All about home magazine june 2014

JUNE 2014

OPEN A NEW STYLE IN CANADA Page 19

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The Ottoman through the Ages

The ottoman is a piece of furniture that came to us from the ancient Middle East. Yet, the modern version of this item looks quite different from its ancestors.

Many of its characteristics have changed to suit the rooms of today. Once, the word ottoman meant a spacious oriental sofa or a couch upholstered in tapestry or jacquard. The ottoman of today is not a sofa but a small padded stool used as a foot rest or a seat, or, sometimes, an additional couch for lying down.

footstool is either rectangular or square and the size, approximately 80 by 80 centimetres.

A SMALL COUCH This incarnation of the ottoman is the closest to its ancestors known to the ancient Middle East and Roman Empire. The ottoman in the Middle Eastern style that boasts rich ornamentation, floral motifs and oriental prints will be a fine decorative item in any living room and will create a focal point that will become the basis for the rest of the décor.

A COFFEE TABLE This is probably the most popular use for ottomans in the living room décor. First of all it’s convenient due to the ottoman’s dimensions being smaller than a traditional coffee table. It has no sharp corners yet its padding is springy enough to hold food and drink trays on the surface without sliding down.

A SEAT Another traditional use for the ottoman is as a seat. With this purpose in mind, one can replace chairs and armchairs with not one but several stools in the room. This helps save space because an ottoman, being quite small and having neither arms nor back can easily fit underneath a coffee table. If you are planning to use an ottoman

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STORAGE TRUNK as a seat make sure it is sufficiently firm, upholstered in smooth fabric and has a comfortable shape.

A FOOTSTOOL Watching TV or reading becomes much cozier if you have a place to rest your feet upon. Ottomans used for this purpose are usually upholstered in fabric and placed next to the sofa while also serving as coffee tables. The best shape for this padded

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This is the most practical role the ottoman can play. A fleeting glance will not reveal any extra space in the ottoman. Yet, it is great storage space for cushions, books, magazines, remote controls and other undersized items.

Therefore, the ottoman is a comfortable, stylish and functional piece of furniture that will look great in any style of décor.

New ottomans have gone a long way since their ancestors; they have become more versatile and are offered in our stores in any style, from classic to hi-tech.

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Baskets – Ornamental and Functional

Weaved baskets have always been an item intended first of all for storage of anything from bed linens to children’s toys. Later, the traditional baskets became fancier and acquired yet another function – decorative. Baskets can be used in any décor.

Modern weaved baskets come in a wide variety of colours, patterns, shapes and sizes.

Their stylish look combined with portability and capaciousness has made them extremely popular, and many people use them as a beautiful yet useful design element.

RECTANGULAR WEAVED BASKETS The universal rectangular basket with handles will match any decorative style. It will be a welcome addition in tune with décor with the benefit of being functional.

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as improvised shelving they ensure order inside the closet.

DECORATIVE WEAVED BASKETS Decorative baskets of a larger size can serve as storage for bulky items that are usually a problem to hide away – for example, warm blankets, pillows or comforters.

HANDMADE WEAVED BASKETS SMALLER WEAVED BASKETS AS ORNAMENTAL ITEMS A small basket can be used for storing newspapers and magazines, toys, remote control devices and other undersized items that are in a habit of always getting lost.

Therefore, this elegant object helps keep the place neat and tidy.

A medium size basket is fine for storing clothes and underwear. It also serves to optimize the use of space in a closet. Used

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One-of-a-kind shows often feature artisans specializing in basket weaving. They offer interesting styles in unusual shapes, decorated with various printed fabrics. The wide variety of their colours and shapes makes it easy to find baskets that will ideally suit a certain interior style. Baskets are natural and do not harm the environment which adds to their attractiveness and popularity. Sometimes a hand-weaved basket may cost more than those in mass production.

On the other hand, a higher price is what you pay to have a unique ornamental accent that can improve any décor.

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Choosing a Dining Table

Choosing the right table can be a complicated task. Of course the easiest way is to stop at the closest furniture store and buy a dining table of the size that will fit the space but this method does not guarantee the beauty, comfort and style you are seeking.

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all the living zones. You can achieve a striking contrast by introducing a rustic table into a modern style dining room or a minimalistic metal table into a room where wood prevails. Glass or acrylic tables are ideal for studio apartments while folding tables will make the life easier for those who usually have many people around their table.

