Sunday, September 30, 2018

Home Living: 9 Ways to Come Up With a Beautiful Garden Scheme


Photo by Irene Davila from Unsplash

Whether you wish to end up with an ethereal landscape or want to increase your home value, you should always pay attention to your home's landscape. What people see in front of your house can highly affect their perspective on the property. For instance, a clean, well-manicured lawn is a sign that you care for your property. You go out of your way to ensure you maintain and preserve its state. Meanwhile, allowing your turf to grow and leaving the plants to dry can make you out of place among the row of houses in Nuvali.

It's best to think of your lawn as part of your home. It needs upkeeping the same as your kitchen and dining room. Sometimes, you have to spend time and money to ensure it stays in shape. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to go about the job if you don't have experience. You can discover how to maintain your lawn by reading the tips below. You can find several do's and don'ts to follow for a healthy lawn.

1. Plant placement is crucial

It's a must to get to know your plants before you start digging. Some perennials require a full shade. Others need to be in an area with sunlight. Some plants require wide spaces to branch out while others can stay in a container. You must know all of these things before you finalize your decisions. The same goes for trees. You must consider how tall and wide the tree grows for you to pick a prime spot. All of these are crucial in when planning your landscaping needs. When you think a few steps ahead, you minimize your problems in the future. You won't have to dig another hole and transfer your plants in a different location when your landscaping plans are in order.


2. The grass shouldn't be too short

Mowing the lawn is a must do for a lot of homeowners. However, most people are guilty of cutting their grass and making them too short. In reality, it's much better to have long grass blades. Longer than usual grass means deep roots. Having deep roots implies the grass can survive drought and fight pests and diseases. Also, cutting your grass short doesn't mean you'll have more days in between mowing. In reality, it doesn't make any difference.

3. Research before you buy

Landscaping is a long-term investment. But, that doesn't mean you must to give away a lot of bucks on expanding your foliage. Thus, you must first shop for different plants before you settle on which plants are best for completing your garden. You start with perennials as these types grow back from their roots the next spring or summer. You should also try asking relatives, friends, and neighbors if they have roots and stems you can transplant to your garden.


4. Water at the best time

To save water, time, and effort, you should keep this watering tips in mind. As much as possible, you should avoid watering your plants when the heat of the sun is at its peak. You should skip the water works from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Instead, you should switch on your sprinklers from 6 to 10 a.m. At this time, it isn't windy and less direct sunlight. It also gives your lawn more time to dry. If you lack in the morning, you shouldn't drench your plants at night as it encourages mildew and fungus to form. It's best to water your plants between 4 to 7 p.m. if you don't have the luxury to handle your plants in the morning.


5. Have a backup

Plants aren't similar to things. They wither and dry even when under the best conditions. If you have a favorite, you should purchase several pots even if you don't think you need them. Even if you provide the best care, your plants can dry up or die. Having a backup saves you from returning to the store to pick up a few blooms for your garden.


6. Schedule your maintenance work

To achieve a beautiful landscape, you must set aside time to attend to your plants and garden beds. Mulching, adding fertilizers, weeding, and watering all take time. Thus, you should block them in your daily and weekly schedule. If you lack a green thumb or would like to spend less time on landscaping tasks, then it's best if you go for low maintenance plants. Examples of these are succulents.


7. Consider lighting

The final look of your landscape doesn't solely depend on the plants you have. Exterior lighting also plays a role in the overall appearance of your home and your yard. You should pick high-quality and suitable outdoor lights to make your home accessible and emphasize your property's appearance.


8. Use compost

A vegetable garden or a bunch of pretty flower beds are best with fertilizer. Mulching with compost stabilizes the pH level in the soil. It also releases the nutrients over time. Moreover, it makes the ground easy to work with and less likely to erode. It's also a cheap way to sustain the health of your plants. Research on how to make compost in your backyard to save on expensive fertilizers.


9. Draft a plan

Like other things and rooms in your home, you must draft a plan for well-organized landscaping. Before you tackle this project, you should have an idea of what are the best plants and decorations to place in specific spots. You must also visualize what you wish to see in the place. Listing your wants and needs helps you identify which items are essential and which are the ones you must skip in the meantime.


