Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

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Home on the River Terrace with a Splendid View : 70 Residence

Posted: 12 Oct 2010 07:03 AM PDT

Push Architects are the creators of this Australian home set on a river frontage. Built very close to the river, on an elevated plateau, 70 Residence was designed to be an "L" shaped building with two storeys. The main part of the house is thought out to promote natural ventilation in the big double height roofed court. This entrance is protected from the seasonal sun by a screen that creates a strong visual context for both the house and the courtyard.  Stairs take you to the bottom of the riverfront and offer an escape into the wilderness of nature. There are a few intermediate platforms that strive to take your breath away until you reach the river.

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To the south the house has glazed walls that offer an incredible view of the river front. The main living area and master bedroom borrow the glamorous feeling of comfort by the river and strike a chord with anyone who  dares to take part in nature`s seasonal offerings of warmth, sunshine or  windy rain. The western part of the house shelters most of the services of the house and protects the whole building from the direct afternoon sun and the windy days. The cooling air has been captured with the help of the courtyard and pool, which have been strategically placed. The client for whom the house was built wanted a closer relationship with the river and every aspect of the house tries to make this wish come true: the view in the dining area and bedroom, the terrace, the pool and the 80m stair to the river.

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DiY Project : Mapped out IKEA Kassett boxes

Posted: 12 Oct 2010 06:10 AM PDT

This idea might be just the start point for those of you who never done DiY. It is a very simple and gorgeous way to personalise simple boxes from IKEA.  There are only a few materials that you will need: IKEA Kassett cd boxes, road maps, scissors and glue (rubber cement or 3M Super-77 sprays).  These $ 4.99/pair boxes could be personalised with road maps from your travelling experiences so that they will always remind you of your trips while looking beautiful and interesting.  The steps you need to follow are shown in the pictures below.

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The things you need to remember are: you should work panel-by-panel, starting with the front. This is where the most interesting part of the map will be. Cut a piece of the map and make sure it is at least 1.5" larger than the panel then glue it to the front of the box and fold the edges over. Work your way to the back  then the sides and lastly the bottom.  Once the boxes are dry, clear the holes for the mounting hardware and poke through from the inside with a sharp knife or cutter. Once you have finished reassembling the boxes, you can use them to decorate your home office or even any part of the house. This DiY project is a dream come true for the traveller in you. Enjoy and have fun! – Via – IKEAHacker

Materials DiY Project : Mapped out IKEA Kassett boxesmap DiY Project : Mapped out IKEA Kassett boxesworking on the IKEA boxes DiY Project : Mapped out IKEA Kassett boxesIkea Kassett boxes revamped DiY Project : Mapped out IKEA Kassett boxes

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10 Ways to Decorate your View with Window Film

Posted: 12 Oct 2010 04:40 AM PDT

Expensive etched glass and stained glass windows are beautiful but come with a hefty price tag to match.  In past years, in order to have beautiful designs in your windows you had to pay a window retailer or commission an artisan to make a custom design for you. These days window film is a beautiful solution for homes that want privacy, light control, or a decorative edge. It is easy to install, comes in a variety of applications and can transform your view in a matter of minutes.  Check out these different ways you can use window film to give your home a new look and feel.

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1.) Mural window film can liven up a room: Wall and window murals have a huge appeal these days.  They are fun to look at, and can recreate an atmosphere instantly.  Mural window film can be opaque and keep light out or you can choose transparent or translucent varieties that will show an image and partially let in light.

2.) Use window film in children's bathroom: For many children learning to use the bathroom, being able to see outside is distracting and can feel embarrassing. Use window film to add privacy as well as whimsical patterns to the décor.

3.) Prevent glare from high windows: Many window have high, clerestory or transom windows that let bright sun through them.  It is not always advantageous to put window coverings over these windows for aesthetics or expense.  Window film can be cut into the exact shape you need and provide decorative solutions to bothersome sun rays.

window film decorative e1286210982849 10 Ways to Decorate your View with Window Film4.) Mask unsightly views with window film: Do you have a room in your home that has less than desirable views? Whether it's an alley, overlooking a poorly kept neighbor's yard, or a brick wall, window film can cover the view, but still let in natural light.  This tip is also good for college students or apartment dwellers that can't change their views on the outside of their home.

