Tag Archives: interior design

This foldable “Venus of Willendorf” inspired chair literally puts you in the lap of art history

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The Venus of Willendorf is a significant figure in art history since it is thought to have been created between 30,000 and 25,000 BCE, making it one of the world’s oldest known works of art to have been discovered.

Furniture design is an art that seamlessly merges aesthetics with functionality. The Venus Folding Chair, with its gorgeous design and usefulness, is an excellent example of this idea. This foldable chair not only provides a cozy seating option but also gives any room a sense of style and history. The Venus Folding Chair, which was created with great care and attention to detail, stands out as an example of how form and function can be creatively combined. Because any chair represents a similar sitting person, allowing people to be comfortable, this figure of a sitting woman can be changed into a chair. It’d be similar to sitting on her lap.

Designer: Lameice Abu Aker and Eva Castany

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The design and shape of most Venus sculptures are identical. They are often lozenge-shaped, with a large fat belly tapering to the head and legs, and no arms, feet, or face detail. Furthermore, their sexual organs are deliberately exaggerated.

The Venus Folding Chair’s space-saving folding mechanism is one of its most notable characteristics. The chair’s fold-and-store capabilities make it a practical and convenient design. For people with limited room or those who frequently host events or gatherings, this option is especially helpful. A chair is an excellent option for tiny flats, outdoor events, or temporary seating arrangements due to its compact and folding design, which makes storage simple. The form of the figure was outlined by the designer and translated into a chair. It has 2 points of joinery on either side of the chair which have channels for the lower structure to slide upward when the chair is in the folded state.

This creative and simple design can be disassembled very easily into just 4 parts; the mesh seat, the back structure, the front support, and the base.

The chair is a sustainable product on multiple levels. The foldable design can be flat-packed which allows it to be stacked and transported easily. This makes the product transport-efficient and reduces its carbon footprint, allowing more chairs to be shipped in the same amount of space. It can be used around the house as an extra chair as well and can fit in the minimum available space. The single-line nature of the chair makes it even easier to pick up and move around as it has the space to be held all across. Overall, it’s surely a conversation starter and a great pick for history and art buffs who enjoy the evolution and adaptations of classics.

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How to make your compact home seem bigger

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With urban spaces shrinking, compact homes are integral to city life. Even with restricted square footage, these abodes can offer ample opportunities to improve functionality by using every square inch of available space. With clever planning, one can enhance the sense of openness and prevent the space from looking cramped and claustrophobic. The most significant advantage of compact spaces is that they are easy to clean and can transform into a cozy zen retreat ideal for relaxation. Here is how you can trick the eye and live large within the limited square footage of space.

Consider Scale And Proportion

The scale of the furniture should be as per the size of the room. When selecting your furniture, do not go for oversized options, as bulky pieces of furniture look visually heavy and take up too much precious floor space. Instead, go for sleek and refined pieces of furniture with a limited footprint in lighter wood tones and natural finishes. Note that the space might appear smaller if you place the furniture against the walls. Keep some air between the furniture and the walls for a roomier look.

Designer: Homes To Love

Invest In Low-height Furniture

Choose furniture that sits close to the ground with exposed legs, allowing light, air, and space to flow around it and making the room feel more open. Another advantage is that the vacant space below the furniture can be strategically used for additional storage and keeping the clutter out of view. Some of the short pieces of furniture include ottomans, armless chairs, and low tables, to name a few. Instead of a plain design, choose pieces with intricate details, interesting curves, tufting, etc.

Tip: Invest in see-through furniture, such as a glass coffee table or desk. Clear furniture helps to make compact spaces feel more open and doubly function as a unique design element.

Designer: Daniel House Club

Add A Mirror

A mirror has the potential to open up the space as it allows the light to bounce. It is perfect for any room that lacks a window. Install a mirror on the wall, on the sliding shutters of the closet, or simply place an oversized mirror against the wall to create the illusion of depth. A well-positioned mirror reflects natural and artificial light and makes the space brighter during the day and night. If the mirror is placed opposite to a window, it amplifies the daylight, doubles the outdoor views, and creates a beautiful connection with the outdoor world.

Designer: LVSOMT

Use Breezy Fabrics

Avoid using heavy-weight materials and fabrics for the upholstery as they tend to absorb light. Instead, consider solid colors or printed patterns in a soft and subdued shape. Linen is one of the best materials that offers a sophisticated and timeless look. Dress the windows in lightweight mesh, cloth blinds, or sheer curtains that allow the light to pass. Complement the space with an accent piece of furniture that adds a pop of color and instantly lifts the space. Consider hanging curtains from the ceiling instead of the window frame to make the ceiling look taller.

Designer: Design Public

Go For A Cohesive Colors Scheme

One must coordinate the walls, furniture, and accessories with a cohesive color scheme when designing a small space. Also, paint the baseboard and trims the same color as the walls and ceiling. White walls and ceilings create a continuous space without boundaries, making the room appear tall, bright, and airy. However, an all-white space might look sterile, so add warmth with wood and introduce tone-on-tone colors in the woven upholstery, textured walls, and rugs. In addition, a combination of light and dark accent colors creates depth and the illusion of a larger space. Some colors best suited for compact areas include off-white, sage green, light blue, and gray.

Tip: Dark colors tend to recede, so a dark wall looks further away than it is and creates the illusion of a more extended space.

Designer: Albion Nord

Incorporate Stripes

A low-ceiling room can appear taller with vertical wall paneling or wallpaper with vertical striped patterns. Horizontal stripes on the narrow wall can make the space look wider. This is a great way to enhance the feeling of movement and flow. Select colors that go with the colors of the walls and upholstery.

Designer: Russell Loughlan

Clear Walkways

Move the furniture from the walkways so that it is clear and no one bumps into any furniture. As the longest line of any room is diagonal, you can place the furniture at an angle to create the illusion of a longer space.

Keep It Simple

In a compact pace, too much furniture and accessories might impart a cluttered and claustrophobic look. So let the walls breathe and decorate the space with just one or two large pieces of art. However, if there are some small pieces of art, then place them on a single wall. Finally, decorate the space with a few large and simple accessories. Sumptuous textures like sheepskin rugs, wool carpets, and velvet throws can keep the area cozy.

Designer: Bobby Berk

Get Rid Of Clutter

Keeping the surfaces clean as a tidy and orderly space always feels open and spacious and positively impacts the visual size of the room. Manage everyday clutter and periodically organize the cabinets, closets, or any other space that feels too full. Small knick-knacks can create a cluttered look and make the space feel more compact. So, limiting the décor to 3 or 5 items is suggested when styling vignettes on dining tables, dressers, or coffee tables. Neatly store and organize things on bookshelves, within cabinets, recessed niches, or behind table skirts. Do not forget to invest in vertical storage, which takes the smallest footprint.

Designer: Black and Milk

Introduce Creative Lighting

A combination of natural and artificial lighting can make the space look larger and brighter. Make it a point to keep the windows open to bring in plenty of natural light. Note that multiple light sources expand the space and are perfect for areas devoid of natural light. Create a layered lighting scheme with an overhead pendant light with dimmable control. Beautify the space with wall lights that emit soft lighting. It draws the eye upwards and adds extra height to the room. A combination of floor and table lamps offers task lighting and evenly spreads the light around the room.

Designer: Vale G

Create A Focal Point

Make it a point to introduce a focal point or a star attraction that will draw the eye toward it. For example, introduce a fireplace, a statement chandelier, a console unit, a large piece of art, or a large window with panoramic views that can transform into a star attraction.