CHOOSING THE SHAPE

chandelier over the table and place a few well-chosen armchairs around it.

This is the first consideration, especially taking into account that this is easier than deciding on a certain style. The most popular shape for a dining table is rectangular; it is both functional and esthetically pleasing. A rectangle incorporates the beauty and purity with the simplicity of serving the diners, be it during a family meal or a banquet.

A square dining table is one of the least favourable shapes. Not many designers use this shape in their work. If you have rested your selection on this shape, a smaller size seating up to six persons is the best. Usually square tables are chosen for long rectangular rooms in order to balance them visually.

Put a square rug underneath it, and you have a “room within a room”.

A round dining table is fine for a limited number of people – usually six. Larger round tables make serving many guests and their interaction difficult. Nevertheless, it can look beautiful if you hang a round

CHOOSING THE STYLE

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Do not forget the theme and style while decorating your dining room. For an open concept room think a table that will match

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CHOOSING THE SIZE After the shape and style the next consideration is the size of your future dining table.

Deciding on the table’s dimensions you need to remember a few basic rules. First of all, the distance between the edge of the table and the wall or another piece of furniture has to be at least 105 to 120 cm in order to make for the freedom of movement around the table and comfortable seating around it. To help you visually comprehend how the chosen size and shape of a table will fit into the room, place a table cloth or a right size piece of fabric on the floor in the place where you plan to stand your table.

Now you can find the optimal dimensions by moving it around.

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How to determine and solve window problems insulated glass units. Even though the majority of older homes have basic windows not made with the use of advanced technologies, double glazed insulated units should be the very minimum required in your home. Houses built before the late 1970s are likely to have single glazed units with just a storm window to cover them.

This combination cannot be considered a double glazed window.

Living in a cold climate, we all face various problems with insulating our homes. One of the keystones of a warm house is having properly built and installed windows.

Whether you have had a property for a while or are just going to purchase one here are a few tips on how to determine if the windows in the home perform to their best.

First, determine the material of which the frame components are built: wood, vinyl, aluminum, or composite. Look for any obvious signs of damage on the outside – in the case the frames are made of wood check for rotten parts (those can hide under a thick layer of fresh paint), cracks on the corners in the case of vinyl windows, split frames, for composite windows. In the event any of the listed problems appear during your visual examination, consider full frame replacement. Check the condition of caulking in between window frames and exterior finish (bricks, siding, etc.) Any cracks or holes have to be immediately fixed to prevent further leakage.

Now let’s switch our attention to the interior of the house. Check the trim and walls inside the house for traces of water, soft

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Look closely to determine whether there are any moisture or water streaks in between the two glass panes of the unit. If those transpire during your inspection, it means that the glass unit has lost its sealing effect and is not going to perform as insulated thermal break point anymore.

Any of the listed problems may not only affect your energy bills in cold winter periods, but could also create potential structural problems as well as various issues for the interior of your home.

Replacing old non-efficient windows with the new EnergyStar rated ones will improve the level of comfort inside the home and increase the value of the house. places and bubbles on drywall. Try to open and close windows to make sure they operate to full range smoothly.

The next step would be making sure that the windows are equipped with double

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Roman Simonyan Your Window Specialist

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Great investment opportunity! Luxury Neptune at Waterpark City! Upgraded CORNER 2-bdr, 1-wshr (semi-ensuite) condo unit with PARKING & locker across lake & park. Balcony with fantastic view of downtown skyline! Open concept modern layout. Floor to ceilings windows. Hardwood floors. Upgraded kitchen with central island, granite countertop & S/S appliances. Walk to marinas, Harbourfront. Rogers & Convention Centres nearby. Spa, indoor pool, gym, sauna. Jacuzzi lounge with BBQ & much more... Low maintenance fee. PRESENTLY RENTED with A+++ tenants!

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Lots of upgrades. Double door entry. 9’ FLAT ceilings.

Upgraded hardwood floors on both levels. All large windows. Oak stairs. Upgraded kitchen with high cabinets, granite countertop & S/S appliances. Large breakfast area with W/O to porch. Very large master with W/I closet & W/O to balcony. Direct access to garage from home. No sidewalk (2-car driveway). Near transit & Viva bus.

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Absolutely clean, professionally painted, nice & warm house in excellent location. 3 bdrms, 3 wshrms, about 1600 SqFt. Gleaming hardwood floor on main level.

