This isn’t just any cabinet of curiosities: It’s the Center for the Analysis of Archaeological Materials (CAAM), and its osteological library is a key tool in Moore’s mission to unpack our historical eating habits.
“Look at that rough break,” she says, holding up a cow’s tibia from the 18th century. “That shows that this animal has been butchered and prepared for meat in a very informal, non-market-based way.” She notes that bones from later centuries often sport cleaner cuts, showing that the meat was sawn carefully to be sold at a market.
Moore, a zooarchaeologist, knows that most people come to the Penn Museum for what lies above her lab: showstoppers like the 13-ton granite sphinx and Queen Puabi's golden headdress. Displays of her food-focused specimens of bones and meat, in contrast, sometimes have visitors scratching their heads.
“People sometimes come to an archaeological museum thinking it's going to all be art,” Moore says. “And then there's chunks of dried meat lying there and they wonder, ‘What? Where am I now?’”
But with its new Ancient Food & Flavor exhibit, the Penn Museum's thousand-year-old llama jerky and apples older than Stonehenge are getting their turn in the spotlight. The exhibit focuses on culinary artifacts from three sites: Robenhausen, a 6,000-year-old village in Switzerland; Numayra, a 4,500-year-old community in Jordan; and Pachacámac, an 1,800-year-old city in Peru.
All the artifacts—which range from freeze-dried potatoes and grinding stones to fish scales and livestock dung—offer clues about ancient diets and lifestyles. Moore, who co-curated the exhibit, points to an animated video that imagines a robust trade hub in Pachacámac, one of three videos playing throughout the exhibit (the others depict a farm at Robenhausen and winemaking at Numayra). A comprehensive portrait like this, she says, is the result of years spent analyzing the small pieces of information offered by these specimens.
“Every motion, every animal, every plant” featured in the video, she explains, is based on archaeological findings like those showcased in the exhibit.
The animated depiction of Pachacámac shows llamas loaded up with provisions—a concept drawn from the weathered transport pouches, dried meat, and remarkably preserved corn, chiles, and potatoes in the glass cases around the video display. “They were in a large, politically integrated area that stretched over about two-thirds of South America,” Moore explains. “And so the picture we chose . . . is the trade: food from the sea, food from local environments.”
By displaying the artifacts alongside the animated depictions of daily life, the exhibit provides a glimpse not just into early eating habits, but also how scientists like Moore and her co-curator, Chantel White, use ancient plants, pottery, and bones to decipher the mysteries of food history. Since it’s rare to excavate complete meals, studying ancient cooking and cultivation requires some archaeological detective work.
“We don't just want to pluck little single objects out,” says White, an archaeobotanist. “It's also about the context of where they're found.”
For White, studying the plant matter from a room at Numayra—which was destroyed by a fire sometime between 2850 and 2550 BCE—was a passion project. When archaeologists excavated the site in the late 1970s and early ’80s, they found shattered pots, carbonized grapes, and thousands of tiny grape seeds both in the pots and scattered across the floor.
“Initially I was like, ‘Why in the world would there be so many grape seeds?’ But it makes sense when you think about if this was part of the grape fermentation process,” White explains. “All these grape seeds would have been at the bottom of the vessels.”
White also notes that the grapes showed signs of having been stomped. The exhibit encourages visitors to look for similar visual evidence, providing microscopes and magnifying glasses to identify possible signs of grinding, fermenting, or cooking on the seeds and fish scales excavated from the sites.
But when the powers of observation fail to provide answers, it’s time for a more hands-on approach.
“We have a little slogan in CAAM,” Moore says. “It’s called ‘Let’s try it!’” Sometimes “trying it” might mean smashing nuts with a palm-size stone to match the marks made on cracked hazelnuts found at Robenhausen. (“I have a slab of stone and a handstone that are greasy, at this point, because I've done this so many times,” Moore says.) Other times, that might mean burning crabapples inside the furnace in White’s lab to mimic the charring on 6,000-year-old carbonized fruit. And sometimes, it means conducting tests in your own backyard: “Once, someone called the police on me when I was trying to do a relatively extensive controlled burn,” Moore laughs.
No matter the approach, the goal is always to reconstruct the archaeological findings and better understand how early humans cultivated, prepared, or preserved their food.
Moore and White are even conducting an experiment within the exhibit: In an outdoor courtyard, several plots grow the same plants displayed inside. Organized by country, the gardens contain crops from Jordan (chickpeas, flax), Peru (corn, quinoa, chiles), and Switzerland (rye, hazelnuts, strawberries). Moore points out that the garden has already made her feel connected with some of her ancestors’ struggles—especially when it comes to coping with pests.
“We really asked for it, having our exhibit outside,” she laughs. “The squirrels already got to the corn.”
But even pests can provide an education in food history. Beyond the exhibit, Moore and White are currently studying rats’ nests from enslaved workers’ quarters in South Carolina from 1830 to 1860. The rodents’ stashes of stolen food and gnawed materials can offer new insights into how their human neighbors lived.
Like antebellum rats’ nests, the Ancient Food & Flavor exhibit shows the value behind an overlooked aspect of history. Dried apples and tiny ancient grape seeds may not be as flashy as royal jewelry or mummies, but, Moore says, they’re no less important.
“We are not here to talk about golden headdresses,” she says. “We are here to talk about the lives of people in the past who did this work, who produced this food, who kept everybody alive, and who labored on their hands and knees. This is the labor of your ancestors. No one alive today isn't descended from someone who had to do this work by hand.”
]]>Mid-century modern decor embodies the perfect marriage of sleek simplicity and timeless elegance. With clean lines, organic shapes, and a minimalist approach, the MCM style captures the essence of vintage design with a contemporary take. This interior style showcases a blend of form and function, emphasizing both aesthetics and practicality. From iconic dining tables to vibrant wardrobes, these mid-century modern decor picks continuously captivate not only guests, but yourself, bringing a touch of retro-chic sophistication and grace to any space.
The mid-century style is recognizable for simplistic yet organic shapes, and these sleek candle holders stylishly adhere to that.
For a burst of color, opt for this shapely blue vase.
The rounded corners on this mirror bring elements of comfort into your mid-century-inspired space.
Toeing the line between mid-mod and art deco, this gold starburst wall clock is the ultimate decor accessory for a retro vibe.
Don't forget to dress up those walls with some wall art! This colorful design is sophisticated, but simultaneously playful.
Continuing with the organic form, this display bowl can be used to hold fresh fruits, or utilized as an elevated front door catch-all.
This wide alarm clock will sit on your bedside table in mid-century fashion. The bold numbers followed by thin clock hands recall the appliances made in the vintage era.
You might have seen this starry shape once or twice before, without knowing its form originates from the 1957 Sputnik spacecraft launch! Since then, the sputnik has become a bold symbol not only of the space race, but of mid-century design as a whole.
Just because mid-century modern leans heavily on wooden pieces doesn't mean you can't have a little fun with color! The structured pattern on this pillow plays well with more rounded, organic lines.
The lined arch detail takes this shelf to anything *but* boring. It's the perfect size to flaunt all your favorite knick-knacks, or a small bouquet of flowers.
This duo of nightstands infuse your bedroom with all the mid-century details – from rattan shelves to tapered feet.
We love the subdued color on this chair's upholstering. It adds enough flair to your space, but will match swimmingly with your existing style.
This smooth arched cabinet would work amazingly in a mid-century modern kitchen space, offering plenty of storage that you can see, thanks to its glass windows.
Have fun with accents – this mint green table is the ultimate way to start.
The tilted legs and low-sitting silhouette of this TV stand give it that mid-century definition. Use it to stack books on, store homewares, and style more mid-century decor!
Your mid-century coffee table is not a mid-century coffee table unless it has curves. This triangular pick from Room & Board is simple yet eye-catching!
The rounded hutches in this side table design make a perfect play on negative space, adding desirable dimension.
The velvet material these dining chairs are constructed from introduce more elegance, ideal for a cozy mid-cench dining room!
Mid-century styles thrive on function. This shelved bookcase provides an ample amount of space to store books, papers, and pictures!
The contrast between this table's legs and tabletop allow you to match the piece with the rest of your mid-century modern furniture!
This warm-hued lamp brings in some friendly flair to your mid-century bedroom or living space!
The grained wood combined with an alluring, spherical lampshade makes this light super sleek.
The mushroom lamp is heavily trending, but for good reason. This one emulates fungi in the most amusing way, opting for a neutral color palette that's easy to pair with other decor pieces.
Think of this marble pick as the more elevated version of the above lamp – perfect for a clean home office.
Go bold with this all-orange mushroom lamp that'll illuminate your home with super warm light.
The abstract pattern on this rug will go great with mid-century modern basics, amping up the color!
With this rug, you can cover your floors in the adorable arched rainbow motif that's so prominent in mid-mod design.
This rug design provides a great balance between straight and wavy lines, all working together to coat your living room or bedroom floors in abstraction.
The scattered shapes on this piece surprisingly form a cohesive look, with enough color to add visual interest to your home decor.
The overlapping arches on this comfy floorpiece are outlined in a dark gray that further accentuates its mid-century details.
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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image via Anthro Living
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Dog Owners take a look at this adorable container for your pup’s treats! Keep fido’s treats nearby and on hand with this stylish storage tin by Now Designs. Dog biscuits are often hidden away in the cabinet or pantry in an unappealing container, which makes them difficult to access when needed. This tin features an attractive white base and matching black lid. The front features a tidy “Biscuit” Design. Made from food safe powder coated galvanized steel, this dog treat container is 7 inches tall and 5 inches in diameter. There is plenty of space to store Dog biscuits, Training treats, rawhides, or your pup’s favorite snack. The modern, sleek Design Coordinates with a variety of decor styles and can stay neatly on your countertop. Made by Now Designs, who for 50 years has created kitchen textiles and accessories that are consistently recognized for superior colors, trends, Design and unsurpassed quality and workmanship.
Get this Now Designs Dog Biscuits Tin with Lid, Good Dog Design for only $13.09!
Remember, Amazon prices can change at any time.
This post contains affiliate links.
]]>A sushi display case is essential in any sushi bar, café, or restaurant. They’re specifically designed to maintain food-safe temperatures while beautifully showcasing your sushi and sashimi rolls. Often featuring curved glass fronts and a lighted inside, these refrigerated sushi display cases allow your customers to browse your selection, amplifying their dining experience easily.
Refrigerated sushi display cases are much more than an aesthetic addition. They create a visual feast for customers, enhancing the appeal of your counter display. They help maintain the best-tasting, freshest food by effectively chilling your sushi. This ensures your sushi bars are synonymous with quality, propelling repeat customers.
Several types of sushi display cases are available, such as countertop models, under-counter versions, and standalone cases. While countertop and under-counter models are compact and perfect for smaller spaces, standalone sushi cases are ideal for larger restaurants or sushi bars that serve a variety of other great items.
To ensure you get the right display case for your sushi and sashimi, here are some important things to look out for a while browsing:
Both sushi display cases and sushi refrigerators should have precise temperature and humidity controls. Keeping sushi at the right temperature is crucial for maintaining its freshness and preventing bacteria growth. Look for models with easy-to-use digital controls for hassle-free temperature adjustments.
Look for sushi cases made from durable, high-quality materials. Stainless steel interiors are common due to their long-lasting nature and ease of cleaning. Additionally, display cases with curved glass fronts look sleek and resist scratches, keeping your showcase in top shape for longer.
Consider the size and capacity of your potential sushi display case or refrigerator. Choose a size that fits comfortably within your establishment and has enough capacity to house all your sushi varieties without overcrowding.
A well-designed sushi display can significantly enhance your customers’ experience. Look for refrigerated sushi display cases that illuminate your products well and have glass fronts that don’t fog up. Your sushi should always be in the spotlight.
Lastly, energy efficiency is a vital aspect to consider when choosing your sushi refrigerator or display case. More efficient models will reduce energy costs and environmental footprint, making them a worthy long-term investment.
Refrigerated sushi cases are available at most restaurant supply stores, and there are great options on both Amazon and Ebay – often at lower prices. Our list below highlights our top ten picks for sushi cases for your business.
Top Pick: Hoshizaki 47" Curved Glass Refrigerated Sushi Case | Runner Up: Fricool 53in Countertop Sushi Display Case | Best Value: Marchia 53" Refrigerated 5-Pan Sushi Case | |
---|---|---|---|
Rank | Top Pick | Runner Up | Best Value |
Notable Features | Curved front glass design, Rear-to-side condenser airflow, Spacious 5.6-inch plate space on top, Self-contained refrigeration unit, NSF approved thermometer, R600a Refrigerant | Compact countertop design with right side compressor, Eco-friendly and energy efficient, Rear sliding door for easy access, Rear-located drain, Holds up to five 1/3 size, 11/2” depth hotel pans, Pre-programmed electronic controls | Hermetic compressor on the right, Automatic defrost system, Digital temperature controller, Sliding rear door, Curved front glass design, Stainless steel interior tray, Fits five 1/3 size pans |
Dimensions (WxDxH) | 47.2" x 13.6" x 11" | 53"W x 16 1/2"D x 10 1/2"H | 53"W x 16.5"D x 10.4"H |
Net Capacity | 1.48 cu. ft. | 2.5 cu. ft. | 1.8 cu. ft. |
Temperature Range | 50°F - 80°F | 36-40 ? | 34-50 ? |
Ambient Temp. Operation | 80°F | Up to 90°F | Not specified |
Voltage | Not specified | 115V/60HZ/1 | 110V/60HZ |
Material | Clear glass, ABS plastic, PVC plastic, Stainless Steel | Plastic and tempered glass exterior, stainless steel interior, non-scratch feet | Plastic, glass, stainless steel |
Top Pick: Functional and stylish, Hoshizaki refrigerated sushi cases are among the most popular in the business. They combine space-saving efficiency with brilliant LED lighting to perfectly display your offerings.
This sushi display case impresses not just with its visual appeal but also with its practical features. It boasts a large diameter 1-inch front drain, a radius interior floor, and a self-contained refrigeration unit for easy installation. The interior offers an 11-inch front-to-back space, accommodating solid food plates designed with a radius groove to perfectly fit sushi foods.
Key Features:
Hoshizaki 47″ Curved Glass Refrigerated Sushi Case
Runner Up: Fricool’s 53in the display case is an ideal option for any small business owner looking for an efficient way to showcase their fresh sushi. Its compact countertop design offers an at-glance view of your sushi selection, and its right-sided compressor allows the unit to fit perfectly against a wall or other equipment; its non-scratch feet won’t mar your counter. Accessibility is no issue with its rear sliding door design, simplifying both serving and restocking.
This display case is built with sustainability in mind – it uses eco-friendly R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant and energy-saving LED lighting. Coupled with its durable construction featuring a plastic and tempered glass exterior, a stainless steel interior, and non-scratch feet, it offers longevity and aesthetic appeal in one package.
Key Features:
Fricool 53in Countertop Sushi Display Case
Best Value: The Marchia case is a countertop model that offers efficient cooling and aesthetic appeal for your sushi selections. With a 53.2-inch width, this unit provides an interior capacity of 1.8 cubic feet. Besides its spacious interior, it’s equipped with LED lighting, making it ideal for showcasing a variety of sushi rolls and other delicacies.
Key Features:
Marchia 53″ Refrigerated 5-Pan Sushi Case
The Everest 59-Inch case has a capacity of 2 cubic feet, offering ample space for your culinary masterpieces. The four trays are housed in a high-density foamed-in-place polyurethane insulated cabinet, ensuring optimal temperature control.
This unit has a left compressor, two rear sliding glass doors for easy access, a removable air filter for hassle-free cleaning, and drain hoses for easy maintenance.
Key Features:
Everest Curved Glass Refrigerated Sushi Case
Designed to sit on your sushi bar, this case highlights your sushi and sashimi rolls at an eye-level view for your customers. Moreover, its energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the food offerings and minimizes heat inside the cabinet. It’s roomy enough for its five included pans, so you can show off more of your items.
Key Features:
Cooler Depot Refrigerated Countertop Sushi Case
Turbo Air’s sushi case, with its refrigerated space-maintaining 35°F ~ 41°F, is designed with both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality in mind. The Turbo Air 46″ unit offers 1.5 cu. ft. of space, a left-side compressor, and straight front glass for maximum visibility of your delicious food offerings. Its design and features ensure the freshest food and best-tasting sushi and add a sleek, professional look to your counter.
Key Features:
Turbo Air 46″ Refrigerated Sushi Display Case
The Omcan USA sushi case measures 44.5” in width, 15.6” in depth, and 14.7” in height, and it has a net weight of 86 lbs. Its black finish gives it a sleek, modern appearance that will blend well with any decor. The unit offers a temperature range of 32°-53.6°F (0°-12°C), which a digital temperature controller and display control.
Key Features:
Omcan USA 44″ Refrigerated Sushi Case
The Turbo Air 70″ Refrigerated Display Case is a spacious and efficient unit designed for optimal product presentation and preservation. With a 70.25-inch width, this case provides a generous 2.3 cubic feet of capacity, making it an excellent choice for larger sushi bars or restaurants. It maintains temperatures between 35°F and 41°F, which is ideal for sushi preservation.
Key Features:
The Hoshizaki HNC-210BA-L-SLH model, with its sleek design and robust features, is an excellent choice for establishments that need a lot of space for their sushi offerings.
The unit’s net capacity is 3.07 cubic feet, offering plenty of space for multiple food items. The refrigerated display case is fitted with R-134a Refrigerant, providing efficient and reliable cooling. It features four rear doors for easy access and has an air condenser. The interior dimensions are 68.7” W x 11.3” D x 6.2” H.
Key Features:
Hoshizaki 83″ Curved Glass Refrigerated Sushi Display
The Turbo Air SAK-60R-N is a countertop refrigerated sushi display case with an array of features designed to improve visibility, increase efficiency, and maintain optimal temperature for your sushi. This 60-inch wide unit is a perfect choice for sushi bars and restaurants looking to showcase their sushi offerings in an appealing and appetizing manner. This sushi case is 59.75 inches wide, 14.13 inches deep, and 11.5 inches high, with a net capacity of 1.7 cubic feet. It runs on a standard 115V/60/1-ph power and comes with a NEMA 5-15P plug. It uses a 1/6 HP motor and draws 4.6 amps.
Key Features:
Turbo Air 59″ Refrigerated Sushi Display Case
Refrigerated sushi cases aren’t cheap, so making sure yours is running its best is very important. Here are a few tips to help:
Regular cleaning is essential for any food display or storage equipment. Make sure to regularly wipe down your sushi case and refrigerator to prevent the build-up of mold or bacteria.
Consistently monitor the temperature of your sushi refrigerator and display case. This is important to ensure that your sushi is always kept at safe temperatures.
Like any appliance, your sushi display case and refrigerator may encounter some issues. From temperature fluctuations to glass fogging, it’s crucial to handle these promptly to keep your sushi at its freshest.
Check out these FAQs for more handy info!
It’s best to clean it at least once a week; or if your establishment sees high traffic, you might need to clean it more often. It’s essential to maintain cleanliness not just for health and safety regulations but also to ensure the longevity of your equipment.
The ideal temperature is usually between 33°F and 41°F (0.5°C – 5°C). It’s important to keep raw fish products chilled at this range to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, maintaining the freshness and safety of your sushi.
The best material for a sushi display case is typically stainless steel, particularly for the interior. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and effectively maintains cold temperatures. For the display front, tempered glass is a great option as it offers excellent visibility, is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
When choosing the right size for your sushi display case and refrigerator, you should consider the volume of sushi you plan to sell daily, the available space in your establishment, and the layout of your counter. It’s important to choose a size that can accommodate your product volume without crowding while fitting comfortably in your space.
Finding the right display case for your business is not merely about keeping your food fresh. It’s abot showcasing your food in the best possible light, captivating your customers and enticing them to buy. By carefully considering the factors we’ve discussed, you’ll be well-equipped to make a decision that benefits both your business and your customers.
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This article, "Sushi Display Case: Choices for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>This online community is home to 2.3 million members who are always ready to help people identify the mysterious objects they found.
The gig is simple: someone uploads a photo of whatever it is they want the name of, and the gang starts commenting under it, offering their input until, inevitably, a person shows up who knows exactly what it is.
However, even if you're not posting anything, scrolling through their solved cases feels like an interesting challenge, where you can test (and expand) your own knowledge. So we invite you to do just that!
Answer: It's a magazine rack installed upside down because people decorating Airbnb's don't know what they're doing.
Image credits: mmay_a
Answer: This setup prevents Muslims from having to lift our legs up dangerously high while trying to stick our feet in the sink one at a time. The alternative to that is we have to take a handful of water and pour it onto our feet below the sink causing the floor to get wet. Muslims also have to keep their feet clean before praying, which is obviously problematic in a bathroom where everyone pisses on the floor and walks with their shoes between the stalls and the sink, so you might see them trying to keep one shoe on while washing the other foot and then switching. It’s also why we take our shoes off before praying and use prayer rugs to avoid touching unclean things while praying.
Image credits: atomicdragon136
Answer: They look like silkworm cocoons.
Image credits: loveofGod12345
Answer: Steel "soap" bar. Removes odors like onion from ur hands when u wash with it by just adding a strong steel odor on top.
Image credits: inzombiac
Answer: It's a place to rest your beer while you play cards.
Image credits: One_Has_Lepers
Answer: A Himalayan Calendar. The outer ring as 12 balls, each corresponding to a month. The next two rings have a tens and ones digit. The tens has three balls for up to the 31st, and the next has nine balls, for 0 to 9. And then four rings for the year, up to 9999.
Image credits: Oxfordcommapreacher
Answer: Micro plastic particles. Probably to show how Nike helps to clean up our planet. Greenwashing at best.
Image credits: tsirs
Answer: Looks like a page spreader for reading. Point end goes into the spine and thumb in hole so you can one hand books easy.
Image credits: Karljoneill
Answer: Cabbage sliced for making sauerkraut.
Image credits: Interesting_Usual882
Answer: It's whale sick get it checked it could be worth thousands a kg. It's an ingredient used in high end perfumes.
Image credits: Swimming_Sea964
Answer: My wife says horse hoof cleaning tool, and she's a major horse gal. Also, burying an iron object within the foundation of a home was once considered good luck.
Image credits: StarsSuck
Answer: They can be used to avoid chairs scratching your floors. So they are socks, but for chairs rather than humans.
Image credits: InevitableDevice2182
Answer: You hang weights on chains to power mechanical cuckoo clocks. One powers the clock mechanism, and the other powers the cuckoo. The weight turns gears in the mechanism as the chain drops. To wind the clock, you pull on the other end of the chain and bring the weight back up, and the same for the chain that powers the cuckoo.
Image credits: reddit.com
Answer: Probably a horse. The bottom is the sire and dam.
Image credits: Wequiwa
Answer: It's a butter curler, for making fancy bits of butter.
Image credits: Curious-Creation
Answer: Terra cotta sugar saver. You put it in with your brown sugar to keep it from clumping or drying out in storage.
Image credits: potatochild001
Answer: It's actually a purse. There's space in there for some coins for bus/cab fare, some powder makeup (behind the little door), and calling cards.
Image credits: didilamour
Answer: It's an early 19th C Gaslamp. The gas is piped up the pole, and a copper pipe would have extended into the glass lamp house, which fitted into the hoop.
Image credits: scientificdramatist
Answer: HPDFCU Ultrasonic Animal Deterrent.
Image credits: BloodyBender
Answer: It’s a lamp. It’s literally an oil lamp, to be used to create light. The wick goes in the spout. The oil goes in the belly. You light the wick and a flame will burn on the end of the spout like a little candle, and you can carry your lantern around with you.
Image credits: FlaxxtotheMaxx
Answer: Telephone dialer. You put the ball end in the desired number of the phone dial instead of your finger tip and used it to turn the dial.
Image credits: boneyheimer
Answer: Anti-wolf collar for sheepdogs.
Image credits: delilahgabj
Answer: These are pretty much radiators that were filled with embers and/or hot stones when needed.
Image credits: Shadow_F3r4L
Answer: This is a mushroom growing in the ceiling and is likely the result of water damage from the floor above.
Image credits: AFROSS
Answer: A cigarette lighter.
Image credits: junkshopper2000
Answer: A vintage spoon pendant used for illegal substances.
Image credits: tlmsmith
Answer: It is a cold box.
Image credits: reddit.com
Answer: It is a spoon designed to separate the fat from the sauce, called "cuillère dégraisseuse".
Image credits: bazoid
Answer: Boards that keep stray dogs from peeing on the door.
Image credits: GOBLINH8ER
Answer: It’s for the manufacturing of the product so that it can be turned while standing up.
Image credits: Eastern-East1476
Answer: Your mechanic is gonna want that back. It’s part of a lift.
Image credits: BlueFlames1723
Answer: "Black Money Scam". It's construction paper or similar, he was scammed to believe it was currency dyed to be smuggled and could be restored.
Image credits: sbs_str_9091
Answer: Linen press.
Image credits: boredaugust
Answer: It's a container for keeping herbs fresh in your refrigerator.
Image credits: Jahstar7
Answer: It is a Vasculum, a sturdy collection container used by botanists on field excursions in which plant specimens can be collected without damaging them.
Image credits: Valuable-Camera-7107
Answer: It’s a diver rescue marker, for ocean rescue. You release it to dye the water around you and even at night a blacklight can light it up.
Image credits: howitzer1
Answer: Part of an old telephone. The bell is for incoming calls. The crank is to buzz the operator to connect you to the other party.
Image credits: Radio-Groundbreaking
Answer: It's a chair, howdah style.
Image credits: ali_cat_
Answer: Immersion heater. The metal piece goes into a cup of water and heats it.
Image credits: Commercial_Wasabi_86
Answer: YVW Water Watchers! Initiative to remind children to conserve water when possible. This is insanely clever. The Hawthorne effect is when people behave differently when they know or feel like they’re being watched—choosing a healthier meal at lunch with your fit friends, or being more productive at work when you sit near the boss’s office.
Image credits: Johanso
Answer: It's a "claw" to help pull in fishing nets.
Image credits: machukahn
Answer: An old Beltone type hearing aid. There's a transistor in the tie clip, and it plugs into a cord for the hearing aid.
Image credits: badluckninja13
Answer: Carpenter Bee traps.
Image credits: redscarfdemon
Answer: This is a ULV mosquito adulticiding fogger.
Image credits: LibyanKing
Answer: Old septic tank.
Image credits: bbush721
Answer: Looks like the membrane from a kazoo.
Image credits: isabel_77
Answer: Wow, that's a blast from the past. It's for write protecting a 5.25" floppy disk.
It’s for making a single sided disk double sided.
Image credits: R_McN
Answer: Mirror guy here, there are lots of things related to the adhesive that can pull off or degrade the silver backing, including: forceful detachment of the adhesive which pulls off the silver, using an acid curing adhesive instead of a neutral curing adhesive, putting the adhesive onto unpainted Sheetrock which screws up the curing process, or drawing a closed shape with the adhesive so air gets trapped in it when the mirror is pressed against the wall.
Image credits: AdamCohn
Answer: Obfuscation pattern, it's there to hide info or keep people from trying to read through an envelope and look at personal information.
Image credits: 1nesandzer0s
Answer: Worked at a Ponderosa back in my teens as a line cook and we had one of these. When an order was up we would press a button on a box and it would light up a number, so a server would know their order was ready for a table.
