor is of high quality or not. This doesn't tell you if the motor is durable, has lots of suction, or moves a whole lot of air flow.As an example, a vacuum cleaner that has airflow of one hundred gallons of air per minute is going to do a fantastic job of moving the dirt off of your carpet, and into the bag or canister.First off,you will have to choose the right weather stripping for your particular garage door.The average hardware store has a stunning number of choices,but the two that you want to pick are the bottom door gasket and a flange style stripping that goes around the outside of the door.The flange style stripping is fairly easy to find.It often comes in two varieties one with dual flexible sides and one that has a hard side and a flexible side that looks a lot like wood molding.Before you attach the stripping to the sides,you need to be very careful and measure out how much space you have.The last thing you want is to nail in all of this weather stripping only to find out you cannot even close your door any longer.Once you have everything measured out,use roofing nails or the nails that came with your kit to fit everything into place.Make sure you test the door several times during this process to ensure that you do not have to do everything over.

I hope this helps.

Author: Claude Whitacre

The Top 5 Reasons To Use Self Storage

Chances are that there is a self storage facility in your town, if not more than more one. Everyone can use more space in their homes and offices and millions of people find self storage to be a great solution. Here are some of the top reasons consumers and businesses choose to utilize these facilities.

Duct cleaning may also involve getting rid of contaminants found in heating and cooling coils, and the air handling unit. The symptoms of polluted indoor air include allergies, illnesses, eye irritation, sinus congestion, headache, and sore throat.� Install laminate flooring over carpetCleaning them will remove harmful organism. By keeping them dry, the further growth of bacteria is prevented. Another waste removed by cleaning the ducts is rodent droppings, hair, and flakes.3. Price: Self storage is an inexpensive way to address your extra space needs. The average size unit (approximately 10 feet wide by 10 feet deep) costs approximately $65 per month (national average). Since self storage comes in a variety of small and large sizes, you only pay for the space you actually need and use.Efficient systems work less; this enables you to save energy and money. Air duct cleaning keeps dust away from your furniture and d�cor. The dusts accumulated within your systems are blown into your house and disseminated everywhere.

If you find your home or office is overloaded, take a short drive to the local self storage facility and see what they have to offer. Like millions of others, you could find this to be a cost effective solution to gaining more space and even take advantage of the additional services that many offer.

Author: Daniel Myers

The Truth About Air Duct Cleaning

Does your air cooling system need duct cleaning? Ducts have a tendency to collect waste. Molds and fungus can collect on the duct�s surface. This can cause allergies. Clean your duct to remove harmful organisms. Read this article to discover the importance of cleaning the air cooling system.

� Read any installation instructions you have very carefully.DoAir duct cleaning cleans and removes moisture. Moisture in these ducts can make them a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can cause diseases in the respiratory system.� Continue with your installation if your first row is not straight. The first row is the basis for the entire installation.� Use protective pads on the feet of all furniture to reduce the risk of scratching the laminate flooring� Choose a quality underlayment to protect against moisture coming from the subfloor2. Flexibility: Self storage units are used to store a variety of belongings including personal storage, business storage, records storage, etc. The terms are also flexible. Most operators require only a month to month commitment. When you no longer need the service, you can exit without long term commitments.According to experts at Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, 9 out of 10 system failures are due to dirt accumulated within them. The fan, located inside the air handler, keeps the heat exchanger cool. Its capacity to perform its task is diminished as dirt and debris accumulate.This is by no means a comprehensive list, but is certain comprised of some of the key points in making sure that your choice of laminate flooring is one that is wisely considered. In all areas, it is always best to consult the experts directly when thinking about your flooring options. Contact your local flooring contractors who maybe able to point you in the right direction in terms of installation and usage.� Use a dry mop or a vacuum cleaner to keep the laminate flooring clear of dust and dirt� Consider the area in which you intend to install your choice of flooring. Judge it for foot traffic and moisture levels in particular to be sure that your choice of flooring is appropriate. This is where it is handy to check the AC rating of your chosen laminate floor.If your place is a frequently visited by mice or rats, they may leave their wastes on the ducts, which can be inhaled when air blows through them. Hence, the air you breathe can already be contaminated.1. Convenience: Self storage facilities are located within 3 minutes or less of 80% of the U.S. population. That means you can get to your unit quickly and take care of your business quickly.Regular air duct cleaning and air cooling systems cleaning keeps your house clean. It also helps to maintain your health. If you have allergies, it will reduce the allergic reactions that you have within your home.

Regular air duct cleaning and air cooling systems cleaning keeps your house clean. It also helps to maintain your health. If you have allergies, it will reduce the allergic reactions that you have within your home.

Author: Rudy Silva

Laminate Flooring Dos and Don'ts: A Checklist for Laminate Floors

Generally speaking, laminate flooring is a low maintenance option that is easily installed, but there are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing laminate flooring as well as once they�ve been installed. Here are a few pointers when looking to maintain a laminate floor.