Beautiful kitchen with cherry cabinets, modern b/splash, S/S appliances & gas stove. Large breakfast area with W/O to deck. All bedrooms are large. Master with W/I closet, 5-pc ensuite w/separate shower. Direct access to garage. Gas connection to BBQ. Walking distance to shopping mall & all amenities. Must see! Excellent area!

Asking $449,800

CONDO. THORNHILL

YONGE & STEELES

Beautiful, spacious, bright & updated 2-bdr, 2-wshr, about 1100 SqFt unit in great location!

Gorgeous unobstructed view from balcony.

Lots of upgrades. New wood floors in all rooms. New eat-in kitchen. Updated baths.

Parking. Maintenance fee includes all utilities!

Free membership to Orchard Club with indoor pool, gym, sauna. Tennis crt. Steps to Yonge.

Spacious & bright 2+1-bdr, 2-wshr, 1000 SqFt unit with beautiful east exposure!

Excellent condition. All parquet floors.

Upgraded eat-in kitchen. Parking, ensuite locker. MAINTENANCE FEE $371/month includes all utilities. Walk to Centre Point Mall. TTC at the doorstep.

Fully furnished! Do not miss!

Asking $285,000

Asking $319,000

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WE’LL BUY CONDO UNIT!!!

BATHURST & CENTRE 2-bdr, 2-wshr WITH BALCONY. EXPOSURE: SOUTH, SOUTH-WEST OR SOUTH-EAST. PREFERABLY WITH HIGH CEILINGS.

PROMENADE CIRCLE

FULLY RENOVATED spacious 2-bdr, 2-wshr unit, about 1300 SqFt. New wood floors in all rooms, crown mouldings. Large kitchen with window (new cabinets, new S/S appliances, new porcelain floors, marble b/splash).

Upgraded wshrms with new designer vanities & much more. 2 parking spaces, locker. Great facilities: outdoor pool, gym, sauna, tennis crt.

Asking $479,900 DUFFERIN & RUTHERFORD

Spacious & updated, 3-bdr, 3-wshr, about 1800 SqFt townhouse in Dufferin Hill!! Great floor plan with large family room with fireplace. Hardwood floors on both levels. Large master bdrm with W/I closet & 4-pc ensuite. Great kitchen with b/splash & new Samsung appliances. Home automation system.

Steps to park. Close to shopping mall, transit.

Asking $549,000

RICHMOND HILL

1-year new 4-bdr, 4-wshr END UNIT townhouse with beautiful floor plan. Bright & spacious, 1981 SqFt. 9’ ceilings, hardwood floors. Living/dining room & family room. Large windows with lots of natural light. Good size all bedrooms. Master with W/I closet & 5-pc ensuite. Upgraded kitchen with S/S appliances. Close to schools, transit & shopping! Do not miss!

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Elegant & charming model home with lots of upgrades on 70’ premium lot! Large 4 bdrms, 4 wshrs, about 3300 SqFt in Upper Thornhill Estate. All hardwood floors, crown mouldings, potlights. Main floor office. Gourmet kitchen with central island, granite countertop, b/splash & S/S appliances. Huge master bdrm with W/I closet, glass shower & separate bathtub. All bdrms have ensuites & semi-ensuites. 2-car garage.

STUNNING 2-yr old CUSTOM home, 4 bdrms, 5 wshrs, over 3600 SqFt. Award winning interior design! 10’ ceilings on main floor, 9’ on 2-nd and basement! Hardwood & limestone throughout.

Stunning custom kitchen with granite, custom b/ splash. Potlights, mouldings, wainscoting. Two laundry rooms. All bdrms with spa-like ensuites, closet organizers. Custom chandeliers & lightings.

Beautifully landscaped.

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Asking $1,188,000

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Selecting Blinds

When shopping for shutters consider not only their ornamental qualities but their functionality as well. Shutters help regulate the amount of daylight entering the room as well as protect your privacy. Correctly chosen shutters and blinds serve to visually improve the dĂŠcor of the room by becoming its integral part. Here are a few tips on making your way throughout the wide variety of textures and colours available.

The best protection in this case is provided by horizontal blinds. Horizontal, as well as vertical panels of opaque thick fabric will completely block bright sunlight and ensure undisturbed rest during day hours if your window overlooks a sunny direction.

MAINTENANCE Dust is the worst enemy of blinds. Aluminum blinds are easier to maintain dust free. Many kinds of horizontal blinds boast dust-resistant and antistatic coating. They can be easily washed with soap and water.