Designer: Matt and Jess (The Brain and the Brawn)

Go For Multifunctional Furniture

Sneak more storage into the space with multifunctional pieces of furniture that look aesthetically pleasing and save space. For example, incorporate built-in storage solutions with a sofa bed, a storage bed, or an ottoman with storage that can hide the clutter. With careful planning, the windows can be multifunctional too. For instance, design your window as a cozy reading with plenty of under-bench storage.

Designer: Good Idea Trade

‘Less is more,’ and using minimal elements is a brilliant solution to make the most of limited square footage. With little imagination, you can quickly transform a compact home into a stylish, functional, and comfortable space.

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How to design an ergonomic kitchen

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Kitchen ergonomics is the science of designing a comfortable environment that adapts to the user and ensures smooth workflow with the least waste of time and energy. Ergonomics originates from the Greek word ‘ergon,’ which means work, and ‘nomos,’ which means laws. An ergonomic kitchen focuses on people, and it is the science of designing a comfortable environment for stress-free cooking. A kitchen is one of the home’s most functional areas where one needs to multitask and get involved in parallel activities like washing dishes, cooking, fetching ingredients from the refrigerator, operating appliances, and so on. Kitchen ergonomics aims to minimize body movements, enables one to maintain correct posture, and makes everyday cooking effortless so that it does not cause chronic pain or fatigue.

What are the advantages of an ergonomic design?

In recent years, ergonomics has become an essential feature in product design which is vital in determining the comfort of various products like a chair, tables, sofas, scissors, different types of accessories, and so on. In short, ergonomics or work laws are the optimizations of product design so that it works efficiently for human use. Similarly, an ergonomic space saves time and effort and ensures all kitchen activities function smoothly.

Designer: Unique Kitchen

What is an ergonomic kitchen?

These kitchens are designed as per the end user’s height, comfort, and working style. Note that kitchen activities like cooking, cleaning, dining, and entertaining might force us to stretch, and reach out for things, resulting in unnecessary bending and twisting or turning of the body that may result in stress. Hence, an ergonomic kitchen is designed to be easy on the back. It reduces the body movements and fatigue that one might go through while cooking and cleaning up.

Discover the science of some ergonomic principles that can make everyday cooking effortless. Factors like the height of various surfaces, distances, and placement of various items can improve the functionality and efficiency of the space.

Zone the Kitchen

The first step is to divide the kitchen into five zones: the cooking area (hob), washing area (sink), food preparation, and storage of perishable as well as non-perishable items. A good kitchen design understands the workflow of the user. The distance between these areas is considered so that one can shuffle between one activity and the other without crisscrossing or getting in each other’s way. For example, there should be ample space on both sides of the hob so that work people can simultaneously cook together if required.

Designer: Azzurri Kitchens

The Kitchen Triangle

An ergonomic kitchen triangle is a rule of thumb that has been used for decades and is fundamental to a good kitchen design. The three important areas of the kitchen include the refrigerator, the sink, and the hob; one can connect these areas with an imaginary line called the kitchen work triangle. There should be a clear, unimpeded path between these three points, and the distance between each of these areas should be minimized and unobstructed. This allows one to efficiently multitask between each of these areas for cooking, cleaning, and food preparation. Note that the length of each side of the triangle should range between 4 to 9 feet, and the length of all three sides, when added together, should range between 13 to 26 feet.

Designer: Elham Elezzi Design

Designer: British Standard by Plain English

Working height in the kitchen

The user does not have to adapt to the standard height of the countertop as it is tailor-made and customized according to the height of the actual user. The height of the countertop, storage, sinks, and oven head cabinets are customized to make it easy to work without exertion on the back. Also, one should easily access the overhead cabinets, so they should not be very high on the wall. Furthermore, all the utensils should be within the reachable height, and one should be able to operate the appliances easily without straining the back. The optimal working height of the countertop ranges between 85 to 95 cm. To be more specific, the elbow’s height determines the functional countertop’s height. The elbow should form a right angle 10 cm above the countertop when standing. Note that if there are disability and mobility issues, the countertop should be of lower height as per the user’s comfort.

The depth of the overhead kitchen cabinets should be around 38 cm so that one does not bump their head into these cabinets while cooking. Plus, the clearance between the countertop and the overhead cabinets should be at least 60 cm.

Organization

A well-organized kitchen boosts productivity and has everything in the right place. A combination of well-organized cabinets, kitchen tools within hand reach, and cleverly designed pullouts create a clutter-free space. Introduce organizers in differently-sized drawers so that they can be used for storing different objects and creating a neat environment. All the spices, oils, and pans should be near the stove. The liquid soap, dish sponge, and dishcloth should be near the sink. The waste disposal should be near the sink so leftovers from plates can be disposed of.

Designer: Sheerin Bespoke

Make optimum use of the corners of U-shaped or L-shaped cabinets inaccessible with corner modular accessories. Place cooking supplies and edibles in a single layer of drawers and segregate them as per their sizes to be visible in one go. A pullout pantry can ensure efficient storage and should be placed in one countertop corner. Place the plates, glass, cutlery cabinet, and dishwasher near the sink and store them neatly in the place where it is first used. Pullouts should open entirely to get a view of all the contents. Group all electric items, and it is recommended to go for awning-style top-hung cabinets and make them safe to use, considering they have the tendency to hit the head.

Designer: Novex Kitchen

Note: If you are a left-hander or a right-hander, organize the kitchen as per your comfort and how you intend to use it.

Good Lighting

Lighting forms an essential component of an ergonomic kitchen design. There should be ample general lighting where ceiling and pendant lights should be centrally placed. Since the overhead cabinets are projected, they cast shadows on the countertop, and this dark spot makes it difficult to see. Make provision for concentrated lighting above the cooktop so that the surfaces are well-illuminated with LED strip lights. It makes food preparation and cleaning much easier, reduces shadows, and creates a bright countertop. Overhead lighting will provide the necessary ambient lighting. There should be a window in the kitchen that can bring in maximum natural light during the day. Ensure the cabinets do not obstruct the sunlight entering the kitchen.

Designer: Berla Mundi

Flooring

Hard flooring surfaces like tile and marble can take a toll on you. Softer flooring materials like cork and bamboo are accessible on the body, providing enhanced comfort and easing the joints. If the flooring is hard, opt for kitchen mats in front of frequently used areas like the sink and hob to add a little bounce to the step.

Designer: German Kitchens London

Their ergonomic solutions are bound to improve the interaction between men and the entire kitchen. Embrace the science of ergonomics in your kitchen design, as a good organization is an excellent method of minimizing unnecessary body movements while working in the kitchen.

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How metallic hues can add sparkle to your home décor

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Decorating with metallic accents is trending in the décor space and can add a dash of glamor and panache. From furniture to accessories and wall paint, metallic hues work as a decorative accent making their way into the interior design space. Metallic tones add a shimmering look and can be found in any finish or medium, like artwork, upholstery, and wallpaper. Its reflective surface bounces light back into the room and makes it look brighter and more spacious than it is. However, the art of using metallic tones is to strike the right balance within a space so that your interior doesn’t appear gaudy. Here is how you can infuse glam, sophistication, or visual intrigue into the décor with metallic accents.

