Smart Homes May 2012 by Nation Publishing Co. Limited

Foreword

PUBLISHER: Vivian-Anne Gittens EDITOR: Lyle Jones ADVERTISING MANAGER: Paulette Jones WRITERS: Cheryl Harewood, Aprille Thomas PHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Christaldi, Rawle Culbard DESIGN/LAYOUT: Randy Phillips – Imageworx ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES: Adrian Bowen – Tel: (246) 430-5519 Email: adrianbowen@nationnews.com Kelly Johnally – Tel: (246) 430-5515 Email: kellyjohnally@nationnews.com PRINTERS: Printweb Caribbean Ltd (246) 434-6719 COVER PHOTO: Dan Christaldi

t is said that a man’s home is his castle, and for Barbadians nothing holds more true. Small wonder then that homeownership ranks so highly with the average Barbadian. We acquire or rent our spaces and transform them into the most comfortable and beautiful homes. Traditions have changed over the years and with them the concepts governing many of the trends involving décor, the use of space, accents and so on. However, what remains the same is the way we cherish our homes. Not only are they a source of comfort and pride, they provide a sense of achievement. It’s no coincidence then that anything to do with innovations in the home piques Barbadians’ curiosity. We like to keep abreast of the latest trends and will remodel, retrofit and whatever else is necessary to ensure our homes are with it. If you are one of those who are interested in what’s with it, you’re in the right place. In this our second issue of Smart Homes, you’ll find attractively displayed, many of the latest accents and furnishings available on the market today. In addition, the range of service providers represented on our pages ensures this magazine will remain a valuable reference tool for those of you seeking information on the many aspects of homeownership. Add to that the many interesting features our team of writers have prepared for your entertainment and enlightenment. Concerned about the rising energy bill? Read how a little retrofitting can help to contain costs. Buying a counter top these days is a major investment, we share some tips to help you make a smart choice. We’ll take you on a tour of a breathtakingly beautiful property called Newlands, a stately residence and a world not usually seen. Read about a talented young architect with a difference, whose approach in his field can best be described as holistic, and who’ll share interesting insights. Feature articles will encourage you to redefine your perception of the use of space in the various rooms of your home. And for the guys, we’ll enter explore the wonder that is the man cave. Smart Homes: providing information, entertainment and inspiration. Read on and enjoy.

Lyle Jones EDITOR

Smart Homes is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of The Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies. For general info email: smarthomes@nationnews.com Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions. This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without the explicit permission of the Publisher. ©2012 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED

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smart homes

Contents 06

Perfect Picks

Bedroom Thoughts, Décor Ideas

Purchasing A Home

Elegant Ideas Add Touch of Class

Living Green

Inspired By The Big Picture

Retroﬁtting: Reducing Your Energy Bill

Escape To The Man Cave

Tips On Tops

Modern Spaces: Popular Pantries

Redeﬁning The Dining Room

Comfort Key In Home Ofﬁce

Mezmerizing Beauty At Newlands

Furniture Choice Counts in The Great Outdoors

Childs Play: Décor For The Young

Image provided by Dwellings Design Studio

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ACCENTS

PERFECT

Picks Muchomix Multi-Frame *

Wall Hanging Image provided by Gajah

Small Time Desk Clock * Grapevine Wine Rack *

Coral Porcelain Lamp *

Maui Lounge *

* Images provided by Dwellings Design Studio. 6

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LIFESTYLE

CONSIDER A

Condo B

uying a home is one of the biggest and most important decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you are a first-time buyer, or a veteran homeowner looking to trade up or make a new start, you will inevitably be faced with a number of questions. Your answers will lead you to the home that’s right for you. One of the most fundamental questions all homes seekers face is whether to buy a condominium, town house (these are vastly becoming popular), or a single family house. There are advantages and disadvantages to each and only you can know what’s right for you. Condominiums can be the best choice if you are interested in buying property without having to look after what are referred to as the common areas. The condominium lifestyle typically enables owners to enjoy the types of amenities they not easily afford to buy for their own homes, including security, spas and swimming pools – in some instances. Of course, these come with a cost attached. Condominium living requires that you pay fees for the maintenance of most common areas. In return, you will benefit from a significant reduction in the amount of time and effort that you’ll have to put in to maintaining your property. The security systems and services offered by

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condo developments will also provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that both you and your property are being protected. Condominiums, as well as town houses can provide an affordable, attractive option for ﬁrst time buyers, or established homeowner. They can be good options for persons who are looking for a smaller property for retirement, since many retirees are likely to enjoy the services, security and easy maintenance offered by a condominium. Whether it is a condominium, town house or single family home, you should always give consideration to the following: Location – Where do you want to be? Privacy – Is it important to you to have complete privacy or do you ﬁnd close neighbours to be a comfort? Responsibility – Do you need total control over decisions affecting your home or are you attracted to the idea of sharing decision-making with your neighbours? Maintenance – Are you a homebody who enjoys getting dirty in the yard or are you delighted with the idea of never having to cut a blade of grass again? Budget – How much do you have to spend? Depending on where you want to live, a condominium may be the only option that meets your budget.