If you prefer vertical blinds choose the easy care ones, especially for a house with children. You will find all the care instructions in the manual or from the salesperson

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE

DESIGN

Choosing blinds with correct mounting assembly and the right size is of the extreme importance. In older houses the assembly can be mounted either inside the window recess or on the wall outside it. In the case of plastic windows the mounting can only be done on the wall.

So, we have discussed the functionality of your blinds. Now let’s touch upon design.

There is a wide variety of blinds on the store shelves. The virtually unlimited assortment of textures and colours will satisfy the most exquisite taste and match any style, be it traditional or hi-tech with everything in between these two extremes.

Bedroom and bathroom windows often require full protection from unwanted stares.

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The correct choice and installation of the blinds provides for the surface sufficient to cover the window in full eliminating any possibility of the light getting through the gaps at the sides of the blind.

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Apparently the joke about some Americans whom it takes half an hour to get to work by elevator is close to reality. There are plans to create a multifunctional complex Skyvillage in Los Angeles where transportation will be limited to elevators and escalators.

It is hard to imagine today’s America without the automobile.

The country’s infrastructure is based on the wide use of cars.

Los Angeles like many other American cities is a mobile city but recently architect Ziwei Song introduced a project titled Skyvillage, a city within a city where automobile is not required. The complex

Sky Village – a Carless Town in L.A.

consists of four skyscrapers connected by suspended bridges, elevators and escalators.

Los Angeles freeway system segregates the city’s fabric restricting urban activities to single locations. Similarly, skyscrapers exacerbate this condition of segregation instead of encouraging urban integration. The envisioned vertical city would bridge over freeway interruptions and connect the four quadrants around 101 and 110 freeways as a single architectural organism while boosting cultural exchange, urban activities, and social interaction.

The interchange 101 and 110 breaks Los Angeles east urban fabric into four disconnected quadrants: Downtown, Chinatown, Echo Park, and Temple Beaudry. The four quadrants have distinct cultural and social differences, lacking a coherent urban tissue. Moreover, the leftover space around the freeways reaches over 27 acre.

Skyvillage aims to reclaim this terrain vague and provide green filtering towers to clean the freeways and also articulate various programs to revitalize the disconnected urban fabric.

There will be four huge parking lots in the vicinity of the structure designed for visitors from one of the quadrants to another. But it will be only walking or electrical transportation devices inside Skyvillage.

Skyvillage is planned as a new centre of L.A. around which all its everyday life will concentrate. It is a social lab meant to cure Americans of their automobile habit and teach them walking again.

Skyvillage project has received an honourable mention at the 2014 Skyscraper Competition announced by eVolo Magazine. The competition was established in 2006 to recognize outstanding ideas for vertical living through the novel use of technology, materials, programs, aesthetics, and spatial organizations.

Photo credit: eVolo 2014 Skyscraper Competition

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the better. Projects take time to plan and schedule, so you will ideally want to coordinate with the contractor minimum 3 months prior to their anticipated start date for the project.

3 4 5

Always obtain 3 quotations for the project and ensure that the scope is “apples to apples”.

Ensure that the contractor is licensed, insured, and carries W.S.I.B. coverage.

Respect them and their expertise. You have to trust that they know what they are doing, and don’t assume that your “Google” search could ever equate to, often, decades of real world training and experience.

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INSIDER TIPS on hiring contractors

For most homeowners, taking on a renovation project is a major financial, emotional and psychological investment.

It can all go well or it can all turn into an exhausting nightmare that breaks the bank, and drains you emotionally. With over a decade of experience in hiring contractors for hundreds of projects, I will share with you some of my own personal “tips” to help steer you in the right direction.

Good contractors truly care about their clients and would only want to invest themselves with projects that are likely to yield a favourable outcome for all parties involved.

1

• Are in the process of obtaining 5 or more quotations for the work.

Start with yourself and take a look in the mirror. Most homeowners think that when they talk to contractors for a potential project, they are interviewing the contractor. Even though this is true, remember that at the same time, the contractor is interviewing you as well. Good contractors are not sitting around waiting for your phone call, and most are booked weeks or even months in advance. This means that most good contractors can afford to be picky in choosing who they want to work with.

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Fund the project at a pace that is relative to work performed. In other words, no 50% deposits!

For a list of qualified contractors in your area that are licensed, insured and abide by the Code of Conduct, visit www.Renomark.ca.