5.) Liven up side windows at a front entry door: Does your front entry door have side windows that people look through before you can get to the door? Window film is an inexpensive way to decorate those windows, let the light in, and keeps your overly anxious guests patient on the outside!

6.) Window film can keep your energy costs low: If you live in a climate that is prone to high temperatures and radiating sun rays, sun protective window film is a good option.  Similar to sunglasses for your eyes, sun film will block many harmful UV rays, and keep your home cooler. Use this kind of window film in rooms that have furniture and carpet that is prone to fading due to the sun's harmful rays.

window film sun e1286211097300 10 Ways to Decorate your View with Window Film7.) Beautify a library: Stained glass window film is perfect for rooms that can use a cast of soft ambient light with privacy.  Home offices and libraries can benefit with window film and its versatility.  Change to different films for different décor options instantly.

8.) Bring a winter feeling into your home: Bring the feeling of winter into your home with frosted window film. If you live in a warm climate and miss the cold, blustery weather around the holidays, window film can create the season on your windows.  Less messy than spray on foams that are applied for a similar effect.

9.) Bathroom privacy is essential: Whether it is your shower enclosure or the windows facing outside from your bathroom, privacy is important. Use window film in a shower enclosure for the entire glass – or use in horizontal bands to add visual interest.

window film shower e1286211234391 10 Ways to Decorate your View with Window Film10.) Use window film where your plants need indirect sun: If you have a sun porch with plants, but the sun is too harsh, consider using window film to detract direct sunlight rays.  Levels of shading can be chosen. Window film comes in a variety of colors, hues and can help your plants live year around.

Consider using window film before you spend a lot of money on replacing your windows.  Whether you have lived in your home for a short time and don't like your view, or for those who want a décor change, window film can give your home privacy without the expense! Freshome reader's do you have window film in your home? Was it easy to install? If you don't wouldn't you love to try some?

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Contemporary Residential Soberness : The Clovelly House

Posted: 12 Oct 2010 02:40 AM PDT

Here is a contemporary home that manages to impress due to its elegance and soberness. The Clovelly Residence comes from Tzannes Associates and is located in Sydney, Australia, within a natural cliff setting. According to the architects, “the residence forms a L-shape to create a protected enclave and to maximize solar access, natural ventilation and aspect as well as utilizing energy efficiency by including 3 water tanks, reverse brick veneer walls, sun control louvers and shutters, natural ventilation, hot water solar panels and photo-voltaic cells.” Aside from its impressive sustainable features, we have to say we were pleasantly surprised by this home’s interior design, a true display of style and contemporary living at its best. Timber is present in almost every room, creating unique contrasts and some wonderful visual effects. The decors are “spotless” and some of the rooms inspire soberness and discipline. Enjoy the photos! ( Pictures credit: Steve Back)
Contemporary Residential Soberness: The Clovelly House

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Fluffy and Colorful Landcarpets for Interiors with a Perspective

Posted: 12 Oct 2010 12:58 AM PDT

If you were ever on a helicopter or a plane, admiring the field crops below, than you will find that the Landcarpet from Austrian designer Florian Pucher has some familiar motifs. Based on agricultural field patterns, these lovely designs are colorful and alive. They go great in the children’s room or in an interior with a more personal touch. Made entirely out of wool, these colorful carpets are not just practical, but also feel great to walk on. The stylized fields are said to be of different heights, it is all up to the customer to make a choice. Moreover, the vivid color pallets are able to cheer up any interior and create an inviting decor. The collection has no less than 88 models for each region (Europe, Africa, USA) and the prices start at $1,200. For more information about this product, you can check out the “how to buy” section here.