If you are a homeowner who is delighted with the idea of never having to cut a blade of grass again, then a condominium could be your preferred choice of a home.

smart homes

LIFESTYLE

LIVING

GREEN STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

Create a tree-free home: Reduce the number of paper items you use in your home as much as possible, as this preserves the environment by saving trees.

hen it comes to green living, two of the most important concepts to keep in mind are waste prevention and recycling, as these help keep the environment safe and free of pollutants and other hazardous materials. While some people may think living a greener lifestyle

of items manufacturers must produce. Some helpful resources for purchasing used items are local newspaper listings, websites that offer used products and garage sales.

Here are some of the most common eco-friendly tips that can help you live a greener, and healthier, lifestyle: •

Simplify your life: One of the best ways to reduce the amount of waste you generate is to simplify your life as much as possible. This involves getting rid of things you do not use regularly, as reducing what you own can help you purchase and create less waste in the future.

•

Reduce your purchases: Reducing your purchases usually starts by only buying items you need. When making purchases, you should also consider how the production of a certain product affects the environment.

•

Replace disposable products: When possible, you should replace disposable items with reusable ones, such as razors, food storage containers, batteries, ink cartridges, and coffee ﬁlters.

•

Purchase used products: When possible, you should purchase used products instead of new ones, as this reduces the number

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involves making major sacriﬁces, it is ultimately as easy as simplifying your life in small ways and being cognizant of how you dispose of waste. To help you reduce the amount of waste you generate and live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, it can help to follow some eco-friendly tips.

•

Borrow from friends: If you need to use something temporarily, borrowing it from a friend is a better idea than purchasing a new item.

•

Create a tree-free home: Reduce the number of paper items you use in your home as much as possible, as this preserves the environment by saving trees. Some ways you can do this are to replace paper napkins with cloth ones, purchase toilet paper made from the highest post-consumer waste content you can ﬁnd, and reuse items like envelopes and wrapping paper.

For homeowners who want to preserve the environment and reduce the amount of waste they generate, “going green” can be extremely useful. Keep in mind that taking even the smallest steps toward protecting the environment can make your world a better place, as making simple changes to your lifestyle can make a huge difference in the amount of pollution that clutters Barbados’ landﬁlls.

CONSERVATION

RETROFITTING:

Reducing Your Energy Bill BY APRILLE THOMAS

All homeowners, regardless of the size of their house, are considering ways to cut back on their electricity bills. Several options are being explored as they attempt to cut costs, but the ﬁrst choice needn’t be to cut the lights and burn candles. Technology can offer some less archaic options for improving on energy efﬁciency in your home.

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CONSERVATION

CREATIVE OPTION LED lighting being used to good effect on the stairwell.

LIGHTS OUT! Light-emitting diode (LED) technology is on the tip of many tongues, and with good reason. LEDs have the ability to reduce energy consumption by 80 per cent, last ten times longer than market alternatives, and surpass the efficiency of fluorescent lamps. What’s more is that they do it all without containing mercury or lead. And this isn’t just ‘one size fits all’ because there are different systems from which you can choose to fit your household needs. Dimmable LED lighting systems serve to reduce lighting electricity consumption by 50 per cent to 85 per cent, can last for 50 000 to 150 000 hours, and don’t flicker, make noise or emit ultraviolet rays. They are also completely recyclable. You can use dimmable LEDs to monopolize on energy efficiency around your home by a process called ‘daylight harvesting’, which maximizes the use of natural light. This is best suited for people with home offices, skylights or atria that allow for a significant amount of natural light to enter the room. After you have a daylight harvesting system installed, photosensors will send signals to the lighting control system module, which will appropriately shut off or dim lights to suit.

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smart homes

CONSERVATION

COOL IT DOWN Summer is rapidly approaching, and it’s bringing with it those high summer temperatures. Fans will be whirring and air-conditioning units will be working overtime in homes across Barbados. This will no doubt result in high electricity bills, meaning less money to spend on your highly anticipated summer vacation trip. But there is a way to combat the summer heat — by getting it before it gets you! Rather than focusing your energies on dealing with heat, try keeping it out in the first place. Regular glass only blocks out about 11 per cent of the solar radiation trying to enter your house. Solar control film works by reducing the amount of solar heat transmission through glass windows by increasing the solar rejection and solar absorption through the glass. There are two types of solar control films, absorbing and reflective. Absorbing films are typically coloured or dyed and work by absorbing the solar energy at the glass, therefore reducing the direct transmission into the room. These aren’t quite as effective as reflective films however, and the heat absorption can put thermal stress on the windows, which can result in cracks. It is important then, that careful precautions are taken with this kind of film. The second type, reflective solar control film, is metallic and can reflect up to 50 per cent of solar radiation. These films are significantly more efficient in keeping heat out and reducing the stress placed on your fans and air-conditioning units; ergo, saving you money. These are only some of the many ways that you can cut costs around your home. Modern technology isn’t just limited to providing us with smart phones and tablets, but it can also be applied to simple household fixtures to ensure energy efficiency.

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TINTED WINDOWS Tinting windows with dark coloured ﬁlm (at top) reduces the transfer of heat through the glass and into the room. Installing sunshades to work in conjunction with tinted windows (above) provides additional protection.