Entering into a contract is entering into a relationship, and who would want to enter into a bad relationship with all kinds of red lights going off?

Typical red flags for most good contractors are homeowners who: • Are confrontational from the start (maybe they watched too many TV shows that depict contractors in a negative light.

• Are unrealistic about their budget, schedule or other aspects of the work.

• Want upgrades but don’t want to pay for them.

• Want to bypass by-laws, building codes, and other regulations.

• Don’t truly listen.

2

Timing is important. Contact the contractor when you are ready to move forward but still in the planning stage of the project. Typically, the sooner you call

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Peter Khatami

Peter is Senior Project Manager and Co-Owner of Nostco Construction, a Design/Build company serving residential and commercial clients throughout the GTA. Peter prides himself in working tirelessly on his clients’ behalf to bring vision to construction reality.

www.NOSTCO.com

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June 2014

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Interior Design Trend: Imitation Wallpaper Wallpaper imitating bricks, concrete walls, or wood panels has been gaining popularity among consumers as well as becoming trendy in interior design. Many wallpaper manufacturers have happily responded to growing demand and added these patterns to their collections.

Wallpaper can imitate certain complicated forms, textures and surfaces. This technique is widely used in design. One may wonder what the point in imitating something is if you can get a real thing. Taking wallpaper as an example let us have a look at the advantages of imitation and at the versions that seem to be the trendiest.

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WHY DO PEOPLE CHOOSE IMITATION WALLPAPER? Wallpaper is warmer to the touch, especially in the cases of plaster and concrete imitations.

Getting the look of the wanted material takes much shorter time than getting the real material.

Wallpaper is not bulky and takes much less space compared for instance to wood panels or bricks.

Wallpaper costs less than the real materials it imitates.

Out of the wide variety of imitation wallpaper there are a few most popular kinds.

BRICK IMITATION Simulated brick has been leading the choices in imitations in wallpaper design.

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It looks its best in the living room, the kitchen, in the hallway or a glass-enclosed solarium.

FABRIC IMITATION Wallpaper made of fabric is a well-known variety but it is less expensive to repeat the same look on paper or vinyl material. You get the same appearance but a different texture.

SIMULATED CONCRETE WALL

WOOD IMITATION

Wallpaper imitating brick usually comes in darker colours and as such looks its best in a well-lit room.

The trendy eco style has greatly increased the demand for wood-imitating patterns in wall coverings. Using real wood on walls is costly, time-consuming and care-challenging.

LEATHER IMITATION Wallpaper imitating leather looks luxurious.

It can be used in any room with the adjustment to design and texture.

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Simulated wood on wallpaper allows choosing from an assortment of colours, textures and laying patterns that is much wider than when it comes to the real thing.

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TEMPERAMENTAL DÉCOR FOREVER YOUNG

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Categorizing people by their temperament goes back to Hippocrates. According to his theory a person can be choleric (or bilious), sanguine, phlegmatic (or lymphatic) or melancholic (or atrabilious).

Each of these categories sees their world in a different way and has his own understanding of beauty.

The choleric person is restless, spontaneous, whimsical and energetic. Decorating for such a person is not a simple task because a choleric individual is so changeable in his preferences, so gluttonous for new experiences that he will hardly be satisfied with one pure, undiluted style.

These people will feel great in an eclectic home, especially considering that they are not scared of extraordinary and bold solutions.

No wonder that such different people require completely different surroundings in order to feel comfortable. Décor is a reflection of the person who lives among it and, to some extent, the means of balancing our weaknesses. For this reason, psychologists as well as interior designers recommend that when planning decorating for a place one takes the psychological type of the owner into consideration.

The choleric person needs a spacious room where furniture and ornaments do not impede his swift movements and wide gesticulation. Emotions abound; therefore the living surroundings do not need drama – they have to be simple and streamlined.

The best style for them is probably minimalistic or hi-tech because they have an innovating streak about them and as such adore everything modern, trendy and exotic.

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Contemporary decorative lighting systems capable of changing the level of illumination if and when the owner’s fancy strikes appeal to the fickle vein in a choleric person.

Yet, if there are no restrictions to the stormy quality of the choleric temperament, it becomes tiring for his friends and family and, sometimes, even for the bilious person himself. To solve this problem one may use the colour as a soothing factor.