If you're going for a DIY route, you must know that landscaping is a trial and error. Not everything fits on the first try. But, it shouldn't dampen your spirit. You must still do your best to ensure you come up with the best garden design.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

Organized Home: Clearing Spaces in the Garage


Photo by @kelvyn on Unsplash

As much as possible, you want to take care of your car. It is not only a huge investment, but it also requires you to spend a few bucks on repairs. If you wish to avoid cashing out, you should practice extra care by parking it in the garage. But before you leave it there, you must first organize the place. You might end up damaging your vehicle instead of maintaining its state.

Like other rooms in your home, your garage is also worth your attention. Remember, it's not only the place where you dump your supplies, your pet's worn bed or a bunch of power tools. It's also the haven of your car. Thus, it's a must to keep the area clean and organized to avoid accidents and clutter. To do that, you can follow this step-by-step instruction for your home at The Courtyards Vermosa.

1. Set a day for purging items


You should dedicate a day for going through all of the things in the garage. You can quickly get the job done when you focus all your attention towards what you are doing. When deciding when to declutter, you must be sure to include everyone in the family. That way, everyone is hands-on with clearing the space. It gets the job done swiftly compared to when you have to do it by yourself.

2. Check everything


Don't leave anything behind. Go over boxes, plastic bins, and other storage solutions you came up with since you moved into your home. You might find several items you can still use and put up in the rooms. There's a chance you kept a family heirloom and forgot about it because it got under a pile of junk you accumulated over the years. You can find a lot of useful things when you go through all your stuff.

3. Group your items into three piles


Separate your things into three groups - keep, donate or sell, and throw away. You can get a huge box or lay your items on top of tarps. You can also separate areas of your driveway with chalk. Broken pieces beyond repair expired chemicals, and things you haven't used in a year or two are examples of what to include in your toss pile. If you're finding it hard to let go of some items, then you should snap a photo for keepsake.

4. Have separate containers for the things you would keep


After getting rid of the stuff you no longer need, you now have the things you might use daily. These can include sports equipment and hand tools. Place them in boxes and clear containers with labels.

5. Donate or schedule a yard sale


You should let go of the items in your donate and sell pile as soon as you are able. Look for friends and relatives who are looking for the same tools and supplies that you have. You can give the rest to charities and other groups who might need the same items. Meanwhile, you can sell those items that are still in excellent condition. Let your neighbors know you are having a yard sale. You can also post photos of the stuff you have online to attract more buyers.

6. Find proper storage for these items


Do not place paint in extreme cold or heat. It's best to keep them in temperate areas. Propane is highly sensitive. A spark could ignite the fumes that is why it is best to put it outdoors. On the other hand, stacks or paper and supplies made of paper such as plates and cups attract roaches and other bugs. To be safe, you should move them in the pantry and file papers in your study. Lastly, possums, critters and other animals can sniff out your pet's food. You should keep them in a sealed container.

7. Make your place fireproof


Besides tools, it's likely you will store gas and other flammable items in the garage. Ensure your safety by anchoring a five to ten-pound extinguisher with an ABC rating. The extinguisher must be effective against wood, oil, and electrical fires. Also, it's best to have a carbon monoxide detector and a U.L.-listed motor along with an auto-stop feature on the garage door. It prevents the entry from closing in case your child or pet is underneath.

8. Prepare a floor plan


Take the dimensions of your garage and note the size and location of windows, doors, and switches. You should also measure how much space your car takes up. Knowing exact measurements and location of what's in the room helps you find a home for all of your things. It also a way to come up with ideas of what storage solutions to apply and where to place them.

9. Establish rules for keeping items


Store items that you use together. For example, gardening tools, fertilizers, and lawn chemicals should be on the same shelf or container. Bulky equipment must be in a corner that far from your car. That way, you won't bump or knock them over. Bikes and other things you usually use must be near the garage door while those you only need once or twice a month can be in hard-to-reach spots.


