Monday, October 10, 2011

When Buying Furniture As The Top 10 Gaffes

Listed below are the top 10 gaffes when buying furniture.

1. Overlooked to get the dimension of your room

When buying furniture, it is necessary that you measure the room. This will give you an exact idea of the size of furniture that you need. Some people tend to forget this and so they are faced with problems such as bringing the furniture inside the home or room. You also need to consider the size of your hallway, doors and stairs (if you have them).

2. Paying no attention to the size of the furniture

It is not advised to calculate. Calculating the size of the furniture you saw online or from your local store and imagining that it will fit into the room is always a flaw. If you find an item that you like, such as a sofa, get its dimensions first and check it at home. If you are just buying a piece to pair it off with your current set, you must ensure that they are of the same scale.

3. Disregarding the color

The best thing to do here is to request for a few color swatch and bring it home. Check if it will look nice in your home and if it will harmonize with your current furniture. If you are buying online, request a fabric swatch, as what appears on your monitor may not be the same on a real couch.

4. Focusing too much on the trends

Do not focus too much on what is in style or the current trend. Choose furniture that appeals to you and one that will lasts you longer. Those that are in fashion easily fades, hence, you will have to change them in a few months.

5. Disregarding the users of the furniture

You may be wondering why this must be included in your list. It is for the simple reason that you will know what material and type of furniture is appropriate for your home. With children and pets around the home, you need to make sure that you will not end up having damaged furniture or ending up with accidents that may have hurt or injure your children and pets. You would not want furniture that will be tarnished with the dirty hands of your kids or the mucky paws of your pet. Likewise, you would not want your lacquered coffee table to have dents or scratches caused by people who put their feet up on its top.

6. Forgetting to test the furniture prior to purchase

Whether you are buying a bed, sofa, chair or recliner, you always need to examine it to test its quality and sturdiness. You need to sit on the sofa and feel its cushions. Check every detail of the material as well as the legs of the chair. It is the same way with beds. You need to check the bolts and verify it they are properly fastened. You need to open the drawers and check on the shelves if they are sturdy.

7. Purchasing based on hunch or impulse

Impulse buying has never been satisfying. You always end up feeling sorry for yourself, as the item you bought is not what it really was as presented. Do not buy just because it looks good and the price is cheap. Do not hurry with your decision. You have to check on every detail and verify if it is the appropriate furniture for your needs.

8. Solicit a lot of advice and opinions.

When shopping, choose one person who has the same taste as yours to help you in your decision. It can be your husband or a friend.

9. Not requesting for assistance

If there are some questions that you want to clarify, seek the assistance of the sales staff. That is the reason why they are assigned in the store - to help customers.

10. Giving more attention to your furniture

Do not just focus on what you want. You can always check if they have incoming sales or discounts. This way, you save a big amount on the same furniture instead of buying it now. Most online furniture stores and local stores conduct discount sales.


Buying furniture can be tricky and easy depending on the buyer. It will be easy once you know what you want and the essential elements that you need to look into. Tricky if you are one person who easily is enthralled by its appearance and found out that it was a mistake.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Choosing the Right Sofa Bed

A sofa bed (or sofa sleeper) is the perfect space-saving solution to accommodating the occasional overnight guest. Sofa beds come in a variety of styles and choosing the right one may prove difficult if you don't know what to look for. There are three main variables to think about when choosing the right one: dimensions, style, and price.

To figure out the right dimensions for your new sofa sleeper take a look at where it will be placed in the room and take accurate measurements. The two main measurement to be concerned with are the length and how much the bed will stick out when folded down. These two measurements are essential for getting the sofa bed to fit correctly in the room.

There are many different styles of sofa beds, some made from wood and some made from metal. It's important to choose one that fits nicely with the style and decor of the room. In addition to the material that they're made from, sofa sleepers have a wide variety of different cushions and covers. It's easy to customize the appearance with the addition of throw pillows and blankets to make it blend better with the other things in the room.

Price is always a factor when making a large purchase. Sofa sleepers come in a wide range of prices, some starting at just over $100 while others are in the $800 range. The adage of 'you get what you pay for' rings true for purchasing a sofa sleeper. For example, a more expensive one will undoubtedly have a more comfortable mattress than a cheaper one.

The great thing about purchasing a sofa sleeper is the fact that they are readily available at all major furniture outlets and malls. By being able to go in and physical see, touch and use them, you will be able to find one that suits your home decor and your needs perfectly. Many locations that sell furniture offer financing which makes the purchase of a sofa sleeper easier financially.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Air Mattress Of Twin

The Twin Air Mattress is also able to make twice the amount of adjustments to better fit the situation. It can mold itself to provide you a level sleeping surface even when it is placed in an inclined surface. This greatly increases its flexibility in terms of the places where it can be used effectively. There are also various extensions you can use on this particular type of air bed. You can use extensions that function as pillows in case you are not that comfortable with your regular pillows. The pillow extensions have the same properties of the mattress and hence can provide you with an even better sleeping experience.

The Twin Air Mattress also comes with a very powerful motor since it requires twice the amount of air to be inflated. The motor is powered by electricity either through your electric socket or through stored battery collected by plugging its battery while the motor is not in use. The motor can inflate and deflate within seconds which is a great convenience especially during outdoor activities in which you are so exhausted you want to be able to rest as soon as possible. It is also very convenient in the morning as packing it up in the bag is very quick in simple. You wouldn't want to spend a significant part of your morning rolling and storing the air bed.