Image credits: Gusto74
Answer: It's a perfume diffuser. You can spray your perfume on it, and it will absorb it and release the smell into the air.
Image credits: Solve-Problems
Answer: This is just a scientific specimen cabinet, which could be used for anything from geology to lepidopterology.
Image credits: IGutenberg
Answer: It's a button hook.
Image credits: MiniRipperton
Answer: An oil lamp.
Image credits: watamat
Answer: A wash tamper or "wasstamper" in Dutch.
Image credits: solidboom
Answer: A leather fishing belt. You can put the end of the fishing rod in the hole for support.
Image credits: nyxfriesian
Answer: It's for transporting racing pigeons.
Image credits: Subaru_turtle
Answer: It is a space for a wireless pod that tracks your running workout called Nike+ sensor.
Image credits: Zyloph
Answer: This is used to measure the height of the net in tennis.
Image credits: Mcmakar
Answer: It’s for drafting. It’s an eraser shield.
Image credits: bu11fr0g
Answer: It’s a baler! The metal bands have small metal prongs protitruding, they pick up the hay. The corkscrew in the back moves it into the baling chamber, where a ram compresses it into a bale, after that it’s tied together and pushed out of the machine.
Image credits: only1jellybeanz
Answer: Chicken steamer, it's used to add humidity to the house.
Image credits: uberCalifornia
Answer: It’s an avocado slicer. You cut the avocado in half and seed it, then scoop out slices.
Image credits: Whatsername868
Answer: This happens a lot in seawater. You see it in the beach all the time as a thick brownish foam. Basically, as marine creatures and so on (especially algae) decompose after death their bodies break down into various components. One of the processes is called saponification and basically converts fats into soap (fun fact, the same thing can happen to un-preserved humans). This coats the sand, gravel, rocks etc and then it is stirred up into foam by the water and (usually) high winds. On the beach it’s usually a mix of these animal byproducts, sand and other contaminants, it’s likely similar here but with less sand. In a canal it is likely stirred up by the wake of watercraft.
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Answer: It's a window breaker for car windows.
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Answer: It's for holding books.
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Answer: Hydraulic fluid reservoir for a military vehicle, possibly a hercules.
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Answer: It’s a sensor to turn the heated sidewalk on and off.
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Answer: It’s a comb hammer for dressing stone.
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Answer: I think the dowel was put into a shelf slot after the fact to possibly make this into a paper towel holder. I say breadbox.
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Answer: It's a back support.
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Answer: An old blade honer/sharpener.
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Answer: A rotisserie clamp.
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Answer: Knife rests.
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Answer: A tick removal tool. It's called a "tick twister".
Image credits: Repulsive-Wear8696
Answer: It's a tooth pick in a design patented in 1881.
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Answer: It's a vintage police restraint chain called "chain nipper".
Image credits: Mrandres21
Answer: It's a phone “booth.” At one point it likely held a phone (likely a payphone). You could stand it in, have your call, and not be in the middle of the hallway.
Image credits: Major-tomm
Answer: It's a dry water massage bed. A person lays inside and water pummels them.
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Answer: A hanger cover. It's to prevent suits or similar from getting a crease when hanging on a hanger with sharp angles.
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Answer: Guide rails for keeping a derailed car from getting too off center.
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Answer: A display for hats.
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Answer: A pull pin from a fire extinguisher.
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Answer: They're measuring wifi strength and saturation as part of MLB's deal with Extreme Networks.
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Answer: It's a temperature sensor for a humidifier.
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Answer: It’s for laptop/tablet storage while charging.
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Answer: It’s a badger gate.
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Answer: It's part of a cream separator for milk.
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Answer: A wagon brake.
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Answer: This is a seafood or cocktail fork.
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Answer: It is a phone holder.
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Answer: Basically there are huge underground tunnels that take water to the power plants, these gates shut the water to them.
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Answer: These are old kilns.
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Answer: Looks like a it’s maybe a flagpole finial, possibly 19th century or early twentieth.
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Answer: Chef's hat.
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Answer: They are granaries, for corn and grain.
Image credits: ProperNomenclature
Answer: It’s a home observatory. The telescope inside doesn’t have to be particularly big, but chances are if they spent the money on the dome they have a pretty nice scope.
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Answer: Saildrone.
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Answer: Sonde device to measure pipe blockage / delineation using acoustic waves.
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Answer: It's one of a pair of "rattlesnake eggs". You hold them separated slightly in your hand, and toss them up in the air, and they make a cool noise when they magnetize together. That's about it.
Image credits: MotherOfMagpies23
Answer: These are Japanese folding screen weights.
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Answer: It’s a keyboard key remover. It’s to help install custom keys but if it didn’t come with any custom keys, they probably gave it to you to help you remove all the keys to make cleaning easier.
Image credits: NuclearHoagie
Answer: They are anti theft strips and will sound the alarm if you try to pass the detectors at the door when not having paid the item.
Image credits: lucian_blignaut
Answer: It’s a core plug for a large roll of paper. You take them out when you load them onto a cutting machine to make smaller rolls like adding machine tapes or toilet paper rolls.
Image credits: Kcnabrev
Answer: It’s part of a magic kit where the magician “guesses” someone’s number… should be like 6 of them with various numbers on them…
Image credits: Backup-AccountHLS
Answer: It’s a spoon rest for cooking so your counter top doesn’t get dirty. Can hold multiple utensils at once. Easy to wash and clean.
Image credits: PoetryOfLogicalIdeas
Answer: That is a paddle designed to swat back a small ball 'a hornet' in the traditional swiss sport or hornussen.
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Answer: It is an outrigger for trolling. you attach a long line to it and this carries it out away from the side of the boat so you can put out two long lines at once. Used for tuna and swordfish in the gulf stream.
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Answer: It's a fishing net float.
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Answer: A waterproof bathroom mirror TV.
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Answer: It is an Eruv.
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Answer: A vintage craftsman wet wheel sharpening stone tool.
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Answer: A holder for moth balls, called "mortemoth".
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Answer: It’s a manual massage roller ball.
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Answer: It's a foldable flying disk.
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Answer: It's a vintage “Midget” folding garment hanger.
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Answer: The month and year of manufacture. It’s a permanent dent made in the tool steel of the injection molding tooling, so the most recent dent is the birth date of the wheel arch.
Image credits: xrawmonkey
Answer: A Hoosier flour sifter. The flour is contained in a box above or in this case - the conical bag and you crank out what you need below.
Image credits: 98_percent_angel
Answer: A ball mill. Similar in concept to a rock tumbler, but used by industry to powderize or smooth materials.
Image credits: BoutelouaGracilis
Answer: To hold bottles up, so they don't fall out of the door.
Image credits: perksofbeingcrafty
Answer: A Remfly Perimeter Trip Alarm.
Image credits: johnnycross798
Answer: It's a lazy dog. A small bomb dropped in large numbers. No explosives in it.
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Answer: These are tiny mock versions of what they used to use on riversides to stop erosion. Now they're mostly just decorations or hashi holders (chopstiick holders, but they have much smaller ones - i have some in my cuppard) so your food-covered hashi doesn't touch the table. They were called Takejakago.
Image credits: Sea_Negotiation_2651
Answer: Mk 25 marine location marker.
Image credits: JForce1
Answer: It’s a pull chain and hanging bracket for a solid door bell.
Image credits: tired-until-infinity
Answer: It's a hose holder that prevents tangling.
Image credits: No_Maintenance_550
Answer: Fidget toy.
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Answer: It's an infrared based occupancy sensor. The TV controller is outputting an infrared signal activating the sensor. Source: husband who is an electrical engineer.
Image credits: Infomaniac63
Answer: Snack plate. Circle is for a cup to rest in.
Image credits: aft25
Answer: Canopy covers for glider cockpits.
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Answer: It’s a pog slammer.
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Answer: It’s for ties.
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Answer: An inflatable cushion for securing cargo.
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Answer: A South African Knobkerrie.
Image credits: Zeeplebooplebrix
Answer: It's a type of WAP for the hotel staff called AT&T Staff Alert.
Image credits: S3-000
Answer: Cell phone holder for the car vent.
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Answer: It’s an old style attachment for a child seat.
Image credits: AlfajorConFernet
Answer: It's a paperweight.
Image credits: iang626
Answer: I think it's actually to evenly distribute the coffee rather than tamp it, the tamper would be used after this thing and has a flat bottom.
Image credits: motherherbivore_
London studio Alex Cochrane Architects has created a trio of museum shops at the recently revamped National Portrait Gallery in London.
Completed as part of a wider three-year refurbishment of the Victorian Grade I-listed building by Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell, the retail outlets had to be respectful and, where possible, non-intrusive.
Alex Cochrane Architects worked closely with the lead studios to create a main shop next to the museum's new entrance, and two further shops that service temporary exhibition spaces, that each "brought together the monumental and the intimate".
"The challenge with this project was to design hard-working retail spaces that would provide an inspiring shopping experience while delivering a design that embraced the elegant proportions of the Grade I building," Alex Cochrane Architects founder Alex Cochrane told Dezeen.
The main shop's two adjoining rooms have impressive ceiling heights of between six and 7.5 metres and Cochrane designed the space to emphasise verticality.
"The best way to celebrate these magnificent heights was for our retail architecture to reach tall and stop respectfully short of the period cornicing," said Cochrane.
"There's an obvious vertical accent to our designs that allows you to look up and appreciate the vast heights and period detailing."
Mindful that their display framework would need to be taller than conventional retail furniture, they have made it deliberately architectural in scale.
"We wanted to celebrate the heights of these two rooms," he said. "We wanted the visitor to look up, as well as ahead. And of course, we wanted visibility from the street."
The practice used arched forms in their design, taking their cues from the historical door and room openings within the space and in the wider gallery.
"We repeated the shape of these soaring arches around the room creating a rhythm so all the arches, both old and new, became of a singular and familiar language," Cochrane said.
To bring definition to the space without the need for further structural intervention, he used thin "halos" of light to outline the arches, as well to highlight the large plaster-cast busts that hang within the display arches, increasing the shop's visibility from the street.
The plaster casts, representing the artists Holbein, Chantry and Roubillac, were discovered in the gallery's attic during the refurbishment and are prototypes for the stone versions seen on the rear elevations of the building.
"We love how they are framed in the arches," said Cochrane. "They have a roughness, a texture that compares well with our metallic finishes."
Similarly, an original lantern light in the roof, which had been boarded up for many years, now takes centre stage, amplifying the impressiveness of the space.
Several factors shaped the pared-back material palette of the project.
"The materials needed to be complimentary to those of the period finishes, but also remain easily distinguishable," said Cochrane.
"And we chose our materials in consideration of their low-impact environmental credentials. Local, reusable, recycled, second-hand and certified materials were prioritised, while materials with high embodied carbon and VOCs were avoided."
The stone was sourced within Europe, while the signature material of choice was brushed metal, "which is neutral in both tone and colour."
Mindful of the carbon footprint of steel and other metals, Cochrane chose Arper for the metallic furniture because of their innovative and "low-impact" manufacturing processes.
"We favoured matt finishes over polished ones, as they reflect less light ensuring the products remain the focus," he said.
For the first-floor exhibition shop, much of the furniture was constructed in Richlite. Durable and sustainable, it's an FSC-certified material made using post-consumer recycled paper.
For the ground floor exhibition shop the mid-floor furniture was constructed in Linoleum, made from 97 per cent natural materials, that are 30 per cent recycled and 100 per cent recyclable and compostable.
The practice sampled numerous paint colours, settling on Farrow & Ball's 'Lamp Room Gray' for the walls, with 'School House White' on the ceilings.
"These colours follow on well from those in the adjacent entrance hall and the east staircase and contrast subtly with our own metallic finishes."
"We wanted to be strategic about using strong colours, as we were conscious that the merchandise would also have a considerable amount of colour."
The practice opted to use a vivid colour for the stand-alone jewellery cabinet, centred between the two monumental teak-framed windows, "that could really catch the eye of the passer-by with an invigorating colour".
"We explored different colours, settling on a punchy yellow that we called 'Starling's Yellow' due to the commercial director's love for this colour."
Likewise, Cochrane wanted the payment counter to be eye-catching and used a highly patterned green marble to draw the customer to this end of the space, where there are views out over the newly re-landscaped forecourt and Charing Cross Road beyond.
"As a practice, we are minimalists, with a love for bold colour. We feel colour can really invigorate a room," said Cochrane.
The National Portrait Gallery reopens its doors for the first time this week, following its renovation as well as a wider rebrand. Earlier this year, the museum unveiled an overhaul of its logo by illustrator Peter Horridge based on a sketch by the gallery's first director.
The photography is by Alex Cochrane Architects and Andrew Meredith.
The post Alex Cochrane Architects designs shops to "embrace the elegant proportions" of National Portrait Gallery appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>I am sitting on the wall with a giant white rabbit in a waistcoat, and we're waving at the rush hour traffic flowing by. "Holly Willoughby lives over there," says the rabbit, before a white van full of construction workers slows down, tooting its horn, and my alarm clock wakes me up.
Except I don't wake up, because this isn't a dream.
On 1 November 2016, the cricketing commentator Elizabeth Ammon tweeted about a bloke who was dressing up as a white rabbit and standing at the side of the A3003 in Barnes on the first day of every month. Seven years on and that White Rabbit is still out there, and his name is Spike Mclarrity.
On the first of every month there's a bloke who dresses as a white rabbit and stands by the river in Barnes waving at people. pic.twitter.com/hBphhyERU1
— Elizabeth Ammon (@legsidelizzy) November 1, 2016
On the stroke of 8am — having done his one-hour shift, with me as his honorary companion — Spike hops off the wall, and we make the short walk back to his Barnes cottage. He insists on keeping the rabbit head on (we do a spontaneous photoshoot on the way), until finally it gets too stuffy — and a sweaty mo-hawked head pops out from beneath the fur, a friendly face glistening in sweat. It's almost like a magic trick has been performed. I feel like a kid again. Where did the rabbit go?
Mclarrity's cottage is everything you might expect; a darling burrow of a thing with low ceilings, purple alliums blossoming in a kitchen garden out the front, shelves laden with rabbit figurines. There's a still from the 1950 Jimmy Stewart film, Harvey, about a loveable dipsomaniac who is pals with a six foot-three-and-a-half-inches-tall rabbit, who also happens to be invisible. The walls are plastered in glossy maps of London, and Mclarrity's Scottish homelands. Every time he says the word 'local' (which turns out to be a lot) his full Edinburgh brogue sneaks out.
The obvious question really is how and when did this all start? France, oddly. And back in 2011, too — a whole five years before Elizabeth Ammon's sighting. Mclarrity — a conceptual based performance artist — would often work in Le Pecq, a small suburb of Paris that's twinned with Barnes. One day, fate came knocking: "They were having a mad hatter's tea party," says Mclarrity as he pours me a tea, "so I got an email saying 'can you come over and be a rabbit?'"
Finding a rabbit costume proved to be tricker than he thought, but Mclarrity eventually ended up in Angels fancy dress shop when it was still in Charing Cross — and there was the white rabbit looking back at him. He slipped into the suit, and turned to his friend and fellow artist Yoshiko Shimida, who nodded: "Yeah this is it."
The outfit was a hit at the tea party, and Mclarrity found himself loathe to shed it afterwards. "I had an A-Z of Paris so I went on the underground as the rabbit.. I spent five hours wandering about Paris. That's kind of how it began."
Immediately, he was the centre of attention: "By the Eiffel Tower I put the costume on. This young Japanese women came up and said 'Mr Rabbit, Mr Rabbit!' and she had a camera and I thought 'oh right she wants a photo...'. She gave me her camera and wanted me as the white rabbit, to take a photo of her in front of the Eiffel Tower!"
Soon, though, Mclarrity was being mobbed by Italian teenagers, Parisian police officers, Buddhist monks. The White Rabbit was beginning to work its magic — and though perhaps Mclarrity didn't realise it at the time — he and that suit (or, rather, suits; he's been through five of them, and currently has one for the wall, and one for 'smart' occasions) had irrevocably fused.
Even when he returned home, he couldn't shake the outfit. "I just thought 'I'm bored today, I'll go and put the rabbit costume on.' And I'd do it anytime of the day — so I'd walk around the city at night. I'd go up to Camden, go into pubs as the rabbit, completely off my head. And go and see bands."
Although he still makes special appearances throughout the year (on Mother's Day, he's seen wheeling a pram around with a huge 'baby rabbit' inside), Mclarrity found that the rabbit's niche was perching on a section of wall just west of Barnes station, from 7am to 8am on every first of every month — waving to the steady stream of traffic along the river.
I'd seen videos before, but never managed to go and see him in the flesh fur until now. It's a sight. During his hour-long stint, cars slow, beep their horns. There are double takes. Lots of smiles. A few perplexed frowns. Those who try to play it cool, in that 'seen it before' way Londoners do. Adults in cars nudge their children, glued to phones on the back seat. Sometime people shout "Hi Spike!", says Mclarrity. Others come back to Barnes, to double check what they thought they saw a few years ago was actually real. While it seems everyone is looking at the rabbit, Mclarrity is fascinated by watching people's reactions towards him. "It's very interesting people watching, observation of human behaviour.
"And something happens. I don't know what it is."
At one moment, the curtains in one of the apartment flats directly opposite the wall, slide open. A elderly woman appears, does a little dance, a thumbs up, and then disappears again. She does the same every month — her own little performance. Mclarrity sends letters to the residents here, telling them what 'the rabbit' is up to. He is currently doing a PhD at Kingston:' 'Embodying the rabbit: Art, Myth and Folklores'. His profile picture, of course, features the rabbit.
Though he has more female followers on social, Mclarrity finds the rabbit gets more attention from men on his morning wave-offs. "That time of the morning you've got all the labourers, the road workers, the builders... and they all have their own thing: the V-sign, the thumbs up. Sometimes the guys are like 'wahheeey!', stick their heads out.
"I'm always surprised how blokey it is, and that pleases me. I think they just get it. They get the craziness of it. They get the surreal, conceptual 'oh there's a rabbit on the wall — wait until I tell my mates in the pub!'"
I wonder whether the rabbit costume gives Mclarrity a sense of gutsiness — the same kind that once had him shove himself in between Boris Johnson and Zac Goldsmith, (which later led to the chilling moment in which Carrie Johnson told Mclarrity she knew 'everything about him')? But Mclarrity shakes his head: "As a conceptual performance artist I've always been fearless." So when he puts on that costume, does he not become the Barnes White Rabbit? "I've never claimed that I'm a rabbit," he says, "I've always said I'm a man in a rabbit costume." But does the rabbit at least have a name or any particular character traits? "It's up to you to decide that," he says firmly. He does, however, admit that he occasionally catches his reflection in a bus, and startles himself.
Indeed, not everyone is enamoured by a huge white leporidae lolloping about. When you mention the Barnes White Rabbit to some people, their minds jump to Frank — the nightmarish spectre from Donnie Darko. As someone's who's also performed as a clown, Mclarrity respects people's boundaries. He remembers sitting on a tube one day dressed as a clown, and a guy about 10 seats away shouting "don't you dare come near me!"
One winter morning a few years ago, Mclarrity was up to his usual antics, when three police cars and an ambulance pulled up. "I took the mask off and said 'what's going on? What's the ambulance for?'" says Mclarrity, "and they said 'don't worry about that.' I said 'what do you mean don't worry?!' And then they just barged all these questions: 'Why do you do this?' 'Who are you?' 'Do you get paid for this?' 'Where's your partner?'"
On that same morning, a woman's body had been found nearby on the Thames. "What I think happened... the river police had seen the silhouette of me walking along the Thames. They've obviously rang and said 'there's some guy in a rabbit costume'".
Security guards can be fazed by the rabbit too; Mclarrity recalls during a reenactment event in Durham, he was ordered to leave by security guard who told him 'It's not that kind of festival.' The media can also be suspicious. They always want Mclarrity to take his mask off, the irony being, they never report the artist's actual name. During the recent Gary Lineker furore, Mclarrity made a rabbit-shaped placard that said 'Gary the people's voice', and paraded it in front of Lineker's Barnes home. The press didn't really know what to do, so just filmed him, later releasing it as b-roll footage.
We go out into the garden to take pictures. It's slightly surprising that he's fine being photographed with the head off, but as he's repeatedly told me, he is Spike Mclarrity, not the Barnes White Rabbit. His true identity is not a secret — not officially anyway. Going back to Gary Lineker, Mclarrity, says: "I've known him for years, and he would know me as me. But he doesn't know me as the rabbit."
As I snap away, Mclarrity poses in a 'White Rabbit' UK tour t shirt — but his creation is even better travelled than that; he's been to Japan, Spain, Pakistan. Every 1 September, Mclarrity visits the town of Odžaci in Serbia (this is the only month you won't see him in Barnes), where he curates an annual 'Day of the Rabbit' as part of the IMAF festival. Because, the rabbit doesn't strictly speak, the language barrier isn't an issue. "Wherever White Rabbit goes, he becomes part of that culture. A Serbian rabbit, Japanese Rabbit, Spanish Rabbit.
"They don't know it's a performer from another country."
While Mclarrity insists he doesn't become the rabbit when he dresses up as it, whatever the rabbit is, has come to consume a large part of the performer's life. Aside from the sundry appearances and the PhD, he has written a book 'by' the rabbit. Part scrapbook diary, part poetry anthology, part children's book, part other things, it is packed with photos of the rabbit with people grinning from ear to ear, and is striking how such a benign presence has brought about so much childlike joy. "Long may you continue to enrich our community," say the owners of a local pub. "Thank you for the joy and laughter," says a vicar. "White Rabbit's not just for Easter — he's for life!" exclaims one fan's poem.
But as Bowie killed off Ziggy when he got too big for his platform boots, is Mclarrity tempted to boil the bunny? It doesn't appear so. As a performer and artist, Mclarrity's creative cogs are constantly whirring; the rabbit is just one of multifarious projects he has on the go, and as if to prove it, he shows me a small display cabinet in his kitchen, made up of hybrid creatures he's created, inspired by mythology. But Mclarrity also seems happily resigned to his role as the Barnes White Rabbit (which, by the way, alongside Longplayer at Trinity Buoy Wharf, is surely one of the longest pieces of conceptual art ever to grace London).
"You know when everybody has a number one hit, they do loads of other things but you just know them for that song?" Mclarrity smiles to me, "In some ways the white rabbit is my song."
The Barnes White Rabbit appears on the wall between Barnes Bridge station and the White Hart pub on the first of every month (except September) from 7am to 8am. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram. Find out more about Spike Mclarrity on his website.
]]>Let Decoist help you explore some of the best modern entertainment center design ideas that can transform your living room into a stylish and functional space.
[TAG0] [TAG1] [TAG2] [TAG3] [TAG4] [TAG5] [TAG6] [TAG7] [TAG8] [TAG9] [TAG10] [TAG11] [TAG12] [TAG13] [TAG14] [TAG15] [TAG16] [TAG17] [TAG18] [TAG19] [TAG20] [TAG21] [TAG22] [TAG23] [TAG24] [TAG25] [TAG26] [TAG27] [TAG28] [TAG29]Modern entertainment centers have become an essential part of any household. They provide a focal point for the living room, a place to display your TV and other electronics, and a storage solution for your media collection. But with so many design ideas to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the perfect entertainment center for your home.
One popular design trend is the minimalist approach. With this design, the entertainment center is sleek and simple, with no frills or unnecessary details. The focus is on clean lines and functionality. This style is perfect for small spaces, as it doesn’t take up too much room and can blend seamlessly with other furniture.
Another popular design trend is the industrial look. This design incorporates metals, raw woods, and exposed brick or concrete to create a modern, edgy feel. This style is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their entertainment center and create a unique focal point in their living room.
For those who prefer a more traditional look, there are plenty of classic designs to choose from. These often feature rich woods, intricate details, and a timeless elegance. This style is perfect for those who want their entertainment center to blend in seamlessly with their other furniture and decor.
One design trend that has gained popularity in recent years is the floating entertainment center. This style features a wall-mounted unit that appears to be floating, creating a sleek and modern look. This design is perfect for those who want to save floor space and create a minimalist, streamlined look in their living room.
When it comes to storage, there are many options to choose from. Some entertainment centers feature open shelving for displaying books, decor, and media, while others have closed cabinets and drawers for storing DVDs, video games, and other electronics. The key is to find a design that not only looks great but also meets your storage needs.
In terms of color, there are no hard and fast rules. Some popular options include white, black, and natural wood tones, but many entertainment centers are available in a variety of colors and finishes. The key is to choose a color that complements your existing decor and creates a cohesive look in your living room.
When building an entertainment center, it’s important to use materials that are strong, durable, and can support the weight of your electronic equipment. Solid wood or engineered wood like plywood are great options, as they provide stability and are easy to work with. Metal is also a popular choice for the frame or legs of the entertainment center, as it’s sturdy and can add a modern touch to the design.
Additionally, tempered glass can be used for shelves or doors to provide an elegant look while ensuring safety. Ultimately, the materials you choose will depend on your style, budget, and desired functionality of your entertainment center.
Overall, there are many modern entertainment center design ideas to choose from. Whether you prefer a minimalist look, an industrial feel, or a more traditional style, there is an entertainment center out there to suit your needs. The key is to find a design that not only looks great but also meets your storage and functionality needs.
Some popular modern design ideas for entertainment centers include floating shelves, built-in media cabinets, and minimalist designs with clean lines.
When choosing the right size for your entertainment center, consider the size of your TV and any other electronics you plan on storing, as well as the size of your room and how much space you have available.
You can incorporate storage into your entertainment center design by adding shelves, cabinets, or drawers to hold DVDs, games, and other media accessories.
Common materials used in modern entertainment center designs include wood, metal, glass, and acrylic.
To make your entertainment center stand out, consider adding a pop of color or incorporating unique textures or patterns into the design.
To ensure that your entertainment center is functional as well as stylish, consider the layout of your room and how you plan on using the space. Additionally, make sure to choose furniture and accessories that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
You're reading Modern Entertainment Center Design Ideas [30+ Photos], originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.
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]]>Are you tired of looking at the same old kitchen every day? It might seem like a colossal task, but refreshing your kitchen doesn’t necessarily mean gutting the whole space and starting from scratch. Here are some easy kitchen upgrades that can transform your culinary domain, infusing it with an entirely new aura without emptying your wallet.
Paint Countertops
Do you have hideous countertops you wish you could rip out but you just don’t have the budget to replace them right now? Did you know you could PAINT your countertops? I know you are probably thinking that’s really ghetto, but I promise you, it’s not. Check out this post about painting your countertops to see what I mean!
A simple coat of paint can significantly revitalize your kitchen cabinets, making them appear brand new. Opt for a color that enhances the rest of your décor. Cool hues such as soft blue or muted green are currently trendy and can create a soothing atmosphere. For a more dramatic look, consider going for bold colors like navy blue or even black.
Swapping out old cabinet handles and drawer pulls with modern ones can instantly elevate the look of your kitchen. This is a simple DIY project that doesn’t require professional help. From sleek stainless steel to rustic bronze, or even uniquely shaped ones, there are myriad choices in the market to align with your taste.
Adding a backsplash is a fun and easy way to inject color and texture into your kitchen. With a wide variety of materials to choose from such as subway tiles, mosaics, or even wallpaper, you can create a focal point that is both functional and stylish.
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your kitchen. Update your old fixtures with pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, or install dimmable lights for added versatility. Proper illumination can accentuate your upgrades and make your kitchen more inviting.