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Fluffy and Colorful Landcarpets for Interiors with a Perspective

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How to Buy the Perfect Furniture for a Nursery

Posted: 11 Oct 2010 11:48 PM PDT

When you're expecting a baby or buying for someone else, the idea of nursery furniture is exciting, and overwhelming. From the color selections to which ones are safe, nursery furniture selecting seems as complicated as the baby itself! There are guidelines that can help you with the task, and put your worries to ease.  Follow these simple tips on buying furniture for a nursery to keep you excited about the wonderful addition coming into the world!

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  • Safety is the primary concern: When choosing nursery furniture determine how many pieces of furniture you are going to need for your room.  A crib, changing table, and a chair to sit on are the primary pieces to start off with. When purchasing from a store, check the recall area in the customer service area before buying. Try not to impulse buy.  When buying online – do your research first. Check out customer comments and satisfaction from other buyers and buy brand names that you have heard of.
  • Don't cut corners: Ensure your baby will have a safe beginning on well built nursery furniture.  Don't substitute a pillow for a crib, or other measures to cut corners.  Choose cribs that are sturdy and purchase a crib mattress especially made for cribs.  The aesthetics of the furniture is a minor concern, compared to safety. For guidelines for furniture buying enroll in parenting classes at your hospital or seek advice from parents you know well.

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  • Plan your budget for furniture: Nursery furniture will be one of the most expensive items you purchase for your baby.  Therefore, the sooner you start planning and researching furniture, the better prepared financially you will be.  Register for multiple baby registries at stores.  Often times a group of people will pitch in and buy one large item like the crib. Try to register at different type of stores.  A departments store, a baby store, and a boutique will all have different selections and price points for your friends and family to choose from.
  • Be careful when accepting/buying used furniture: It is very tempting to want to buy from garage sales and online classifieds when purchasing nursery furniture.  It's also common for family members to hand down furniture that has been in the family for generations. Be careful when accepting, as older furniture may have lead based paint on it.  Second hand furniture may have been repaired and is now being sold. Safety guidelines change every day, arm yourself with current guidelines before buying older used furniture.

baby furn oak How to Buy the Perfect Furniture for a Nursery

  • Plan for the future: Nursery furniture manufacturers make furniture that will grow with your baby.  Convertible beds usually have 3 stages – a crib, a toddler bed, and a head board that can attach to a twin sized bed when they are older.  Changing tables with storage can later be used for a dresser and display area.  Although these pieces may be more expensive, the long term benefit of assembly, time, and purchasing new furniture will be well worth it.

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The birth of a child should be exciting, and the furniture should be the least of your worries. Online nursery furniture stores have a vast selection to choose from, and you can browse from the comfort of your home.  If you are buying for someone else, ask them about their wants before purchasing furniture.  If you're unsure, check if they have a baby registry to save you embarrassment and money.  Follow these tips and your new baby and family will enjoy a new life of enjoyment.

Freshome reader's how did you acquire your nursery furniture? Do you have tips for others starting out the process? Being a new parent can be a challenge, and we'd love to hear your comments.

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Charming and Bright Apartment with a Homey Feel

Posted: 11 Oct 2010 12:08 PM PDT

Here is a charming three room apartment with great views over Gothenburg, Sweden. Measuring 94 square meters, this place features large, open interiors and inspiring decors. Straight ahead from the entrance hall there is a large living room that serves as a dining area and as a gathering place between friends.  The room is perceived as very large and airy and offers various seating arrangements. The ceiling is more than 3 meters tall, which is quite impressive. A curved wall of windows facing the balcony creates a nice contrast with the other straight walls painted in a broken white color. We particularly like the framed Andy Warhol quotes above the dining table and the fresh colorful decorating items spread around the apartment. The balcony offers a wonderful place for taking a hot tea or a fresh coffee in the morning or enjoying a good book. Looks inviting?