A MUST HAVE Most modern, upscale kitchens come complete with islands..

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Image provided by Cornerstone Builders

TIPS ON

Tops C

hoosing a countertop is fun but it is also a costly decision that you need to live with for a long time, so here are some tips that may help you on your quest for that perfect top. The most important advice that anyone can give you is to explore all options before making a ﬁnal decision. Even with all the available information online, we still do not research our options enough before making a selection. This often happens to buyers in search of the perfect countertop. People are more concerned with aesthetics than anything else, and while this is of great importance, there are many other factors to consider before taking the plunge.

People are more concerned with aesthetics than anything else, and while this is of great importance, there are many other factors to consider before taking the plunge. COST: The importance here is that you will probably have to live with your choice for a long time, therefore when you look at all your options, are you willing to let a few hundred dollars tie you down to something that does not reach your expectations? This can be in the area of aesthetics or functionality. You can easily change the colour of a wall, or even recover the sofa if you’re tired of the fabric, but not so with a countertop. So make sure you really like the colour. DURABILITY: Countertops work hard, so you want to be sure they can resist harsh treatment. As we’ve already determined, this is a costly investment so you want to be sure that what you choose can withstand chopping, slicing and dicing without scratching. Maybe you like to roll dough or make pastry; then a bacteria-free top would be important. What if you have to quickly set down a hot pot, will you be left with a permanent scorch mark? And what about oil, curry, tomato sauce, and red wine, to name a few, that may leave permanent stains? And let us not forget discolouration from everyday household cleaners! Yes, there is much to consider when you look at the range of products on the market, but here are a few points about the different materials out there to help you in the process. Granite: It’s a natural stone that comes in many beautiful colours and patterns with a polished ﬁnish. Like marble or any other natural stone it is timeless, and with care it can be a good long-term investment. It will not easily scratch or scorch, but it is porous and will require a sealer— otherwise keep the wild, red wine parties out of the kitchen! SOLID SURFACE: It’s a man-made acrylic based product that is non- porous and easy to clean. It comes in many lovely colours and can be fabricated into forms and shapes. However be careful of knives and hot pans that can damage the surface. Oh – and beware of those household cleaners, otherwise your white countertop could become ughhh – yellow!

Image provided by Wolseley Barbados Ltd.

QUARTZ: The crème de la crème in countertops. It’s natural stone and recommended for its outstanding durability. It comes in many colours and is maintenance free. It will not scratch, burn or stain and is non- porous and non-absorbent. Because it does not hold bacteria, it is also recommended for use in hospitals, offices, hotel lobbies or restaurants. So the next time you are in the market for a countertop, do your homework first. Don’t just run out and buy the first product you see, make sure it can also live up to your lifestyle.

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DÉCOR

REDEFINING THE

Dining room STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

t may be called your dining room – the place where you eat most of your meals, but have you ever stopped to think of the many purposes for which you use your dining room, or your dining room table? This room can serve many functions from office to family room, and of course for dining and entertaining. It’s also the place where your son or daughter may sit to complete homework. So how do we fit all of this into one room and still keep it looking great for guests? It’s a good idea to determine how you plan to use the dining room before you actually do any decorating. This way you can make a list of everything you’ll need to make the room function properly. If you use your dining room as a multi-purpose room, one of the most important considerations is adequate storage. Add an extra buffet or sideboard for all your office supplies and children’s games. It can also do dual duty as an additional serving area when you have guests. Add layered window treatments. By installing blinds, shears and a solid drapery, you can adjust the light and privacy level to suit your needs and your mood. Include bookcases if you have a lot of books or need additional storage. In addition, use a functional dining table that you can adjust to suit your needs. By adding a loveseat or a couple of upholstered chairs to your dining room, you’ll provide a great place to relax and read a book. Upholstered pieces will also add warmth to the room. People rarely use a dining room for formal dining anymore, so why not make the room truly functional? Install a sound system and a flat screen TV and you’ll have your own home theatre. If you are planning on using your dining room for reading or crafts, you’ll need to add task lighting. Place an accent table and lamp next to an upholstered chair to create a cosy reading area. Why not add a touch of nature by bringing in houseplants and flowers? Live plants can do wonders for any room and silk flowers add to any décor. Don’t forget floor coverings. Carpeting and area rugs can make a room feel warm and inviting. If you place a rug under the dining table, make sure that it is large enough so the chairs remain on the rug even when they are pulled out.