Open shelving is a chic way to modernize your kitchen while providing practical storage. Display your best dishes, beautiful glassware, or potted herbs for a warm, lived-in look. However, remember it requires regular maintenance to keep it from looking cluttered.
If your budget allows, consider upgrading one or more appliances. Energy-efficient appliances not only look sleek but also save you money in the long run. A stainless-steel refrigerator or a new stove can make a dramatic difference.
Incorporating indoor plants can transform your kitchen into a vibrant, refreshing space. Plus, certain plants like herbs can be handy when cooking. Whether you choose hanging plants, potted herbs, or a lush indoor tree, make sure they get the right amount of light.
Don’t underestimate the impact of a stylish kitchen rug. It can add a pop of color, texture, and comfort to your kitchen. From colorful vintage designs to modern geometric patterns, there’s a perfect rug for every kitchen style.
Painting one wall in your kitchen a different color can make a striking visual impact. It’s an affordable upgrade that can tie your kitchen décor together or make a bold statement.
Replacing your old kitchen faucet with a modern one can instantly enhance your sink area. Consider features like a high-arc spout, a pull-down sprayer, or even touchless technology.
Working with a professional installer will ensure your kitchen is free of leaks.
Revamping your kitchen doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming project. With these easy kitchen upgrades, you can infuse a breath of fresh air into your culinary space. Happy upgrading!
The post Easy Kitchen Upgrades: Breathe New Life into Your Culinary Space appeared first on The Fashionable Housewife.
]]>Do you ever sit around and think, “man I’d love to tackle some DIY home projects this weekend but I’m not sure where to start”? Because I do. Sometimes I’m in the mood to DIY but I just don’t have the inspiration. It can be hard to know where to get started when the entire world of possibilities is open to you!
I’m here to help. I’m rounding up sixty simple, affordable, and accessible DIY home decor and home improvement projects that you can tackle this weekend. They’re all beginner-friendly, and they’re all a TON of fun!
I’m organizing the list by room, but of course most of the these can be done in any room! Just browse around and see if any of these DIY home projects speak to you, then do it in whatever room you want.
You can get supplies for pretty much all of these DIY home decor projects at the hardware store, and you can find step by step instructions at the links below.
And there you have it. SIXTY simple, affordable DIY home decor and home improvement projects that you can tackle this weekend. Can’t wait to hear what you try first – you should have plenty of inspiration to get you started with all these step by step tutorials!
The post 60 DIY Home Decor Projects You Can Tackle This Weekend appeared first on Love & Renovations.
]]>Danish furniture brand &Tradition has opened the doors to a four-storey showroom in Copenhagen, featuring a complete apartment and rooms designed by Jaime Hayon and Space Copenhagen.
Unveiled during 3 Days of Design in an exhibition titled Under One Roof, &Tradition's design team has transformed the interior of an 18th-century townhouse on 4 Kronprinsessegade.
The top floor has become The Apartment, an entire home interior that is described by Els Van Hoorebeeck, creative and brand director for &Tradition, as "the cherry on the cake".
Despite being completely kitted out in the brand's products, it was designed to have the feel of a lived-in space rather than a showroom.
"When you enter, you feel this balance between colours and neutrals, between wood tones and glass or metal, and between classic and contemporary designs," Van Hoorebeeck told Dezeen.
"There's a lot of product in there, but you don't notice it," she said.
Spanish designer Hayon has created two rooms on the first floor, which give an insight into the creative process behind products he has developed for &Tradition.
The first, called Cabinet of Curiosities, features a glass display case filled with objects and drawings, revealing the forms and images that inspire Hayon's designs.
The second presents new works by Hayon – including the Momento vessels and a limited edition of his Formakami pendant lamp – in a scenography framed by large silhouette characters. This room is called Teatro Surreal.
"We felt it was important to show the world that his products come out of," said Van Hoorebeeck.
The two rooms by Danish interiors studio Space Copenhagen can be found on the second floor.
Building on the studio's experience in hotel and restaurant design, these rooms take the form of a bar and a dining room. Here, shades of green and brown combine with fresh herbs and plants to bring a sense of nature.
New products are peppered throughout these two rooms.
They include the Trace storage cabinets, which are filled with kitchen utensils and tableware, and the Collect rugs.
Founded in 2010 by Martin Kornbek Hansen, &Tradition combines contemporary and classic design in its collections.
The brand has been based at 4 Kronprinsessegade since 2018, but the building primarily served as a headquarters, with offices located on the upper levels.
The company has now moved its offices to another nearby location, which made it possible to open the entire townhouse up to the public for the first time.
Other spaces revealed in Under One Roof include the Verner Panton Lounge, which is dedicated to mid-century pieces by the late Danish designer such as the 1968 Flowerpot lamps.
There are also rooms designed to appeal to the senses. These include the Listening Lounge, a relaxed space filled with music, and Mnemonic, which centres around a range of room scents.
Other key spaces include a "workshop" showcasing the possibilities of the modular workspace furniture, an archive filled with original drawings and vintage samples, a cafe and a shop.
Van Hoorebeeck hopes the spaces will help tell the stories behind the products.
"What we wanted to do here is to create a whole universe," she said. "Every room is based on showing a different atmosphere between contemporary and classic designs."
"Now the layout of the house is set and every year we'll just adapt it," she added.
The photography is courtesy of &Tradition.
3 Days of Design took place in venues around Copenhagen from 7 to 9 June 2023. See Dezeen Events Guide for information, plus a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.
The post &Tradition designs entire apartment in takeover of 18th-century townhouse appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>Redecorate a home with some chalk paint ideas! It's one of the ways to do a home makeover without buying any new pieces. All you have to do to start is to think out of the box when it comes to your furniture. Once you’ve got a color and concept in mind, grab a paintbrush and some chalk paint, and get to work.
Coat your candle holders with a layer of chalk paint for a matte finish. Once the paint has dried, give the pieces a more distressed look by rubbing them with sandpaper.
No products found.
Give your home a French country look by coating a basket with gray chalk paint. Simply brush the chalk paint on the inside of the basket. Then, once it has dried, resume painting on the outside.
Tip: For added depth, you can choose to layer different chalk paint colors.
Add a touch of vintage charm to your bedroom with these chalk painted drawers.
Tip: Before you begin painting, disassemble or remove the drawers from the base frame first. Not only will you have an easier paint job, but your paint will also dry faster this way.
Making these chalk painted vases is easy. Simply turn your jar upside down and paint a coat of chalk paint. Once dry, lightly sand the edges for a more vintage look.
Tip: If your jars have a pattern on, it's best to paint in the direction of the pattern.
The base of the table and the chair frames were coated with chalk paint for this tutorial. By the way, don’t forget to coat on a clear soft wax once the paint has dried. Doing so will help the paint last longer.
I love how each little box of these jewelry holders uses old accessories as knobs. It’s such an ingenious way of reusing old earrings that have lost its pair.
Tip: If you’re upcycling a wooden box to turn into a jewelry case, use white vinegar and water to clean the wood.
Make a batch of homemade chalk paint by mixing 2 cups of flat paint, a tablespoon of water, and 3 tablespoons of plaster of Paris. Once you’ve got the paint fully mixed, dip a paintbrush in and begin painting your highchair.
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Makeover an apothecary cabinet by adding chalk paint. Don’t forget to line the surfaces near the drawer faces with tape. This will prevent any unwanted paint marks on the sides.
This chalk paint recipe makes use of 1 cup of latex paint, 1/4 cup of calcium carbonate, and 1/8 cup of water. Mix all of these together and give your couch a coating to make for an-almost-new and improved sofa.
Update a vintage dresser with a coat of chalk paint. Don’t worry too much about getting chalk paint on the hardware of your dresser. You can simply paint over them after the paint has dried.
This project will let you leave little messages on your chalkboard coffee table. The best part is, you won’t even need to paint the entire coffee table. The top surface alone will do.
Want to give a gray-wash finish to your chalk painted dresser? Simply add a bit of water to the chalk paint, then, apply a layer on your dresser. Once the paint is on the furniture, grab a cloth, and wipe away some of the paint for a gray-washed effect.
Tip: Use a lint-free cloth.
This DIY first aid storage box makes use of an old wine box, and is an excellent idea for upcycling.
Tip: Remind yourself of your prescriptions by writing the dosage needed on the front surface of the wooden door.
Dave and I love dual purpose furniture, so this project has a special place in our hearts. What we did was we painted a layer of chalk paint on the bottom surface of a foldable chair. That way, we can write little messages — such as a welcome note or a reminder — without having to put a whole board in.
Need a place to put additional reminders in your home office? Paint your filing cabinet with some chalk paint and you’ll never forget another item on your to-do list again.
Put your superstition aside for just a sec and check out our 13 tips & tricks for common home repairs today! https://t.co/SsDdFQTdt8 pic.twitter.com/3wDXP3hshE
— DIY Projects (@DIYProjectsCom) March 31, 2017
Give an old bookshelf a makeover with a coating of chalk paint.
Tip: Create a sense of depth by painting the insides of your bookshelf in a darker color. Switch it up by painting the legs in a different color as well.
Check if your bed frame has a laminate surface before giving it a coating of chalk paint. If it is, you’ll want to give it a light sanding or a coat of shellac first.
Make an old chair look more shabby chic with some chalk paint. You can also amp up the comfort level by throwing on a pillow or a blanket.
Isn’t this pop of color on a mirror frame just fantastic? A sea foam green color would look perfect in the living room of a beach house.
Lighten up a dark colored piano with a few coats of chalk paint. Don’t forget to place tape on the pedals and the keys to avoid any unwanted paint splatters.
Tweak an Ikea nightstand and make it your own with this little DIY. If you’re attaching an o’verlay like this tutorial, make sure to use spray glue and not wood glue, as the latter is too runny and messy.
Learn more techniques for your chalk paint ideas when you watch the video below. It’ll teach you 5 must know brush strokes for chalk painting.
I hope this roundup gave you lots of chalk paint ideas to choose from when it comes to giving your home a vintage charm. The truth is, you really don’t have to spend a lot to switch up your home furniture. Sometimes all you need is a fresh coat of chalk paint.
Which chalk paint ideas are you dying to try out? Let us know in the comments below!
Have some paint leftover? These ideas will ensure the paint won't go to waste.
Feature image via Era Home Design
]]>While many people stick to the same interior design style throughout most of their home, some choose a different approach for their bedroom. They see the bedroom as a space that is personal to them, and it is somewhere they can reflect their personality and passions. In the bedroom, they can choose a different theme that represents anything in which they are interested. If your favorite decade was the 80s or you are a fan of music from this decade, then you may wish to have an 80s themed bedroom. It was an interesting decade that introduced many new trends, both in terms of interior design and in many other aspects of culture. If you decide that this is the decade you wish to use as a theme in your bedroom, then here are 10 essentials for the perfect 80s bedroom to inspire you.
The 1980s was the era when people began to attempt decorating themselves rather than getting in the experts. DIY was all the rage during this decade, and people became increasingly daring and experimental in the home décor effects they were attempting to make. Stippling and stenciling were two popular paint effect styles. If you find these a little dated, then you might give paint splattering a try, as this was also a popular paint effect used in the 1980s, says Home Guides.
People also became more daring about the colors used in the 1980s. While colors such as mauve and apple green were popular choices in country homes, neon colors became a big hit during this decade. People began wearing neon-colored leg warmers, and kids’ accessories were often in neon colors. Consider having some neon surfaces in your 80s bedroom to reflect the trend for these bright colors in that decade.
The art you display on your walls can make a significant difference to the overall look of a room and the success of any theme you apply. In the 1980s, adorning the bedroom walls with posters was the most popular way of adding interesting focal points around the room. Most people put up posters of their favorite bands or movies. Doing this is something that you can do to add to the 80s theme in your bedroom.
The most common type of furniture you would see in homes during the 1980s was either oak or pine furniture. People opted for the plain wood look rather than for stained or painted wood. Choose a wooden bed frame, and add a pine or oak chest of drawers, wardrobe, and bedside cabinet to the room. In-built furniture became popular much later, so freestanding furniture is a better reflection of the era.
There are many iconic toys that come from the 1980s, many of which are still popular today. Some of the most popular toys from this era include the Rubik’s cube, Barbies, Transformers, Care Bears, and My Little Pony figures. Adorning the room with some of these toys will reflect the theme perfectly and add an element of fun to your 80s bedroom.
An interior accessory that became popular during the 1980s was character lamps. These reflected the trends in movies, television programs, and decade’s music. It is still possible to get hold of some of the original character lamps from the 80s on sites specializing in selling retro items or from sites such as eBay. Although many are collector’s items, they are an affordable item that will add to your interior décor theme. They are also an interesting talking point if you invite guests into your bedroom to see your themed room.
It was during the 1980s that the popularity of themed bed linen began to grow. Usually, these were seen in the bedrooms of children and teenagers, rather than adults. However, many adults now use themed bed linen to create a retro look or to make an ironic statement. Some of the most popular bed linen themes during the 1980s were Care Bears, Star Wars, My Little Pony, and Transformers. Using themed bed linen is a fun way to create the 1980s theme in a bedroom, especially in children’s bedrooms.
According to the Huffington Post, VHS tapes were to the 1980s what the iPad is to the modern-day. If you have a video player, then you can still watch your old VHS tapes. However, you can also use old VHS tapes as decorative items that add to the theme. Stack them on shelves or create a piece of art using your old tapes.
Modern soft furnishing trends often focus on pieces that are a solid color that acts as an accent to the colors on your walls. There is also a focus on introducing different fabrics and textures. However, people took a different approach to soft furnishings in the 1980s. Then, the trend was for patterned soft furnishings, with floral prints, stripes, and geometric designs. Adding soft furnishings to your 80s bedroom will create additional points of interest. However, choose prints and colors carefully to avoid clashing too much with the other designs and colors in your bedroom.
According to Retro Planet, one of the most common décor accessories in the 80s was houseplants. During this decade, most homes would have houseplants in every room, including the bedroom. It is a simple and cheap way of contributing to your 80s theme, and it will add a natural element to the room. In addition to house plants, there was also a trend for dried flowers. If you are forgetful when it comes to caring for plants, then dried flowers are an excellent alternative. Add them to your windowsill, bedside cabinet, or the top of your drawers.
If there was one thing that all interior designers in the 80s agreed on was putting up large mirrors in every home. From round frameless mirrors and glass blocks to floor-to-ceiling mirrors, people had their fill of mirrors around the house. According to Family Handyman, although not every home had floor-to-ceiling mirrors, they were often seen in movies or TV shows. If you want to incorporate a mirrored look into your 80’s themed bedroom, then these are perfect ways to add that effect. Mirrors added the illusion of more space while also hiding cabinets. This is great for a small bedroom as it makes the room feel bigger than it is.
Blinds and especially mini blinds became popular in the 80s. It was almost impossible to walk into a house and not find blinds. By 1981, mini-blinds had taken over the market for window coverings. Modern blinds can dramatize a window, give the room a new look, or even take attention away from a window.
Mini-blinds give a room an 80s feel and can help you hide structural errors around your windows or bad designs. Now, if you already have an 80s-themed wallpaper or even wall patterns from the era, you can find blinds that seamlessly match your wall designs.
People around that decade started to appreciate faux stone fireplaces. They moved away from brick fireplaces and walls that were classics in the 70s. Exposed brick designs were popular in the 70s and made houses look like old warehouses. In the 80s, people started covering up exposed brick and using fake fireplace designs that looked like a rock, making their houses look very pretty.
You can include a fake rock fireplace design in your house, especially if your bedroom already has a fireplace. Although not for everyone, this design will bring back the fiery 80s era to your room.
A Boom box is the ultimate 80s décor for your room. Although the first boom box was released in 1966, it was not until the late 70s that they started to become popular. By the 80s, almost every music lover in the country owned a boom box. Young people were purchasing boom boxes in large numbers, especially those who lived in cities.
They became a staple in all major music events and carnivals. They also became linked with the hip-hop culture at the time. Although now it would be hard to find cassette tapes to play in your boom, it would certainly add an 80s flair to the room.
Although telephone communication devices were invented in the 1800s, by the 1980s, landlines were the most popular communication devices. Technology had taken off, and people had phones in their houses.
Even though mobile phones as we know them now had not been developed, communication was made easier by landlines, which almost every house in America had. Phone companies have even come up with ways of making the phones look fun, with most having different colors.
In the 80s, neon colors had taken off, and many landlines from the time had bright neon green, pink, and red colors, to mention a few. You can add a brightly colored old landline from vintage stores to finish the 80s look.
As mentioned above, the mirror craze in the 80s was booming, and another easy and functional way people incorporated mirrors into their bedrooms was by putting mirrors on their closet doors.
This is functional and a great way to add an 80s vibe to the bedroom. Instead of putting your mirror up on the wall, consider putting it on your closet doors. This way, you can look at yourself as you dress up and make sure you look good.
A trend that started in the 70s and continued to the 80s was wall-to-wall shag carpeting. The wall-to-wall carpet was king during the 80s. It was especially popular in bright colors such as orange. If you want to add the 80s vibe to your bedroom, you can choose a brightly colored caret to accompany all the other 80s accessories in the room. As stated by SFGate, if you don’t want to add a wall-to-wall carpet, you can consider adding area rugs with bright colors, geometric designs, or graphic prints. People who do not want a bright carpet can get them in other colors that were also popular at the time, including mauve, peach, grey, and dusty blue.
These comfy, plush chairs were extremely popular then, and it was challenging to find a home without one. Although they originated in Italy, they became popular in the US, especially among young people and hippies. These shapeless chairs were comfortable and are also popular today.
The most popular designs in the 80s were colorful, bold, and lively prints. If you want to bring out the 80s theme, look for a brightly colored bean bag or one with bold patterns and plop it up in the corner of the room. This functional addition to the bedroom will add some color and comfort to your bedroom.
Forget the alarm clock on your phone. Before the world was digitized and mobile phones got features like the alarm, people were woken up daily by portable alarm clocks, which were loud and needed to be banged on to stop. The 1980s alarm clocks were different and cute.
The clocks had numbers that flipped and came in fake wood veneer. Some of them sported bright colors significantly in the 80s and made clicking sounds. Adding a cool 80s alarm clock and ditching your phone’s alarm will make you feel like you are living in the 80s.
Much like every other décor piece in the 70s and 80s, furniture tended to have bright upholstery. Sofas, in particular, sported bright, bold colors with floral prints. While wallpapers and rugs tended to lean towards geometric patterns, floral designs were the go-to furniture designs.
While floral sofas can be a great addition to your bedroom, especially if it is a big room and you want to add a seating area, you have to consider what designs you want your sofa to have as mixing a lot of the popular floral designs from the 80s can make your room look very busy and overwhelming to the eyes.
This vital piece of equipment can influence how your customers perceive your business, affecting everything from efficiency and hygiene to aesthetics and presentation. So, let’s embark on this journey to understand more about ice cream dipping cabinets, their different types, key features, and most importantly, how to choose the perfect one for your business.
An ice cream dipping cabinet is refrigeration equipment specifically designed for storing and serving ice cream. It maintains an optimal temperature to keep the ice cream in a scoopable state, and its design often allows the display of multiple flavors for customer selection.
An ice cream dipping cabinet is essential for businesses that sell ice cream, particularly those that offer it in scoops, such as ice cream parlors, cafes, and restaurants. Firstly, it preserves the quality and consistency of the ice cream by providing steady, cold temperatures that prevent melting and refreezing, which can degrade the texture and flavor of the product.
Secondly, the open-top design of most ice cream dipping cabinets allows for an attractive presentation of available flavors, aiding in sales by visually enticing customers. These units often come with clear sliding or roll-top lids that allow easy access for serving while minimizing heat ingress when closed.
Finally, these cabinets enhance operational efficiency. They are built with employees in mind, allowing for easy scooping and quick service, which is especially vital during peak business hours.
Different models of dipping cabinets may serve different styles, but they all share a set of common, essential features that make them ideal for storing and serving ice cream.
Capacity – How many tubs of ice cream can the cabinet hold? This can range from as few as four in compact models to 16 or more in larger cabinets.
Temperature control – Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial. Ice cream dipping cabinets are designed to hold ice cream at a temperature that keeps it scoopable without melting. Look for models with adjustable thermostats and reliable temperature maintenance.
Design – Whether flat or curved, glass tops on dipping cabinets allow customers to view the array of flavors you offer, enticing them to try more. Many models come with sneeze guards to protect your stock from contamination, making them an excellent choice for ice cream parlors where hygiene and customer interaction are top priorities.
Mobility- A cabinet with wheels can be a great asset for concession stands, parties, outdoor events, etc.
Durability – Cabinets designed for commercial use should be built to withstand the rigors of high customer traffic, frequent door openings, and regular cleaning.
Price – Like any other business investment, price is an important factor. The best cabinet for you will be one that provides the features you need at a price that fits your budget.
Feature | Top Pick: KoolMore 49 inch Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet | Runner Up: MAXX Cold Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet | Best Value: Cooler Depot 31" Freezer Display Cabinet |
---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 28.14"D x 49.6"W x 34.4"H | 27.2"D x 51.7"W x 50.4"H | 31"W x 33"H x 27"D |
Capacity | Displays 8 large tubs, storage for 6 more | Holds 8 exposed tubs, storage for 6 more | 6.6 cubic feet, includes three baskets |
Temperature Range | 36°F to -15°F | Not specified | Down to -23°C (-9°F) |
Special Features | Dual-direction sliding glass door, adjustable temperature, stainless steel build, soft interior lighting, rolling and lockable caster wheels | LED interior lighting, curved glass sneeze guard, UL 471 and NSF 7 Commercial Standards certified | Anti-fogging treated glass, sliding door and sneeze guard, interior LED illumination, all-direction wheels, anti-condensation pipe design, 3-year All-Parts Warranty, 6-year Compressor Warranty, 1-month Labor Warranty |
Below are the best picks for dipping cabinets we found on Amazon. Check through our picks and find your next best investment for your small business:
Top Pick: The KoolMore Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet ensures an easy, attractive way to present and serve your ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet while providing flexible temperature control and efficient use of space. It’s more than a freezer; it’s a stylish, spacious, and practical solution for cafes, ice cream shops, or small businesses.
Key Features:
Koolmore 49-inch Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet
Runner Up: The MAXX Cold MXDC-8 is a Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet Freezer designed with your business in mind. It offers an excellent blend of visibility, storage, and hygiene to amplify your ice cream dispensing efficiency.
Key Features:
Note: A separate DipperWell is available to enhance the cabinet’s utility.
MAXX Cold Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet
Best Value: This compact case is ideal for smaller shops, convenience stores, and other places where space may be at a premium! It’s dimensions measure just 31″W x 33″H x 27″D, and its all-direction wheels allow for easy mobility. These and the units other features make an impressive overall cabinet.
Key Features:
Cooler Depot 31″ Freezer Display Cabinet
This Cooler Depot Display Case allows you to showcase your frozen offerings from your countertop. This unit combines technology, efficiency, and durability in a sleek white frame, promoting easy accessibility and an enticing display for your customers.
Key Features:
Cooler Depot Countertop Dipping Cabinet
Presenting the Cooler Depot Commercial Ice Cream Display Freezer, your ultimate refrigeration partner. Specially designed for restaurants, bars, offices, and snack shops, it seamlessly merges convenience, display efficacy, and mobility.
Key Features:
Invest in the Cooler Depot Commercial Ice Cream Display Freezer and serve delectable gelato, Italian ice, and sorbet in style, ensuring an unforgettable experience for your customers.
Coooler Depot 53″ Commercial Ice cream Display Freezer
This large dipping cabinet provides extensive storage capacity with an impressive display feature for your ice cream or gelato shop. It can display 12 tubs, with integrated LED lighting making your frozen treats look their absolute best.
Key Features:
Duura 12 Flavor Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet
With a compact size of 46.5″D x 26.8″W x 48.5″H and operating at 220V, the INTBUYING ice cream showcase, in a clean white finish, provides both practicality and style for your business. Its design includes tempered glass, stainless steel, and fixed wheel design, promising stability and durability. Additionally, it comes with a 30-day return, refund, or replacement policy for complete peace of mind.
Key Features:
INTBUYING Commercial Hard Ice Cream Showcase
Cooler Depot’s freezer display case is a perfect choice for showcasing and storing your large ice cream selection at optimal temperatures. Measuring 31″W x 33″H x 27″D, the commercial-grade freezer fits well into restaurant, bar, office, or snack shop settings; and its impressive list of features make it a worthy investment. The product also assures your investment with a 3-year all-parts warranty, a 6-year compressor warranty, and a 1-month labor warranty.
Key Features:
41 Inch Gelato Freezer Display Case Dipping Cabinet
The OMCAN 50-Inch Ice Cream Dipping Freezer is meant to be an essential tool for any business wanting to showcase and serve ice cream with style and efficiency. With its practical design and aesthetic appeal, this cabinet can be a versatile addition to your commercial venture.
Key Features:
OMCAN 50-Inch Ice Cream Dipping Freezer with Flat Sneeze Guard
The KoolMore Commercial dipping cabinet is a compact yet spacious asset for any small business owner operating a café, ice cream shop, or similar establishments. It can display 4 large tubs and has additional storage to keep your top sellers in stock.
Key Features:
Koolmore 26 inch Commercial Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet
Choosing the right commercial ice cream dipping cabinet for your business is not just about picking the one with the most features or the lowest price. It’s about finding the one that fits your unique needs and can grow with your business. Here are some tips to guide your choice:
Evaluate your needs – The size of your shop, the volume of sales, the variety of flavors you want to offer, and your available space are all factors that should guide your choice of a dipping cabinet. A large ice cream parlor might need a high-capacity cabinet with many flavors on display, while a small convenience store could do well with a more compact model.
Consider the location – A cabinet designed for easy transport and low power consumption would be ideal if you’re setting up an outdoor stand or a mobile business.
New vs. used – A new ice cream dipping cabinet comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and the assurance that it has no wear and tear. However, good quality used cabinets can also be cost-effective, especially for new businesses on a tight budget.
Energy Efficiency – Dipping cabinets can consume a significant amount of energy. Look for models with energy-saving features, such as efficient insulation, auto-defrost, and high-quality door seals.
The ideal temperature for a commercial ice cream dipping cabinet is between -10 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range keeps the ice cream firm enough for scooping without letting it become too hard or start to melt.
A commercial ice cream dipping cabinet should be cleaned at least once a week. However, if the cabinet is used heavily, or if there’s a visible build-up of ice, it may need more frequent cleaning.
Ice cream dipping cabinets can consume a significant amount of energy. Look for models with energy-efficient features, such as good insulation, automatic defrost, and efficient cooling systems.
Yes, depending on the model and design of your ice cream dipping cabinet, you might have specific maintenance needs. Always consult and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and cleaning.
There are several reputable manufacturers of commercial ice cream dipping cabinets. The best brand for you would depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.
The choice of an ice cream dipping cabinet might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of running an ice cream business. However, the right cabinet can elevate your operation, ensuring that your ice cream is kept at the perfect temperature and presented to your customers in the most appetizing way.
Whether running a classic ice cream parlor, a vibrant restaurant, or a convenience store offering desserts on the side, choosing the perfect commercial ice cream dipping cabinet can take your business to the next level.
So go ahead, check out the top picks and other recommendations we’ve provided. Remember, it’s not just about getting a cabinet; it’s about finding the perfect companion for your business to serve the best scoop of happiness.