Charming and Bright Apartment with a Homey Feel

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Charming and Bright Apartment with a Homey Feel

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How to Choose the Perfect Furniture for your Home Office

Posted: 11 Oct 2010 09:37 AM PDT

The most suitable furniture for your home office will be that which you're comfortable and productive in.  The right home office furniture will make the difference in your outlook on working and your satisfaction towards your home office. Before you get caught up in the appearance, you will need to consider your space size, budget and how long you use it throughout a day.  Here are guidelines for choosing the perfect home office furniture.

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  • Assess how much room you have: One of the biggest mistakes in choosing furniture is under/overestimating how much space you truly have. An empty home office looks huge until you put a desk and chair in it! Measure your space and take into account windows and doorways that your furniture will have to fit around.  If there are views out a window you would like your desk to face, consider this when measuring and planning out your furniture placement.
  • Determine how long per day you will use your office: This tip is important for the fact of comfort. If you only use your home office for 30 minutes a day to check email, a stylish over comfortable chair may win out.  On the contrary, if you spend 7-10 hours days in your office, your needs for comfort are imperative.

office furn chair How to Choose the Perfect Furniture for your Home Office

  • What is your budget: Like any furniture, you can spend a small amount or you can spend a few paychecks on one piece of office furniture for your home. Surf the internet, and look through home décor and home office furniture magazines for inspiration and pricing.  How much you spend is up to you, although, keep in mind that décor, office supplies, and computer equipment may still need to be purchased after the furniture. If you're on a tight budget consider buying self assembly furniture. Furniture stores that specialize in online and catalog ordering will be your best resource for do it yourself assembly furniture.
  • Will you share your space? When choosing desks, bookshelves and other surface furniture, take into account your office partners needs.  They may need more or less space than you depending on their occupation or use for the home office.  Collaborate together and see if a few pieces can be multifunctional. A table that holds the printer may also be used as a desk or conference table.

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  • Choose your style: Antique furniture to ultra contemporary furniture will be a design choice that you have.  Remember comfort when selecting older traditional furniture, such as chairs.  Antique furniture can look gorgeous, but you may need the flexibility of an adjustable chair for comfort.  While some modern chairs have the ergonomics that are comfortable, but look too futuristic for a traditional home. In the end you will need to decide which is a higher priority, aesthetics or comfort. With enough searching, you should be able to find a happy medium.
  • Choose furniture that fits you: Comfortable home office furniture should 'fit' your body.  If you are a tall person, ensure that your chair and table height will be in proportioned to you using it.  Conversely for shorter people, a chair that is too high and non-adjustable may have your feet dangling like a child.  Comfortable office furniture should look great, but feel like you can sit in it for hours on end.

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Home offices are popular and can be found in most homes, as modern society demands it.  To ensure you will be productive, follow these tips to choose comfortable and stylish furniture.  If you have time, purchase furniture as you need it, to see how your office functions with you in.  Often times, we buy too much furniture and half of it isn't used on a daily basis.  Choose wisely and your home office will reward you with a space that is enjoyable to work in.

Freshome reader's how did you choose your home furniture? Do you have a piece that you absolutely love in your home office? I love my chair – it's from the 90's, but it's so comfortable

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Original Avant-garde Studio in Brazil: GT House

Posted: 11 Oct 2010 08:14 AM PDT

GT House comes from Studio Guilherme Torres and is located in Londrina, Brazil. This unusual looking place used to house an artist’s painting studio and was redesigned by the inhabitant himself (architect Guilherme Torres). Inspired by Paulo Mendes da Rocha, a Brazilian architect who won the Pritzker prize in 2006, this building’s costs were low (U$ 6,000.00), due to the ingenious architectural solutions and simple but practical design ideas. Featuring a living room, a bedroom, a kitchen and a bathroom, you are looking at a small, but extremely practical apartment.  Here is a statement from Guilherme: "As a furniture designer, I decided to follow an opposite thread to what I usually do and create something permanent, stable". Well we don’t know if this crib will last forever, but we sure appreciate its unique arrangements. Do you find this place creative?

Original Avant-garde Studio in Brazil: GT House

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