Types of Metallic Hues

There are a variety of metal hues to consider, and they can be classified into warm and cool metallic tones. From high to low luster, the different types of metal finishes include polished finish followed by a satin finish, antique finish, and finally, matte finish. The warm metallic includes shades of brass, bronze, gold, and rose gold that are warm and inviting and go well with a warm color palette. Note that gold has always been a symbol of luxury that steals the limelight and has emerged as one of the classiest metallic hues. One can infuse an old-world charm with the golden-brown hues of brass and bronze that look glamorous; it’s a warm and lively metal with a rich patina that infuses elegance and luxury.

Cool metallic includes shades of silver, nickel, chrome, and pewter, offering a sleek metallic aesthetic and going with cool tones and contemporary interiors.

Designer: FORMUS

Functional Hardware

Choose between gold and silver metal for the cabinetry door pulls, door hardware, door pulls, and exterior door hardware. Move a step further and introduce metallic in the knobs and handles of the TV units, drawers, and wardrobes that are available in a wide range of modern, vintage, traditional, and minimalist designs. These shiny functional elements add a wow factor and enhance the overall glamor quotient of the home.

Designer: Aluminr

Furniture

Metallic pieces of furniture, such as a metal coffee table, nesting tables, chairs, and bar stools, add bling to the décor of the home’s bedroom, living room, and other entertainment areas. Don’t be afraid of mixing metals; they provide a sleek and sophisticated look. Let a common design element, like wood, glass, natural stone, or a complementary shape, weave the pieces together when mixing different metal tones. A trick here is to let one metal be the focal point so that it can effortlessly combine with two or more metals that serve as accents to create a synergy. Finally, never clutter the space with too many metal hues. Experiment with a mix of gold and silver hues, as it is a great way to add depth and dimension to the home décor.

Designer: Aura Living

Color Palette

Metal finishes enhance the aesthetics of a white space or a neutral-toned palette. For a maximalist look, combine warm metal with jewel tones or other shades of pink, dark navy, white, and black. The best part about warm metallic is that it is amiable and goes very well with wood and earth tones, especially if it has a little patina. If you don’t prefer gold accents, throw some warm light on the silver finishes to look like gold.

For a chic look, use silver or chrome tones that blend well with shades of gray, white, and sage green. If you want to achieve an industrial look, it is highly recommended to go for galvanized metal.

Designer: Rowen Homes

Lighting Fixtures

A light fixture with a dramatic sheen always makes a good first impression once you enter the room. Warm your space with a gold or copper chandelier that can form the showstopper element in a modern or traditional interior. Incorporate warm and cool metallic tones with light fixtures like bracket lights, chandeliers, wall sconces, pendant lights, and table lamps that also form a decorative accent.

Designer: White Teak

Textiles

Add bling and bring a luxe vibe into the interiors with gold and silver-hued textiles. These finishes add instant class and sophistication to the soft furnishing and upholstery. Metallic threads are used for embroidery and design motifs to highlight the fabric and offer a rich and refreshing look. Use metallic in small doses for the accent pillow, throws, and cushions, and combine it with soft textures like mohair, wool, velvet, leather, and suede to complete the look.

Designer: Kylie Minogue

Look Up To The Ceiling

Install wallpaper and feel glamorous under the ceiling of the entrance foyer, as it is one of the most unexpected places to use metallic hues. One can also consider a metallic-hued grasscloth to add texture and dimension to the space and take the décor to a whole new level.

Designer: Lilly Bunn

Create Balance

The dynamic nature of metallic lends an intriguing contrast and visual depth. With the right balance, the décor can feel elegant and eclectic. Contrast is the key, so pair warm and cool metallic undertones and combine it with the soft textures of the rugs and the upholstery. Pay attention to areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as steel finishes dominate them and make these spaces feel cold. A good way to offset the steeliness of appliances and faucets is to offset the space with bronze finish handles, hanging crockery, and gold pendant lights. If there are too many warm tones in any room, go for a chrome finish pendant light or table lamp, and if the space feels cold, add warmth with warm meal accessories or a statement piece of furniture. In a large room, you can demarcate the area into two zones: one section has more gold, and the other has more silver. Another way to use metals is to create a harmonious look by combining similar metal tones in different finishes or the high and low shine options.

Designer: Nora

Statement Pieces

Accessorize the space with statement pieces of furniture that form the center stage and do not look OTT. Metal adds sparkle and offers a glamorous pop of color that can blend with the most commonly used colors in a well-designed space. Installing a large decorative piece in copper, silver, or gold for a bolder look can add richness and not look blingy. Another metallic trend is introducing a large metal framed mirror, mirrored wall panel, and furniture into the home decor. It mimics the sparkle and shine of polished silver. Its reflective qualities visually expand the space and make it look brighter.

Designer: Scarlet Splendour

Curated Accessories

Start small and strategically introduce smaller metal accessories as they reflect light and impart spaciousness. Metallic can be presented subtly in the tablescape, in bookcases, vignettes, trays, candle stands, and vases that are easy to change and move around. Hang photographs in a golden or silver frame. It works beautifully in the entrance foyer or hallway. Also, one can introduce metallic finish wallpaper with gold and silver accessories to create an exciting composition.

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Hence, even a tiny hint of metallic adds loads of character and subtle glamor. It’s a great way to add shine and impart an interesting touch to a dull space.

The post How metallic hues can add sparkle to your home décor first appeared on Yanko Design.

Balcony design ideas for your home

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A balcony forms a great private outdoor space perfect for unwinding and relaxing, especially if living in a city apartment. Yet, the balcony is one of the most overlooked spaces in the home. However, with some innovative designs, one can enjoy the outdoors from the privacy of the indoors. It can quickly transform into a space perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Even the tiniest balcony has the potential to transform into a beautiful exterior space and provide the indoors with fresh light and air. Before renovating the balcony, the first step is to consider its functionality alongside the various activities one would like to incorporate within the space.

Rethink The Furniture Layout

The first step is to clear the clutter and create a furniture layout that offers maximum open space. Transform the balcony into a functional zone with a pair of chairs and a center table, go for a built-in seating table, or hang a swing from the ceiling as it allows one to enjoy the outdoor views from a greater height. If the balcony is spacious, then go for a wicker sofa and center table and divide it into two functional zones. Treat the other section of your balcony like a living room by introducing a comfy chair and throw pillows so that it can doubly function as an exciting reading nook. Go for only a few pieces of furniture and choose space-saving furniture that can be folded after use. A shelf can be attached to the balcony railing, as it is ideal for serving food and beverages—built-in seating is one of the easiest ways to maximize space.

Go for outdoor furniture materials like wicker, resin, plastic, or wrought iron, as they can resist external weather conditions. In addition, synthetic wicker or faux wicker is resistant to outdoor conditions. When not in use, the furniture can be covered with water-repellent covers. For an organic vibe, it is highly recommended to go for curvaceous furniture. If the balcony layout permits, include a hammock as it is perfect for open-air naps.

Designers: Peter Hawrylewicz and Ken Lieber

Add Storage

A balcony can emerge into a potential storage zone, especially if there is a lack of storage space within the interiors of the home. Hence, enhance the storage of the home and the utility of the balcony by introducing a chest of drawers and making optimum use of the walls with vertical storage. Since the walls form the under-used part of the balcony, fix a storage cabinet to the wall or add floating shelves. Multifunctional pieces of furniture are best suited for compact balconies. Choose a bench with built-in storage and introduce slim wall shelves, to name a few.