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This article, "Ice Cream Dipping Cabinet: Picks for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>Deli display cases, and refrigerated deli cases, are key assets in grocery stores, convenience stores, sandwich shops, bakeries, and other food service establishments. They allow businesses to display their deli items, including meat, cheese, salads, and other deli items, appealingly while maintaining the proper refrigerated environment.
These display cases are designed with different styles and capabilities to accommodate the diverse needs of businesses. Some units are specifically for displaying cold cuts, meats, and cheeses, while others can keep sushi, salads, and even baked goods at their ideal temperature. They range from large, floor-mounted units to smaller countertop styles, each designed to maximize your store’s space and display potential.
Deli display cases are typically categorized into service or self-service cases. Service cases often have a rear door or slide that allows staff to serve customers, while self-service units have customer-accessible doors, ideal for quick grab-and-go snacks or drinks.
Then, within these categories, you will find a variety of styles, including curved glass deli cases, which offer a stylish look and enhanced visibility, and meat display cases that often have deeper shelves to accommodate larger cuts of poultry, meats, and other great items.
Picking the right deli display case for your business involves considering a variety of features. These include:
There are a lot of great refrigerated deli cases available on Amazon. We’ve rounded up the ten best for your perusal. Check out our picks, review the specs, and perhaps you’ll find the perfect deli display case that’s just right for your small business.
Top Pick: The PEAKCOLD Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case is a stainless-steel showcase that’s optimal for meat or seafood. This versatile case is durable yet stylish, with plenty of room for sandwiches, cheeses, meats, etc.
This case uses environmentally friendly and energy-efficient R290 Refrigerant, making it a great choice for those looking to lower their footprint. It has plenty of great features, so it’s our Top Pick!
Key features include:
Peak Cold Large Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case
Runner Up: The True Refrigerated Deli Case can store, display, and maintain the freshness of your deli products. It is designed to enhance the presentation of your items and to ensure they are stored under optimal conditions. It’s ideal for locations with temperatures up to 75 degrees F or 55% relative humidity.
While the price tag on this unit is high, its construction and features show it can be a worthy investment for businesses looking for a high-quality display unit. Shelf-mounted LED lighting highlights your featured items, while the high humidity gravity coil system maintains a temperature range of 38-40 degrees Fahrenheit, using R134A refrigerant. These and more great qualities is what made this case our runner-up pick.
Key features include:
True Curved Glass Countertop Refrigerated Deli Case
Best Value: The Marchia case combines functional design and state-of-the-art technology in a compact, 31″ refrigerated countertop display case. Engineered for user convenience, this unit features adjustable shelves to cater to products of varying sizes, be it baked goods, sandwiches, or beverages. It is also priced under $1k, making it a great option for those on a tight budget.
The display case integrates LED lighting, offering attractive, energy-efficient illumination of your products. The double-insulated sliding rear doors make product loading and unloading effortless while maintaining optimal cooling efficiency.
Key Features:
Marchia 30″ Refrigerated Display Case
Discover the efficiency of the PeakCold Stainless Steel Curved Glass Deli Case. With a compact design, this 48″ model is tailored to suit small delis requiring optimal refrigeration performance. Its robust construction features a stainless steel exterior, aluminum interior, and floor, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.
Enhancing product visibility, the Low-E, double pane curved glass and adjustable PVC coated display shelves allow for an attractive presentation of your meat, bakery items, and more. Additionally, the design incorporates an easily accessible condenser and requires no plumbing for installation, ensuring a hassle-free setup experience.
Key Features:
PEAKCOLD Stainless Steel Small Curved Glass Deli Case
The Xiltek Stainless Steel Commercial Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case showcases your products beautifully while ensuring they are stored under the best conditions. Built-in LED lighting ensures your items look their best, while the Dixell Easy Set thermometer makes it easy to monitor the temperature. The efficient and eco-friendly deli case provides an eye-catching display and a high-performing refrigeration system.
Key features:
Xiltek 48″ All Stainless Steel Commercial Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case
The cooler depot refrigerated display case offers a versatile solution for showcasing your baked goods, meats, and other snacks in cafes, bakeries, and grocery stores. Its attractive design showcases your items in style, encouraging impulse sales.
Key features include:
Cooler Depot Upright 72″ Commercial Glass Display
The Krollen Industrial Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case is a durable and practical solution designed for commercial needs. With its striking visual appeal and impressive features, this unit promises fresh and well-displayed items.
Key features include:
Krollen Industrial White Curved Glass Refrigerated Deli Case
The KoolMore countertop display case can effectively increase impulse purchases at your checkout counter. The adjustable shelves allow you to showcase a variety of desserts, pastries, cakes, beverages, yogurts, and fruit cups. The stainless steel construction guarantees that this refrigerator will serve your establishment for many years to come.
Key features:
KoolMore 27″ Commercial Countertop Refrigerator Display Merchandiser
The ROVSUN compact refrigerated display case is perfect for cafes, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. With its sophisticated black and silver design, this appliance serves as a versatile tool for displaying and preserving your finest meats, pastries and other delicacies. It offers an air cooling system for efficient cooling and automatic defrost for clear visibility.
Key features include:
ROVSUN Commercial Display Refrigerator
The KoolMore display case is a stainless-steel refrigerator designed exclusively for commercial purposes. Holding a balance between functionality and display, it comes with a curved, transparent glass front and multi-tiered shelves illuminated by LED lighting.
The KoolMore Deli Case enhances your product display and promises reliable performance and optimal temperature maintenance for your perishable items. This combination ensures your goods stay fresh, maintaining their delicious flavors without drying out.
Key features include:
KoolMore 47″ Deli Case and Meat Display
Once you have your ideal deli display case, it’s crucial to maintain it properly. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the glass clear, the interior hygienic, and the unit operating efficiently. Depending on your deli case’s design, you may need to defrost it periodically to prevent ice build-up that can reduce its efficiency.
In terms of temperature and humidity, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your products in optimal condition. Moreover, regular servicing can extend the lifespan of your refrigerated deli case and prevent costly breakdowns.
Even the best deli display cases can encounter problems. The most common include temperature fluctuations, lighting issues, and condensation. Most of these can be solved with simple DIY fixes, like adjusting the temperature settings or replacing bulbs, but sometimes you may need professional assistance. Always contact your supplier or a qualified technician if you’re unsure how to solve a problem.
Regular cleaning is vital. Aim to clean your display case thoroughly at least once a week, with daily spot cleaning as needed.
The ideal temperature depends on the type of food you’re storing. For most deli items, a temperature of 35 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended.
Choose a unit with LED lighting, ensure the temperature is set correctly, and keep the case clean and well-maintained.
The price can vary widely based on the size, brand, and features. A small, basic unit may cost around $1,000, while a large, high-end case could exceed $10,000.
Many manufacturers offer customizable options in terms of size, color, materials, and lighting. Always check with your supplier to explore the possibilities.
Investing in a top-quality deli display case can make a world of difference to your food business. It’s not only about presenting your deli items in the best possible light, but also about maintaining their freshness, boosting sales, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Remember, a deli case is more than a storage solution; it’s a strategic business tool. Make your choice wisely, considering all the factors we’ve discussed above. And once you’ve made your purchase, give it the care it needs to perform at its best for years to come.
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This article, "Deli Case: Picks a Cut Above the Rest for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>This month, KBDN asked several design firms to share showroom strategies that provide inspiration for today’s kitchens and baths.
Pittsburgh, PA
One of Michael Jacobs’ favorite spaces within the NKBA award-winning Pittsburgh, PA Marvista Design + Build showroom he opened in 2020 isn’t actually a display. Rather, it’s the finish selection room, where designers help clients pull together all of the elements for their new spaces.
One of the first observations visitors make is that the room is tidy and uncluttered, with samples neatly tucked behind doors or stored in drawers. The streamlined look is a concept that resonates throughout the entire 2,500-sq.-ft. showroom.
“We didn’t want a showroom that was cluttered with spindles of samples,” says the president of the design/build firm. “When visitors come in, they see a clean palette of displays. Then, when they want to look at samples or paint chips, they can move to our finish room.
“We don’t want to overwhelm our clients,” he continues. “Instead, after getting to know them, our designers can curate a look for them, pulling samples they feel are necessary. People are busy. They don’t want to have to sort through a lot of samples.”
Another special feature of the room is its lighting, which is important for the entire showroom. In fact, it is so essential that Jacobs hired a Los Angeles-based lighting expert to create a comprehensive lighting plan. In the selection room, she included tunable lighting that gives designers the ability to adjust the color temperature of the lighting within the room to match that of a client’s home. That capability also eliminates the need for clients to take anything home.
“We don’t want people to take home samples because oftentimes we’re updating the lighting, too, so it just causes confusion,” he indicates. “Many people in the industry have gotten that panic call from a client who took home a sample that doesn’t match. We’ve taken that whole experience off of the table.”
In the inspiration area, the lighting plan takes into consideration the colors of the displays and their placement within the showroom. For example, the light that shines on the teal colored cabinetry in the mudroom/drop zone display in the front of the showroom is different than what illuminates the walnut, textured laminate and rift-cut oak cabinetry in the kitchen display towards the back.
“It may be a little nerdy,” he admits, “but with my background, which includes a previous career in the movie business, it was important for me to have a showroom that is organized and up to date. And lighting is a huge part of that.”
Another important part of designing the showroom was to establish a creative place where people can dream…with inspiration that is applicable for the Pittsburgh market, which often includes renovating 100-plus-year-old homes. As such, a white and gray kitchen display shows visitors how lighter colors can brighten an older home laden with dark wood. For those wanting a ‘wow’ design element, the live kitchen display with the custom backlit ‘gemstone’ backsplash can inspire.
Likewise, the ‘Posh Prohibition’ bar features dry brushed cherry cabinetry that shows how updated cabinetry can fit into an older home. Other features include motorized shelves that move in and out of the cabinets, paneled appliances and accent lights with leather straps.
Jacobs also included a bathroom display, which serves as the public restroom. Its design vision relates to Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater home, with elements that include a walnut vanity with walnut-accented faucets and backlit sconces and wall lights that combine with a ‘leather’ tiled half wall, ‘water’ tiled accent wall and ‘coal’ tiled floor.
Winfield, NY
Debbie U. Pugh had worked as a CKBD in the kitchen and bath design industry for more than 14 years when, at the age of 59, she ventured out on her own and opened The Kitchen Bin in Winfield, NY last year. While she always dreamed of owning her own business, losing a dear friend to cancer gave her the nudge she needed to actually do it.
“I always thought ‘someday’,” she says. “But when my friend passed away, I realized that life is short, so I decided to go out on my own, chase my dream and invest in myself.”
Given her rural location, she chose to establish her business within a grain bin, which simultaneously blends in while standing out.
“I have people stop each day just to see what’s inside,” she says. “A grain bin evolving into a kitchen and bath showroom makes this a one-of-a-kind space where I think outside the box and design in a circle while giving clients a unique experience with one-stop shopping.”
While visitors may be lured in by the structure’s outward appearance, its 1,500-square-foot interior adds to the awe with soaring 30′-tall ceilings and a curved staircase that leads to a loft filled with flooring and tile samples. Further enticement comes from a full kitchen display with cabinetry that is shown in two paint colors and one stain with partial and full overlay doors, flat and raised paneled doors, glass doors with mullions, eight different hardware choices and a host of organizational accessories. She also included a pantry, bookcase, floating shelves, quartz countertop, dual-fuel range, refrigerator, paneled dishwasher and apron front sink. An adjacent espresso bar features a commercial espresso maker and grinder and a bar sink.
“I tried to include as many options as possible while still looking coordinated and well designed,” Pugh indicates.
Passing through the barn doors leads visitors into the presentation room where she displays cabinetry door samples from four manufacturers, including a local custom cabinet maker. Several base cabinets feature clear acrylic tops so clients can view interior construction. Granite and quartz samples are presented in a custom-designed unit to minimize clutter. Pugh even custom designed her hardware selection boards to look like a cabinet, which also houses a wall bed. Barn doors in this room lead to a half bath and a full bath with a tiled shower and stackable washer and dryer.
“I thought long and hard about my showroom,” she relates. “Everything is displayed in a home-like environment. Clients feel that coziness as they sit back in comfy chairs in front of the fireplace and watch their designs come alive on a large-screen TV…all while enjoying a cappuccino and a cookie. In fact, people often ask me if I live here!”
Given that her displays are fully operational, and that she included that bed behind her hardware display, living there is actually possible…and planned for.
“Fully working displays add value since clients can see, touch and envision products in their own spaces,” she explains. “But I also wanted to be able to use the showroom as a guest space, vacation rental or residence when I retire, or if the currently thriving kitchen and bath design industry tanks. Plus, my son and daughter-in-law can stay here when they visit. They even have their own ensuite!”
Arvada, CO
JM Kitchen & Bath Design is a company on the move. Backed by a 45-year history in the kitchen and bath design industry in the greater Denver, CO area, major changes came via new ownership in 2020.
As part of the transition, the firm opened two new showrooms last year to complement existing locations in Denver and Castle Rock. A 2,300-sq.-ft. location in Colorado Springs was renovated within an existing building to include a plethora of new kitchen and bath displays tailored to support its relatively traditional market.
Simultaneously, about 80 miles north in Arvada, the design firm situated its 3,500-sq.-ft. showroom within a new building in a busy outdoor mall surrounded by a furniture store, a warehouse club, a tile/flooring showroom and a couple of big box home improvement stores.
“Starting from scratch gave us the ability to choose our location, which in this case is a gathering place for people looking to do home improvement,” says Jason Price, CEO. “Starting with a shell of a building, rather than one with existing walls and rooms, also gave us more flexibility in designing the displays, consultation rooms for client meetings and working spaces for our designers.”
Those displays include five kitchens, which showcase the company’s ability to help clients with everything from cabinetry and countertops to tile, lighting and plumbing. Most displays are full-sized and fully staged and equipped.
“We want visitors to see how different options look in an actual kitchen setting,” he relates. “And they do seem to like that idea. We get a lot of people telling us that our showroom looks like a magazine.”
Many of the displays feature working appliances as well, which means the company can host events for local organizations and businesses, customers, etc.
“We’ll invite a chef to come in and cook in the displays,” he explains. “People can kick back and really see how the kitchens function…in an intimate, no-pressure environment.”
Visitors also appreciate the diversity within the displays, in color and style as well as budgets. For example, the perimeter of the kitchen at the front of the showroom features quarter- sawn walnut cabinets mixed with metallic acrylic flat-panel cabinets. The island showcases a monotonic matte surface and quartzite, the latter of which is repeated as a full-height backsplash behind the Viking dual-fuel range and Best ventilation hood. Appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, freezer, wine refrigerator and Cove dishwasher, are all paneled.
Mixed style and colored cabinetry is also showcased in a display with blue painted maple cabinets, high-gloss laminate cabinets and cerused quarter-sawn oak cabinets. A slab-style quartz backsplash is complemented with quartz countertops, including the island, which features a waterfall edge.
Homeowners who prefer all wood cabinetry can peruse the display featuring natural rustic alder for the perimeter and a darker stained alder for the island. This display also showcases two styles of quartz and a mosaic tile backsplash.
“We work with our vendor partners to show a variety of options…not only what’s popular today, but what will be popular tomorrow,” Price relates. “We want to be forward thinking.”
With a relatively large footprint, the showroom also boasts a full-size bathroom display with a wet room concept and double vanity, two public restrooms, two consultation rooms and a laundry/mud room/office, the latter of which encourages visitors to dream beyond kitchens and bathrooms.
One typical showroom item that visitors won’t find is spindles of product selections.
“We want the showroom to be clutter free,” he stresses. “We are encouraging people to envision what their kitchen or bathroom might look like…and they don’t include vendor spindles.”
Brentwood, TN
Since 2018, DesignCraft Kitchen & Bath has assisted customers in the Tampa, FL area with their kitchen and bath updating and remodeling needs via its 1,700-sq.-ft. showroom. Now, with the grand opening of the company’s new showroom in Brentwood, TN in January, homeowners in the counties of Davidson and Williamson as well as the surrounding communities can experience the same full-scale transformation services.
Tracy Urso, CFO and interior designer, moved to the Nashville area a few years ago and saw the need for the all-
inclusive services her company provides.
“A lot of homes in this area were built about 15 to 20-plus years ago, so homeowners are now looking to renovate,” she says. “It’s a great market to break into.”
Visitors to the 1,900-sq.-ft. Brentwood showroom can peruse two kitchens that showcase two-tone cabinets, one in currently popular shades of white and navy and the other in more timeless neutral hues. Both kitchens also feature quartz countertops.
Urso is especially proud of the showroom’s bath display, which features a full slab of quartz as an accent shower wall and as the countertop surface, which is set atop a floating vanity. The quartz’s high-contrast deep black veins, juxtaposed with more understated gold veins, shimmer with light. Matte Black plumbing fixtures and elongated black subway tile in the shower match the black veining while brass accents, including the framed mirror, cabinetry hardware and shower hinges/door handle, speak to the gold veins.
The showroom’s selection room complements the full displays and rounds out the firm’s cabinetry, hardware and tile selections. A large-screen television brings designs to life and gives clients the ability to see changes in real time. Additionally, Urso’s own office serves as a showpiece, giving clients the opportunity to envision built-in cabinetry in rooms other than a kitchen or bathroom.
“Our showroom functions as a design center,” she reports. “It showcases our inclusive, one-stop shop process where we take care of our clients’ projects from start to finish. We give our clients the ability to see everything, including cabinetry, countertops, tile, lighting and plumbing, all in one place so they can make selections without traveling to multiple stores. It makes the process easy for them.”
Easton, MD
Like Tracy Urso, Jennifer Gilmer opened a new showroom in response to fulfilling a need. For her, it’s a 750-sq.-ft. space in Easton, MD that serves as a satellite to her existing locations in Chevy Chase, MD and Ashburn, VA.
“I moved to the Easton area in 2019,” says the owner of Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath. “The architect who built the house we bought had their office in Easton, in an excellent location. When they announced they were moving, I jumped at the chance to take over the space.
“I knew that Easton was lacking a good quality kitchen and bath design firm,” she continues, “and I wanted to be able to make excellent design available to clients on the Eastern Shore, many of whom have beautiful homes on the water. I also banked on the fact that there were a lot of potential clients who would appreciate our presence downtown. And I was right…we are getting a lot of business on a steady basis.”
Gilmer’s satellite location is an ideal meld with her firm’s Chevy Chase location since several clients either live full time in the Washington, DC area or are moving from the Washington, DC area to Easton.
“We can meet with them in either showroom,” she says, “…whichever one suits them.”
With limited space, Gilmer focused on making the most of the relatively petite showroom. As such, she concentrated her attention on six kitchen displays.
“I’ve found through the years that it really isn’t necessary to show bathroom displays since the cabinets in kitchens can also be considered for bathrooms,” she relates. “Sometimes, though, we do take a field trip to a plumbing supplier that has bath displays.”
Gilmer also wanted to showcase the unexpected and atypical. For example, the refrigerator, freezer drawers and coffee machine are built into tall cabinetry.
“Clients have no idea that the display houses these appliances, and every time we open the refrigerator or freezer drawers, they gasp!” she says. “Since these appliances are also live – along with the island sink, disposal and dishwasher – we can use them ourselves, as well as when we host events. Clients love it when we make them a cup of coffee.”
The designer/owner also incorporated authentic vintage lights, a beautiful reclaimed chestnut countertop on the island and solid wood live-edge shelves.
“These unique touches are impressive and make clients feel at ease with the fact that we can design uniquely beautiful kitchens,” Gilmer indicates.
Lacey, WA
KDC Remodeling celebrated a grand reopening in March when the Lacey, WA kitchen and bath remodeling firm officially unveiled several new displays and celebrated a more formal transition from its original name of Kitchen Design Center.
“Our founder is taking a step back,” says Scott Allen. “After opening the showroom 32 years ago, he has decided to slow down and will transition into an advisory role.”
At just over 3,000 sq. ft., the showroom is home to about 15 kitchen and bath displays, some full size, others smaller 6′-8′ multi-cabinet segments that show snippets of several different design styles and cabinetry construction.
“They are large enough so people can get a feel for the style yet it allows enough floor space to show everything,” he explains. “Most of our competitors only have a couple of displays…or even no displays, just catalogs or samples. We are really unique for this area. We’re about 50 miles south of Seattle, which does have a big design area, but the way the topography is in Puget Sound, we’re really quite far away so we’re probably the biggest showroom outside of the city.”
One of the newly unveiled displays is a much larger 15’x25′ bathroom that was once an office and library, both of which have found new homes.
“We now have a whole room dedicated to the bathroom,” Allen indicates. “It’s an important display for us since about 60 percent of our business is bathroom remodeling.”
It includes a single-sink vanity to illustrate options for smaller bathrooms and a nearly 80″ double vanity and tall cabinet for larger spaces. A freestanding slipper tub is accented with a Roman tub filler, and the focal-point walk-in shower features cultured marble and half-glass walls, niches and foot rests, a rainhead showerhead, an adjustable hand shower and valve controls mounted on the wall to show visitors that shower operation needn’t only be located within the shower.
“The shower is pretty luxurious, with the swirls of cultured marble, tile inset and brushed nickel fixtures,” he says. “People love that they can walk into it. It’s a focal point as soon as you enter the room.”
As an interior space, the display also showcases what can be achieved with lighting, especially LEDs, which are featured as an accent in the shower.
“We can dim the lights in the room to highlight just the shower, which is illuminated with a soft glow,” he explains. “It really feels like you’re going to the Hilton for a spa day.”
In addition to the larger displays, the showroom also includes samples of doors, countertop surfaces and cabinetry hardware.
“We have probably 50 different door samples, so visitors can see how something like alder compares to hickory and oak, or maple and cherry,” he explains. “Each takes stain differently, so we want to show them how different woods impact the design.
“People don’t know what they don’t know, so we incorporate a lot of different features to show them what’s possible,” he continues. “Sometimes it’s details like lighting or just the right cabinetry hardware that can inspire people. For us, the showroom is all about starting a conversation.”
The post Showroom Strategies appeared first on Kitchen & Bath Design News.
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Jo Sampson began the summer of 2017 in good spirits. Her debut collection for Drexel Heritage Furniture launched two months earlier; a line of bespoke photography and prints created in collaboration with Wendover Art Group had just been released; and she was awaiting a shipment of pieces for a scheduled photo shoot at her Victorian home in London. But as June drew to a close, the unthinkable happened: At just 44 years old, the British designer and mother of two daughters was diagnosed with what would eventually be classified as a highly aggressive form of breast cancer.
“It was quite surreal,” Sampson says, looking back on it. “Because the products had left the port, I had to go through with receiving a 40-foot shipping container, clearing customs, and then organizing the delivery to my house. Things happen, and you can sit back and wallow in it or move on,” she adds.
In fact, she approaches every aspect of her life with such determined positivity. Though six months of chemotherapy and radiation slowed her down, they didn’t sideline her. “As a creative person, you still want to create—you need that mental stimulation,” she says. “My clients were great because they let me do what I could when I could. Some days I couldn’t move and just stayed in bed, but my mind was always going.”
Another source of reassurance was her home itself. “The treatment was brutal and debilitating,” recalls Sampson. “The irony was that my house was in the best shape it had ever been in, and it became my cocoon.” In the heart of London’s Dulwich Village—a leafy enclave with historic residences, rolling green spaces, and a world-class portrait gallery whose walls drip with Rembrandts—the stately Victorian maintains many of its original details, from fireplaces with glazed-tile surrounds to plaster cornices and ceiling roses. The vibe, however, is clean-lined and contemporary, in keeping with Sampson’s personal aesthetic. “It had real character,” she says of purchasing the property six years ago. “We moved in when it was quite a wreck, but I wanted to retain and respect its history while making it more comfortable.”
For Sampson, that meant customizing the house into an atelier-like retreat that is conducive to both work and play. She established a much larger family room by extending the back of the structure—which included the kitchen and the living room—nearly 20 feet, and she built a freestanding studio for meetings and brainstorming sessions in the backyard. “I drop the girls off at school every morning and pick them up every afternoon, and don’t have to waste time getting to and from an office in downtown London,” Sampson explains. “A big realization I had after being ill was that you have to make work work for you.”
Of course, having her work life and home life collide on a daily basis presents its own challenges. “I’m exposed to so much inspiration all the time—it can be very dangerous,” she jokes of the difficulty she has keeping her design impulses at bay. But she overcomes it by sticking to a simple black-and-white palette, then blending in more nuanced shades of each, as well as muted accent colors, for an eclectic balance that can easily be changed with small tweaks and updates. In the living room, a plum velvet sofa plays off brass details, a richly veined marble fireplace, and Sampson’s graphic black hand-painted brushstrokes against a crisp white wall. “As a designer, I’m very classically minded,” says Sampson. “I don’t like a lot of saturation; I prefer much more tone-on-tone color.”
That’s also true of the eat-in kitchen, where blush-hued chairs and herringbone wood floors add warmth to white cabinetry, a custom brass stove hood, and drawer pulls that resemble lightning bolts. “I wanted the units to look like furniture and create an unexpected focal point,” she says, noting that the patina of the metal will only add interest over time.
That kind of delicate ornamentation is a theme throughout Sampson’s home and work. Much of the artwork on display is comprised of her own sketches, and many of the pieces are prototypes from Sampson’s line for Drexel Heritage Furniture, which showcase her less predictable approach to design. The bar cart in the living room, for example, is less than typical. While most are crafted to highlight bottles of liquor, Sampson’s is intended to hide those bulky, often unattractive vessels in concealed side compartments and instead showcase her cache of cut-crystal goblets and decanters, many of which are from her collection for Waterford.
“Your home has to be your sanctuary,” she says of both the creative solace and personal comfort she finds in a house that shows her hand at every turn. In her daughter Grace’s room, a jungle-themed wallpaper by Cole & Son provides endless hours of entertainment. “We lie in bed counting how many monkeys we can find camouflaged among the greenery,” Sampson notes, relishing the quiet moments with her children but also those spent cultivating curiosity and wonder. “I want them to be inspired every day.”
The Goods
This story was originally published in our Spring 2019 issue with the headline “A Fine Balance.”
The post During a Difficult—But Triumphant—Year, This British Designer’s Atelier-Like Home Was Her Cocoon appeared first on domino.
]]>If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll have seen that I spent last week in Copenhagen enjoying 3 Days of Design – an annual festival that sees showrooms and studios across the Danish capital open their doors to the public for exhibitions, talks, workshops and tours. It’s always a fun (if exhausting) few days, and I generally come back brimming with ideas and inspiration. I’ll be sharing some of my highlights from this year’s event over the next fortnight or so, and I’m starting with &Tradition.
Known for its mix of timeless Scandinavian classics and modern pieces, &Tradition occupies a restored 18th-century townhouse in the centre of the city. It’s long been one of my favourite showrooms to visit, but it’s now bigger and better than ever before after expanding upwards into two floors that used to house private offices. It’s architecturally stunning (the staircase must surely be one of the most Instagrammed spots in Copenhagen!) and makes the perfect backdrop for a range of furniture, lighting and accessories that spans almost 100 years of Danish design history. I couldn’t wait to have a look around, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
One of the most iconic pieces in &Tradition’s stable is, of course, Verner Panton’s 1968 ‘Flowerpot’ lamp, which appears in numerous places around the building – sometimes on its own, sometimes in clusters of various formations. There’s even a ‘Verner Panton Lounge’ on the ground floor, which celebrates the avant-garde Danish designer’s use of colour and pattern through exaggerated green tone-on-tone decor, textural finishes and a striking black and white ‘Flowerpot’ chandelier.