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Whether your dining room is part of an open plan designed home or is an ofﬁcial room in the house, your dining table should be the main piece of furniture.

smart homes

FEATURE - NEWLANDS

MESMERIZING BEAUTY

At Newlands

STORY BY CHERYL HAREWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DAN CHRISTALDI

CLASSIC and stylish! Contemporary and traditional! Old and new! Timeless! A provocative sense of architectural beauty! Alluring and mesmerizing! Not even the above descriptions can aptly describe the “royal” beauty of Newlands — an ofﬁcial island residence standing stately on Pine Hill Road, St Michael, in close proximity to Government House.

uilt over a century ago, this former planter’s class property offers its visitors a sense of serenity, despite its location — off from a busy street. From the moment you enter its gates, you feel a sense of awe as you view this magnificent home, set on more than an acre of land and complete with lush matured trees, beautiful flowers, plants, a swimming pool, maids’ quarters and neatly trimmed, manicured lawns. The towering trees seemingly stand at attention in salute as you stroll in the gardens. The formal entrance into Newlands offers an old-world, plantation charm. As you mount the stairs you come face to face with a dedicated waiting room, situated to the right and beautifully decorated with traditional mahogany furniture and modern finishes. A walk into the formal living room introduces you to tastefully

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chosen French lounge chairs that combine well with the mahogany furniture and furnishings, including local pieces of art and sculptures. These sit well on a polished mahogany ﬂoor. A huge, crystal chandelier with 12 candleholders is this room’s centre-piece. The formal dining room is a masterpiece, with a large mahogany dining room set capable of seating 10 in sturdy, caned-bottom chairs. Green–glazed candles in glass candleholders add a touch of elegance. To the left is a long almost wrap-around terrace, saved for the “morning room” which is decently positioned near to the main outside dining area – the ideal place for hosting guests. There’s also an open bar and neatly placed white wicker chairs, accented with red and white cushions – compliments the exquisitely decorative touch of Newlands’current ﬁrst lady. The “morning room” is the place to relax; possibly enjoy a cup of

NEWLANDS Situated along Pine Road, is a magnificent, beautifully designed home, which was formerly owned by the planter’s class. Surrounded by lush trees, well-maintained manicured lawns and bright flowers, it is one of the island’s official residences.

WAITING ROOM This long, stately main corridor at Newlands is a welcoming “waiting room”. It leads to the top ﬂoor, as well as the dining room, reception area, family room, the guest bathroom and the kitchen.

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FEATURE - NEWLANDS

tea or coffee; read a magazine, or simply enjoy the ﬁrst glimpse of a new day. An entertainment corner, piano and plasma television lends further appeal to this room that opens to another area of the terrace. To the right – off of the dining room – you’ll ﬁnd a rather long corridor, furnished with additional armless cane-bottomed mahogany chairs, while a large traditional two-end mahogany couch waits for you to rest awhile. The walls along this corridor are aptly decorated with paintings by local artists; each painting depicting some aspect of Barbadian life. “Evening Wash” by Ann Stapleton, showcasing women washing clothing and themselves at the river; “Spreading The Word” by Virgil Broodhagen — a painting of two women with Bibles in hands, and those of the Barbados railway and Codrington College can also be viewed. Further right is the air-conditioned family/ media room complete with modern, upscale furniture. It’s by far the most colourful downstairs room, with orange, blue, beige

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LIVING ROOM Newlands’ formal living room offers an old-world, plantation style charm, and the chandelier, pictured left, is the centrepiece.

and burgundy throw cushions, ornate lamps, a 60-inch plasma television, and an elegant, sleek, hard-pressed elephant grass dining table which seats nine. These lend a feeling of luxurious living. To enter this room, which is off of the kitchen and library you’ll pass a nicely decorated half-bathroom. The perfect room for guests! Newlands’ modern, renovated, paw-paw painted kitchen is highlighted with brown, beige and black granite countertops; and a large island capable of seating 10. European stainless steel appliances,

including a six-burner counter-top Viking professional stove; double ovens, warming drawers; self-closing cupboards; multifunctioning state-of-the-art microwave, complete with toaster oven, grill and warmer; ice-maker, wine cooler, doubledoor freezer and refrigerator, all make this modern kitchen functional. A climb up the skilfully, hand-designed, winding, mahogany staircase lands you on the top floor, where an over-sized lovely ‘paint-dripping’ painting in hues of blue and gold greets you. You’ll also find four superbly furnished, air-conditioned, stately bedrooms — each with its own personality and name — Royalty, Blue, Green and Gold. The Royalty Room is the master bedroom, and while you probably won’t want to cramp the bed’s style by actually pulling back the neatly fitted red,

FAMILY ROOM The family/media room at Newlands is stylish, colourful, spacious, and carries a blend of traditional and contemporary furniture.

KITCHEN Modern European stainless steel appliances, and an huge island which seats up to ten people, make the kitchen at Newlands a great hanging out spot when cooking.

MASTER BEDROOM As is the case with many traditional plantation houses, there is the blend of mahogany furniture (like this four-poster bed) and modern pieces. Referred to as the Royal Room, the master bedroom at Newlands is truly a room ďŹ t for royalty.

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FEATURE - NEWLANDS

With a total of five bathrooms in the main house and three in the staff quarters; captivating grounds, elegance and style, Newlands truly lends a royal experience to Barbados’ architectural landscape. burgundy and gold bed covers and sheets, you’ll still yearn for the comfort this four-poster, queen-sized offers. With long, hanging matching curtains, this room speaks of passion. Like throughout the house, traditional mahogany furniture is married with the modern, and here you’ll find a teak-finished built-in wardrobe. At the foot of the bed is a chaise lounge, perfectly placed on a colourful, Bosnia-designed rug. An en-suite “pure-white” master bathroom and walk in closet completes this room. The blue “sea-like” room has its own touch of elegance, and is considered by the first lady of the house, as the sitting room for the entire floor. It speaks of tranquility and class. Then there’s the Green Room, designed specifically for persons who dislike strong colours. As in the Blue Room all the furnishings in the green room are green. Natural coconutbased wall decorations and hangings by Denise Mernard Greenidge add style. Both the Blue and Green rooms are furnished with double beds, and can sleep up to four persons. Twin beds in the Gold Room make this room ideal for children or elderly couples who are desirous of enjoying their sleeping space. With its own en-suite bathroom, this room, which abounds with antiques, can also be used by either the bride, or her guests, whose wedding is taking place at Newlands. With a total of five bathrooms in the main house and three in the staff quarters; captivating grounds, elegance and style, Newlands truly lends a royal experience to Barbados’ architectural landscape.