Introduce Color

A good dose of color can add life and enliven the overall ambiance of the balcony. Two or three colors can be introduced so that the balcony imparts a neat and uncluttered look. Layer it in the walls, soft upholstery, pretty outdoor-friendly cushions, and outdoor rugs to create a comfortable and vibrant space. Also, experiment with texture and pattern to add a tactile quality and beautify the overall look of the balcony. For example, an outdoor rug can be from the focal point of the balcony in moisture-resistant materials like nylon, propylene, or polyester, and one can surround it with furniture.

Designer: unTag Architecture

Accessorize

Make sure to accessorize the balcony according to the season and occasion. Some accessories include a floor lamp, a bohemian rug, a mural, and string lights. Add an artistic vibe with pottery and outdoor statues in weather-friendly materials like clay, stone, or ceramic. A patterned rug can add oodles of character and softness to the outdoor space.

Look At The Flooring

A good flooring design can instantly upgrade the overall look of the balcony. Some of the best flooring materials include porcelain tiles, cement tiles, and natural stone. You can also spruce up the face of a concrete slab with interlocking wood deck tiles, as they are effortless to install. Plus, artificial grass can be included as it mimics the look of a lawn.

Designer: GJ Associates

Decorate With Plants

Surround yourself with nature and spruce up the balcony with lush green plants. Create a green thumb with potted plants, and bring in flowering plants with a sweet fragrance. If you love to cook, grow microgreens like coriander, basil, mint, and rosemary, and eat fresh produce from your garden. Do some research and pick the right plants according to the climatic conditions and the amount of sunlight the balcony receives. Hang planters on the walls and vines on the railing.

Designer: Veena Rathi

Use Earthy Materials

Nothing beats the earthy combination of wood, brick, and lush green plants outdoors. Go for wooden furniture in materials like cedar, teak, or redwood. Protect the wooden pieces with a sealer and clad the walls with sleek brick tiles.

Designer: ZDesign at Home

Add Decorative Lights

Good lighting plays an integral part in the balcony design. Add warm lighting with a pendant light, wall mounted bracket lights. Introduce mood lighting by wrapping string lights around the plants and railings, making it a cozy space.

Designer: ARQ Designer

Pay Attention To Privacy

Do not compromise the balcony’s privacy and protect it from the prying eyes of the neighbors. Some of the best ways to achieve privacy are with privacy screens made of metal or bamboo. Awnings are an excellent way to achieve some privacy as well as shade from the harsh sunlight. Tall plants, climbing vines, and shrubs are also effective in achieving some privacy.

Design It As An Extension

The balcony can be designed as an extension of the living room or bedroom. Use a similar indoor and outdoor flooring material and create a brilliant inside-outside connection. Make sure that all the furniture looks into the outdoors and only include a few pieces of furniture on the balcony as they can block the view from the indoors. Large spans of glass door panels can be used to separate the balcony from the indoor room without breaking the visual connection, making the balcony feel larger. Coordinate the space with similar colors and choose a color palette that is an extension of your home and personality.

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Designer: iA Design

Opt For Zen Décor

Convert your balcony into a zen or dry landscape garden with an elegant combination of boulders and rocks with shrubs, gravel, cacti, and grass. Note that a zen garden is a low-maintenance garden with white pebbles, wood, and green plants that come together to create an interesting textural contrast.

Add Shade

Although the balcony is a great place to enjoy the sun, the scorching heat might make it challenging to use, especially during summer. Some of the best ways to add shade are with a pergola or an open roof system which comprises equidistant slats of wood with plants or climbers growing within it. The best part about a pergola is that it provides shade without blocking the warmth of the sun. An awning offers seasonal shading and works as an accent feature, as it is available in a variety of colors, patterns as well as fabrics.

Designer: Dipen Gada & Associates

The balcony allows you to create a brilliant connection with the outdoor environment. With these tips, you can surely transform the balcony into a relaxing oasis and enjoy your slice of the outdoors.

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How to design your bedroom for better sleep

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Designer: Lago Design

Bedroom décor plays a crucial role in providing optimal sleep that is essential for good health and the emotional well-being of its occupants. Considering we spend nearly one-third of our life resting, appropriate décor can transform the bedroom into a sleep haven and offer the perfect environment for rest and positivity. Note that even small changes can positively impact our sleep cycle and help control insomnia or sleep disorders. Here are tips for creating a relaxing ambiance and a décor best suited for sound slumber.

1. Incorporate A Relaxing Color Palette

A soothing color palette with muted colors is conducive to sleep and helps create a calm atmosphere. A soft color palette of grays, light blue, silver, lavender, pale yellow, moss green, and peach contribute to a sound sleeping pattern. The best part about pastel colors is that it adds color and imparts a balanced look to the space. Going for cool colors and avoiding warm colors like red and yellow is highly recommended. Don’t forget to introduce your personal style, and make sure to choose a color that relaxes you. To create a cocoon-like atmosphere, create an accent wall in a deep emerald green or navy blue shade and combine it with white or off-white walls. One can introduce pops of colors in cushions, rugs, art, and statement furniture. Additionally, it is advisable to go for a matte paint finish instead of a glossy finish for a restful look.

Designer: Tathya Macwan

2. Invest in a Comfortable Bed

The bed forms the bedroom’s centerpiece, so position the bed in the center of the interior wall and make space for side tables on either side. The bed should be ergonomically designed according to the height of the end user. In particular, the design should allow the hips and knees of the occupant to be aligned, and the feet should be flat on the floor when sitting. Consider a reading nook near a window to encourage reading so that it is also a transition to bed during the night.

Designer: Kreatika

3. Use Comfortable Bedding

Maximize comfort in the bedroom and create the mood for sound sleep. Use crisp and luxurious white or ivory sheets with a thread count of 300 to 400. Change the linen at least once a week, and add a soothing fragrance while washing to prevent the build-up of dust and allergens. By neatly making the bed daily, one can add to the aesthetics and imbibe positivity. Also, do not clutter the bed with too many pillows. Pick the right pillow for a sound sleep so that the neck and spine are aligned, and go for two standard pillows and just one accent pillow. For the sheets, quilts, and blankets, opt for natural fabrics and materials like cotton, linen, bamboo, wool, and linen. They are responsive to body temperature and do not trap heat. Note that synthetic materials tend to absorb heat and result in perspiration or discomfort during the night.

Invest in a new mattress that offers optimum comfort, balance, and back support. Don’t go for a mattress that is too soft or firm; changing it every 7 to 10 years is essential.

Tip: As changes in body temperature can disturb sleep, consider a mattress that allows good airflow and less heat retention. The best materials for the mattress are memory or latex foam with a thin breathable cover.

Designer: Chelsea Allen (Down Home Projects)

4. Use Warm White Light

Light plays an integral part in maintaining our natural circadian rhythm. Go for warm white light instead of bright overhead lights, as soft lighting allows one to sleep better. Install dimmer lights so that the body can unwind and enter sleep mode. Some of the best light fixtures for the bedroom include table lamps, reading sconces, and recessed lighting to lightly wash the walls.

Designer: Cheatham Fletcher Scott

5. Go for Blackout Curtains

For restorative sleep, it is essential to block any light that is filtering into the indoors. Transform the bedroom into a dark, serene space by adding blackout liners for the Roman blinds or drapery. One can also opt for curtains with heavy fabric and light-blocking properties. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent natural light penetration during the wee hours of the day.