When your air ducts in the cooling and heating systems are cleaned and maintained, these systems will last longer. The extended life of these systems is another benefit you can get from employing the air duct cleaning services.� install laminate flooring in areas subject to excessive moisture5. Coordination: Self storage is increasingly an integrated service. More and more facilities are offering truck rentals (sometimes either at a discount or free), moving supplies, mail boxes and a whole host of other products and services so that you can coordinate all your needs from one location.Air duct cleaning services eradicate the airborne contaminants like the bacteria, fungus, mold spores, pollen and pet dander. Some of these contaminants may enhance allergies and asthma symptoms.� Ensure that your subfloor is level, clean and dry� Hire a professional if you are unsure how to proceed� Try to seal, lacquer, finish or sand your laminate floorCleaning ducts on your cooling and heating systems may prevent pre-mature breakdown and aging. It also makes you save on your energy consumption. Well-maintained equipment makes them run better.Ductwork cleaning consists of removing hazards from heating and cooling system. These systems consist of parts like air ducts and registers, heat exchangers, drip pans, fan motors and grills, and diffusers.4. Privacy: You control access to your space. You use your own lock and no one has access to the unit except those people you authorize.� When installing, leave a 10mm gap around the perimeter of your installation area as well as any fixed objects in the center. You will need to allow room for expansion as the laminate will respond to temperature changes over timeIf you find your home or office is overloaded, take a short drive to the local self storage facility and see what they have to offer. Like millions of others, you could find this to be a cost effective solution to gaining more space and even take advantage of the additional services that many offer.� Use wax, polish, or abrasive cleansers on your laminate flooring. This can ruin the finish and the overall look of the laminateLearn more about laminate flooring and buy: http://www.builddirect.com/Laminate-Flooring.aspxBesides the wastes, debris, plaster and drywall particles, wood, dust, and insulation particles, can accumulated. This debris can be eliminated by duct cleaning. Dust mites and ants feed on such debris and they further leave their waste. Air duct cleaning eliminates all this derby and waste.� Once the laminate flooring has been installed, be aware of any spills on your laminate floor and clear them up as soon as they happenHealth is the primary benefit of air duct cleaning. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air contains more than 70 times more pollutants than outdoor air.Don�t

Learn more about laminate flooring and buy: http://www.builddirect.com/Laminate-Flooring.aspx

Author: Rob Jones

PEX Manifold - The Top 5 Installation Schemes

Pex manifold is polyethylene which has been cross-linked to create a much stronger material that last for a longer period of time. It can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or falling apart. If you are planning on using the Pex plumbing system to replace or repair your old pipes but is unsure how to make repairs yourself, know that there are five different ways to install pex plumbing system:

The late Baroque period during which rococo quite literally flowered was one of the most imaginative and fun periods of architecture and design, sneaking in just before the neo classical period.Rococo French mirrors are often decorated in a way that includes swirls and sweeping lines, quite probably in an asymmetrical way. Indeed, the late Baroque period was a complete break from the traditional Baroque architecture of clean lines and imposing tectonic shapes.Home Run SchemeThis system is much like conventional copper pipe system, which uses trunk lines to provide smaller branch lines that run to the fixtures. What sets Pex trunk and branch system is that there is no need for any coupling fittings at all. Compared to copper trunk and branch system, pex tubing reduces the chances of leaks and allows sweeping turns because pex are very flexible.This scheme is very much similar to home-run scheme though this set up use a number of flow-through manifolds instead of the usual central manifolds. One advantage of this set up is that it uses less pex tubing and deliver heated water faster than any pex schemes mentioned in this article.But of course French mirrors also add to the size of the room, or appear to. Because many of the late Baroque style French mirrors are fairly large they create a very striking illusion of additional space, opening a room quite significantly.Triple dressing table mirrors are also a popular choice, providing not only the perfect way to reflect light from all angles onto your face, enabling you to apply makeup in a more even fashion, but also creates a stunning illusion of light and space in the bedroom.As well as being artistic in themselves of course mirrors also add light to a room, by reflecting the natural light entering through the windows. By thinking carefully about where the light is coming in and where the darker areas of the room may be it is possible to identify the perfect place to fit French mirrors for a real boost that makes the room seem instantly lighter and brighter.Remote Manifold Scheme

This scheme is very much similar to home-run scheme though this set up use a number of flow-through manifolds instead of the usual central manifolds. One advantage of this set up is that it uses less pex tubing and deliver heated water faster than any pex schemes mentioned in this article.

Author: Trinh Jaconskii

Cleanliness Is Key In Day Care Centers

Sanitation is an important issue in today�s modern day care centers as more and more children find it their �home away from home.� There are an increasing number of families where both parents are in the workforce, mainly out of financial necessity, and the fear of sending a healthy child to day care and picking him or her up at the end of the day with a cold or worse, is often a parent�s worst nightmare. However, putting a child in day care is sometimes the only option available for working parents.

Rococo style French mirrors, often large or oversized, decorated with incredible detail and usually asymmetrical, provide the most amazing focal point for a room, especially above a fireplace.This scheme uses hot and cold-water pex manifold to deliver water all over your house. For this system, the main water lines as well as the heater line are fed in the manifold while the smaller lines are connected from the pex manifold to the individual fittings. Generally, this set up requires the manifold to be installed in a central area in the home such as the basement or service closet. Manifold for the heated water is fitted no closer than 18 inches to the heater while the manifold for cold water is fixed beside the heated water manifold.Today the French style of decor so popular during the reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI remains one of the most popular styles of classic decor across the world, and French mirrors are the ideal way to complete a look, lighten and brighten a room, and create the illusion of space in a way that truly complements the theme of a room in a way that's guaranteed to gain admiration from all who 'entrer dans la salle'.Parents should do their part to practice the same personal good hygiene at home, as the day care providers practice at the center. Parents should also be responsible and keep their children home when they exhibit signs of illness, especially runny noses, upset stomachs and diarrhea. Mutual collaboration and cooperation between parents and providers can keep contamination and sickness to a minimum. And isn�t this everyone�s goal?

Parents should do their part to practice the same personal good hygiene at home, as the day care providers practice at the center. Parents should also be responsible and keep their children home when they exhibit signs of illness, especially runny noses, upset stomachs and diarrhea. Mutual collaboration and cooperation between parents and providers can keep contamination and sickness to a minimum. And isn�t this everyone�s goal?

Author: Kris Starliper