Two further lounges – the ‘Red Lounge’ and ‘Conversation Lounge’ – sit on the floor above. The former is a cosy cocoon with dark burgundy walls and an intimate seating area; the latter is a bright, high-ceilinged space with wooden panelling, currently being used to showcase a brand-new &Tradition lighting range called ‘Mist’. The work of Copenhagen-based design duo All the Way to Paris, it takes its cue from a misty, dewy morning landscape, with a softly rounded shape and opal glass that emits a beautifully diffused glow.
One of the most interesting areas for me was the archive room, which tells the story of &Tradition’s classic designs through original sketches, photographs and prototypes. It was fascinating to learn how the design and development team draw on such resources to put iconic pieces back into production decades after they were first created – among them Hvidt & Mølgaard’s recently relaunched ‘X’ lounge chair, inspired by tennis rackets and first released back in 1959.
Adjoining this is ‘Classic Focus’ – an exhibition space dedicated to showcasing specific pieces from the archive collection. It’s currently occupied by an installation celebrating Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s ‘Utzon’ lamp, reimagined in a new ‘Steel Blue’ finish to mark the 50th anniversary of his most famous creation, the Sydney Opera House.
Many of &Tradition’s contemporary pieces are the work of long-term collaborator Space Copenhagen, and the showroom also now encompasses a dining room and event area dressed entirely with their designs. Housed under the eaves and flooded with natural light, it’s an elegant space decorated in green and white, with the Danish studio’s ‘Collect’ glassware, ‘Loafer’ chairs. ‘Copenhagen’ lighting and ‘Amore’ mirrors alongside the new ‘Trace’ glass-fronted display cabinets. Due for launch later this year, the latter combine clean lines with subtle retro-inspired details such as brass handles and curved corners, and will be available in light and dark wood.
Next door to the dining room is a bar, last week done up as a recreation of Space Copenhagen’s workshop. It offered a fascinating glimpse into their processes, with material swatches, drawings and tools on display. It also presented another of their new designs: a collection of textural flat-weave rugs with broken corners that stop them looking monolithic and draw the eye around whatever room they sit in.
Another regular &Tradition partner is Spanish designer Jaime Hayon, whose latest launches for the brand include a limited-edition version of his ‘Formakami’ paper pendant lamp illustrated with bold colours and organic shapes, plus a collection of accessories known as ‘Momento’. The latter includes candlesticks, vases and a jug, all conceived with the aim of making small everyday moments more special and considered. For 3 Days they were on show in a gallery-like room dubbed the ‘Teatro Surreal’, with the adjoining ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’ revealing the moulds, casting processes and myriad inspirations behind them.
The top floor of the showroom is now ‘The Apartment’, created to show how pieces from different eras and designers can be combined in a domestic setting. It’s a beautiful space with a homely feel and celebrates the kind of soft minimalism that always appeals to me.
Finally, I have to mention the on-site cafe, Little Petra. Located on the ground floor and named after Viggo Boesen’s classic 1938 chair, it’s always open to the public (the rest of the showroom is normally by appointment only) and serves up delicious breakfasts, brunches and lunches. It spills out into a leafy courtyard – adorned with another new product by Space Copenhagen, the ‘Hurricane’ lantern – and also now has a lounge area where you can linger over coffee or food. Definitely one to bookmark when you next head to Copenhagen!
Images 8-10, 15-17, 19, 20, 30-33 and 38 courtesy of &Tradition; all other photography by Abi Dare
The post Highlights of 3 Days of Design 2023 | The &Tradition showroom appeared first on These Four Walls.
]]>A palace might be luxurious, but it’s not a home until it has that personal touch. This is where Guardian Homes come into play. They are the professionals who will help you infuse your space with elements that mirror your tastes, aspirations, and memories. From a custom-made bookshelf that houses your cherished novels to an heirloom dining table for family feasts, these pieces elevate a house to a home, inviting you to not just live, but thrive.
As you step up to the majestic front doors, the architecture of your home should elicit that small gasp of wonder. It’s not just about what’s on the inside—a visually appealing exterior creates that impactful first impression. The lines, curves, and materials should be in harmony, like a symphony for the eyes. It’s not simply aesthetics; it’s about constructing a space that, decades down the line, still strikes a chord in the hearts of those who see it.
Blend elements of modern design, like floor-to-ceiling windows for a splash of natural light, with classic touches, such as stately columns or warm wood accents. Picture a modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry but a vintage copper pot rack hanging overhead. It’s this marriage of old and new that creates an environment as cozy as a cup of tea, yet as invigorating as a burst of morning sunlight.
Luxury homes often come with their fair share of pricey possessions. But more than possessions, your home is your sanctuary. Ensuring it’s as safe as a vault should be a top priority. Moreover, nothing puts the mind more at ease than knowing your family and personal treasures are ensconced in security.
Picture this: you’re on vacation, lounging on a beach, and a thought pops into your head, ‘Did I lock the front door?’ With smart locks, wave goodbye to such worries. A tap on your phone and your doors are as secure as Fort Knox. Pair these with surveillance cameras, which are now so slick they can be mistaken for pieces of art, and you’ve got a security system that’s as robust as it is discreet.
The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, is where culinary magic happens and memories are cooked up. Think of the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air or the laughter shared around the island as you prepare a family feast.
A well-designed kitchen doesn’t just amp up the flavor of your daily life; it combines functionality with sheer beauty. Stainless steel countertops, for example, are not just chic but are also a breeze to clean and maintain.
In a world where technology and innovation go hand in hand, smart fridges have become the jewel in the crown of kitchen appliances. Imagine a fridge that not only keeps your veggies crisp but also lets you know when you’re running low on milk. Pair that with a high-performance oven that ensures your roast is cooked to perfection, and you’ve got yourself a 5-star kitchen.
Induction cooktops, wine coolers, and convection steam ovens are also game-changers that bring that dash of luxury to your culinary escapades.
Think about it—a long soak after a grueling day can be as revitalizing as a holiday. But beyond being your personal spa, a well-designed bathroom can significantly enhance the value should you decide to sell your property in the future. It’s an investment that pays dividends in daily luxury and long-term gains.
Picture stepping onto heated floors on a chilly morning or being enveloped by a gentle rain shower. These touches take a bathroom from mundane to mesmerizing. Consider incorporating natural materials like stone or wood, and maybe add a touch of green with some indoor plants. Dimmable lights can add an air of tranquility, and a freestanding tub can become the centerpiece that takes your bathroom into the realm of luxury.
A walk-in closet is the unsung hero of a luxury home. It’s more than storage; it’s a statement. A well-organized closet doesn’t just streamline your morning routine but also keeps your prized attire in pristine condition. Plus, let’s not ignore the sheer delight of walking into a space tailor-made for your wardrobe.
Fancy a closet where every shoe, belt, and hat has its own little nook, just like a boutique. Custom drawers and shelves, an island for accessories, and cleverly positioned lights can make your closet not just functional but fabulous.
Incorporate a full-length mirror with good lighting to ensure that you’re always putting your best foot forward. And how about a cozy seating area for those moments when you need to ponder which scarf perfectly complements your outfit?
Ever looked out of your window at the vibrant green of your garden and wished you could bring that sense of tranquility indoors? The allure of indoor-outdoor living spaces is just that—crafting a soothing continuum between the comfort of your home and the calming embrace of nature. It’s the joy of watching a sunset from your living room or the thrill of an alfresco dining experience in the comfort of your own home.
Imagine a living room that opens up completely to a patio, with retractable glass walls that vanish as if into thin air. Or how about a kitchen that extends onto a deck, perfect for those summer barbecues?
Large sliding doors, or better yet, accordion-style retractable doors, can transform your home into an airy, light-filled retreat. Complement these with cohesive floor and wall materials, and indoor-outdoor living becomes an art.
In the age of technology, luxury homes are evolving into smart homes. But it’s not tech for the sake of gadgets; it’s about enhancing lifestyle, optimizing efficiency, and amplifying comfort. Smart technology wraps the modern home in a cocoon of convenience, allowing you to control and customize your living experience at the touch of a button.
Consider a smart thermostat that learns your preferred temperature at different times of the day or voice-controlled systems that switch on the lights, draw the blinds, or even start your coffee maker. And it’s not just about the wow factor; such automation can boost energy efficiency and security, making it a smart choice in every sense of the word.
Art is to a room what a soul is to a body. It’s the vibrant splash of color on a neutral wall, the story behind a photograph, or the piece that sparks conversations. In a luxury home, art serves not just as decor, but as a reflection of your personality and taste. It’s an element of surprise that breathes life into a room.
Displaying personal collections can be as creative a process as curating them. Perhaps a wall dedicated to your antique clock collection or tastefully lit shelves to showcase your travel mementos? Consider a glass display cabinet for a treasured collection of vintage wines or a specially commissioned bookcase for your precious first editions. Each object tells a story, adding layers of richness to your home narrative.
A luxury home serves not just as a space for relaxation, but also as a personal wellness retreat. As the focus on health and well-being sharpens, the need for home fitness and wellness amenities grows. These spaces can provide a sanctuary where you can nurture both your body and your mind.
Think of starting your day in a well-equipped gym followed by a rejuvenating sauna session, right in the comfort of your home. For those inclined towards mindfulness, a serene meditation room can become a haven of peace. Consider amenities like an indoor pool for year-round swimming or an outdoor yoga deck for sun salutations at dawn. These spaces contribute to a holistic living experience that balances luxury with wellness.
Conclusion
The choices you make in curating your luxury home are the threads that weave together to form the fabric of your everyday life. Don’t just seek luxury—seek a home that speaks to your soul, that welcomes you with open arms at the end of a long day, and that resonates with the very essence of who you are.
The post 9 Essentials For Your Luxury Home first appeared on Make It Missoula.
]]>Making many design decisions may be intimidating, especially after you’ve committed to buying a home. Fortunately, you can count on your local home builder for ideas on the personalization you seek. Walking around the property will give you a sense of its layout, so you can consider the specifics and get ideas for how you want the place to look. Choosing the right expert means you can envision how you’d live in it, as an experienced builder can show you home types and designs to illustrate alternative layouts and specification options.
An outdoor feature can bring life to your new home without taking up excess space. Consider a fire pit, porch swing, alfresco dining table, hammock, or BBQ area to invite family and friends to visit. Remember to give ample shade for bright days and make room for privacy if that is a problem when freshening up your outdoor area. Installing outdoor lights also brings warmth to your patio or garden and improves the mood. Outdoor seating spaces or a customized deck provide an ideal backdrop for hosting or relaxing with your loved ones. With so many possibilities, incorporating an outdoor feature into your new home may convert it into a one-of-a-kind and personalized space that represents your personality and taste.
Recessed downlights offer excellent lighting. However, it would be best not to rely solely on them. You can go beyond that to explore other options like light layering, which will provide depth and mood, and milder lighting to provide the right ambiance. You can use several charming side lamps in your living areas and guestrooms to create interest. For instance, a pendant, stunning woven straw shade, or worn brass can produce striking patterns on your walls. If you want to define the space, why not place an island unit or hang a chandelier above the dining table to create a personal touch? Placing lights on your floors can also be terrific for adding some personality.
By painting the treads a clean white hue and applying shades of a single color, you can give your staircase a new and modern appeal. You may also alter that area using numbers, text, or wallpaper. If you have a carpeted staircase, you may refresh its appearance by laying down a new runner. Whatever your style preferences, treating your stairs can help create an inviting atmosphere in your home that is truly unique to you. So why not discover how to treat your stairs today and add some personality to your home?
Suppose you are up for a more ambitious project. In that case, an eccentric statement wallpaper may make your bath your own. A less-used area like this is ideal for experimenting with strong patterns and tones. Remember that if you’re wallpapering a complete bath with a tub or shower rather than a powder room, you’ll want to choose a solution that can handle humidity and avoid applying wallpaper in the “splash zone.” If you can’t afford a full bathroom renovation, there is no need to worry, as you can still spruce up the area with minor changes. You can start by replacing the cabinet hardware, towel bars, water faucets, and lighting fixtures and installing a mirror instead of an outdated medicine cabinet. This change can provide a noticeable refreshing appeal to the bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
Window treatments can be an excellent way to add personality and style to your new home. From customized shades and blinds to colorful curtains or stylish shutters, there are countless ways to personalize your windows and make them an essential part of your home’s decor. You can choose fabrics, textures, and patterns to match your home’s overall aesthetic and enhance any room’s look and feel. For instance, you can choose fitted textured bamboo or Roman blinds, a simple layered design, or roller shades with drapes to add a decorative element to elevate your new home. Use identical liner fabric for all windows when picking window coverings for a uniform view from the street. Meanwhile, energy efficient picture windows can be an excellent way to add versatility to both modern and traditional homes, giving you an excellent view while still allowing you to conserve energy around your home.
If you’re short on space for storage in areas like your bathroom, replace the mirror with an elegant but functional mirrored cabinet, and build a floating shelf to maximize the wall area without sacrificing valuable floor space. Consider a standalone storage container or a bathroom ladder if you don’t mind having your toiletries on display. Many new homes lack enough bedroom storage. However, consider purchasing custom-made built-in closets to fit your specific measurements if this is your situation. You may then install the appropriate set of shelves and rails
Hanging a few treasured photographs on the wall is one of the most effective methods to make your new spot seem like home. If you’re worried about making holes in your walls before deciding where everything will go, buy detachable picture-hanging strips to replace nails. You can also mix and match different styles and sizes of frames for a creative and eclectic look. So, start digging through your photo albums and explore your options for displaying your pictures in your new home today. You can make this fun by involving your loved ones in the photo selection.
Are you ready to make the most of your new home and create a living place representing your distinct personality? It’s time to begin exploring the several possibilities available. While there are many options worth considering, those listed above are a few great places to start.
]]>The weather has been gradually warming up these days, but have you ever wondered how locals in Beijing stay cool in the summer months?
There is an old saying in Beijing that goes like this: If you ever want to borrow a fan from me, you have to wait until winter arrives. The kind of fans this saying refers to are 蒲扇 Púshàn, a traditional round fan that's made from the leaves of fountain palms. Believe it or not, these fans did wonders for Beijingers at a time when average households couldn't afford air conditioners.
In fact, they still maintain a spot in many Beijing residents' hearts today. If you take a stroll around the park in summer, you'll be able to spot plenty of Beijing damas with these fans to cool themselves or their loved ones down.
Of course, there are times when it gets so hot that a smple fan just won't cut it, and that's when cold dishes enter the equation.
Beijingers' afinity for dishes like cold noodles, yogurt and other chilled dishes in the warmer months was first recorded during the Qing Dynasty.
When the heat becomes a little too unbearable, many turn to classical cold dishes including 扒糕 Pá gāo (braised cakes), 杏仁豆腐 Xìngrén dòufu (almond tofu),绿豆粥 Lǜdòu zhōu (mung-bean porridge), and 荷叶粥 Hé yè zhōu (lotus leaf porridge) to cool themselves down.
“A quintessential cold dish I cannot live without is 芝麻凉面 Zhīma liáng miàn (sesame paste noodles),” one Beijing local, surnamed Yu, told me.
“There is nothing better than a bowl of steamed cold noodles to keep me cool. In summer, many street vendors will start selling these cold dishes. I have to say that they really help me cool off when I need it," says Fang, another Beijing local.
It's not just fans and food, but there's even traditional Chinese medicines for cooling the body down come summer. There used to be a popular saying in Beijing that goes like this: Don't ever panic if the weather is steaming hot, just come to changchuntang to get your 藿香正气 Huò xiāng zhèngqì," Huo xiang zhengqi being a traditional Chinese medicine that, while mainly used for colds, is also believed to prevent heat stroke.
Many Beijingers believe that drinking 藿香正气 Huò xiāng zhèngqì in summer will help them dissolve something called "summer dampness", believed to be the main culprit behind heat stroke, making this remedy a key addition in the Chinese household medicine cabinet.
Despite an apparent ban on this northern Chinese phenomenon in 2020, chances are you'll still be able to see 膀爷 Bǎng yé, aka topless grandpas, with their shirts rolled up and bellies on full display come summertime in Beijing.
While it's borne the brunt of much offical criticism, and has even been immortalized with a seasonal brew from Jing-A, the practice is thanks, in part, to the traditional Chinese thought that exposing the stomach will let loose excess qi, whereas covering it will conserve it.
Got any tips to beat the heat? Let us know in the comments!
Images:中国天气,北京人北京事儿,行者
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Dads are so unassuming – they do so much for others and expect so little in return. Whether they are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, big brothers, godfathers, or other father figures, Father’s Day is the one day of the year when we can show our gratitude and celebrate them. So why not choose a Father’s Day gift they might actually like and decide to use? We’ve rounded up – and categorized – an assortment of gift ideas that are sure to be appreciated and bring a smile this Father’s Day.
All of these products have been hand-selected by Team 6sqft. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these affiliate links. All prices reflect those at the time of publishing.
Gifts to help Dad relax
[TAG1] Photo courtesy of Saatva | Dad works hard every day (even on his off days) but you can help him sleep well with this comfortable mattress. It includes five pounds of ultra-premium memory foam and high-density foam layers, so it can relieve pressure points while also providing stable support for Dad’s lower back – whether he sleeps on his back, stomach, or side. In addition, the gel-infused foam is breathable to keep him cool while he sleeps. The mattress is available in firm and relaxed firm versions. Loom & Leaf Mattress (Queen) $2,395/Sale $2,070, Saatva |
[TAG2] | This bedding bundle, woven from 100 percent organic cotton with a 300-thread count, will envelop Dad in luxurious comfort. The breathable sateen set is free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, and it gets softer with each wash. The bundle includes a duvet cover, two shams, a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases. Color choices include Nightfall, Charcoal, Light Blue, Sage, Clay, Cream, White, and Windowpane. Luxury Organic Sateen Bedding Bundle, $169 (Queen) at Quince |
[TAG3] | If Dad prefers Bamboo sheets, these are made of 100 percent Viscose from Bamboo (and Oprah called them the softest sheets ever). The breathable and moisture-wicking fabric feels cooler than cotton sheets, to help Dad sleep comfortably. The sheets are available in both regular and deep pocket sizes and in light grey, white, driftwood, charcoal, and oat. Bamboo Sheet Set(Queen), Cozy Earth, $389/Sale $311 |
[TAG4] | Dad will feel like he’s at a resort hotel while sleeping underneath this hotel-quality down feather comforter. The baffle-box construction is designed to have an even thickness throughout, so the comforter is free from lumps and cold spots. The breathable material is soft and fluffy, as well as leak-proof, and can be used in any season. California Design Den European Down All-Season Comforter, $299.99, Amazon |
[TAG5] | Dads who have problems falling asleep may find relief with this weighted blanket. It’s a cooling weighted blanket – made of 100 percent premium cooling lyocell – so he can sleep comfortably even during the hottest nights. The blanket is breathable and moisture-wicking, in addition to being silky-soft. It contains glass beads to promote relaxation for a stress-free and deeper level of sleep. Color choices are plentiful and include classic grey, cerulean blue, forest green, and cocoa. Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket, $200 (15lbs) at Gravity |
[TAG6] | Most Dads keep an eagle eye on the thermostat to avoid paying higher energy bills, but with this tower fan, they can remain cool without adjusting the AC. The fan has a brushless motor and is powerful, yet lightweight and silent. Dad can use it in a stationary position, but the tower also oscillates 120 degrees, and in auto mode, it’s smart enough to adjust the fan speed based on the ambient temperature. There are four modes and 12 speeds on the fan. Dreo Pilot Max Tower Fan, $129.99, Amazon |
[TAG7] | Good luck dragging Dad to a spa, but these towels are made of 40 percent Viscose from Bamboo and 60 percent cotton, so they provide a spa experience every time he steps out of the shower. The ultra-absorbent set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and four washcloths, and is available in light grey, charcoal, white, and crème. Classic Bath Bundle, $165, Cozy Earth |
[TAG8] | Help Dad soothe those aching muscles with this premium percussion massage gun. It can relieve pain and stiffness while reducing tension and helping him sleep better. The massage gun has four attachments: a dampener for tender areas or to use close to bones, a standard ball that can be used anywhere, a thumb for lower back use and trigger point therapy, and a micro-point that’s designed to help improve circulation. The cordless massage gun(which uses fast USB-C charging) has an ergonomic grip and is easy to use on his back, neck, hip, hands, feet, or anywhere else. It has a customizable speed range and easy one-button controls. And, the massage gun can be used with the Therabody Smart App for preset routines and other helpful content. Theragun Prime Percussion Massage Gun, $349/Sale $279 at Amazon |
[TAG9] | Another gift idea to help Dad relax is this pillow with Celliant fiber technology, which can promote longer, deeper sleep and help his body recover quickly from everyday physical stress. The pillow is reversible: one side has softly tufted-down alternative fiber pockets, and the other side is made of temperature-neutral memory foam. Recovery SoftCell Select Pillow, $190, PureCare |
Gifts for Dads who are always in the kitchen
[TAG10] | If Dad likes to experiment with coffee, he’ll love these Hawaii coffee varieties. The storybook gift box includes 4 ounces of Maui Mokka: medium dark with natural chocolate flavors along with roasted walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rose; 4 ounces of Kona Peaberry: medium light with honeysuckle, caramel, black cherry, and plum flavors; and 4 ounces of Kona Laurina, which is naturally low in caffeine and has a dense fruity flavor). The box also includes five single-serve Hawaii packets, a classic Espresso Bites bar, and a lip balm made of 100 percent Hawaii coffee and organic oils. Coffee Roasters Storybook Collection, $125 at Big Island Coffee Roasters |
[TAG11] | With this one countertop appliance, Dad can make Belgian waffles, pancakes and sausage links, eggs, roast beef and Swiss cheese paninis, grilled lobster tails, garlic and rosemary strip steaks, hamburgers, grilled veggies, and more. The grill-griddle-waffle maker has swappable, cast aluminum nonstick plates and a double cooking surface (it can open flat or the top cover can lock in four different height positions for variable contact with your food). Dad can use various configurations (like grill on one side, griddle on the other side) and the dual zone heating provides independent temperature controls for each side of the plate. The appliance has a maximum temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is available in three colors (black, blue haze, and cloud cream). The plates are also dishwasher safe. Elite Multi Grill, Griddle, and Waffle Maker, $429 at GreenPan |
[TAG12] | Dad will enjoy making his own espresso beverages with this fancy, yet simple-to-operate espresso machine. It has a built-in grinder with eight grind settings, so he can make freshly-ground coffee for a single or double espresso. The active temperature control ensures that the right temperature is used for different types of coffee beans. There’s also a professional steam wand so Dad can create latte art and a separate water spout when he wants a cup of hot water for hot chocolate or tea.| De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Espresso Machine, $699.95, Amazon |
[TAG13] | Gift Dad the essentials with this set of two skillets from Viking. Each one has a 3-ply stainless steel core that provides even heating to avoid hot spots. Also, the raised pattern is designed to ensure metal utensils don’t damage the nonstick surface. The set includes a 9.5-inch skillet and an 11-inch skillet, both of which are oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, with ergonomic handles that stay cool. The skillets are also dishwasher safe. Viking Hybrid Plus NonStick 2-piece Skillet Set, $199 at Sur la table |
[TAG14] | A high-quality wok is so versatile that Dad can use one for pretty much anything, from stir-frying to steaming to searing and beyond. The HexClad uses hybrid technology that combines stainless steel with ceramic nonstick and the laser-etched hexagonal design provides a great surface that results in even heat distribution. It can be used on electric, gas, ceramic, or induction stove tops, and is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (and also metal-utensil resistant). The lid is oven safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The wok is also dishwasher safe and available in a 12-inch and a 10-inch version. HexClad 14-inch Hybrid Stainless Steel Wok, $179 at Amazon |
[TAG15] | For Dads who love fried foods but need to eat healthier, this 5.3-quart air fryer uses 360-degree TurboAir technology to cook food more efficiently, so it is crisp and juicy. The air fryer also uses 90 percent less fat than traditional frying methods. There are 13 cooking functions, including fries, chicken, steak, shrimp, pizza, and onion rings. The air fryer can also bake cakes, make toast, and preheat food. Proscenic T22 Air Fryer, $139, Amazon |
[TAG16] | Dad will love this black, 24-piece flatware set, which is perfect for formal dining or eating leftovers. The 18/10 stainless steel and shiny PVD color finish resist corrosion, oxidation, and scratches. The modern flatware set includes six of each: knives, forks, spoons, and teaspoons. In addition to black, other color choices include silver, gold, and rose gold. Kilne 24-Piece Flatware Set, $275, Kilne |
[TAG17] | Another gift sure to bring a smile to Dad’s face is this set of four serrated steak knives. The high-carbon German steel knives have a full tang construction and a five-inch razor-sharp blade edge that is easy to grip, and comfortable to cut with. Cutluxe 4-Piece Serrated Steak Knife Set, $69.99, Amazon |
[TAG18] | Dad can make his favorite concoctions with this professional 1800-watt blender, which can blend, juice, grind, mix, and more. With a metal drive, stainless steel blades, and a 64-ounce BPA-free shatterproof jar, he won’t be replacing this countertop appliance any time soon. It’s convenient to use and has four program settings: ice crush, puree, smoothie, and clean, for making everything from soup and chili to dressings and sauces to smoothies and other beverages. And the LED timer shows the time remaining to remove any guesswork. Hamilton Beach Professional 1800 Watt Blender, $249 at Hamilton Beach Collection |
Gifts to help Dad around the house
[TAG19] | Dads love to save money, and this carpet cleaner lets them avoid calling in the pros to handle this chore. The 1300W motor and 130AW of suction power, along with the ability to maintain a water temperature of 104 degrees, all combine to pull all of the dirt out of his carpeting. There’s also a dry-only mode that produces a 167-degree breeze to dry wash carpets quickly, leaving no water behind. Attachments include an extra hose and stain remover tool for upholstery, car interiors, and carpeted stairs. Tineco Carpet One Smart Carpet Cleaner, $499/ Sale $399 at Amazon |
[TAG20] | New dads (or babysitting granddads) can relax knowing they can monitor the baby from other rooms – or even away from home – via smartphone. This baby monitor has a camera with audio, so it can be used for viewing, hearing, and talking to babies, infants, and toddlers. The camera provides a 360-degree view (and even has night vision), and the gooseneck provides flexible positioning. The smart monitor also has eight soothing mood light colors that can be intensified or dimmed – and can also serve as sleep training to help babies develop better sleep patterns. In addition, the monitor can play hi-fi lullabies and natural sounds to provide an environment that’s conducive to sleep. CHILLAX BabyMod Pro Baby Monitor, $299 at Amazon |