6. Create a Clutter-free Space

A messy and cluttered bedroom can affect our sleep, create stress, and cause anxiety. For a relaxing bedroom décor, getting rid of clutter and keeping the storage items out of view with adequate built-in storage is essential. Nothing that is not required in the bedroom, like extra books and to-be-folded laundry, should be there. Make optimum use of wall space with shelves to free up floor space and impart an airier feel to the room. Also, make it a habit to clear clutter and organize it daily so that space does not get overwhelmed. Finally, go for a storage bed and make sure that the underside of the bed does not become a dumping station for keeping extra items, as it may release negative energy.

Designer: LANAI Design Studio

7. Absence of Electronics

Minimizing or eliminating distractions by removing electronic items like the laptop away can remind you of office assignments, tablets, or TV, as the light from electronic items can affect your sleep. Keep the charging station of the phone outside the bedroom or in a spot where you can hear the ring in case of an emergency. It is always good to camouflage the TV in a cabinet or armoire. Watching TV can result in disturbed sleep.

Tip: As per studies, avoid using electronic devices an hour before sleep. This is because screen time may expose one’s eyes to blue light. It can disturb the circadian rhythm and negatively affect the quality of sleep.

Designer: Norvo Design

8. Create A Healthy Space

Ensure proper ventilation and airflow to create a healthy space promoting good sleep. This is also one of the best ways to control dampness and mold growth. Additionally, bringing in sunlight during the day can uplift our mood and energy and enable a good sleep pattern during the night. Live plants and flowers can help one feel calm and bring an outdoorsy vibe into the interiors. It’s also a great way to add life, personality, and color into the space. Finally, infuse warmth with family pictures that depict good memories so that the bedroom is your personal abode and is also rich in detail. The temperature should be between 60 and 67 degrees, and humidity should range from 30% to 40%.

Designer: Barn & Willow

9. Reduce Noise

External noise may disturb sleep and have an adverse effect on our health. The area around the bed is equally important, so add a rug as it helps in reducing noise; go for premium quality rugs and carpets as they provide a warm and comfortable underfoot. Finally, go for double-glazed windows that drastically reduce noise and create the ideal environment for good sleep.

10. Add Fragrance

Aromatherapy creates a calming ambiance, transforming the bedroom into a stress-free and anti-anxiety zone. Fragrant flowers, scented candles, and essential oils like lavender and jasmine are perfect for creating a calm and relaxed vibe within the interiors.

Click Here to Buy Now: Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser ($249)

Integrating the above tips into your bedroom’s decor will help create a calming space to ensure the sweetest dreams.

The post How to design your bedroom for better sleep first appeared on Yanko Design.

What is color psychology in interior design

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Color can set your home’s tone and energy level; you may have noticed that some spaces feel restful while others feel energized. As per scientific studies, colors have energy and different emotions are attached to each hue. Hence, color has the potential to calm stress, stimulate creativity, foster visual thinking, and create an experience. In addition, color can have a long-lasting effect on us, and it is one of the essential tools of interior design that can set up a specific atmosphere and mood within a given space. Since hues impact the room’s mood, strategically using colors can create the energy and mood we seek.

Designer: Klik Architekti

What is Color Psychology?

Color psychology is a study between color and human behavior about how color can affect a person’s mood, well-being, productivity, and creativity. This study is based on the scientific effect of different hues on the brain. According to physics, color is how our brain and eyes react to different wavelengths of light reflected from objects. The seven spectrum colors include VIBGYOR or violet, indigo, and blue, which are cool colors with a short wavelength. Green is a medium wavelength and restful, while yellow, orange, and red are warm colors with a larger wavelength. Cool colors are relaxing and meditative and are ideal for bedrooms. Pastel shades promote relaxation, while warm colors such as cream, beige, etc., are suitable for common areas of the house, such as the living room, dining area, and balcony.

Color Basics

The basic colors are primary colors like red, yellow, and blue, as these colors cannot be produced by mixing other colors, but with these colors, one can create any color. The secondary colors are located between the primary colors and include shades of green, orange, and purple. Intermediate colors are produced by mixing different proportions of secondary colors.

Color Psychology in Interior Design

Color can make or break the look of the space, where the color of the walls, ceiling, furniture, upholstery, and flooring determine any room’s color scheme. It is always crucial for the end user to decide the color scheme of the place, as each person reacts differently to a particular color. One can use a burst of color or apply it to the whole walls and create the right ambiance in each space. Another method is to pair it with light, softer color upholstery and accessories for a less overwhelming, far more pleasing aesthetic.

Here is the psychology behind some of the most common colors used in interior design:

Red

One of the most vibrant and intense colors of the color spectrum, red is an attention-grabbing hue and an excellent color that intensifies the room’s energy. This color is highly recommended in a couple’s bedroom, as it stimulates intimacy and passion and provokes strong passion. In addition, it triggers ambition and energy, so it is highly recommended for the home office or study area. Introduce it on one wall or an accent chair to make sure living room areas feel warmer.

Designer: Morgan Lovell

Yellow

Capture the positive hues of sunshine and happiness with yellow color. The sunny and energetic hues of yellow uplift the spirit. It creates a warm and welcoming ambiance and infuses lightness into the space. The psychology of yellow color is joy and optimism, but it is not a relaxing color because its brightness can be overpowering in large doses. Therefore, selectively use yellow color and style the space with statement pieces of yellow furniture and accessories. It is best suited for Boho or maximalist interiors.

Designer: Lookofsky Architecture

Blue

Blue is the hue of the sea and the sky. It creates a calm, serene, and relaxing environment and substantially impacts our well-being. Light blue shades have a soothing and healing effect on the mind and promote good sleep. It helps us to relax better and is perfect for areas like the bedroom, living room, and bathroom where one wants to rejuvenate. Blue is a soothing color and goes well with other color tones like red, grey, and lilac, to name a few.

Designer: Richardson Sadeki

Green

It is a cheerful color that immediately draws one towards nature and symbolizes freshness, harmony, and growth. It fosters the feeling of abundance while having a soothing and relaxing impact on children and adults. It improves the child’s focus and offers a sense of security. Popular emerald, jade, and sage green hues suit areas like the kitchen and study room. This color exudes an organic vibe and adds life, depth, and dimension to the space. Living in an urban city apartment is a great way to reduce anxiety and bring the freshness of nature indoors.

Designer: Poster Store

Purple

Purple is a spiritual and imaginative color and is formed by mixing red with blue. It is associated with elegance and royalty and fosters creativity. Purple is a symbol of luxury and depth and is perfect for the home’s living room and entertainment areas. Purple is a powerful color, so limit the use of purple to accent pieces of furniture or an accent wall.

Designer: Allison Crawford Design

Orange

Bright and punchy, the orange color is socially inviting and promotes a sense of cheerfulness. The psychology of orange is that it is a fun and energetic color that boosts creativity and encouragement in young people. Since orange is a bold color, consider peach, as it is a softer hue of orange. It is perfect for areas like the gym and the bedroom.

Designers: Hang Vu, Elemental Design

Brown

Brown is considered a neutral and natural hue that adds an element of coziness and works well with modern and traditional spaces. Associated with all things earthy, brown imparts a relaxing vibe and evokes the feeling of warmth, comfort, and earthiness.

Designer: Natalia Bohachova

Pink

When light falls on pink, it radiates a subtle glow, making the space look brighter and better. Pink instigates the feeling of love and compassion. It is known to be a feminine color that instantly adds softness, uplifts the mood, and adds brightness. It is also associated with the beauty and fragrance of pink flowers that are found in nature. Magenta is a darker hue of pink. It can be used as a pop color and in the textures and patterns of cushions and throw pillows.