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FIRE RESISTANT TERMITE RESISTANT MOISTURE RESISTANT

ONE GREAT CONCEPT NUMEROUS UNIQUE PRODUCTS smart homes

DÉCOR

Decorating a child’s room should be fun and exciting. Don’t force your style or colour likes and dislikes on your children.

CHILDSPLAY:

Décor For The Young STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

F DECORATING your child’s room is something on your “do- it -yourself list”, remember that bright, playful colours are the way to go. You also need to make provision for lots of space, as children live quite active lives. Decorating a child’s room should be fun and exciting. One thing you need to remember is to keep the décor age appropriate. You wouldn’t want to decorate your ﬁve-year-old daughter’s room in the same style as your teenage daughter. That doesn’t mean you have to start decorating all over every few years. What it means is that you should strive to create a room that will grow with your child, whether it be a boy or a girl.

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WHEN DECORATING YOUR CHILD’S ROOM: • Get a feel for the colours your young child likes by giving him or her a box of crayons, and allowing them to pick out their favourite colours. Use those colours as inspiration for their room’s décor. The older child or children can easily tell you what colours they prefer. • Don’t force your style or colour likes and dislikes on your children. Despite their young age, they are developing their personalities and their rooms are an extension of those personalities. (The lesson here is to set limits but also to give your child room to create their special place in the home.) • Furniture themes for your child’s room can be: whimsical with butterﬂies, bears, teddy bears and bees, elegant country style, romantic like a princess inspired theme, or playful like a cricket, football or superhero theme for a boy’s room. Remember to use lots of soft accessories for the girls – such as throw cushions and pillows; lots of stuff toys, and again, lots of colour. • Always remember that your young child will one day become a teenager and later a young adult. This means that colour schemes and furniture will have to be changed at some point in time. When decorating therefore, always think about the use of that room in the future. • Functionality is the key to designing your child’s room. Make it functional by placing only the necessary furniture in the room. • Lots of storage space is a necessity for adolescents and teenagers. Make sure the room has an adequate amount of cupboards and drawers.

5. smart homes

SECURITY DÉCOR

BEDROOM THOUGHTS

Décor Ideas

STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

ost of us spend hours upon hours in the bedroom. If yours is your treasured sanctuary, you should enhance it, and turn it into the retreat you’ve always wanted. First, set the atmosphere with colour. Some might choose to use neutral colours like vanilla, eggshell or pale yellow as the backdrop, but you can consider other less obvious but no less relaxing hues like lavender, pale blue, light green, or shades of brown. Many of today’s designers say their clients want simplicity in their lives and are asking for a colour scheme that will reﬂect that sense of clarity and space. Talk with a professional designer or the experts at your paint or home improvement store and discover what colour options are available for the atmosphere you want to evoke. Consider the inhabitants. Consult design books and other reference materials when decorating your bedroom, a guest room or a child’s room. If it’s the master bedroom, will it primarily serve as a place to sleep in, or do you also expect to relax in it and watch at the end of a long day? That may mean putting in a sitting area and an armoire or entertainment centre. If it’s your child’s bedroom, consider whether they will need a desk for doing homework. How about a toy box? For children’s bedrooms, the key is to get sturdy, well-made furniture that will last for years. For the guest bedroom, think soothing and welcoming, with lots of comfortable pillows; a large nightstand with a bright, attractive light; extra blankets, linens and towels; plenty of hangers in the closet; a dresser; and, if you’re feeling really hospitable, a luggage rack. Don’t forget the windows! Unless you live in a high-rise building, you’ll need some kind of privacy curtains in your bedrooms. Even in a high-rise, you’ll probably want something that will keep the early morning sun from intruding on your late weekend sleep-ins! For children’s rooms consider whimsical patterns and curtains. For master bedrooms and guest rooms, think luxurious curtains and sheer linings that allow privacy but still let in plenty of day time light. Finish with accessories. Buy the best and most sumptuous linens that you can afford, especially for your bedding and pillows. Since the whole purpose of decorating bedrooms is to create a calm, inviting haven in which you can unwind, it’s worth the extra expense to ensure a restful night’s sleep or nap. Toss in some colourful throw pillows, and for your children’s room, let them choose their posters and other wall decor, but consider classic, framed artwork that features their favourite literary characters. Let older children and teens express their personality by allowing them freedom to decide on their own decor.