These are the basics of keeping your garage organized. A neat and tidy garage allows you to park your car in peace. Most of all, it provides ample workspace whenever you have to bring your vehicle for a wash.

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Timeless Home Design: 10 Pieces of Furniture to Buy Now

black chair and white tulip table
Tulip tables are perfect for condo units and apartments with limited spaces.

Classic furniture pieces are what you need if you wish to have a home with beauty and elegance that never fades. Getting classic pieces is the same as investing. You are placing your money on something that doesn't require constant replacement as you age. You can spend your money on a low cost housing Philippines, a penthouse, or a townhouse, but these pieces are sure to be with you on your journey.

If you are looking for pieces of furniture that would fill your home, then this list is what you need. Find out how each part is essential in making a timeless home design by reading the rest of the article. It can inspire you to come up with a home decoration that won't fade after the end of a season.

1. Bentwood chairs

It was Micheal Thonet who perfected the craft of making bentwood chairs. To make the wood bend into different shapes, it exposed to steam at high temperatures. These chairs are sturdy yet lightweight. They also feature simple designs and carvings. They are a great feature in dining halls and reading nooks and crannies.

2. Oversized mirrors

The bigger the item, the better they become. Big mirrors are great additions to open spaces in your home. Don't think that shops and galleries are the only places where you can feature an ornate mirror. Their reflective property encourage light into the room o while making the room appear twice its size. Last but not the least, the intricate frame adds glam and personality to the area. It's a contrast to a modern and minimalist space.

3. Chesterfield sofa

The sofa has a low back that has the same height as its rolled arms. You might be familiar with it for its button tufting. Chesterfield sofas are still in circulation since they were created sometime in 1850. Its distinctive design makes it popular among homeowners. You can place one in the living room for a twist to your contemporary scheme. You can also have another in the study as a throwback to the interior decoration scheme of royalty.

4. Oriental rugs

Original Oriental carpets are made in the Middle East and Asia. Each rug features a different pattern and color. They are the perfect accessory for adding luxury into a living space. Your feet will thank you when you have something soft to step on after a long day of walking.

5. Tulip tables

Designer Eero Saarinen wanted to eliminate the pairs of legs you can find from chairs and tables. Not only do they create a lot of noise. They also appear cluttered. Thus, he came up with the Tulip table. Its body resembles the characteristics of the flower - simplicity and elegance. The table is perfect for small families and dining rooms with limited space. The table also works as a side table.

6. Louis XVI chairs

Each royal specifies the design they want to have for their chairs. Louis XVI is no exemption. Louis XVI chairs have round or rectangular upholstered backs with exposed wood frames. It also has fluted legs which are cute and stylish. The chairs simple design is enough to complement the bright paint of your dining room wall or the handsome wooden desk in your study.

7. Canopy bed

The bed's design came from the need for privacy and to secure warmth while sleeping. Nowadays, canopy beds don't have thick draperies. It has soft, feathery curtains that seem to float whenever the wind blows. Most beds don't come with curtains to allow the user to personalize it based on their tastes and needs.

8. Lounge chair and ottoman

One of the prominent combinations of lounge chair and ottoman came from Charles and Ray Eames. The duo designed a seating that resembles a worn baseball mitt. The lounge chair uses a molded plywood shell to house a seat with leather upholstery. Both the chair and the ottoman has a swivel bottom made of aluminum. Both pieces are great for relaxation and entertaining. You can drag the ottoman to place in your house whenever someone needs an extra spot.e

9. Club chairs

Classic leather club chairs are what you usually see in a gentleman's club. The seating has a low back and arms covered in rich leather and has a nailhead trim. The chairs don't attract a lot of attention, but it has the power to capture the heart of anyone who sits on them. They are comfortable and sophisticated making them popular in game rooms and man caves.

10. Shaker dresser

The design for Shaker dressers originates from their beliefs - honesty, utility, and simplicity. You'll find its minimalist style still relevant to this day. Cottages in the woods and traditional American bedrooms benefit from the tiny yet hard-to-miss details of the piece. The turned-knobs bring a different flavor in any place the furniture occupies.