Designer: Ashley Stark

Black

Black is an elegant and dominating color with a contemporary appeal. It’s a dramatic color that infuses sleek sophistication and simplicity into a modern design. The psychology of black color is that it adds drama and symbolizes power.

Designer: Bummer Lamb

Gray

Grey is a neutral color that exudes elegance, style, and sophistication into any space. The color also offers a sense of security and creates a calm and serene vibe.

Designer: Nicoleta Jelihovschi

White

White is a color that stands for purity, cleanliness, and innocence. For some, white may look sterile and cold, so one can incorporate pops of color to energize the space. Perfect for minimalist interiors, beach houses, and outdoor patios, white combines well with wood and glass. White color creates a bright and airy look and makes the space look larger than it is.

Designer: Johanna (scandinavian.interior)

Choose your colors wisely and ensure they make you feel comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. This is because the surrounding colors determine the feelings a space can evoke.

The post What is color psychology in interior design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Your interior design style according to your Zodiac sign

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Astrology has been around for ages, and as per studies, people from each of the 12 sun signs have their distinct personality traits and habits. From preferred colors to design styles, these sun signs influence and play a key role in determining our individual décor choices. Our homes being personal sanctuaries, we subconsciously tend to take design inspiration from our Zodiac signs. Let’s take a look at what yours is and how you can use it as a guide to creating a home that reflects your personality.

These Zodiac signs are grouped into four elements like earth, water, fire, and air.

  • The fire sign is known for its passion, courage, and creativity.
  • The earth element is stable, grounded, and practical.
  • Individuals of the air sign are communicative, sharp, intellectual, and social beings
  • The water sign is emotional and intuitive in nature.

Aries, March 21 to April 19

Aries is a fire sign represented by the ram.

Personality – Fearless, passionate, and confident

People born under this sign are warm, energetic, and confident home decorators. They love opulence and experiment with bold design elements and accessories that symbolize success. Arians are fond of bright colors, especially shades of red and open spaces that offer a tranquil and relaxing vibe.

Designer: Caffe Latte Home

Taurus, April 20 to May 20

Taurus is an earth sign represented by the bull.

Personality– Honest, grounded, and peaceful

Taurians love stability, strive for consistency, and have a palette for fine things such as luxurious fabrics, materials, soothing fragrances, and home décor items. The Scandinavian style works best for them as this Zodiac thrives in a relaxing and serene environment designed with nature-inspired hues, like sage and mint green. Additionally, people born under this are foodies, so their kitchens should be well-designed with nice kitchenware and sturdy appliances.

Designer: FURDO

Gemini, May 21 to June 20

Gemini is an air sign symbolized by celestial twins.

Personality– Extrovert, flexible, and youthful

People born under this sign have a dual nature. They tend to look for variety and love traditional, vintage, and modern design styles. Hence, the mix-and-match trend goes very well with them. In addition, Geminis are social butterflies who love to party, so their homes usually incorporate plenty of seating for guests and a nice home bar. The décor is functional and clutter-free and includes the latest gadgets.

Designer: Vella Interiors

Cancer, June 21 to July 22

Cancer is a water sign represented as a crab.

Personality– Sensitive, compassionate, and humorous

Ruled by the moon and water, people born under this sign are sensitive to their environment. They prefer a traditional style and love soft furnishing and a cozy atmosphere that exudes comfort. Their environment focuses on relaxed decor with a layered look, just like the shell of the crab. This star sign’s favorite color would be soothing soft pastels, whites, grays, metallic silver, or rose gold that can exude a sense of luxury. They are sentimental, so consider hanging photographs of family and friends throughout the home to create their secure zone.

Designer: Tabula Rasa Design Studio

Leo, July 23 to August 22

Leo is a fire sign represented by the lion.

Personality – Confident, bold, and regal

This sun sign is bold, daring, loves maximalism, and flaunts its desire for luxuries. They love their homes to show off indulgent materials, amazing vignettes, attention-grabbing accent pieces, and luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet that make a statement. Ruled by the sun, Leo’s are fond of bright homes that are full of natural light and are attracted to hues of mustard and yellow. People belonging to this sun sign love bling, shimmer, and designer labels.

Designer: ALMA de LUCE

Virgo, August 23 to September 22

Virgo is an earth sign represented by the virgin.

Personality – Practical, elegant, and organized

Virgos are well organized; they strive for order, simplicity, and cleanliness. The clean-lined Scandinavian design style goes best with them. People born under this sign love nature and earthy tones. They also prefer organic shapes and materials like wood and natural stone. Simple colors like browns, gray, and deep or icy blues would appeal to them and help give their homes a cozy appeal.

Designer: Jeco Jara Design Group

Libra, September 23 to October 22

Libra is an earth sign represented by the scales.

Personality–Balanced, artistic, and elegant

Ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, people born under this sun sign strive to achieve peaceful surroundings and design the most aesthetically pleasing homes. The decor uses color and texture to create a stylish, symmetrical, harmonious space, incorporating clean lines and a clutter-free look. Note that Librans tend to get overwhelmed if the house gets messy. To achieve balance, a transitional décor style works best, which is not too modern or traditional, and they are comfortable in almost any color scheme.

Designer: R/terior Studio

Scorpio, October 23 to November 21

Scorpio is a water sign represented by the scorpion.

Personality– Strategic, emotional, and bold

Scorpions pay meticulous attention to detail, and their homes are classy and elegant, make a statement, and strive to create the right ambiance. A mid-century Gothic style goes well with their personality, and they love to integrate jewel tones like emerald green, burgundy, and plum. They love sensual textures like faux fur and silk, alongside extensive use of natural wood.

Designer: Fashionable Interiors

Sagittarius, November 22 to December 21

Sagittarius is a fire sign represented by the mounted archer.

Personality – Smart, compassionate, and adventurous

People born under this sign love traveling around the globe, and they love storytelling through artifacts and souvenirs collected from their travels. They have a free spirit, so their homes should revolve around modern and contemporary open-plan layouts. Nature-inspired shades of beige, brown, and blue are recommended, as they are reminiscent of mountains and beaches that bring them closer to the outdoors. Their homes should incorporate plenty of houseplants.

Designer: Blyth Designs

Capricorn, December 22 to January 19

Capricorn is an earth sign represented by the sea goat.

Personality – Practical, disciplined, and loves comfort

Capricorns are the workaholics of the Zodiac; hence, they will have the best home office with a functional desk, a nice bookcase, and ample storage. Consider an earthy color scheme and good layered lighting, splurge on smart technology, and add a few accent pieces of furniture that ensure comfort. People born under this sign are known for their discipline and formal aesthetics that can be achieved in hues of gray and blue.

Designer: Fredda Partners

Aquarius, January 20 to February 18

Aquarius is a water sign symbolized by the water bearer.

Personality – Intellectual, creative, and advanced

This sun sign is a symbol of fluidity and inclines spirituality. Their homes should be calm and tranquil, with warm colors and inspiring artwork being a must-have. People born under this sign invest in technologically advanced gadgets as they are ruled by the planet Uranus, which stands for innovation and technology.

Designer: Saija

Pisces, February 19 to March 20

Pisces is a water sign symbolized by two fish moving in the opposite direction.

Personality – Gracious, spiritual, and calm

They are spiritual beings who love daydreaming. Hence, their homes should be a sanctuary that allows them to rest, relax, and recharge. Consider fluffy cushions and soft throws in muted tones and fabrics like silk and linen. They love their balcony, which allows them to disconnect from their everyday life. Also, they gravitate towards ocean or water colors like icy blues, teal, or aqua hues that bring joy and serenity.