Images 1 and 3 provided by Dwellings Design Studio. 32

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FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE

CUSTOMIZE CUST CU STOM ST OMIZ OM IZEE YOUR IZ YOUR OWN OWN HHOM HOME! OME! OM E!

FOR SALE FOR SALE

NOW AVAILABLE!

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DÉCOR Remember that simplicity is the key when it comes to decorating your home.

ELEGANT ACCENTS

Add Touch Of Class STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

legant living room designs are easy to create if you remember to let the inherent virtues of the pieces dictate the décor. The quality and grace of timeless classics need very little embellishment. Of course, contemporary pieces also have their rightful place and can bring dull rooms to life. This essential room is the social centre of your home. It is where your good taste, attention to detail and appreciation for quality and understatement will be most observed and valued. However, in putting together a design strategy for this important space, it’s easy to overdo it. When it comes to elegant living room designs, less is often more. Fine craftsmanship and quality materials will speak volumes. HERE ARE SOME OTHER HELPFUL TIPS: Don’t overdo your window treatments with miles of trim and elaborate sheers. Lighter, breezier styles are taking over where windows are concerned, with the focus going to the shape of the window and the view outdoors. Use your budget to buy the very best

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lightweight materials available. Invest in wool rugs or carpets. Wool carpeting is the premier material of choice for colour intensity and comfort in elegant living room designs. In dry weather conditions like we have in Barbados, wool will release moisture to help create a more comfortable ambient humidity. Wool is also strong and resilient, resisting spills and standing up to years of wear. Texture your walls. Custom, textured, wall treatments are expensive, but they offer shading and interest that no simple coat of paint can match. The right treatment will make your walls a work of art. Elegant living room designs that take advantage of wall space to add intensity and sophistication are a big hit these days. Remember that simplicity is the key to decorating your living room. Too often, persons tend to overdecorate this essential room. Crystal, silk, gold, silver, antiques, and objets d’art that are all stunning individually can look more like a jumble sale when too many pieces are vying for attention. Choose a focus decorative item for each wall and work from there.

smart homes

FEATURE - KEVIN HARRISON

KEVIN

Harrison

INSPIRED BY THE BIG PICTURE STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

ndoubtedly, 34-year-old Kevin Harrison epitomizes the very essence of the modern-day architect – but he is much more than that. He is a visionary; an artist who with one stroke of his brush can make any picture complete. In fact, completeness and holistic are words often found on Kevin’s tongue. His passion for the world of architecture has fashioned him into a craftsman in his field; one who is philosophically in favour of “more affordable housing”, “environmental building design”, and more options in building technology to enable property developers and designers to create better building solutions while giving value to clients. His quest for a holistic approach to architecture sees him straddling the fields of architecture landscape design, construction and project management. As an “all-rounder”, Kevin, who is founder of Ur-Imagination Inc. and has interests in five other companies, has firmly placed his stamp on many projects located along the island’s platinum coast. According to him: “About 90 per cent of my projects have been on Barbados’ West Coast. It is a difficult market to access but at the same time, those with considerable financial resources are more open to taking risks, especially when engaging a younger professional. Those who have less spending power tend to be more conservative about their approach. This is the primary reason why I’ve had some successes on the West Coast”.

WEST COAST WONDER Chartered Architect Kevin Harrison

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Architects are therefore able to directly influence the way people live, in terms of how they interact with their environment. When you visit a major city around the world, the cameras come out to capture the architecture. Speaking candidly during an interview with Smart Homes, the unassuming Kevin also confirmed that although the majority of the company’s commissions are international investors, he also looks forward to working with local clients in helping them realize their ambitions. Kevin believes that competition today in the architectural field is rife. “I have to be furtive about how I go about architecture in Barbados. Like the other established professions, it is very difficult for a young professional to compete in this market,’ he remarked. You can say that Kevin was born with architecture in his blood. His father has worked in the field for many years; so have other members in his family. His decision to enter the field came naturally, and he cemented his God-given talent when he left Harrison College to study at the Caribbean School of Architecture in 1998. Two years later he headed to London, where he completed an undergraduate degree, before moving on to the University of Westminster where he completed two Master’s degrees and two postgraduate diplomas. The result was a professional of the built environment with specialties in environmental design and technology, urban design, architecture and project management. He would later say: “I chose architecture because it is a powerful science. To properly understand how we as humans emerged from living in caves to living in skyscrapers has always been of interest to me. Architects are therefore able to directly influence the way people live, in terms of how they interact with their environment. When you visit a major city around the world, the cameras come out to capture the architecture. “In fact, through the years, as I developed a better understanding of architectural design, I also recognized the importance of appreciating the context in which projects are developed. By context, I am referring to the physical environment of the site and its immediate environs. This is where landscape design and urban design, which is the design