Various tones of blue can calm the choleric personalities while keeping their vigour intact. Of course, ever the lovers of contrasts, they will want to dilute the blueness around them by vivid oranges and reds.

But psychologists suggest that some spots of green will create the feeling of being protected from the dangers of the outside world. Green accents will help our bilious friend relax.

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SLIPPING INTO SOMETHING COMFORTABLE

Some people prefer walking around their homes barefoot, others like house slippers.

Both categories will probably love the new invention – disposable soles by one JunSoo Choi. They come smooth on one surface and sticky on the other one. Just step on the latter and go on about your business. They will stick to your feet but do not cause any discomfort. This is a great way to maintain the foot hygiene. Besides, they fit any size foot. They do not slip off your feet in most inopportune moment, they do not need laundering and – and this is extremely important – they will not suffer from your dog’s teeth. The new product is simple and fascinating.

Cleaning Slippers These slippers turn house cleaning into a simple and pleasant chore. Most people hate sweeping and mopping floors. Now, if you hate it you don’t need to clean you house as often as before. Putting on a pair of special slippers and wearing them around the house will be sufficient to make your floors sparkle. Besides, they keep your toes toasty. This functional footwear is made of a 70/30-percent cotton/polyester blend and is machine washable.

It had taken three years for the product to get from obtaining a patent to being offered in stores. Now they are sold at a very affordable $10. These little helpers come in three colours – blue, striped red and bright green. The fabric part of the slipper is detachable and smooth thus it cannot scratch your floors. The cleaning slippers are suitable for any kind of flooring – from linoleum to parquet and tiles.

Getting Rid of House Ants

Oh how we hate our long Canadian winters and how happy we are when warm days arrive, the sun shines and Mother Nature revives itself for yet another summer. Unfortunately this pleasant time is invariably accompanied by the arrival in our homes of not so welcome guests –flies, bugs and other insects, the peskiest of which are tiny house ants.

We know from children’s books that these industrious creatures do a lot of good for the environment but no books describe

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their harmful ways around our houses. They relentlessly overcome the most impassable hurdles, crawling into the tiniest crevices and holes. They eat our food and find refuge in our trash cans.

facturers. Raid and other companies manufacture various products, from sprays to ant traps but they are not very useful in the war against a large colony; in this case you need the help of a professional exterminator.

Do not rejoice in your small victory if you have managed to destroy the enemy with the help of your shoe sole. Killing one single soldier is useless if you have a colony living in your house. The queen remains in the nest hidden from your eyes, while working ants run around the house hunting for food for her majesty. If you wish to get rid of the whole ant colony you don’t necessarily have to raise the floors or knock off tiles looking for their nest.

And do not follow some of inexpert advice like luring ants away with the help of sweetened water – this is a sure way to welcome more than one ant colony into your house.

What you should do is rub some garlic along the paths ants follow a couple of times a month or apply some non-processed vegetable oil along them. Or use one or several of the numerous devices offered by manu-

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Of course, as with any problem, prevention is the best way to avoid it. Do not leave food on surfaces, pack them and hide them away. Sweep crumbs off the table top after meals. Take trash away often, daily if possible. Change the food in your pet’s dish at least once a day. If you are in the bad habit of throwing morsels of food on the floor for your dog or cat to enjoy, wipe off the traces on the floor. Keep lids on your bulk food containers at all times. Wipe fat splashes off your kitchen walls after cooking.

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The history of garden furniture goes as far back as the Ancient Rome. That was where furniture for the country villas of Roman aristocracy was manufactured and used. These pieces were decorated with intricate carvings, gilt, and multi-coloured enamel.

When shopping for this kind of furniture, decide first what its main purpose is and what is more important: its appearance, comfort or practical concerns. Take into consideration such factors as what uses you will have for the piece, how many people are going to use it, and whether you are going to keep it outside all year round or just during the warm months of the year.

Some types of garden furniture we use today have been influenced by various cultures – for example, wicker furniture, the one made of dark wood, and low benches are reminiscent of the traditions of the ancient East.

Have a close look at your lawn and the style of your house since these aspects may define your selection. A large lot with old and strong trees demands something solid like wrought iron items while a backyard with several smaller-sized well-tended flower beds circled by narrow paths and adorned with cute fountains will happily receive a luxurious natural wood set.

Garden furniture has been very popular in Canada for many decades. It comes in a wide variety of styles and materials, from simple and traditional to fancy designer numbers with a futuristic look.