Designer: She Rin

Does this study resonate with your Zodiac and design style? Do let us know in the Comments.

The post Your interior design style according to your Zodiac sign first appeared on Yanko Design.

16 ways to design an eco-friendly home and lifestyle

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Designer: Marielle and Tobias of Familie Buitenhuys

In recent years, factors like global warming, pollution, and depletion of natural resources have had a negative impact on our planet. Hence, it is important to adopt a sustainable lifestyle and create an eco-friendly home sensitive to the environment. Adopt these simple changes that can help revive the ecosystem and reduce the home’s carbon footprint. An eco-friendly house is highly functional and comfortable to use. Additionally, there is a major switch from waste-producing to environmentally friendly products.

1. Bring in Natural Light and Cross-Ventilate

An eco-friendly home should be strategically oriented in a direction to take maximum advantage of the sun and the wind. For instance, there should be adequate window openings that allow good cross ventilation and replace the indoor hot air with a cool breeze. Avoid west-facing homes, as they tend to absorb too much heat.

Designer: Gruen Architecture

2. Passive Cooling

Passive cooling is the technique of naturally cooling the house for a comfortable indoor environment. During the construction of a new house, some features like external shading of the buildings with roof overhangs and shady plants prevent indoor heat gain. Additional cooling can be achieved with insulated cavity walls or reflective building materials, while water features like a pool, fountain, or waterfall can cool the outdoor air by evaporating water. Consider a light-colored or white roof, also known as cool roof, as it keeps the roof and interiors cool by reflecting the sun’s rays. Plant a green roof in urban areas to keep the roof cool and reduce the heat-island effect.

Designer: David Hertz Architects

3. Prevent Indoor Heat Loss

Air can make entry through cracks between the doors and windows and the walls and through the air ducts. Therefore, it is essential to weatherproof the house with caulking, sealing, and weather stripping to prevent leakage, if any. Introduce double-glazed windows in low-E glass as it limits heat transfer through insulated frames. Also, install curtains and blinds as thick curtains keep the room darker and cooler as it is a great way to cut down heat transfer between the indoors and the outdoors.

Designer: Jerricho Joya

4. Use Solar Panels

The sun is the mega powerhouse of green energy that harnesses the natural power of the sun to create electricity. Install solar panels on the rooftop or outdoors where there is plenty of sunshine as they absorb light from the sun and convert it into electricity. The installation of solar panels is costly, but it can help in saving electricity costs in the long run.

Designer: Salmela Architect

5. Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is a method of saving and storing rainwater and using it for irrigation, cleaning, or gardening. An outdoor rainwater harvesting pit allows the rainwater to replenish the groundwater. One can install rainwater barrels to collect water from the rooftop and go for permeable pavers in the driveway so that the rainwater percolates into the underground water table. For example, in larger homes, one can convert lawns into catchment areas to store the rainwater through slopes and gutters.

6. Go for Organic Materials

Be mindful while purchasing new home furnishing or fabrics for your home. Consider bed linen, carpets, towels, etc., made of natural plant or animal fibers like cotton, linen, and wool instead of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester.

Designer: L & M Home

7. Create your Compost

Composting is a natural way of recycling where organic kitchen waste like vegetable and fruit peels, eggshells, food leftovers, and paper decompose and transform into chemical-free natural fertilizers for the garden. The best part about this valuable mineral-rich fertilizer is that it not only reduces landfill waste but also improves the soil quality by restoring nutrients, air, and moisture and reduces the emission of methane gas. Therefore, investing in a composter as per the available space is advisable.

Designer: Ben Cullis Watson

8. Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

Reducing, reusing, and recycling form the foundation of an eco-friendly home. Make it a point to reduce the purchase of new products, especially if they are not environmentally friendly, reuse and repurpose old things, and go for recycled materials like aluminum, glass, and reclaimed wood for the interiors. Consider natural materials like bamboo, cork, and linoleum and sustainably certified materials like recycled rubber roofing, carpets from recycled plastic bottles, and composite decking from wood waste, to name a few. Avoid paper kitchen rolls and use cloth-based mops that are reusable after cleaning and sun-drying.

Designer: SA Lab

9. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Investing in energy-efficient appliances that save cost and energy and do not compromise on it might be a costly investment compared to traditional appliances. Still, it will recover the cost over a lifetime. Check for an ENERGY STAR label on the appliance to choose energy star appliances for the home. It saves costs and energy and keeps the performance intact. Energy-efficient appliances include energy-efficient heating and cooling systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Look for appliances with 4 to 5 stars; the higher the rating, the less energy it will consume. Unplug all your electronic gadgets; do not keep them on standby mode. This will prevent the gadgets from consuming power when not in use. Instead of clothes dryers, consider air-drying the clothes to improve energy costs and savings drastically.

10. Switch to LED lights

Replace traditional incandescent lights with LED lights or light-emitting diodes that provide good illumination. The biggest advantage of LED lights is that they use less energy, emit less heat, have a large lifespan, and do not have to be replaced frequently.

Designer: Regalsolace Interiors

11. Invest in a Smart Thermostat

As heating systems consume a lot of energy, installing a smart programmable thermostat is advisable to monitor the temperature, control the heating and cooling and minimize energy waste. The HVAC system will work only when the thermostat reaches a specific temperature and can be easily controlled via a smartphone.

Designer: eCozy

12. Low-flow Water Fixture

Introduce efficient low-flow water fixtures in the bathroom and kitchen to control water usage. Install a dual flush for the W.C. to ensure restricted water use, as it is a great way to conserve water and reduce the house’s water consumption. If there is any leakage in the external and internal pipelines, it should be rectified immediately.

13. Introduce Houseplants

Houseplants have air-purifying properties and are one of the easiest ways to improve indoor air and eliminate toxins and other indoor air pollutants. Plants not only replace carbon dioxide with oxygen through the process of photosynthesis but also absorb indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene, and formaldehyde that are emitted as VOCs from various household products and chemical cleaners.

Designer: Habitat Horticulture

14. Go for Non-toxic Cleaning Products

Replace hazardous cleaning products that emit harmful VOCs with natural cleaning products composed of essential oils and not comprised of chemicals like ammonia or chlorine. Additionally, toxic chemicals can enter the earth’s ecosystem and harm the environment. Steam cleaners are a great way to disinfect and clean bacteria. Some of the best products that can be used for cleaning include baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and lime juice are cost-effective ingredients that are perfect for preparing cleaning fluids for the home.

15. Use Organic Paints

Choose organic paints and water-based paints for your walls that do not emit toxic gasses indoors. These paints are odorless, lead- and chemical-free paints with low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Designer: ECOS Paints

16. Reusable Bags

As plastic pollution is a significant concern, one of our daily habits is eliminating plastic bags as it hurts the environment. Opt for reusable bags to reduce the consumption of plastic.

The post 16 ways to design an eco-friendly home and lifestyle first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 interior design trends of 2023

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As the terror of the pandemic slowly fades away, and our lives return to a semblance of normalcy, a question that rightfully lingers on our minds is, ‘what will our homes look like in 2023’? 2023 is the year we can finally pay attention to our homes, the way they look, and our interior choices after what feels like a two-year hiatus. I mean, after all, our homes are our safe haven and our holy abode. We spend the majority of our time there, and they are an expression of our personal style, taste, and preferences. If you’re looking for some interior design inspo for your precious homes, then you’ve reached the right place. We’ve put together some of the interior design trends that we know will be making major waves in 2023! Hop on the bandwagon, and incorporate a few of these innovative ideas to create not only the home of our dreams but a home that will be contemporary, up-to-date, and super relevant in 2023. After all, relevance is the name of the game these days!