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FEATURE - KEVIN HARRISON

of towns and cities, became important to my development,” Kevin added. This young professional is of the view that the architect of old was, in the true sense of the profession, the master builder – one who had a considerable appreciation for architectural design, engineering, landscape design, quantity surveying and construction.” But, he noted: “There was a paradigm shift away from the architect as master builder to the professional in the project team who dealt strictly with architectural design. In so doing the above-mentioned professions received greater acknowledgment with respect to their roles in the project team. This change increased the potential for conﬂict within the project team as the individual professions competed for turf within the project team; such a competition lives on to this day.” And how exactly does Kevin see his approach to the world of architecture? He simply stated: “It’s that of the master builder. Clients have asked my team to perform multiple roles and this is where we have our competitive edge. If the designer has a sound grasp of the skills necessary to develop the project, efﬁcient project development with respect to design and cost can be the result. This is where the “master builder” can offer true value to his/her clients. “There have been instances where we have commenced a project in the capacity of architect and have gone on to provide landscape design, construction and property management services. These clients tended to more experience clients who placed greater importance on the overall cost savings we had on offer over having a string of professionals to navigate. Once our team is briefed, we immediately commence the process of establishing synergies as failing to initiate

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this process can result in difficulties in the value engineering process, which ultimately leads to a more expensive project. “With that approach … there is a greater potential for the creation of successful buildings and places where developers and end users are pleased with the projects,” he explained. While acknowledging that the rising cost of construction can be prohibitive, Kevin is looking forward to developing more luxury housing designs and establishing his influence on commercial architecture in the region. He is pleased with the decision to formalize the development of the heritage tourism product but expresses disappointment with the lack of emphasis placed on environmental design. He noted that although serious strides have been made locally in the promotion of environmental issues, the focus appears to be on the technology associated with these issues, in particular, solar water heating and photovoltaic cells. He is also of the view that to get to the crux of the matter, the environmental issues have to be first addressed at the conceptual design stage where matters of site selection, building orientation relevant to the solar path of the site and wind direction are properly considered. These matters directly influence the amount of environmental design technology needed to efficiently operate buildings. One can only hope that Kevin’s passion for architecture and property as a whole will continue to enhance the local built environment. Maybe one day his ambitions will become a reality for the good of all.

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DECOR

ESCAPE TO THE

Man cave STORY BY: LYLE JONES

t’s been a hard and stressful day or week at work and you come home to your castle, or have you? If you’re sharing your living space with someone else, the space as a whole is not really all yours, it’s not your domain to do with as you please. You play by communal rules and toe the line as is expected in civilized society. For these reasons and more modern man invented the man cave – that little room in his castle where the man of the house is truly king. WHY? He has total control of what goes on there and what or who’s allowed in. Call it a sanctum, an escape, a fortress of solitude – for you Superman fans, or an exclusive club. Man caves have many purposes: they offer a place to be alone, away from women and female sensibilities; a place to indulge in hobbies; hang out with male friends; watch sports matches or movies in a theatre-like atmosphere depending on your set-up; or play video with the boys.

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The size of the man cave is entirely dependent on available space and you can tailor your décor or theme to suit. For some it can occupy a small home ofﬁce with a display case for collectables – scale models such as cars and so on, rare comics; shelves for favourite books or classics; a work/entertainment station with wide screen monitor (the bigger the better) to watch movies online, play games, surf. Be sure to outﬁt the computer with the sub woofer and requisite speakers for the BIG sound. A small fridge will ensure you don’t have to leave for light refreshment, and with a comfortable recliner you can sit back and relax away from it all. If you have a big room at your disposal the sky’s the limit. Bring on the big screen TV, 72-inch perhaps, or go for the real cinematic effect with a ceiling mounted projector, retractable screen, or one painted on a designated plain wall. Complete the set-up with a high-powered home theatre surround system. Seating arrangements would include plush, comfy three-seaters, bar stools by the minibar if equipped, and perhaps a couch to lie on.

Whether built around a particular theme or not, as long as the cave is equipped with all the creature comforts the man feels he needs, all will be will in his world. How about a pool, or foozeball table, another smaller table that’ll double for dominoes or cards, and a videogame console? Create the perfect atmosphere in your cave with a carefully planned lighting system using dimmable recessed lighting to provide varied illumination options. Display your collection of memorabilia of your favourite sports or movies, posters, football team jerseys tastefully hung on walls. Track lighting can focus attention on the really special ones. To take your cave over the top have a voice recognition system installed to activate lights on your command. The choice of colour for the walls can create either the cozy setting with the use of darker hues, or a greater sense of space with lighter colours. Complete your dream cave with a custom-made neon sign, perhaps inscribed ‘Mine All Mine”, just for the fun of it. smart homes

INTERIOR SPACES

MODERN SPACES:

Popular Pantries BY APRILLE THOMAS

hen buying a house, one of the dealbreaking rooms can often be the kitchen. Does it have enough counter space? Updated ﬁxtures? New appliances? These are some of the questions considered when searching for the perfect kitchen. And for some, the room may be more for decoration than functional purposes, but either way, everyone wants a nice kitchen. One of the most common features of kitchens in Europe in Medieval times was the pantry. At ﬁrst its main function was to store bread, but over time it was further utilized as the dishwashing room. In America, pantries evolved from the Colonial American ‘butt’ry’. They were built between the kitchen and the dining room and were more prevalent in middle class homes. Today, pantries are making a huge comeback, and prospective and current homeowners alike are calling for this prime storage place. Whether you opt to store food or nonedible items, your pantry doesn’t have to be another bland storage space. We have some creative ideas for you to spruce things up and get the most out of your pantry. FESTIVE BACKGROUND You can go to your favourite fabric store and pick out some material that you love. Plaster this to the walls inside your pantry to brighten it up. Every time you open the doors, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this pop of colour. MORE SPACE, PLEASE Maybe a pantry still doesn’t have enough