Garden furniture plays a dual role – as the place for relaxation and as a lawn ornament.

Wicker has been the most popular material for garden furniture. Nevertheless, wicker furniture does not suit every backyard. It is compatible with a Japanese style garden

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due to its lacy look. Wicker furniture (as well wickerwork pergolas and other items) look great in a free style garden rich in fences and shady corners. Not so suitable it is for a traditional style garden.

Another popular kind of lawn furniture is metal, either wrought or cast. Wrought metal pieces are better for sufficiently spacious lots. Its advantages include durability and longevity, yet its solid weight can be a drawback. Cast metal objects for the garden are made of lightweight aluminum which makes it easier to move and store.

Aluminum furniture is usually enameled in any colour to satisfy your fancy.

The worst disadvantage of metal garden furniture is that it becomes overheated by the sun and feels unpleasantly cool in a cooler weather. Therefore, before resting your decision on metal items for the outside relaxation, consider whether your family and friends will feel comfortable enough using it.

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Shipping containers have been gaining popularity in construction industry. While in the past they used to be employed for compact temporary structures only nowadays this material serves to build sufficiently large and complicated assemblies. Who knows, maybe soon we will see skyscrapers made of containers.

expensive and its delivery to any place on Earth costs very little because any container that has served to deliver food and other items to the destination point can be used for building purposes.

ping containers. This 4-story building was completed in 2001 using 20 containers.

Inside the complex one can find not only residential apartments but also offices and shops.

For constructing Bharti workers connected 134 containers to create a 2500 square metres complex. It contains rooms to accommodate up to 50 persons, a kitchen, a dining room, a gym, a common room and of course scientific labs. The exterior of the station is wrapped in metallic insulation protecting the station from winds and cold.

ECONTAINER BRIDGE IN ISRAEL

BHATI - AN INDIAN STATION IN ANTARCTIC

RESIDENTIAL CONTAINER CITY LONDON, ENGLAND

On the site of a former junkyard located at a Tel-Aviv suburb works to construct a new park are underway. The park will be named after the legendary Israeli military and political leader Ariel Sharon. A 160-metre long bridge will become one of the central elements of this place of rest and recreation.

The bridge will be constructed from shipping containers of different colours.

Bharti is an Antarctic research station commissioned by India. This material is not

Container City in London was one of the first larger facilities constructed from ship-

ECOntainer bridge is intended as an exclusively foot and bicycle bridge. It will also

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have two observation platforms whence beautiful views of Tel Aviv and Ariel Sharon Park will open.

the exterior. Some of the containers feature perforations to provide light, while still providing shade. Local bamboo products were used for indoor and outdoor flooring and lots of windows provide natural daylight and a visual connection to the surrounding farm.

CITÉ A DOCKS – A HOSTEL IN FRANCE Cattani Architects have designed the recently completed Cité A Docks student housing project, located in Le Havre, France.

TONY’S FARM. SHANGHAI, CHINA

ception area, store and connection to the packaging warehouse. The 1,060-squaremetre center will also serve as the lobby to a new hotel, which will be the next phase of development. The arrangement of the containers creates shady protected zones and quiet spaces.

Tony’s Farm is located just outside of Shanghai and is the largest organic vegetable farm in the area. To provide better service to its customers and create a closer connection to the food, they built a new welcome center in 2011. Built from 78 recycled shipping containers, the welcome center houses offices, courtyards, a lobby and re-

The Shanghai Playze company has designed and built the center with the goal of sustainability in construction and operation. The reuse of the shipping containers minimizes the production of new materials. The containers are heavily insulated to minimize energy loss without losing the raw industrial effect of the container on

The housing consists of 100 apartments made out of old shipping containers. Each resident has a 24-metre separate room with a kitchen and a washroom.

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HIVE-INN – THE FIRST HIGHRISE MADE OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS The Hive-Inn planned to be constructed in Hong Kong is designed to be made of recycled shipping containers, transformed into themed branded rooms. Its modular design would allow for rooms to be traded in and out without disturbing the surrounding containers, because of its ‘hivelike’ structure. Hong Kong-based architects OVA Studio said its concept could offer lots of advertising opportunities, although there are no plans to build the hotel yet.

The design could also be adapted for emergency housing or medical care units as well as portable homes.

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While archeologists keep digging for abandoned ancient cities, new unpopulated habitats keep being regularly built all over the world.

These are towns where no people have ever lived and probably never will.