[TAG21] | The problem with most video doorbell cameras is that Dad can either see the top image or the bottom image. However, this dual camera provides both a top video image and a separate bottom video image, so he can see the top of the delivery driver’s head as well as the package on the ground. The camera also sends alerts before someone even rings the doorbell, and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s battery-powered and can work with Dad’s existing chime. Anker Eufy Security Video Doorbell Dual Camera, $259.99, Amazon |
[TAG22] | When Dad wants to see what’s happening anywhere on his property, this waterproof stick-up battery camera is ideal for inside the home, in the garage, or even in the backyard. It has a live view to let him view images anytime on his smartphone, tablet, or Echo device. The camera can be set on a flat surface, or it can be mounted on a wall or from the ceiling. There’s also a two-way talk option. Ring Stick Up Battery Cam, $99.99 Amazon |
[TAG23] | Air purifiers don’t have to be big, bulky, or white. Dad will appreciate this stylish, dark grey air purifier that doesn’t take up much room. In just 10 minutes, it can clean up to 180 square feet, removing dust, smoke, cooking odors, pollen, and other allergens from the air so he can breathe better. The fan is quiet, and can also be controlled remotely via the Smartmi Link app. Plus, it’s compatible with Alexa, Google, and Apple HomeKit, and includes a stylish leather carrying strap. Smartmi P1 Air Purifier, $159 at Amazon |
[TAG24] | Power out? No problem with this nifty little portable power station, which can charge Dad’s smartphone 28 times, his laptop five times, and his tablet 14 times. It can also power a light for 25 hours, or an electric fan for 7 hours (and there is also a convenient LED light on the panel, itself). He can also use it when out and about since it can charge his camera 19 times, and his drone 5 times. The device can recharge via solar panels (sold separately), but it can also be recharged via a wall outlet or even the car charger. 70mai Portable Power Station Hiker 400, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG25] | If Dad needs to power several devices and appliances during a power outage or when traveling in his RV, this portable power station has a 2160Wh capacity, allowing him to function normally for a long time. The generator provides 260 phone charges and 16 laptop charges. Since it’s battery-powered, the generator can be recharged using solar panels (sold separately), via a wall outlet, or using a car charger cable. Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station, $2,299, Amazon |
[TAG26] | Dad can keep 15 tools in his pocket with this Leatherman Curl Multitool. Instead of having to lug around a heavy toolkit, this has everything he needs. It includes pliers, wire cutters, wire strippers, knife, spring-action scissors, ruler, awl, can and bottle openers, files, bit driver, and screwdrivers. Leatherman Curl Multitool, $89.95, Amazon |
[TAG27] | The only thing better than a tool kit is a translucent one that lets Dad see what’s inside. This one also has a modular tool tray for organization and a convenient handle. The kit includes a drill/driver, 20V max Lithium-Ion battery that holds a charge for 18 months, charger, needle nose plier, tape measure, slip joint plier, hammer, utility knife, level, 32 fastening bits, 12 hex keys, 10 drill bits, and a picture hanging hardware kit. Black & Decker 20V Max Drill with Home Tool Kit, $108/Sale $89 at Amazon |
[TAG28] | Big and bulky vacuums can’t compete with this compact hand-held car vacuum cleaner that uses a USB-rechargeable battery. The high-speed handheld vacuum, which includes a multi-surface tool, and two-in-one brush nozzle, and a crevice nozzle, can clean the seats and carpet in his vehicles, and he can also use it to clean around the house since it can reach between seat cushions and pick up debris on the floor and in other spaces. The vacuum has an eco-mode and a turbo mode and can be stored and charged on the slim base. Brigii High-Speed Handheld Vacuum, $99/Sale $79 at Amazon $79 |
[TAG29] | In any season, Dad’s home can be dry and stuffy inside. This smart humidifier can cover up to 600 square feet, providing a mist that brings comfort and relief. It can mist up to 100 hours on one refill, and since the device is tall, it can mist higher. The top fill design is easy to use, and the lid can be removed with just one hand. It comes with a filter that softens hard water and reduces limescale, which results in less mineral buildup so it won’t have to be cleaned as often. The humidifier can be controlled via remote, app, or voice. Levoit OasisMist 1000S Smart Humidifier, $149 at Amazon |
[TAG30] | When Dad is fixing stuff around the house, it can be difficult to hold a light and the item in question at the same time. However, this LED Headlamp allows him to be hand-free so he can focus on the task at hand. The straps are adjustable so he can achieve a comfortable fit. And in addition to a large convex lens with a zoom mode, there are also side lights for additional light. The waterproof headlamp uses Type-C charging and has a power display to let him know how much power is remaining. (It can be used for 8 to 10 hours on a single charge). Plus, there’s a power bank function to supply power to other mobile devices. Exqulife LED Headlamp, $35 at Amazon |
Gifts for work-from-home and on-the-go Dads
[TAG31] | Dad can transport his laptop and other essentials safely (and stylishly) in this portfolio with foam-padded pockets designed to keep tech gadgets protected. The fabric is waterproof and the lining is made from recycled materials to provide eco-friendly protection, while the vegan leather trim adds a fashionable touch. The portfolio has several internal pockets and a separate pocket that can hold a 16-inch laptop. The portfolio is available in black or navy blue. Portfolio, $95 at Mujjo |
[TAG32] | There’s nothing like jerky chair movements to interrupt Dad’s workflow. However, this glass chair mat makes it easy to roll or glide on either carpet, hardwood, or tile. Since it’s made of tempered glass instead of plastic or vinyl, it’s designed to be durable (supporting up to 1,000 pounds). And the chair mat also ensures Dad’s chair doesn’t scratch or scuff up the floor. Tempered Glass Chair Mat, $189, Quartet |
[TAG33] | Dads who work from home need an ergonomic office chair and this one, which is designed for big and tall people, supports up to 330 pounds. The seat is 3.35 inches thick and the back of the chair has an S-shape that mimics the human spine. The chair can be tilted from 90 degrees for working, to 116 degrees for reading, to 126 degrees for relaxing. In addition, the lumbar support and armrest are both adjustable, and the headrest can also be adjusted up and down 3.54 inches and rotated 45 degrees. Sihoo M18 Ergonomic Office Chair, $199/Sale $169 at Amazon |
[TAG34] | Corral all of Dad’s cords with the 10-in-1 Anker 647 Charging Station, which neatly provides plenty of ports for charging numerous devices. The charger has two retractable USB-C cables, one USB-C port, one USB-A port, and six AC outlets, so it can reduce desktop or tabletop clutter. It also charges quickly–in fact, it can charge a MacBook Air in under 90 minutes. Anker 647 Charging Station, $99 at Amazon |
[TAG35] | If Dad has a MacBook and he’s using an external computer monitor, this vertical laptop holder can help him keep his laptop safely out of the way – and help him reclaim valuable desk space. The laptop holder is also a docking station and has two Thunderbolt 3 ports. In addition, there are intake and exhaust vents to keep the laptop cool while in the holder. Brydge Vertical Laptop Stand/ Docking Station, $169.99, Amazon |
[TAG36] | When Dad is traveling, it’s impractical to pack and carry an external monitor. However, this 15.6-inch portable monitor is slim and lighter than an iPad, weighing 1.7 pounds, so it fits easily in a briefcase or suitcase. The 1080p monitor has a speaker, 3.5mm audio jack, and HDMI port, and it’s ideal for use with desktops, laptops, gaming consoles, and smartphones. KYY 15.6-inch Portable Monitor, $161.49, Amazon |
[TAG37] | You can help Dad protect his new desk – or breathe new life into his old desk – with this extra-large leather desk pad, which is 49 inches by 26.5 inches. The full-grain leather feels and looks buttery soft, and has a natural cork backing. It’s available in either black or tan leather and also in smaller sizes (small, medium, medium-plus, and large). Another great desk accessory gift idea is a set of black or tan leather coasters, which can keep either hot or cold beverages from leaving water rings on Dad’s desk. Leather Desk Pad- XL, $400, Grovemade |
Fun gifts for Dad
[TAG38] | Upgrade Dad’s TV without breaking the bank. This thin profile 43-inch TV has 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Digital Plus, and includes an Alexa Voice TV Remote, so he can tune into his favorite TV show using voice commands. The TV has 3 HDMI 2.0 ports, and an HDMI 2.1 with an eARC port, as well as USB, ethernet, and Digital Optical Audio Ports. It’s also available in larger sizes: 50-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch models. Fire 43″ Omni Series 4K UHD Smart TV, $399/Sale $339, Amazon |
[TAG39] | However, Dad’s home entertainment options shouldn’t be limited to TVs. With this portable projector, he can view TV shows and movies on a blank wall, or even project videos and other images on the side of his garage. It projects 500-ANSI lumens at 720p and provides cinematic sound. The projector works with laptops, gaming consoles – pretty much anything that uses an HDMI or USB 2.0 cable, so he can stream Netflix, YouTube, and other apps. Anker Nebula Mars II Pro Projector, $549.99, Amazon |
[TAG40] | Splurge on your Dad with this pay of premium headphones. Made of real leather and microfiber, the high-fidelity headphones are designed to be comfortable for long periods of item. That’s important because he’ll never want to take these off. Focal is known for headphones that range from $1,000 to $5,000, and these were created with that same technology for an enjoyable listening experience. The headphones also have active noise canceling to block out background noise and provide clear telephone conversations. Battery life is over 30 hours, and just a 15-minute charge provides 5 hours of listening time. The headphones can also be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Focal Bathys Headphones, $799 at Amazon |
[TAG41] | When Dad wants to get around without taking the car or using public transportation, this electric cruiser bike is a great alternative. It has 26-inch puncture-resistant tires, a 350W direct drive geared motor, and can get up to 19 mph. The large battery, which has a USB charging port, is safe and easy to remove. Dad can travel up to 25 miles on one charge using pure electricity and 40 miles using pedal assist. The dual shock absorber provides a comfortable ride on any terrain, and the dual lights provide safety, while the integrated rear rack can store cargo. The bike supports 264 pounds and is available in black or white. Heybike Cityscape Electric Cruiser Bike, $649, Amazon |
[TAG42] | Whether it’s providing under cabinet lighting in the garage or adding some flair to his big screen TV, this light strip is an easy and fun way to decorate around the house. With 5.56 feet of strip light, Dad is only limited by his imagination. The lights can also be controlled by Apple and Google hubs (like Apple Home Pod, Nest Hub, and Google Home Mini. Govee LED Strip Light M1 Matter, $59 at Amazon |
[TAG43] | If your Dad grew up listening to the Rolling Stones and Jimmy Hendrix, he’ll definitely know the Marshall brand. These headphones can take him back to the good old days, with a signature sound that’s beyond impressive. Active noise canceling ensures background noise doesn’t interfere with his listening experience. The headphones provide up to 30 hours of wireless playtime with ANC and are compatible with Google Assistant. The collapsible design makes it easy to transport the headphones in the travel kit – which also includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a USB charging cable. Marshall Monitor II ANC Headphones, $284 at Amazon |
[TAG44] | If Dad is more of an earbuds guy, these wireless earbuds provide a crisp clear sound full of bass. He can use one earbud or both, and the earbuds can also connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. The hybrid ear tip design ensures the earbuds fit securely and comfortably, and the control on the earbuds is easy to operate. There’s an option to block outside noise or let it through, depending on the situation. The earbuds have a 20-hour battery life and a 10-minute charge provides 90 minutes of listening time. Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW Earbuds, $149 at Amazon |
[TAG45] | This rugged speaker lets Dad listen to his favorite tunes or talk show wherever he goes. It’s portable and designed for outdoor use – in fact, it has a shockproof body and an IPX6 waterproof rating, along with a carrying strap that includes a bottle opener. Four speakers provide clear and vibrant sounds, and there’s also a built-in microphone for conference calls. There are also two passive subwoofers and a built-in power bank. The speaker has a 20-hour battery life and Dad can continue listening while charging it. Treblab HD Max Bluetooth Speaker, $118 at Amazon |
[TAG46] | Dad can drink his favorite beverages in style with this two-piece set of 14-ounce double-wall beer glasses. The glasses keep hot drinks hot (but cool to the touch) and keep cold drinks cold, without creating condensation. The glasses are made of borosilicate glass and are safe to use in the microwave and freezer, and put in the dishwasher. The double espresso cup set is another option if he prefers handles. Zwilling Double-Wall Beer Glasses, $36.93, Amazon |
[TAG47] | Dad will never get lost with this cool mirror compass. It has a globally balanced needle with jewel bearing, and sighting tools for more accurate direction taking. The adjustable declination correction also contributes so the accuracy of the compass, which has a liquid-filled capsule, sighting hole and notch, clinometer, metric UTM scales, an inch ruler, baseplate with a magnifying lens, and luminescent marking to low light conditions. It also has a detachable snap-lock lanyard with a wristlock. Suunto MC-2 G Mirror Compass, $77/Sale $72 at Amazon |
[TAG48] | Beer and snacks take on a new meeting with this bundle. It includes a Japan-made frosted beer glass, and otsumami (Japanese snacks served with beer). The snacks bundle includes smoked crackers and peanuts that are salty with a lemon flavor, Garipote spice chips (think: garlic French fries), a mix of spicy shrimp curry flavored rice crackers and peanuts, and well as several other flavorful snacks in a natural canvas tote bag. Another option is the Diamonji Ame Honpo Handmade Candy Gift Box, which includes 12 bags. The six flavors are Sakura (Cherry Blossom), Ramune, Kaki (Persimmon), Yuzu Sake, Mikan (Mandarin Orange, and Kyoyuzen Candy Mix. The Beer Glass and Otsumami Snacks Bundle, $59 at Bokksu |
[TAG49] | If you’re looking for a more affordable headphone choice, Edifier has you covered. The high-quality sound is certainly impressive and the headphones provide ambient sound awareness for the kind of noise that you need to hear, like sirens or passing cars. With a 49-hour battery life with noise cancellation off, and 33 hours with noise cancellation on, Dad can listen for a long time without worrying about recharging. In addition, the Edifier App provides customization features. Edifier W820NB Plus Headphones, $79 at Amazon |
[TAG50] | It’s a lantern. It’s a Bluetooth speaker. Dad will love this 100 percent waterproof EcoLantern that has both an emergency mode (bright flashing white and red light) and a multi-colored party light mode (actually 2 modes: synced music and relaxing color fade). The lantern has a 4400mAH power bank to charge a smartphone, action camera, or tablet. And since it’s a speaker, it can also play up to 20 hours of music and connect directly to Siri or OK Google. EcoXGear 100% Waterproof Lantern/Speaker, $99 at Amazon |
Gifts for fashionable Dads
[TAG51] | Dad can fight foot pain with these sneakers, which have lightweight EVA foam to provide a shock-absorbing cushion in every step he takes. The soles of the shoes also flex dynamically to hug and protect his heels, while the insole includes contoured dual-density foam for arch support. Color choices include mountain Ssge/white-smoke gray, indigo-white-basalt, jet black-white-fire red, jet black-citron, storm gray-black, and java brown-spice brown. The tennis shoes are available in medium and wide options and in sizes ranging from 6.5 to 14. Atom Sneakers, $160 at KURU |
[TAG52] | Even though Father’s Day is in June, it’s a perfect occasion to gift him items for cooler seasons. This stadium jacket is ideal for casual events. The unlined jacket is made of 100 percent nylon with a PU coating. In addition to a chest pocket with a snap button, there are also hand pockets on either side. The navy blue stadium jacket uses branded snap buttons and is available in sizes ranging from S to XXL. Stadium Jacket, $220 at Adsum |
[TAG53] | Denim is probably one of Dad’s favorite materials, and this denim blue shirt is made with organic cotton and washed in an enzyme that makes it soft and comfortable to wear. The shirt is actually biodegradable/compostable and includes natural dyes made from plants and minerals, so they’re non-toxic and non-allergenic. And the buttons are made with corozo, a Brazilian nut! The shirt, which is designed to look nice untucked, is available in sizes XS through XX. In addition to denim blue, it’s available in ivory and wave. Porto Shirt, $155 at Alex Crane |
[TAG54] | This midweight tech jacket can be worn alone in warmer months, or layered when the temperature drops. It has a naturally water-repellent fabric that’s treated with DWR (durable water repellent) for an advanced level of protection from the rain. The dual zipper hand and flap pockets keep Dad’s phone, gloves, keys, and other items secure. The chest phone pocket, which also zips close, has a membrane fabric that provides water protection and an opening for the internal headphone jack. The jacket is made of 85 percent nylon and 15 percent spandex. It comes in sizes ranging from SX to XXL, and is available in Viking Red, Light Grey, Iron, and Black. Midweight Tech Jacket, $188 at Ten Thousand |
[TAG55] | What Dad wouldn’t like a trench coat? Admittedly, long versions can be cumbersome, but this short trench coat is the perfect size. The all-season, waterproof-and-windproof trench coat is made from Italian cloth, and the cotton blend is also breathable. It has binded seams, and a large interior pocket that’s big enough to hold a 13” MacBook. Sizes range from XS to XXL, and color choices for the exterior and interior include Tan/Navy, Midnight/Olive, Brown Watcher Check, Charcoal/Grey, Navy/Grey, Dark Green/Stone, Black/Blue, Tan/Navy, and Forest/Cinnamon Waterproof Sherlock Trent Coat, $247 at Percival |
[TAG56] | If Dad is a photographer – or just likes various compartments to separate and transport his gear – this backpack has lined fuzzy fleece compartments for an expandable water bottle/tripod pocket, hidden passport pocket, laptop/tablet sleeve, and secure front pocket. The interior has removable cubes to protect camera equipment and other valuables. The weather-resistant bag also has an adjustable and removable chest strap, key clip, magnetic tote handles, and luggage handle-passthrough. And the expandable rolltop can be unrolled to provide extra space when he needs it. Color choices include black, Wasatch Green, Aegean Blue, Yuma Tan, Sedona Orange, and multicam Black. WANDRD PRVKE 21L Travel Backpack, $219 at Amazon |
[TAG57] | Sports-and-fitness dads will love this smartwatch that’s designed for adventures and has 97 sport modes (like running, cycling, climbing, fitness, and swimming). GPS capabilities include a single band GNSS, and it can connect up to 32 satellites at one time, and five satellite systems. The navigation feature includes a route plan with heat maps and a breadcrumb trail in real-time. Battery life is 40 hours in GPS mode and 300 hours in tour mode. The military-grade watch is designed to be durable, yet it’s ultra-thin and dressy enough to wear to work or around town. The smartwatch can also track Dad’s sleep cycle, stress phase, and recovery phase. Color choices include All Black, Ocean Blue, Forest Green, and Pearl Gold. Suunto 9 Peak Pro GPS Smartwatch, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG58] | Dad will look casually cool with this tailed 3-roll-2-button blazer, made of 97 percent cotton and 3 percent spandex. The cotton twill jacket has three patch pockets, two internal welt pockets, and a notched lapel. Garment washed with enzymes, it has a soft feel and can be machine washed in cold water. The mid-rise pants are straight through the thighs and taper below the knees. They have a waist button closure, two single-welt back pockets, and a single-welt coin pocket. Jacket sizes range from XS to XXL, and sizes for pants range from 28 to 38. Color choices are mariner navy, khaki, canteen, and light sage. Carry-On Jacket and Pants, starting at $138 at Buck Mason |
[TAG59] Photo courtesy of Able Carry | This lightweight Daybreaker 2 Backpack with a minimalist design has an easy clean shell made of Cordura ripstop nylon that is strong, abrasion-resistant, and colorfast. It has a full-length zipper, internal bottle pocket, and internal and back cushions, along with shoulder pads and an air channel for a comfortable experience. The stretch divider can house a 15.7-inch laptop (although it’s unpadded so Dad would need to keep the laptop in a sleeve). Color choices are Black and Olive Green. Another alternative is the Daily Plus Backpack, which has a laptop sleeve that fits most 16” laptops, and a tablet sleeve that can fit up to an 11” tablet. It also has a hidden bottle pocket. Both models are available in black and olive green, and the Daily Plus also comes in navy blue. Daybreaker 2 Backpack, $128 at Able Carry |
[TAG60] | A long sleeve stylish Henley can always find a home in Dad’s closet. This one is made with custom-developed 1 x 1 slub rib cotton and has flatlock seams, semi-raglan sleeves, and a self-fabric rib collar and cuffs. The athletic trim fit of the Henley pairs well with the Midweight Terry Slim Sweatpants. Both items are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL, and color choices include navy, heather grey, black, white, and British racing green. However, for the pants, there are also additional color choices, such as desert rose, fir, crimson, heather stone, and deep teal. 1×1 Slub Henley $100 at Reigning Champ |
[TAG61] | Dad’s a busy guy, and this smartwatch is designed to keep up with him. It has 100 sports modes, including running, walking, indoor walking, treadmill elliptical, outdoor cycling, rowing machine, and pool swimming. The watch is water-resistant, heat and cold-resistant, humidity and salt spray-resistant, and ice and freezing rain-resistant. It includes a blood oxygen monitor, and sleep quality monitor, and supports other functions such as an alarm, calendar, calorie tracker, email, music player, phone, and text messaging. Battery life is 20 days – 25 in saver mode. Amazfit T-Rex Ultra Smartwatch, $399 at Amazon |
[TAG62] | Dad can look stylish while dodging raindrops with this lightweight rain jacket, which goes easily from the office to the gym. It’s made of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton and has an adjustable shaped hood and hem and a 10K waterproof rating. The jacket has a fully seam-sealed interior and six bonded pockets. The interior pockets can hold devices and gear, keeping them safe from the elements. The rain jacket is available in sizes S through XXL and in two colors: total eclipse blue and thunder heather. Stormchaser Rain Jacket, $198 at Mack Weldon |
[TAG63] | For relaxing in the yard or running around town, Dad will look good in this stylish T-shirt and shorts set. This deep blue T-shirt, made of sustainably-grown linen and washed with biodegradable softeners, is heat-regulating, breathable, and antimicrobial. And since it’s preshrunk, it won’t shrink in the washing machine. Sizes range from XS to XX, and there are 13 solid and striped color choices including Dusk, Caulk, Rust, and Gold. The Bo Shorts in Overdye Dusk with drawstring, match perfectly and are available in 25 colors to mix and match. The shorts are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXX. Sun Tee, $65 and Bo Shorts, $78 at Alex Crane |
[TAG64] | These water-friendly slides can be worn literally everywhere. They’re made of a flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), which is both waterproof and oil-resistant, and a sugarcane sole. The lightweight, durable shoes also have a textured footbed, arch support, heel cupping, and comfortable double straps. Sizes range from 6 to 13, and color choices include Black, Brown/Tan, Blanc de Blanc, Aurora, Navy Sunset, and several other options. Oasis Double Up Men’s Slides, $55 at Reef |
Editor’s note: The original version of this article as published on June 6, 2022 and has since been updated.
]]>I’m sharing the best air fryers you should buy right now including Ninja, Instant Pot, and more! With over 4 million air fryers sold per year, they have quickly been taking over the way people cook at home.
Here are the 12 best air fryers for 2023:
Ninja Foodi DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer – $249.99
Make your entire meal in this savvy air fryer with dual baskets. Each basket can cook at a different time or heat setting so you can make two foods in two different ways and all at the same time! Ninja is known for making excellent appliances and this one is no exception. If you’re ready to upgrade your air fryer from Ninja’s highly-rated single-basket version, don’t overlook this sleek model. It also comes in a new version with a smart thermometer!
Here’s what else you’re going to love about it:
“I am enjoying this Foodi Air Fryer so much! I love the dual sides and the ability to set the timing and temperature differently on each side and have them finish at the same time. The fact that there are different methods of cooking you can use on each side is a huge help, too! Air fryer fish on one side and roasted potatoes on the other, finishing at the same time! Dinner was served and cleaned up in no time! Total game changer!”
Power Air Fryer XL 5.3 Qt. – $119.99
This extra-large air fryer is your best option for hosting pizza nights and even baking delicious cakes. Several team members own this air fryer and love it, including our very own recipe blogger, Lina!
Here’s what else you’re going to love about it:
Here’s what Lina from our team had to say about her Power Air Fryer:
“I enjoy making different air fryer foods in my XL like bacon, veggies, and chicken nuggets, and even warming up leftovers is a cinch. It’s so simple to use even my kids use it on their own. It’s also very easy to wash, and overall a great machine that has worked well for many of our family meals. I use this appliance weekly!”
Philips Premium AirFryer XXL 7qt. – $231.35 (regularly $349.95)
If you’re in the market for a simple, easy-to-use air fryer, this is just what you need! This air fryer requires absolutely no preheating and it holds up to 7 quarts or 3 pounds of food. Best of all, Philips claims their savvy air fryer has special fat removal technology that captures more excess fat than the leading competitors!
Here’s what you’ll love about it:
“After much consideration and online research, we bought this Philips Air Fryer. My husband wanted a large capacity, I wanted something that would let him eat the fried foods he loves and me not suffer from grease-induced heartburn woes. This air fryer is all we could have wished for and more. It is a bit difficult to get grease off the burner element at the top of the air fryer after a bacon-frying session, but otherwise easy to use and keep clean.
My first try at using it was to make blackberry hand pies, a treat I remembered from my youth. I found a recipe online, made it up, and the results were terrific. So easy to do, the results outside-crispy, inside-moist, and absolutely delicious. We find ourselves using this air fryer several times a week, and not a single thing we’ve made has been less than delicious. Fried chicken came out amazing, battered halibut filets were better even than deep-fat fried, chicken-fried steaks were stupendous. And not a hint of heartburn, either!”
Instant Pot Vortex 6 Qt. 4 in 1 AirFryer – $79.95 (regularly $119.99)
Not only are air fryers a healthier alternative to deep-frying, but they’re also a time-saver for those of us who don’t always have time to heat up the oven or stove. This Instant Pot air fryer “fries, roasts, bakes, crisps, and reheats to perfection,” all in a fraction of the time of other kitchen appliances.
Lina even shared these 11 air fryer veggie hacks that you could try with your new Instant Pot Vortex!
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
“I love this thing! I hesitated to buy it because it takes up prime real estate on my counter but after trying out some stuff cooked in one my friend had I just had to buy it. It’s fantastic for cooking chicken wings and for baking things like those frozen garlic breadsticks my kid loves that require you to heat up the oven to 4,000 degrees just to cook them for 4 whole minutes. That’s no fun in south Florida heat!
But where it really shines is in reheating leftovers like pizza and fried foods. I even reheated fish and chips using the air fryer mode and they tasted just like fresh from the restaurant. I’ve used this thing at least once a day since I bought it, sometimes more. We toast scones for breakfast, make tuna melts for lunches, and cook wings and fries for dinner. It’s fantastic!”
Breville Smart Oven Air Convection Toaster – $399.95 (regularly $499.95)
Looking for an air fryer with all the bells and whistles your heart desires? Well, this one is it! Not only is it an air fryer, but it also features 13 other functions to perfectly cook your favorite foods.
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
Here’s what Jenna from our team had to say about her Breville Air Fryer:
“I am obsessed with my Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer! It definitely is on the spendier side, but it really does do it all! Since getting it, I have only used my actual oven a handful of times. This thing makes everything crispier – from fries and pizzas to chicken legs and wings! Plus, it bakes cookies to PERFECTION! Love it!”
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer & Oven Cooker – $67.91 (regularly $99.99)
We know we’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but the DASH Deluxe Air Fryer in that retro aqua shade is certainly nice to look at! But don’t worry, this powerful appliance is more than just a pretty face..
Here are some of the cool features:
The only downside is that it’s a bit larger than some other fryers on this list. Luckily, if you can’t spare the counter space, DASH has a smaller air fryer perfect for compact kitchens!
“So I’ve been wanting my family to eat healthier, but my husband is resistant to change. He is a man who loves all things fried…wings, french fries, burgers, corn dogs, etc. I decided to bite the bullet and I’m so glad I did! Be warned… this thing is HUUUGE! Other reviewers said it was big, but I didn’t realize how big it was. Like, it’s bigger than my 6qt InstantPot. Not a problem for me as I have the storage space, but something to consider for those with limited storage and countertop space.