1. Japanese Design with Contemporary Influences

Japanese design of any sort has always been well-loved in the design world. Minimal, clean, subtle, and yet always practical – Japanese design philosophy never fails, whether you’re trying to implement it in architecture or interiors. Homes with Japanese interiors tend to be warm, comforting, and extremely peaceful. And in 2023, we’ll get to see a lot of designers integrating Japanese aesthetics but with a contemporary twist. This beautiful residence in Tokyo, Japan was designed by the Karimoku Case Study, Japanese architect Keiji Ashizawa and Danish design studio Norm Architects. The home is marked by an amalgamation of minimalist and traditional Japanese design, as well as touches of contemporary design. Pocket sliding doors, wooden wall hangings, and woven seating elements create an intriguing mesh of different textures. The home boasts a smooth balance of curves and corners, as well as natural and electric light.

2. Resurgence of Art Deco

Interior designers are claiming that 2023 could be the year that Art Deco makes a comeback! Characterized by modernness and geometry, the essence of Art Deco is pretty simple – it utilizes a whole bunch of unique shapes, while also laying emphasis on art and luxurious materials, and then packs up the entire deal in a rather modern package. Clean lines and elegant curves define the interior design style that is Art Deco. We can see these traits quite evidently in this manor called Pacific Heights, designed by Kendall Wilkinson. The space is marked by an eccentric mix of intriguingly shaped furniture, bold colors, and a variety of artwork generously display throughout the home.

3. 3D Printed Furniture

3D printing has well cemented its place in the design industry as a technique that is innovative, efficient, and economical. And it’s definitely making waves in furniture design and manufacturing. We, do see, 3D-printed furniture gaining popularity in 2023, because they are proving to be a rather sustainable and flexible option to fill up our homes with. Johannes Steinbauer Office created these 3D-printed seats without using any kind of springs, foam, and fabrics! The chair utilizes rigid prints, rather than the usual racks that are used for building chairs. The chair is pretty easy to assemble and disassemble, and once it’s surpassed its lifecycle, you can dispose of the different parts, and have them recycled! The recyclable aspect of 3D-printed furniture is something that sustainability lovers simply cannot ignore.

4. Smart Storage Solutions

Look, it’s no secret that the apartments on the market today seem to be getting tinier and tinier. You don’t need to actually buy a tiny home, our modern-day apartments are as tiny as a space can get. This space constraint issue isn’t one that will easily fade away in 2023, but what we can see rising up on the horizon are smart storage solutions. A great storage design is one that effortlessly merges into your home, without occupying more space than it provides. For example, the PLOGA rack is an excellent furniture piece for your entryway. It functions as a coat rack, and what’s really interesting, is that it features vertical hooks! The hooks are adjustable and placed vertically on the rack. You can slide them from left to right, creating a flexible form that can be changed whenever. This provides more space to store your items, ensuring that they aren’t layered on top of one another.

5. New Tactile Materials

We do believe a wide range of new materials will be explored and utilized in 2023. Tactile materials that provide an expansive sensory experience will be chosen by designers. Humble materials such as brick, natural wool, and lime plaster walls could be dominating homes in 2023. Birch plywood will be replaced with newer materials such as oak, cherry, and red oak. These are bolder and deeper materials that will hold a space of their own in homes. Mushroom is another exciting material that could truly find its moment in 2023. Mushroom leather is a sustainable and ethical alternative to animal leather, and could be selected as the material of choice for sofas and armchairs. The brand Mylo is creating leather from mycelium, the root-like system of mushrooms. They are producing mushroom leather in less than two weeks, in vertical farming facilities powered by renewable electricity.

6. Sustainable Furniture will be a Necessity

Rather than being a trend, incorporating sustainability in our homes is going to become a necessity in 2023. Designers will continue to utilize resourceful materials, upcycle and reuse furniture designs, and reduce the use of plastic and other harmful materials in the manufacturing of furniture. The 4PM Chaise Lounge Chair is defined by flat and curved features and is designed to create comfort out of hard material. Constructed in either Douglas fir or cherry wood, the only upholstered component of the 4PM Chaise Longue Chair is the leather headrest. Balanced on top of the backrest, Massproductions held the headrest in place with a steel weight. The 4Pm Chaise Lounge Chair is proof that you can create sustainable + eco-friendly furniture designs, that rate high on visuals, and will merge well with our contemporary homes.

7. Bold and Quirky Furniture

Minimal furniture piece has and always will be a favorite among furniture designers and lovers, however, we do believe we will see a rise in bolder and more unconventional furniture. Neutral-toned furniture could take a backseat, as explorations in color and forms lead to designs that are bolder, louder, quirkier, and less boring. 2023 could be the year that experimentation in furniture reaches a whole new level. Designed by Deniz Aktay, The Bookpet is a ‘coffee-book table’ It features a sculptural shape that evolves from a double-bent cuboid. The free-flowing and flexible structure of the piece seems to twist and turn through the air, resembling a Dachshund or a sausage dog! It showcases a rather loud and intriguing red color, which is further enhanced by its unique cuboidal shape.

8. Tiny Compact Kitchens

We believe in the might of tiny homes, but slowly and surely we’re believing in the might of tiny kitchens as well. If you truly take into consideration our hectic schedules, and our tiny cramped apartments, you’ll come to realize that we don’t really need sprawling, over-the-top kitchen counters. What we need are smaller, compact, and smartly designed kitchens that meet all our requirements, without occupying too much space in our homes. Designed by Begüm Şenel, this tiny kitchen is truly meeting all my kitchen goals. Featuring a soft pastel color palette, the kitchen is minimal, compact, and modern. The dining table is a compact space, that has been merged with the rest of the tiny kitchen. Barstools with blood-orange cushions make for a nifty and space-saving seating option.

9. Stools over Chairs

How much attention do you truly pay to stools? A negligible amount or none at all? Don’t worry, most of us make the same fatal mistake of overlooking stools when in actuality, they’re probably one of the handiest and niftiest furniture designs you could have in your home. They’re compact, and a great space-saving furniture option for our modern homes. They are also super portable, and could truly replace chairs in 2023, especially if you’re someone who’s looking for compact furniture pieces, rather than larger bulkier ones. The Plastic Translation Stool design tries to reinterpret the lines of the plastic stool instead, resulting in a form that is somewhat similar yet also unique, giving the wooden stool its own character. It is built using Birch plywood buttresses and is super easy to assemble. You don’t need screws or nails to put it together!

10. An Emphasis on Unconventional Lighting Fixtures

Lighting fixtures will be looked at in a new light in 2023! We will see designers and homemakers veering away from traditional and unconventional lighting designs, and instead moving towards ones that are louder and quirkier. These designs will be used as statement or centerpieces that will occupy a space of their own. They could be complemented by furniture that is simple, minimal, and rather unassuming – much like, ‘Onu’, a series of lighting designs created by Austrlia-based Sabu Studio. The Onu series features a pendant, as well as a floor light – beautiful handmade specimens crafted from wood. Both the pieces showcase a ‘split’, which in turn functions as the star feature of the products.

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