Ciruegna, Spain Fifteen years ago, inhabitants of Ciruegna village in Spain were happy to hear about a builder’s plan to construct a whole town in the vicinity. The town was supposed to accommodate ten thousand people and have the entire necessary infrastructure including shops, swimming pools, restaurants and even a golf club.

Construction works on New Ciruegna went promptly ahead, and by the mid-2010s in an empty field a full-blown town has appeared, with over 100 single family houses and apartment buildings. But the world financial crisis that had started in 2008 and hit Spain badly intervened with the plans and the homes remained non-inhabited.

Today, there are hardly a hundred of people residing in New Ciruegna. Nevertheless the whole infrastructure is in place and functions properly. The golf club is booming thanks to the players who come over here from the whole province of Rioja to use its links.

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Interestingly enough, Ciruegna is a point on the most popular Saint John pilgrimage route, and thousands of people pass the streets of this ghost town daily creating a semblance of a bustling life .

much less popular area called Vozdvizhenka exists. Not many visitors and residents of the Ukrainian capital ever come to its streets suitable to be a location for a movie about the world after the human civilization has ceased to exist.

Vozdvizhenka, Kiev, Ukraine

The beginnings though were quite optimistic, with a builder who planned to create in the centre of the city an upscale residential development for the richest Ukrainians who

Just a few hundred metres away from the swarming with tourists Andreevsky Incline a

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Kilamba, Angola No one knows the reason behind the decision of a Chinese investment company to build a 500-thousand city of Kilamba thirty kilometres outside of Rwanda. Despite the fact that Angola is one of the richest countries in so-called Black Africa, its economy is based on oil production. There is virtually no middle class; therefore, there are no buyers for new real estate.

The plan was to sell most of the apartments in Kilamba to the buyers who would take out a mortgage but soon it has become clear that a system of mortgages in Uganda is practically non-existent. Now, the half-a-million city has the population of just over a thousand. There is only one school in the whole big territory and its students are bussed here because they all live far away.

rule the country’s political and economic life. The plans have been ruined not so much by the worldwide financial crisis and inflated prices as by the poor quality of construction. The buildings started falling apart virtually immediately after the new owners had moved in while chronic problems with utilities ruined all hopes of a promising future once and for all.

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ZODIAC AND YOUR BEDROOM (Conclusion)

VIRGO. You are a born designer. Combining white and blue with wood or wood-imitation furniture you will achieve an amazing feeling of harmony and calm in your bedroom. Paintings and photographs depicting nature will bring joy and add nobility to the look of the room.

LIBRA. People born under this sign are lucky because decorating talents are in their blood. There is no point advising them on the colour scheme or the choice of furniture – Libra people only listen to their inner designer and the result is wonderful, cozy and eyepleasing. Just take a quick look at the available furniture, and your taste will lead you to the right choice.

SCORPIO. God is in details.

Pay attention to particulars that are so important to you when decorating. A cushion placed on the bed at a certain angle or a fancy alarm clock will bring joy. Keep to

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the ideas of traditional and durable when thinking furniture. A strong and massive bed will visually ground the whole look while bed linens in unusual colours will make the look of your bedroom unique and intriguing.

ARIES. You love everything new and avant-garde.

Bring this inclination to the style you choose for your bedroom. Bring in a lot of catchy and unusual objects.

Walls in purple, silver or green should be hung with modernist paintings and photographs that will look great with an unusual-looking bed. Potted plants will add some romantic coziness to the futuristic décor.

CAPRICORN. People born under this sign are practical and tidy. They will choose all the objects in the room to serve their direct purpose and arranged in a perfect order. The warm colour scheme is preferable. Your love of nature should be translated into natural materials used in your bedroom décor.

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AQUARIUS. In a room of an Aquarius, the simple and the avant-garde easily combine. Placing striking elements against the backdrop of traditional design is their thing. The preferred colour scheme is light blue, green and yellow. Soft yet bright lighting and bed linens in pastel colours will help you feel relaxed in your bedroom.

PISCES. Members of this group sometimes feel the insistent need to be alone. A canopy over the bed may help create a feeling of comfort and protection against the dangers of the outside world. The best colour scheme for a Pisces is in soft tones of lavender, purple and blue.

Hopefully, the information above will help some of you solve decorating issues. We will be happy if your bedroom designed with the help of this article will become a cozy little refuge where you can forget your problems and fill up on positive energy.

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