That being said, there are no other negatives. It’s so easy to use, cleans super easy, and food comes out sooo good. So far I’ve made country potatoes and chicken cordon bleu, and my husband raved about how good they were, despite being way lower in fat than how I’ve previously made these dishes. I can’t wait to make wings this weekend! Worth every penny.”
Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill With Air Fryer – $134 (regularly $169.99)
After doing extensive research on all the best air fryers, the Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill is the one that ultimately won Sara on our Hip team’s heart. Not only does this 5-in-1 appliance look beautiful sitting on her counter, but this pretty little workhorse can do it all: indoor grilling, searing, dehydrating, roasting, and of course air frying!
Here’s what else you’ll love about it:
Here’s what Sara on our team had to say about her Ninja Foodi Grill:
“The Ninja Foodi Indoor Grill totally knocked it out of the park when it comes to quality craftsmanship and making great food. It will most definitely last for years like my other beloved Ninja appliances. Take a moment to read my detailed review of the Foodi and find out why I can’t stop raving about it!”
COSORI PRO II 5.8 Qt. Air Fryer and Oven Combo – $129.99
Clip the Amazon coupon to save $20
Final price just $109.99!
This air fryer is like an entire kitchen in one. With 12 different cooking functions and a 5.8-quart capacity, there’s practically nothing the Cosori Pro II XL can’t cook.
If you prefer to control your air fryer with an app, this air fryer does come in a smart version also!
Here’s why you’ll love the Cosori Max XL air fryer:
“The only air fryer you will ever need! I recently purchased the 5 Qt. Air Fryer PRO LE from COSORI, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. This is my first air fryer and it has completely transformed the way I cook, I feel like my meals are healthier and more delicious.
Right from the start, I was impressed by the user-friendly interface. Navigating through the various cooking options is a breeze, thanks to the intuitive control panel and clearly labeled buttons.Another thing I particularly appreciate is the compact size of this air fryer. It doesn’t take up much counter space, allowing me to maximize my limited counter area. I appreciate how this compact air fryer perfectly caters to my needs while saving valuable countertop space in my kitchen. Also, the sleek matte grey design is very modern looking, it blends seamlessly with many of my appliances.
Overall, if you’re searching for a reliable and versatile air fryer, look no further than this phenomenal appliance from COSORI.”
Gourmia GF716 7 Qt. Air Fryer Oven With Touch Screen – $82.50 (regularly $89.99)
The Gourmia 7-Qt. Air Fryer and Oven Cooker packs a lot of power at a super affordable price! It also has an extra large basket and cooking capacity without taking up a ton of real estate on your countertop. Reviewers thought this was the perfect budget air fryer that can hold its own against its more expensive counterparts. This multi-functional air fryer really gives you bang for your buck!
Here’s why you’ll love the Gourmia air fryer:
“Having owned an air fryer in the past, I knew of what they are generally capable of, but this air fryer blew away my expectations. The preset cooking buttons are really on point for cooking time and temperature and are a real time saver, and the turn reminder notification is a smart feature that every air fryer should have.
Regarding capacity, 7 quarts seems to be a great size and more space allows for more even cooking and it doesn’t take up that large of a footprint on your counter. Chicken wings and fries come out amazing, but you could use this for any food that you’d like to have a crispy outside, well cooked inside, and be done in seemingly half the time of a regular oven. Couldn’t be happier with this Air Fryer!”
Searching for a sleek, classy, and elegant air fryer? Look no further than this 6 qt. touch screen air fryer from the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore collection. It has a 5 lb. food capacity that can make enough food to feed a family of 5 – 7! Who knew that such a practical kitchen appliance could look so pretty? For under $100, this air fryer is a steal.
Here’s why you’ll love the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer:
Here’s what Hip2Save’s Lina had to say about her Beautiful by Drew Barrymore air fryer:
“This has to be my favorite appliance from the collection! This air fryer works like a dream and is big enough for cooking for a larger family of 5-7 people. The dishwasher-safe inner basket is what sets it apart from other air fryers in my opinion. It is essentially more of a flat tray that sits at the bottom and is so darn easy to rinse off and clean.”
Ninja SP101 9-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Oven – $134.95 (regularly $219.99)
If you want an appliance that can do it all, look no further than the Ninja Foodi SP101! You can bake, broil, fry, reheat, dehydrate, and more with this powerful, 1800-watt air fryer. And one of the best parts is that you get XL air fryer features without having to sacrifice counter space! When it’s not in use, simply flip it on its side and store it against your kitchen backsplash for convenient access.
Here’s why you’ll love the Ninja Foodi SP101:
“If this item had the ability to give a 10-star review, I would assign it all 10 stars. This is a fantastic air fryer. After doing my research I chose this one primarily because we are a family of 7, so we need the room. I am SO pleased with the results…and it is super easy to use. The whole unit easily flips up (after cooling) so that you have access to all of your counter space. I was skeptical at first, wondering about flipping an extra-large air fryer on end… but we easily do it…what a bonus!
Some of our amazement is how delicious things taste, and that might be true for any air fryer… BUT, with the extra-large capacity, I can get everything done in one cycle and, not heat up the house. Things take far less time too… hash brown patties that take 28 minutes in an oven, are done in 12 minutes on air fry. I cook chicken in the Instant Pot, then brush with BBQ and finish off under the broiler in the air fryer. The large size basket fits approx 20 legs… delicious!
You can’t go wrong here…. even if you aren’t a large family, you will LOVE the benefits of the Ninja air fryer. We are SO glad that we chose it.”
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8 Qt. 11-in-1 Air Fryer & Pressure Cooker – $179.95 (regularly $199.99)
Save space in your cabinet when you buy this multi-functional air fryer that also works as a pressure cooker! The pressure cooking function will help you cook juicy meats up to 70% faster than traditional cooking. Meanwhile, the air fryer allows for healthier cooking that uses up to 95% less oil than other cooking methods. You’ll get the best of both worlds with this highly-rated appliance that gets 4.7 stars!
Here’s why you’ll love the Instant Pot Due Crisp:
“A friend told us about this pressure cooker and how it does everything just right. We’ve used ours for about a month now and it sure does, from rice to ribs to even a pressure cooker based pineapple upside down cake, food is just perfect with the right amount of moistness and literally no lost flavors. It also cooks very fast! Certainly one of, if not, the best kitchen appliance purchases we’ve made in a very long time. It’s definitely the most versatile of all the little gadgets and ovens we have in our kitchen!”
Craving something sweet? Check out Lina’s air fryer cake recipe!
!doctype>]]>The Dezeen team are reporting live from the 10th edition of 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen (7-9 June). Read on for all the coverage from the first day (Wednesday 7 June)
5:30pm The Ukurant exhibition, which was founded by young designers for young designers, chose to showcase its third exhibition at 3 Days of Design in a functioning carpentry workshop on the Refshaleøen peninsula.
Here, works by 18 emerging designers from all over the world mingled with woodwork machines and raw materials.
Each contributor was chosen by Ukurant from around 200 applicants and pieces ranged from lights made from egg protein to Paperwork, an artwork and lighting design made from paper, thread, steel weights and artificial lights that was suspended from the high ceiling – Cajsa Carlson
5:00pm Le Corbusier's Lampe Cabanon and the Lampe de Bureau collection by Charotte Perriand are on show in Nemo Lighting's Copenhagen showroom during 3 Days of Design.
"Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand's lamps were conceived as absolute projects, made exclusively for the architectures for which they were designed," Nemo CEO Federico Palazzari told Dezeen.
Read more about Nemo Lighting's "abandoned" Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand lamps
4:00pm Zurich-based designer Alfredo Häberli and Max Fraser are being filmed for 3 Days of Design "Walk and Talk" series.
Community is central to the culture of design
Häberli, an established designer of furniture and products, stressed the importance of physical events post-Covid and the need "for human connection again".
He continued "we can't only exist digitally. We need interaction, to discuss and debate, to enjoy some drinks together. Community is central to the culture of design" – Max Fraser
3:30pm Dezeen events guide editor Sophie Chapman has been to see Mater's What a Waste exhibition, which explores the material cycle and presents Mater's furniture alongside how many grams of waste – predominantly coffee shells – are included in the material composition of each one.
The exhibition begins outside of the venue, with visitors invited to follow a path highlighting environmentally-related facts, reminding the visitor of the global impact of consumption.
The brand revealed it uses more than four kilograms of coffee shells in the production of their Eternity Chair model, and almost two kilograms in the Edge shelf.
What a Waste also spotlights the brand's collaboration with Arla and Holmris B8, using surplus plastic from Arla's milk cartons to make its Matek material – Sophie Chapman
2:00pm At the Conversations in Sound exhibition at 3 Days of Design, design duo GamFratesi (Stine Gam and Enrico Fratesi) spoke to Dezeen about their tactile speaker design for Bang & Olufsen and about how the festival has grown since it started a decade ago.
After Milan, 3DD is the second biggest destination for design
"We started this adventure and after ten years, it's becoming probably, after Milan, the second biggest destination for design," Fratesi told Dezeen.
"We have clients and press coming from the US, coming from the Far East; everybody that we met in Milan is basically travelling again to be in Copenhagen," Fratesi continued.
The speaker, Beosound A5, features modular covers made from paper raffia and oak lamellas.
It was presented together with a table from GamFratesi's studio featuring the different materials and components of the speaker and the design process of the project, as well as a room clad entirely in paper raffia – Cajsa Carlson
Read more about the project on Dezeen later this week.
1:00pm Danish furniture brand Fredericia has announced it has just attained B Corp certification, one of only a few furniture companies in Denmark to do so.
B Corp is the good side of capitalism
Owner Thomas Graversen explained "being a family-owned business, you feel more responsibility when you put new products into the world. For us, it was important to express this through our commitment to the stringent environmental and social principles adhered to by B Corp".
Other Danish companies awaiting B Corp certification include lighting brand Astep.
"B Corp is the good side of capitalism," Astep founder Alessandro Sarfatti told Dezeen – Max Fraser
12:00pm French designer Inga Sempé has collaborated with Kvadrat creative director Isa Glink to create a collection of fabrics that translate continuous and rhythmic lines drawn by Sempé into yarn and fabrics.
"It's not a boring grid, as if you were in jail," said Inga Sempé at Kvadrat's showroom when discussing the design of one of the fabrics that forms part of the new collection – James Parkes
11:30am Dezeen editorial director Max Fraser has caught up with 3 Days of Design co-founder Signe Byrdal Terenziani.
We are here to celebrate passionate designers, to share ideas, and explore new things
She reflected on ten years of the citywide event. "Now more and more people know and have experienced 3 Days of Design but the concept remains the same ten years on: we are here to celebrate passionate designers, to share ideas, and explore new things."
"It's not just a regular fair where you have to sell, sell, sell. The fact that you can easily walk from showroom to showroom in Copenhagen makes a difference to the experience. You wouldn't experience that in a fairground," Byrdal Terenziani continued.
11:00am Dezeen reporter James Parkes has been to see Spanish artist and designer Jaime Hayon's installation at &Tradition's headquarters-turned showroom for the launch of its Momento and Fomakami collection.
The installation comprises two spaces including a "cabinet of curiosities" and a decorative vignette (pictured above), which serves as the backdrop for the product launches.
10:30am Dezeen deputy editor Cajsa Carlson has had a sneak peak of Finnish pine furniture brand Vaarni's exhibition at Tableau and spoke with the brand's founder.
The way that we consume stuff is broken
Vaarni founder Antti Hirvonen told Dezeen "we originally started the brand with the idea that the way that we consume stuff is broken".
"We wanted to do things that actually last a hundred years."
Vaarni’s "brutal and sophisticated" furniture is juxtaposed against sculptural pieces by other artists and designers that are part of the display at multidisciplinary studio Tableau's gallery space in Copenhagen during 3 Days of Design.
The exhibition at Store Kongensgade 50 is on view from 7 to 9 June.
10:00am Also from yesterday, Dezeen editor-at-large Amy Frearson was the first journalist to see an exhibition by glassware design studio Helle Mardahl Studio for The Sensory Society and spoke to the designer.
I love being an artist as well as a designer – it's a playground and there are no limits
Mardahl's work spans lighting and homeware. Her designs are all mouth-blown glass objects and typically have a candy-like aesthetic, with bold colours and round shapes.
For 3 Days of Design Mardahl is presenting in her studio's apartment showroom. Each room has a different installation, including one designed to look like a grand dressing room, and another set up with an incredible circular bar counter.
Across the rooms new and recent products are displayed, including her Candy Series One collection, which launches today (7 June). The new products include wine glasses and her take on the perfect bowl.
In a presentation to a room of special preview guests – mostly interior designers – she said "I love mixing art and functionality; I love being an artist as well as a designer. To me, it's a playground and there are no limits".
"This year we named the exhibition The Sensory Society. We transformed this old amazing apartment into a world of imagination.
I was inspired by Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel when I implemented the colours from our newest additions to the Candy Collection, such as grapefruit, blue jelly and champagne – absolutely yummy.
9:30am Ahead of the official launch later this morning, yesterday afternoon Dezeen reporter James Parkes attended the unveiling of House of Finn Juhl's latest project, the 77 chair.
Founder Ivan Hansen (pictured above, left) described the new chair as "a piece of Lego" and named it "perhaps the brand's least iconic chair".
"You won't believe how difficult it is to make something this simple," he said.
The 77 chair is available in textile or leather upholstery (pictured) with burnished steel legs and wooden toes in oak or walnut.
9:00am Dezeen's editorial director Max Fraser, editor-at-large Amy Frearson, deputy editor Cajsa Carlson, events guide editor Sophie Chapman and junior reporter James Parkes are on the ground in Copenhagen reporting from the 10th edition of 3 Days of Design.
Dezeen Events Guide has created a 3 Days of Design guide, highlighting the key events at the festival this year.
As the 2023 event gets under way, look back at of some of our coverage from last year – including architects Frank Maali and Gemma Lalanda's "sacral feeling" steel-clad 1950s garage event space for Vipp and a translucent pavilion by Henning Larsen Architects for Fritz Hansen's 150th anniversary.
To stay up to date, follow Dezeen live: 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen, taking place from 7 to 9 June 2023. Dezeen Events Guide has created a 3 Days of Design guide, highlighting the key events at the festival. See Dezeen Events Guide for all the latest information you need to know to attend the event, as well as a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.
All times are Copenhagen time.
The lead image is by Cajsa Carlson.
The post Day one from 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>Italian brand Nemo Lighting recently unveiled a previously unseen lighting design by architect Le Corbusier and lamps by architect Charlotte Perriand, which are on display at 3 Days of Design.
Le Corbusier's Lampe Cabanon and the Lampe de Bureau collection by Perriand were on show in Nemo Lighting's Copenhagen showroom, which opened during the annual 3 Days of Design festival.
Le Corbusier's light was designed for and is named after his Cabanon seaside cabin, which the architect created as a seaside escape away from Parisian city life.
It was originally made from very specific locally available materials.
"The lampshade, made from sandpaper that the architect used, was crafted from a wartime artifact – a mortar shell carrier – found on French beaches," Nemo CEO Federico Palazzari told Dezeen. "The lamp, for which numerous sketches and designs exist, represents a moment of rebirth in the post-war world."
Rather than a mortar shell, the new version is constructed from black zinc and green-painted tracing paper and was made in collaboration with the Le Corbusier Foundation.
Also in Copenhagen, Nemo Lighting showcased two designs that are part of the Lampe de Bureau collection by Perriand and launched this year, a reading light and a wall light.
The Lampe de Bureau light was originally created for French glassworks Boussois in 1965.
Like the Le Corbusier design, Nemo Lighting created the Perriand designs from original sketches.
"Starting from the necessity of illuminating the faces reflected in the mirror of a cabinet designed for the famous French glassworks Boussois, in 1965 Charlotte Perriand designed the wall-mounted version of the Lampe de Bureau, later transformed into a table lamp," Palazzari said.
Both the Le Corbusier and Perriand lamps are part of the brand's Masters collection, which also features pieces by Italian designer Vico Magistretti, Japanese designer Kazuhide Takama and design team Franco Albini, F Helg, A Piva and M Albini.
Producing these lamps was a way to ensure more people have access to designs originally created for very specific locations, according to the CEO.
"Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand's lamps were conceived as absolute projects, made exclusively for the architectures for which they were designed," Palazzari explained.
"Most of these designs were abandoned and Nemo, together with the Le Corbusier Foundation and Pernette Perriand, industrialised these designs as they were conceived."
The Lampe Cabanon was first presented at Salone del Mobile this April. Also on show at 3 Days of Design is a sofa by Danish brand Takt that was "designed for repair". Other recent Le Corbusier projects on Dezeen include a collection of tapestries created by the architect.
The photography is courtesy of Nemo Lighting.
Lampe Cabanon and Lampe de Bureau are on show as part of 3 Days of Design 2023, from 7 June to 9 June 2023. See Dezeen Events Guide for information about the event, plus a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.
The post Nemo Lighting showcases "abandoned" Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand lamps appeared first on Dezeen.
]]>The water cooler’s role in modern office culture is far-reaching. It is a place where employees gather for casual conversation, share ideas, or take a short break from their desks. Its strategic placement facilitates spontaneous interaction, promoting interpersonal relationships and team cohesion. In a way, the office water cooler serves as the office’s social hub, subtly contributing to a positive and collaborative work environment.
Staying hydrated in the workplace is more important than we often realize. It affects our physical health, cognitive function, and overall productivity. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, decreased focus, and impaired decision-making abilities.
An accessible office water cooler encourages employees to drink water regularly, keeping them alert and active. Moreover, hot, cold, and room temperature water options cater to everyone’s preferences, making hydration a pleasant experience.
While other water solutions are available, such as bottled water and individual water bottles, the office water cooler stands out. It’s not just about convenience; it’s also about sustainability.
A water cooler reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste. Additionally, modern water coolers offer features like a child safety lock, a self-cleaning function, and a built-in night light, making them a practical choice for offices.
There are many options when it comes to choosing the best office water cooler. From materials to technology, finding the best unit can get complicated. Along with this guide are some of the best water coolers in the market. So, take a look at what is available now on Amazon.
Top Pick: The Primo Bottom Loading Water Dispenser has an easy bottom-loading design, so say goodbye to the strain of lifting and flipping heavy water bottles. The dispenser’s stainless steel door panel and concealed bottle storage provide a clean and professional look. It offers three water temperatures – ice-cold, cool, and piping-hot – with a child-resistant safety feature for the hot water option.
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The self-sanitizing feature ensures the water reservoirs and lines remain clean and safe. Additionally, the removable stainless steel drip tray is dishwasher safe. By using reusable three or 5-gallon water bottles, this dispenser promotes an eco-friendly approach and reduces waste.
Primo Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
Runner Up: The Brio Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser is a stainless steel dispenser with three temperature settings, allowing you to customize your drinking experience.
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The Brio Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser has three temperature options, a sleek stainless steel design, and top-loading functionality. However, it’s important to consider the limitations of top-loading bottles, hot water usage, required space, and the absence of a self-cleaning feature.
Brio Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser
Best Value: The Avalon A5 Self-Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler Dispenser offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for small business owners seeking a reliable water cooler. With its easy-to-use push button spouts, this dispenser ensures a hassle-free experience. Say goodbye to the hassle of constantly purchasing water bottles, as this bottle-less cooler has a dual filtration system that purifies the water from your source.
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This is ideal for small business owners seeking a reliable, cost-effective water cooler solution. Despite the requirement for installation and occasional maintenance, the Avalon A5 Water Cooler Dispenser offers an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solution.
Primo Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
The Igloo Top Loading Hot and Cold Water Dispenser is designed with convenience and functionality; this water dispenser offers a reliable solution for home and office use. This water cooler is from a company with 75 year history.
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The Igloo Top Loading Hot and Cold Water Dispenser also has a removable drip tray and freestanding design, adding to its practicality. At the same time, the trusted brand reputation of Igloo guarantees quality and satisfaction.
Igloo Top Loading Hot and Cold Water Dispenser
The Farberware Freestanding Hot and Cool Water Cooler Dispenser combines electronic cooling and heating technologies to offer instant access to refreshing cool water and hot water.
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With its energy-saving operation, practical storage cabinet, and compatibility with water filtration systems, this water cooler is an excellent choice for small business owners seeking a reliable hydration solution.
Farberware Freestanding Hot and Cool Water Cooler Dispenser
The Brio Moderna Self-Cleaning Bottom Load Water Cooler Dispenser has hassle-free installation, smart features, and reliable performance. Bottom loading, adjustable hot and cold water temperatures, and self-cleaning ozone technology ensure consistently clean water.
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The Brio Moderna Self-Cleaning Bottom Load Water Cooler Dispenser offers durable construction for long-term and daily use.
Brio Moderna Self-Cleaning Bottom Load Water Cooler Dispenser
The hOmeLabs Bottom Loading Water Dispenser offers a convenient and intuitive control panel with a night light, child safety lock feature, and the choice of hot, cold, or room temperature water.
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Experience the reliability of the hOmeLabs Bottom Loading Water Dispenser with a 2-year warranty and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
hOmeLabs Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
The Frigidaire Water Cooler/Dispenser, offering both cold and hot water options with its robust compressor cooling system. The stainless steel weld tank prevents overheating and ensures safe water drainage. This versatile water cooler accommodates standard 3 and 5-gallon bottles, making it suitable for various settings such as kitchens, offices, or dorms.
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This water cooler has a clear indicator displaying cooling, heating, and power activity.
Frigidaire Water Cooler/Dispenser
The COSTWAY 2-in-1 Water Cooler Dispenser combines the functionality of a water dispenser and an ice maker. This includes tri-temp water options for hot, cold, or room temperature water.
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The built-in ice maker can produce up to 27lbs of ice per day, ensuring a continuous supply for your refreshments. With features like a child safety lock, a removable drip tray, and a smart water barrel seat, this water cooler dispenser prioritizes convenience, safety, and hygiene.
COSTWAY 2-in-1 Water Cooler Dispenser with Built-in Ice Maker
The Kismile 2-in-1 Water Cooler Dispenser also features a built-in ice maker. It can produce 5L of hot water or 4L of ice-cold water per hour. The built-in ice maker can generate nine bullet ice cubes in just 6-14 minutes, with a daily production capacity of up to 27 lbs.
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It is designed with user-friendly details, including LED indicator lights and soft-touch buttons.
Kismile 2-in-1 Water Cooler Dispenser with Built-in Ice Maker
Bottled water coolers are a common sight in many offices. They use large bottles of purified water, providing both hot and cold water options. This type of water cooler is easy to install and relocate as needed. However, it requires regular replacement of heavy water bottles, which can be a logistical challenge. Moreover, bottled water coolers might not be the most environmentally friendly choice due to the plastic bottles used.
Point-of-use (POU) water coolers are directly connected to the building’s water supply. These water dispensers filter and chill the water on demand, providing unlimited access to hot and cold water. A POU water cooler eliminates the need for bottled water, reducing plastic waste and eliminating the need for bottle storage. However, it requires professional installation and may not be feasible in all settings.
Countertop water coolers are compact units designed to fit on a countertop. They are an excellent choice for offices with limited space. Like their larger counterparts, they offer both hot and cold water, and some models also provide room temperature water. While they don’t have the capacity of freestanding units, they are a cost-effective and space-saving solution.
Under-sink chillers are hidden away under the sink and connected to a separate tap. They provide chilled, filtered water on demand, making them a great option for offices that prioritize aesthetics and convenience. However, they only supply cold water, which may not meet everyone’s needs.
The choice between different types of water coolers depends on several factors, including office size, budget, and environmental considerations. All these types have their own merits and drawbacks. A bottled water cooler offers flexibility, a POU water cooler promotes sustainability, a countertop cooler saves space, and an under-sink chiller provides a neat solution.
Regular water consumption is essential for good health. It maintains the body’s fluid balance, aids digestion, facilitates nutrient absorption, and helps regulate body temperature. An office water cooler encourages employees to drink more water and maintain hydration, ultimately supporting their overall health and wellbeing.
However, a poorly maintained water cooler can pose potential health risks. Bacteria, mold, and algae can grow in the water tank or dispenser taps, contaminating the water. A water cooler with a self-cleaning feature can help mitigate this risk, but it’s not a substitute for regular cleaning.
The importance of regularly cleaning and maintaining the water cooler cannot be overstated. It should be cleaned and disinfected at least once every six months, or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer. This will ensure the water remains safe to drink and the cooler functions efficiently.
There are several signs of contamination to look out for in a water cooler. These include unusual taste or smell, discoloration of the water, and visible mold or algae in the water tank or dispenser taps. The water cooler should be cleaned immediately if any of these signs are present.
Ensuring a clean and safe water cooler requires shared responsibility. All employees should be made aware of the importance of cleanliness, and a regular cleaning schedule should be established. Additionally, features like a self-cleaning function can help maintain hygiene between manual cleanings.
Appropriate water cooler usage is important to maintain a harmonious work environment. Employees should respect each other’s time, avoid blocking access to the water cooler, and clean up any spills promptly. Furthermore, they should avoid touching the taps or buttons with dirty hands, ensuring a sanitary experience for all.
Some do’s and don’ts at the water cooler include: do wait your turn, replace the empty water bottle if you finish it, and keep conversations light and professional. Don’t monopolize the water cooler, don’t bring sensitive work discussions to the area, and don’t use it as an excuse to avoid work.
Cleanliness and shared responsibility go hand in hand. Encourage employees to report issues with the water cooler, such as low water levels, malfunctioning equipment, or cleanliness concerns. This collective approach will ensure that the water cooler remains a pleasant and functional amenity for everyone.
Conflicts may arise around the water cooler, such as disagreements about cleaning responsibilities or disputes over water usage. Address these conflicts through open communication and establish clear guidelines for water cooler etiquette to prevent future issues.
Good water cooler behavior can be encouraged by providing clear instructions, setting expectations, and leading by example. Regular reminders about proper usage and etiquette can help create a positive and respectful atmosphere around the office water cooler.
Bottled water coolers, despite their convenience, have a significant environmental impact. Each bottle is made of non-biodegradable materials, contributing to plastic waste. Moreover, the energy spent and emissions produced in manufacturing, transporting, and disposing of these bottles add to their carbon footprint. While recycling can mitigate some of these issues, a more sustainable approach is to reduce our reliance on bottled water.
Point-of-use water coolers are a more environmentally-friendly choice. They eliminate the need for plastic bottles, significantly reducing plastic waste. Additionally, as they are connected directly to the building’s water supply, there’s no need for transportation of water bottles, reducing carbon emissions. By choosing a POU water cooler, businesses can contribute to sustainability while still providing employees with easy access to hot and cold water.
The manufacturing of water coolers also contributes to the carbon footprint. It involves the extraction of raw materials, energy-intensive production processes, and transportation. However, many manufacturers are taking steps to reduce this impact by using more sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
Sustainable practices for office water use go beyond choosing the right type of water cooler. They include promoting water conservation, encouraging employees to use reusable water bottles, and regularly maintaining the water cooler to ensure its efficiency. A bottom loading water cooler, for instance, can reduce water wastage.
Businesses can take several steps to reduce the environmental impact of their water usage. Switching to a POU or bottom loading water cooler, implementing water conservation measures, and encouraging responsible behavior among employees are some effective strategies. Remember, every little effort counts when it comes to protecting our planet.