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room for you, or you want a way to compartmentalize the small things. Some wood and nails are all you need to build small pockets into the door, where you can store spices, herbs, or anything else that can be easily lost in your overcrowded pantry. COME TO ME If you have large items that you use often but may be too heavy for you to lift out of the pantry each time, we may have a solution. Try turning the bottom shelf into a sliding shelf, so that every time you want that heavy item, it’s just a small tug away. ALL TOGETHER NOW If you have a hard time staying organized, maybe bringing some creativity and colour to this task might make it more appeasing to you. You can purchase, or make, small wicker baskets (which you can further customize with fabric) to keep all of your similar items together. I SPY? Perhaps you want to have a pantry, but don’t want everyone to know. A pull-out pantry might be a quick ﬁx for you. It is a conservative way to get the most out of minimal space. HANGING AROUND If you’re going to be using your pantry to store tools and appliances, you might consider installing hooks to hang bulky, oddly shaped utensils, so that they aren’t taking up huge spaces in your pantry.

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INTERIOR SPACES

COMFORT KEY

In Home Ofﬁce STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

One of the most common mistakes people make when starting a new home-based business is not designating a specific area for office space, but dedicating a specific area and let light rule. HOME OFFICE It has become commonplace today to have a home office. Make it a place that you can enjoy going to.

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oday, many home owners see the wisdom in having a home office. In fact, with many people operating businesses from home, a home office has become a necessity. One of the most common mistakes people make when starting a new home-based business is not designating a specific area for office space, but dedicating a specific area and let light rule. Lighten things up by letting the sun in and perhaps having a desk lamp next to the computer. Proper lighting is also a great way to reduce eye-strain because it eliminates glare. This doesn’t need to be anything extravagant, it just needs to be effective. You can also do other things to bring your attention to your workspace, such as adding a rug that leads from the doorway to your desk.

To help keep yourself motivated, you should perhaps keep your desk close to a window, rather than plaster your wall with posters and knick-knacks. It is surprising how many people make working in their space more difficult than it needs to be. If you are using your fax machine on a daily basis, then keep it close to your printer or computer. If you rarely use your scanner, then keep it off to the side. Try to keep everything that you use easily accessible. Any new home-based business needs as many advantages as possible and a dedicated organized home office is the first step. For those of you who have not constructed your home with a home office in mind but would now like to have an office, you can convert a spare bedroom or garage. While the final decision is left to you, remember that being comfortable is the key.

UNITED SERVICES

What every home needs

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• Cheapside (Opposite Post Office), Bridgetown. BB11000

• TEL: 436-6788 • EMAIL: sales@caribsupply.com • WEBSITE: www.caribsupply.com smart homes

EXTERIOR

FURNITURE CHOICE COUNTS IN THE

Great Outdoors

our patio is where you want to relax, unwind and entertain. It can be plain and unappealing or, with some creativity, be welcoming and inviting. There are numerous furniture types and designs from which to choose when decorating your patio, whether you settle for dining table sets or laid back relaxing pieces. Big or small, reﬁned or rustic, patios are getting lots of attention these days, maybe because people are entertaining at home more. Patio furniture comes in a variety of styles, materials and price ranges, but when shopping for this type of furniture, there are several things to consider. First, is your patio covered or open to the weather? Next you should decide on how many seating spaces you’ll need, and if you will do lots of entertaining outdoors.

Outdoor furniture is made from a range of materials including plastic, aluminium, wrought iron, cast iron, wood and wicker. Plastic furniture, likely the least expensive, is available in numerous sizes and colours. While cheap and somewhat weather resistant, plastic it isn’t the most durable or attractive material. It doesn’t rust but it can warp and crack over time. Weather-proof metal furniture may be a better choice. It is a bit more costly, but most people prefer the look of metal over plastic. Metal also holds up better over time. Wrought iron has its advantages. Although it comes with some form of weather-prooﬁng, over time it does require general maintenance to help discourage, remove or conceal rust or discoloration. When proper care, wrought iron can last for decades. Wicker patio furniture is another popular

Wicker patio furniture is another popular choice because it is breezy and light. It is however, not the right choice for an unprotected outdoor patio. STORY BY: CHERYL HAREWOOD

choice because it is breezy and light, but wicker can be affected by the elements, and is not the right choice for an unprotected outdoor patio. You can, however, purchase resin wicker patio furniture which is designed for outdoors. Weather-proofed wood can work for both covered and uncovered areas so teak patio furniture can be left out in the weather. Timber outdoor furniture does offer a distinctive, rustic look that is more naturally suited to your garden and looks great as lawn furniture. Decorating your patio, even if it is just with plants, gives you an opportunity to indulge the lighter side of your personal style; whether you’re looking for a place to exhale, tan, or enhance your skill as a barbecue chef, the patio is a perfect place to tailor your space to meet your needs.

Photo provided by Gajah Home. 46

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inspiration & innovation

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FIXTURES

LIGHTING

BATHING