These are the pieces of furniture you must include in your furniture shopping list. Their timeless design and finish make each one the perfect piece to complete your design scheme. Your home design is sure to last for ages when you invest in these timeless pieces of furniture.

Monday, September 3, 2018

Timeless Home Design: 8 Decorating Ideas from the Internet

home decor planning


You can draw inspiration for your home design from various places and different things. Some people prefer to bring the element of nature into their homes. Others like the energy and youthful vibe of the city. Thus, they incorporate the treasures and trinkets they got from their travels in their rooms. Each person has a taste and an idea of how they want their living space to look like, but nothing beats the decoration ideas from people who understand how design elements work together.

People on the Internet are helpful enough to share their knowledge and expertise on home design. You can easily fill your house and lot for sale in Bulacan with all the stuff you want and need when you have a clear vision of what your space looks like afterward. Consulting a designer guru should still be on top of your list when decorating your home. But before you do that, you should read these decorating tips from people on the Internet. They can shed light on a few decorating ideas that may come in handy.

1. Mix the old with the new

Antiques, old furniture or anything with a history adds character to your living space. A contemporary home design filled with neutrals, sharp lines, or smooth corners are great with a family heirloom, an old timepiece, a vintage wall decor or outdated coffee tables.


2. Use patterns and texture to play up neutrals

If you don't want to deviate from colors that bring you comfort, then you should turn to patterns and texture to brighten up a room. You can create an accent wall made of wood pieces lacquered in cool ash. Kitchen counters would look sleek in an ivory or jet black quartz. Meanwhile, your couch becomes ten times cozy when you drape in soft and feathery fabrics. It would also stand out from the rest of the items in the room when you place cushions covered in colors that are a shade lighter and darker than your chosen color palette.

3. Consider uniformity

Observe the overall theme of your home. It'll help you see if you are being consistent with your color scheme, textures, and shapes. As much as possible you should pick colors close to your chosen palette. It makes the design flow seamlessly in between rooms. Using similar textures and shapes also help maintain consistency. These elements are essential in keeping the common theme of your home.

4. Don't go against the grain

Straightening your hair instead of embracing your natural curls damages the strands. The same goes for other things in life. When you work on changing the characteristics of your home instead of adopting it, you're not giving it a chance to be true to its identity. Don't try to conceal rusty water fixtures and doorknobs. Find a way to include them as part of your design. You won't have to do a lot of changes or spend more on construction when you accept them as part of your home.

5. Try and test which things out

If you have aren't sure which, decor, furniture, or style to incorporate in a room, then don't be afraid to switch it with design elements you can find in other parts of your home. Changing your decision about your home design is natural. Always try and test which items look best in an area before settling on a choice.

6. Think of other things to do with the wall

The walls are your canvas. You can apply a fresh coat of paint, create a masterpiece or display your collection for all to see. There are several designs you can make with your walls. Rentals and small homes like condominiums can use their walls to free the floor from a bunch of stuff. You can install shelves to showcase your collection of books, mugs, plates, pans, and pots. Open shelving serves a double purpose in the kitchen. It solves your storage and decorating woes.

7. Bring in a classic piece in each room

A crystal chandelier never gets old. It will always be a symbol of class, luxury, and exquisite taste. You consider placing one in the dining room to have a conversation starter during the times you entertain your guests. A canopy bed is another timeless piece of furniture. You can pass it down to family members and grandchildren for them to come up with a fort that helps them get a good night's sleep. These pieces are often overlooked, but they are versatile. They can blend with any design scheme.

8. Play with color

Don't be afraid to include bright pinks, turquoise, lime and pastels into your color schemes. These colors provide contrast to dull exteriors. Everyone has the same roof color and exterior paint, but a blast of color indoors sets your house apart from the community.

These are the home decoration design ideas you must consider when you have a renovation or revamping project. These ideas can be your starting point in completing your ideal home design. You can easily make decisions on your decorating schemes whenever you think of these as your home decorating guideline.