Smart water coolers are a rising trend in office environments. Equipped with monitoring features, they can track water consumption, alert when maintenance is needed, and even order new water supplies automatically. Some models even come with a self-cleaning feature, ensuring hygienic water supply with minimal human intervention.
Energy-efficient water coolers are becoming increasingly popular. These units consume less electricity, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. They are designed to keep water at the desired temperature without excessive energy use, making them a smart choice for environmentally conscious businesses.
The integration of water coolers with other office technologies is on the horizon. With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT), we can expect water coolers that can be controlled via smartphone apps, interact with other smart devices, and provide data insights about water usage.
Water coolers offering customizable water options are becoming more common. These units can dispense water at various temperatures, carbonate water, or even add flavors, catering to diverse preferences. This adds a touch of luxury to the humble water cooler, enhancing the user experience.
The shift towards remote work and home offices has also influenced the water cooler industry. Compact, stylish, and efficient water coolers designed for home use are gaining popularity. They offer the convenience of an office water cooler, complete with hot and cold options, in a home-friendly design.
An office water cooler offers more than just hydration. It encourages regular water consumption, enhancing employee wellbeing and productivity. It also serves as a social hub, fostering communication and teamwork.
Moreover, modern water coolers offer features like hot and cold water, child safety lock, self-cleaning function, and a built-in night light, making them a practical and versatile choice for offices.
Bottled water coolers use large bottles of purified water, providing both hot and cold water options. They are easy to install and relocate. However, they contribute to plastic waste and require regular replacement of water bottles.
On the other hand, point-of-use (POU) water coolers are connected to the building’s water supply, filter and chill the water on demand, and eliminate the need for plastic bottles. They are more environmentally friendly but require professional installation.
A water cooler should be cleaned and disinfected at least once every six months, or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer. Regular cleaning ensures the water remains safe to drink and the cooler functions efficiently.
Many modern water coolers come with a self-cleaning feature, which can help maintain hygiene between manual cleanings.
Encourage employees to respect each other’s time, keep the area clean, and report any issues with the water cooler. Establish clear guidelines for water cooler usage and address conflicts promptly through open communication.
Regular reminders about proper usage and etiquette can help create a positive and respectful atmosphere around the office water cooler.
Switching to a point-of-use or bottom loading water cooler, promoting water conservation, using reusable water bottles, and regularly maintaining the water cooler can significantly reduce your office’s environmental impact.
You can also choose water coolers made from sustainable materials and manufactured using energy-efficient processes.
Future trends include smart water coolers that can track water consumption and alert when maintenance is needed, energy-efficient models, integration with other office technologies, and customizable water options.
There’s also a rising trend of compact and efficient water coolers designed for home offices, reflecting the shift towards remote work.
Consider the size of your office, the number of employees, your budget, and environmental considerations. Evaluate the merits and drawbacks of different types of water coolers.
For instance, a bottled water cooler offers flexibility, a point-of-use water cooler promotes sustainability, a countertop cooler saves space, and an under-sink chiller provides a neat solution. Also, consider additional features like a child safety lock, a self-cleaning function, and a built-in night light.
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This article, "Office Water Cooler: Top Picks for You" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>This man is your North Star, your guiding light, your port in a storm – the man who helped shape you into the very fine person you are today. Trying to sum that up in gift form is never easy. So, as someone who typically wants or needs for nothing – or at least pretends to – let’s assume that something practical, indulgent or drinkable (or a winning combination of all three) is the way to go.
Or perhaps, you’re the daddy now – and those sleepless nights deserve some form of consolation prize? Fret no more, we’ve got the best ‘one-for-him, one-for-me’ Father’s Day gift list going.
Replacing his tatty bathrobe is a good place to start – and not with just any old white dressing gown that will turn an unappealing shade of greige in the wash.
Casamera make superior, 100% cotton robes in a generous waffle fabric in sizes S through to XXXL. Available in a palette of cool shades such as denim, an aged washed out blue, and pistachio, a subtle light green hue, this hooded, belted style features an eyewear loop on the lapel to keep specs and sunnies within easy reach, while the roomy pockets will safely prevent the elusive TV remote from being swallowed by the couch.
The pure cotton material makes it the perfect post-shower or post-swim attire; it’s absorbent, odour resistant and breathable, with colour fade protection.
And, if you really want to spoil him, Casamera also make slippers in matching fabric with a wide fit, and a comfort cushioned suede sole.
Father’s Day is the ideal excuse to buy him something he’d never treat himself to. If premium leather goods sit on his side of needless extravagance, that doesn’t mean he’ll have any issues accepting yours.
Founded by French-Argentinian Guillermo Boyle, his namesake line of leather accessories is hand made in Italy using the finest quality calf leather from one of the most sustainable Italian tanneries, and presented in FSC paper boxes with branded dust bags for safe-keeping. Here are three foolproof items from the range.
Whose dad wouldn’t benefit from upping their style game for those face-to-face meetings? Prospective clients will surely approve of this well-organised leather receptacle.
Available in black, brown, or two tone with contrast handles, the GB briefcase has top handles and an optional shoulder strap that can be stowed in a bespoke Alcantara pouch.
With full length interior pockets and compartments for essential documents, an outer pocket to house smaller essentials, plus a leather key ring with a handy magnetic tab so there’s less painful rummaging in the depths to locate them, it’s the promotion his wardrobe is looking for.
This classic wallet features an aluminium interior card case with thoroughly modern RFID blocking technology to keep your data secure. It holds up to seven credit cards, and has slots for receipts and folded bills, while allowing quick access at the push of a button.
Super slim, it won’t ruin the line of his suit, plus Boyle make two special editions: one with the embossed lettering picked out in gold, and one with a stainless steel interior card case – just to be that little bit extra.
Furnish his wrist with a contemporary leather bracelet crafted from cross-hatched leather. The Bompard bracelet features an asymmetric stainless steel buckle and comes in four shades of leather, which magically cover most formal to casual outfits.
Shop now at guillermoboyle.com
Is pops a whisky connoisseur? Hazelwood House in Dufftown is the family seat of the Gordon family, which has spent many generations casking Scotch whiskies to produce a fine, rare aged stock under the House of Hazelwood banner.
Mature stock is only released when it’s ready, and in very limited batches. Break the bank – or club together with relatives – to gift him 70cl of this liquid gold and anoint the new star of his drinks cabinet.
A hand labelled, individually-numbered decanter houses the amber nectar of this 39 year aged Speyside blended scotch whisky, which has notes of fresh pineapple, charred fruit and old-fashioned sweet shops.
Congrats if he can recall what he was doing in the early 1980s, when it was bottled.
Matured in American white oak casks, The Lowlander spotlights the craft of the unsung lowland distilleries with an exceptional, unusual blend that opens with freshly cut grass, a sweet note of spun sugar and fading to dry star fruit.
The youngest, and most pricey whisky in our edit, The Tops is a 33-year-old blend of the best of the best. Rich and decadent, with dark notes of treacle and a strong cask influence, experienced palates may detect maraschino cherries, crystallised rose petals and coffee beans.
Served similarly in a hand labelled, individually-numbered decanter.
Shop now at houseofhazelwood.com
A quality timepiece is always a prospective heirloom for the next generation, so add a considered edition to his horological collection.
Fraser Hart is a trusted destination for luxury timepieces. As one of the nation’s leading jewellers, with 25 shops located around the UK, it carries designs from top watchmakers like Omega, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Tudor and Panerai, plus diamonds and other keepsakes that help celebrate life’s special moments with items that speak to his interests or hobbies.
The watch of pilots, astronauts and presidents, the Omega Speedmaster is on every watch lovers list.
How can you improve a classic? Inspired by the 4th generation style worn on a lunar landing, the Speedmaster Moonwatch has an asymmetrical case, black step dial, the famous dot above the 90 on the anodised aluminium bezel ring, and a higher standard of precision and anti-magnetism than ever before.
Looking for a sportier vibe? The Breitling Endurance Pro combines an ultra-lightweight 44mm case with a thermo-compensated SuperQuartz movement that is 10 times more accurate than conventional quartz.
The hour and minute hands are coated in Super-LumiNova so he’ll be able to read the time even in limited light. And, it’s ready for action – it’s water-resistant to 100 metres and served with a Diver Pro rubber strap to match the fire engine red of the inner bezel ring.
For the motorsports enthusiast who loves the thrill of burning rubber, we suggest this stunning TAG Heuer Formula 1 with a black ceramic tachymeter bezel, grey textured dial and bold lime yellow accents.
A precision instrument for perfect lap timing, the Formula 1 dial is enhanced by the flat sapphire crystal and Super-LumiNova hands.
For the die-hard Bond fan, this black and grey sailing bracelet is inspired by the NATO strap worn in Spectre, and features a moveable silver ring with the 007 logo.
Elevate his best suited-and-booted look with this pair of elegant Montblanc cufflinks in steel and blue goldstone. The midnight blue stone centrepiece is flecked with tiny copper pieces.
Like a starry night sky, it will add just the right amount of sparkle for any special occasion.
Fraser Hart also carry a wide selection from Dutch wallet makers, Secrid. The ultra-safe Miniwallet offers generous storage in a compact, pocket-sized format, holding 4-6 RFID protected cards with space for four additional cards.
It’s all wrapped up in a variety of saffiano, vintage and plain leather exteriors complete with snap closure.
For the man who’s always on the move, CuirĒlixir handcraft all manner of luxury accessory cases using the finest vegetable-tanned Vachetta leather. Exclusively sourced from Tuscany, it is chosen for its soft touch and excellent recovery against light marks, and will give a patina that ages gracefully over time.
New home for his sunglasses? Check. Tie sleeve for a wrinkle-free engagement? Check. Special watch box for his favourite time-piece? All these items are here, plus our top picks, below.
This wash bag strikes a flawless balance of softness, durability and aesthetics, making it a real investment piece. Made from full-grain, vegetable-tanned Vachetta leather, it has a distinctive aroma of sumptuous leather.
Generously proportioned, it features snap buttons for extra storage capacity, interior compartments for his toothbrush and razor, two mesh pockets and a secure zipped pocket for small items.
It’s a first class ticket, however he’s travelling.
Made from gleaming Vachetta leather, this iPad/MacBook Air sleeve is made to fit your device to perfection. With a soft curved design and a navy blue nubuck leather lining, it will protect the precious cargo from bumps and knocks.
It’s a must-have addition to his professional and personal life.
He’ll never lose an earbud again with this dedicated AirPod pouch. Made from full grain, double tanned calfskin from France, the Stahl edge paint and saddle-stitched finish lend a masculine appearance adding strength and durability to this AirPod Case, which keeps the white twins happily ensconced together.
About as far from rubbish novelty socks as you can get, Peper Harow socks are British made, use quality materials such as organic and recycled cotton, and come in myriad designs and colourways with a one-year guarantee.
Replenish his smalls drawer with a trove of hand finished socks with seamless toes in complimentary designs for work and leisure.
Made with 35% Global Recycled Standard cotton and a blend of polyester and polyamide, the Dashing Men’s Gift Box features a running dash design with a contrasting toe, heel and cuff in the following colour combinations: black/blue, blue/yellow, navy/ red and grey/navy.
For the more adventurous dresser, the Elegant Gift Box presents a trio of geometric patterns and subtle colour combinations in premium cotton.
Equilibrium is styled with a white flash along the edge of the foot. Symmetry features a striped pattern in aqua, navy and black, and the Ouse design is inspired by the Ouse Valley viaduct in a pattern of mustard, black and navy semi circles.
Cotton rich, this set is made with 75% – 88% GOTS certified organic cotton, 16% – 23% polyamide and 2% spandex.
For the colourful dresser, the Spot Gift Box presents a quartet of spotty socks made from 80% Supima cotton and 20% polyamide in a vibrant display of pin-polka dots in vivid colour combinations.
Get ready for him to flash some ankle in tasty shades of midnight, teal, apple and mint.
Shop now at peperharowengland.com
If directional footwear and cross-body bags are his thing, the fresh new styles from Pedro are definitely on-trend. The global fashion brand is an incubator for new design talent and offers something for all tastes with its men’s lines: Hybrix, Pedro Icon and Altitude.
With a leather upper and an elastic heel, these chunky lace up boots have a sneaker-inspired sole and will inject a fresh look into his outfits.
A menswear classic with a chunky lugged sole to give formal looks a touch of rock and roll.
Water resistant, these urban action sandals can go from beach to bar in one easy stride.
An easy, everyday casual shoe available in beige, black and olive green with a neon flash.
Balençiaga on a budget? These dazzling white, cushioned trainers give the expensive designer versions a run for the money.
Box-fresh kicks in an evocative Air Jordan shape will win the affections of any sneaker head.
With a commute-friendly, narrow profile and a sleek look, this minimal back pack can easily house a laptop and other daily essentials for everyday use.
Strong, stylish and durable, this plush weekend bag comes in taupe with a contrasting dark brown detachable strap and has ample packing space for a short trip.
Available in black, taupe and a denim effect, the Taper Sling is a cross body bag with a point of difference, boasting a boxy shape with an angular silhouette, a top handle, detachable strap, interior and exterior pockets.
This luxe zipped rectangular cross-body bag comes in taupe or brown, and comes with a smaller, detachable wallet-sized mini bag to house credit card sized items and adjustable straps.
With strong roots in sailing, Swedish tailors Stenströms has a reputation for high-quality shirting in a range of specialist styles, such as super slim and (hard-to-find) extra long sleeves, to flatter all body types.
The 1899 is Stenströms Heritage Shirt, and the year the founder, August Stenström, turned his tailors shop into a modern shirt factory. The 1899 represents the height of the label’s craftsmanship.
This is a slim-fit style, with two darts in the back, a split yoke, handcrafted mother of pearl buttons, a denser stitch length and a mouche to strengthen the bottom and side seams.
The indigo twill version is a summer staple made with the softest denim, featuring a full spread collar and single cuff.
For the dad who likes to express his personal style, he’ll enjoy transforming every outfit with the neck detail of this printed bandana.
Style it up with a Cuban collared shirt, a T-shirt or, if he’s really down with the kids, as a head scarf a la A$AP Rocky.
Are his swimming trunks long past best? Upgrade his poolside style with these blue striped drawstring swim shorts with back pocket, made with a cotton blend for faster drying.
Smart-casual wardrobe in need of a refresh? Summer wedding on the cards? You can’t go wrong with gifting him top-to-toe linen for his default summer look.
L’Estrange London was created by two designers on a mission to simplify men’s wardrobes. This honed collection of elevated basics for everyday life is made in a conscious way using responsible fabrics and traceable supply chains.
The following three items work perfectly as a full outfit or as work- horse separates that can handle any social occasion.
The Linen 24 Blazer is made in Portugal from a blend of premium Italian cotton and linen with 3% stretch to maintain shape. Unstructured, it features a narrower waist with a deeper hem and no cuff detailing for easier tailoring.
Available in navy (for the practical) and ivory (for the indulgent), it’s a go-to blazer for summer and beyond.
Made using a blend of organic cotton and linen with 3% stretch, this silky-soft collarless shirt comes in white, off-white, olive and navy – so you can match with the Linen 24 Blazer or create a contrast with another colour.
Unlike classic linen which creases easily, the blended material is less sheer and less prone to wrinkling for a smoother, pressed look.
Unlike regular linen trousers, the 24 trouser is made with a specific blend of organic linen, organic cotton, and a tiny amount of elastane for a silky-soft, crease-resistant finish that’s good for year-round wear.
Designed without belt loops, the hidden elastic waistband and inner cord fastening stretch for the perfect fit, and extra length hidden in the hem to accommodate a longer inseam.
Choose the matching shade to coordinate with the blazer and shirt, or style it up with a contrast.
Shop now at lestrangelondon.com
Men’s jewellery is having a bit of a renaissance with plenty of red carpet inspiration from the recent awards season, which saw a fair smattering of pearls, diamonds and lapel brooch displays.
At Jaxxon, you can get the look for less, with a wide range of fine fashion jewellery including Cuban link chains, pearl necklaces, iced neck chains, religious pendants and rings, all at a sizeable reduction from typical designer alternatives.
Missed the hype around Paul Mescal’s breakout performance as Connell in Normal People? A sizeable chunk of coverage was devoted to his character’s silver neck chain.
In a clear case of ‘best supporting role by a piece of jewellery’ who could deny the appeal of such a sixth form style move? And, who wouldn’t want a slice of that aphrodisiac for Father’s Day?
Make like Connell and rekindle that connection, using this fine 3mm, 20-inch Cuban Link chain. It’s made in Italy from quality 925 sterling silver and coated in rhodium to give it a lasting shine and durability.
Harry Styles single-handedly put pearls back on the map for men (OK, Pharrell Williams was on it first with Chanel, but Harry really brought it home with cult brand Éliou).
This 6mm pearl necklace with silver accents (also available in gold) is the perfect gift for the fashion-forward dad.
A contemporary take on a classic design, this solid gold signet ring has tapered edges in a brush finished satin textured lustre, along with a blank flattened top just waiting for your personal engraving.
Go for broke in timeless 14k gold, or get the look for (a lot) less with a plated finish.
Made in very limited, crowd-funded batches, the CODE41 T360 Tourbillon has a rigorously tested movement that is 100% Swiss designed and produced, with a beating heart turning at one revolution per minute.
The exclusive skeleton design comes in both traditional and contemporary finishes, especially the eye-catching titanium rainbow. With two case finishes, NativeDNA or Stratom, and interchangeable leather, rubber or titanium straps, there are 200 possible combinations of the CODE41, so you’ll be safe in the knowledge that the Tourbillon you pick for your dad will be as rare and special as the man himself.
Online retailer Very carry a huge range of men’s fashion, lifestyle and grooming products from well-known brands and designer labels at prices to suit every pocket.
Keep him kitted out with long lasting basics with this triple pack of pure cotton crew neck T-Shirts in darker, neutral shades that go with everything.
Take a size up to ensure the best fit.
British shoe brand Clarks make the most comfortable shoes ever, so he’ll never complain about these impact absorbing sandals. This slip-on style is made from responsibly sourced leather, with a cushioning foam footbed to protect his feet and with a textile lining and microfibre sock to boost breathability.
Please note, the pedicure is sold separately, so if he’s unleashing those toenails on an unsuspecting public, introduce him to a nail bar as part of the reveal.
A new scent always goes down well on Father’s Day, so indulge him with the latest summer splash, BOSS Bottled Pacific: a woody, aquatic fragrance with uplifting notes of citrus, salted accord, cypress essence, soft cashmeran, sandalwood, Indonesian Patchouli and coconut accord for that full west coast beach vibe.
For the practical, outdoorsy dad or keen cyclist, this Adidas Terrex Multi Insulated gilet offers some space-saving and seasonal weather-proofing.
Made from 100% recycled polyester, it’s a lightweight core warming layer, packs into its own pocket, has a backpack-compatible shoulder construction, an essential hood with chin guard and a PFC free water-repellent finish with reflective details.
Boost his audio experience of his favourite tunes, podcasts, radio shows, gaming and more with a classic pair of wireless headphones from Beats.
Instant set-up (so you won’t have to spend hours doing his home IT), Apple compatible so it will sync with all his devices, and no wires or earbuds to lose or misplace – just hours of cushioned, comfortable listening.
If your dad spends most of his working week in boardrooms and business meetings, he will appreciate a fine pair of cufflinks. After all, with corporate dress codes often stiff (read: boring), there isn’t much place for personal expression when donning the same charcoal two-piece and Oxfords every day.
However, where he can inject a bit of flair is with his choice of accessories, and this is where Mystic Magic comes in. Offering quirky yet stylish men’s jewellery in classic metals such as silver, gold and copper, your old man can let his personality shine while staying the right side of professional.
Here’s our top picks to finish off his perfectly pressed shirts.
Part of the brand’s Animal Heritage range, these exquisitely detailed Stag cufflinks are sure to set the right impression when stepping into any negotiation (hopefully there will be no rutting, though).
Cast in bronze and silver plated with an antique-style finish, then come in a beautiful velvet-lined presentation box to make them feel all the more special.
Coming in an antique copper finish, these Fox cufflinks are sure to break the ice with an y new prospective client. They would look superb set against a charcoal or black suit, with the dark matte finish ensuring they stay understated and the right side of professional.
Come complete with swivel back fastening and presentation box.
If you dad is always on the go from 9-5, then perhaps the Hare best represents his spirit animal. For the man that likes to get things done quickly and efficiently, these silver cufflinks are sure to be well received.
The post The Most Stylish Gifts For Father’s Day 2023 appeared first on Ape to Gentleman.
]]>You can enlarge an existing closet or allocate space to create a new one as part of a home remodeling project. Custom storage is the best way to use every inch of this space, combining form and function. A design expert can work with you to plan exactly what you need in your custom closet system.
The more organized your closet is, the lower the maintenance will be. A high-functioning closet takes clutter from adjoining rooms and avoids being chaotic as everything has its place. Whether you would like a walk-in closet or a small hall closet, here are our tips for getting organized with a custom closet system.
Do you look at magazines and watch home design shows and imagine how organized your whole life would be if your clothes, shoes, linens, and accessories were perfectly stored? Attaining a dream closet is not out of reach. It takes some planning and preparation, but the end result is tailor-made to your taste and requirements.
You can take inspiration from any closets you see on social media sites or television shows, but your custom closet system will be based on the space you have available and your lifestyle. Do you need to store your extensive collection of handbags or a lot of sports equipment? Do you have a penchant for wide-brimmed hats? Are you addicted to buying jeans? Look at the items you need to store and seek out storage solutions that meet your needs.
How much maintenance are you prepared to put into your storage system? Would you like to display the contents of a walk-in closet or conceal them with sliding panels or cabinet doors? How many people will be accessing the closet at once and can they find what they need and keep it organized easily? These are the basic questions you should ask yourself before you start planning your custom closet system.
You might feel like remodeling one space is overwhelming enough without taking on an additional project. However, a kitchen design or bathroom remodel is the perfect time to consider adding a custom closet system.
Adding a master closet design to your master bath remodel makes a huge difference to your lifestyle and storage capacity. Such an addition also increases the resale value of your property. Doing this work all at once means you’re benefiting from on-site labor so it will never be as cost effective again. Planning additional closet space enlarges your remodel while making it multifunctional and stylish. The benefits of two interconnecting remodels outweigh the initial financial outlay or time costs.
If you are embarking on a kitchen remodel, this could be the perfect time to install custom storage for your utility room, hall closet, or mudroom. Custom closet storage can be applied to many spaces, such as an entry hall or even extra pantry storage in an alcove adjacent to the kitchen design.
Custom storage solutions are the ideal way to store essentials in any part of your home. They maximize the available space of a closet, regardless of its size and shape.
Master closets accommodate everything from socks to suits, so it’s imperative that there are tailor-made storage compartments to avoid chaos. Floor-to-ceiling storage makes the most of every inch of wall space and enables you to see everything at a glance.
You might want to color-code your clothes or sort items by season. Maybe you’d like workwear, casual, and formal wear sections. Plan your custom storage in a way that works for you and looks visually appealing.
The same goes for other types of closets. Linen closets with custom storage cater for fresh towels and sheets in a way that lets you grab them with ease. Hall closets can accommodate everything from outdoor wear to sports equipment, craft items, and excess pantry supplies. Such a range of closet contents can easily become messy and would definitely benefit from effective custom storage solutions.
There is a very straightforward process involved in planning for custom storage. Whether you have an existing closet space or are creating a new one, you need to figure out what exactly it is you need to store.
The first thing to do is empty out the contents of a closet you are remodeling or the contents that you will be moving into a new storage space. Use bags or boxes that you can use to take things to a donation center, dry cleaner, recycling place, or garbage can. Have a full-length mirror handy so you can quickly try on clothes and decide if you want to keep something.
Once you have removed everything, including hangers, clean the space and visualize how you want your closet to be organized. Take measurements so you know what dimensions you’re working with. A design expert can be even more specific when it comes to assessing your available space and designing your custom closet system.
Now look at the contents and decide if you really love it or if you actually use it. Have a “maybe” pile that you can revisit in a few months’ time. Be as brutal as you can and consider what you are going to discard or donate. Then decide what you are going to return to the closet or store elsewhere. For example, you might have thrown all sorts of things in your hall closet over the years when you just want coats and outdoor accessories there. This is your opportunity to declutter and reorganize the contents of your storage areas. Once you decide on what you are keeping, you can see what you need to store and think about your requirements. Maybe it’s more shoe storage, or possibly more rails for hangers. Decluttering and assessing your contents gives you a good indication of the storage solutions you need.
Put the items you’re keeping back in your closet and see how they fit. Your space should be no more than 80 percent full, with 20 percent for breathing space and extras, such as guests’ coats.
Think about where each category should go and make regularly used items more accessible. Put work clothes at the front and formal wear further back, for example. You could also rotate things according to seasons. There’s no need to have sun hats out front in winter, or snow boots accessible in summer.
Group like with like, so you easily see what group needs the most storage. If it’s accessories, they could be stored in compartments, or sweaters might need shelving or drawers. Is this closet just for you or do you share it with a partner? Judge what you both need, and you might find one person can donate space to the other if one of you has more storage needs.
Your family might have outgrown your hall closet’s capacity or your existing mudroom storage and you have more than ever to store. Now you can decide if you can configure the space you have or if it’s time to expand your closet area.
If your closet does not provide enough storage space or feel sufficiently organized, then consider a customized storage system. It won’t create more space, but it will maximize every inch. Customized storage offers a mix of solutions so you can store everything in the best way possible.
A closet with too much shelving could make it difficult to stack or remove items and waste precious space. Designing shelves to fit your requirements is more effective. Ensure you have rails at different levels to hang everything from dresses down to tees without wasting space around them. Pull-down rails let you access upper storage space with ease.
Invest in matching hangers to bring a sense of order and calm to your closet space. Have drawers that aren’t too deep or shallow and fold smaller items so they can be placed in drawers in filing order, making it simple to see what’s there at a glance. Put smaller handbags inside larger ones to utilize the space you’ve allocated them. Vacuum seal items and place them in a designated top or bottom space until needed. Categorize shoes by giving them different slanted shelves. Over-the-door storage is great for smaller items such as belts or other accessories and it won’t impact your closet space. Hooks also maximize wall space. Bins and baskets are the ideal addition to your custom shelving to consolidate socks and underwear.
Any storage space can benefit from a customized closet system. A mud room, pantry, hall, or linen closet all function more efficiently when organized. You know exactly where to put items away and can find what you need without everything falling on top of you.
The premise for assessing and creating customized storage is generally the same across the board, with certain unique requirements for some spaces, including:
Hall closets would need sturdy rails and hangers for heavy coats. You can place a rail from front to back in narrow, deep closets so you can walk down the side to locate a coat.
Cubbies can be designed in various sizes to store footwear.
Seasonal items can be stored on a shelf over a coat rail.
Drawers can fit underneath rail storage or shelves.
Baskets and bins work well in all closet spaces to conceal clutter.
Designate zones for different items, including a miscellaneous zone, to keep it low maintenance.
Finally, ensure that your remodeled closet has adequate lighting. Recessed lighting is useful for illuminating shelving and cubbies. A hanging lighting fixture can elevate the smallest of spaces, giving it a custom look and feel.
Make an appointment with our experienced team at Lang’s Kitchen and Bath. Our design experts can show you the most effective and stylish custom closet systems. You can easily design a closet on its own or as an addition to a kitchen design or master bath remodel. Improve your lifestyle and add to the value of your home with a closet system that maximizes all available space.
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