The Twin Air Mattress focuses in strength. It has the ability to withstand pressure from weight that is two to three times more than other kinds of air beds. The fact that it has two layers means the capacity of the item is significantly increased such as the amount of strain it can absorb, the extent to which it can adjust to better serve the user, etc. This is the reason why even though it is the most expensive kind available it is still one of the best sellers. The quality and performance it offers is just well worth the cost making it a very worthy investment.

The Twin Air Mattress also comes with several layers of PVC plastic to serve as protection from external sources of damage. This means that in can resist the effects of wear and tear as well as withstand cuts and punctures. This means you can subject the item to more unforgiving conditions making it ideal for outdoor activities such as camping trips. You can lay it on top of small sharp and pointed rocks without any fear of it getting damaged. This means you need not make thorough inspection of the area where you will set it up just to make sure the surface is safe for the air bed.

The Twin Air Mattress also has the ability to absorb strain and relieve the individual from his body pains and pressure build ups. This helps the body relax which leads to easier time falling asleep. Without the negative energies the mind will also be able to stay calm faster which translates to shorter time trying to fall asleep.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Space Conscious Dwellings Of Small End Tables Ideal

Designers talk a lot about scale. Now, it is true that small end tables will upset the visual balance a bit, winnowing under weight of a larger love seat or sofa. There are things you can do to fix this. One is to use slightly taller lamps that still have a small base. For instance, you may want to forego a ceramic or pot style lamp and use one with a candlestick post. This will make the table look bigger than it really is and the added height of the lamps will help add visual weight as well.

You can also choose to increase the scale by going with small end tables that are more solid. Instead of selecting an open design, you may want to go with a cabinet design to give the appearance that they are substantial pieces. If you go with an open design with just a top and legs, it can make your small end tables appear even smaller than they really are.

If you do have small end tables that are open, you may want to consider adding a contrasting linen or lace piece to the top and even have it extend over and down the sides some. This will give your table a bit more bulk without taking up added space.

For really small homes, you can eliminate one of the end tables entirely. While it's nice to have end tables on both ends for convenience and balance, there is no hard and fast rule requiring this. You may be able to make due with a single table and perhaps add a floor lamp on the other side to add light and even things out visually.


While homes seem to be larger than ever, many homeowners are in the process of downsizing these days, either because of economic circumstances or simply a desire to live a simpler life.

Just because you live in a smaller dwelling doesn't mean that you have to give up the comforts of home you've become so used to. Rather, you may simply need to change some of the furnishings, keeping your favorites and then balancing them with smaller support pieces.

Perhaps no example is better than the use of small end tables. Love seats and sofas are big-ticket items and most people will want to take them to the new home. Unfortunately, furniture scaled for a home may look a bit cramped in a smaller home or apartment. This is where small end tables can save the day. You can change the scale of your end tables while still keeping your favorite upholstered furnishings.

Smaller end tables aren't just for the living room. If you have two end tables, you can repurpose the second one in another room. For example, you can use one as a nightstand in a second bedroom or even the master. You can also convert one into an accent table and place it in a corner of the bedroom or any room in the home. Add some photos or a floral arrangement and you'll have a nice addition without having to break up the set permanently.

If you have a large bath, you can add a smaller table there as well. Here you can keep reading material or some lotions and other toiletries for guests to use. If your table has drawers, you can keep clippers, Q-tips and other necessities so guests don't have to feel awkward looking through your cabinets in search these items that everyone seems to need, but no one can find. You can even add a little touch of bed and breakfast by putting a folding tent sign that says that these things can be found in the drawer.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Designer Children's Nursery Furniture - A Justified Pleasure?

There are polarized opinions on how much money we should spend on the nursery rooms of our nation's newborns. We all, however, want our babies to be safe and secure and most of us want our new arrivals to sleep in an atmosphere of love and comfort. Indeed, some would say that an investment at this point in a child's life would actually make a marked difference on the developed person, the child will eventually become.

Designer Nursery interiors may not be everyone's cup of tea, as a full-blown investment of their precious baby funds. There is a wide and wonderful selection of nursery furniture available for every level of lifestyle and budget. As I discovered; you don't have to buy the whole display, however, one or two key designer nursery furniture items can certainly prove to add core value to a nursery's ambience; thus satisfying the (mainly) maternal urges to create a palace for our little Prince and Princesses.

A plain traditional cot may be all you wish to have as the centrepiece of your nursery creation or, another option may be to look at the choices of extravagant, beautiful bassinets and cradles, available at the more exclusive and up market stores. From Hollywood stars of the 50's to the modern day Divas, society has a voyeuristic fascination in how celebrities dress their children and their nurseries. Celebrity nurseries displayed on line and, in the high-end lifestyle magazines, can stir up our creative imagination and, fill our minds with ways in which to adorn our little one's nursery rooms.

Those privileged affluent parents amongst us, will plan out an elaborate nursery some months in advance; making choices from a wide array of select custom pieces to complete their child's microcosmic setting. These bespoke luxury purchases are designed and built by artisans and craftsman, with great vision and awareness of children and their parents' wishes and, they have the talent and skill to create the finished article required.

Even the choice of mattress for our babies little bodies to rest on, can range from thin standard polyurethane foam (offering minimum support) and synthetic mattresses (which do not allow moisture to evaporate), to organic baby mattresses; free from synthetic chemicals, plastics and PVC. Recent concerns over formaldehyde exposure to children are now leading parents to choosing natural as the best option. Experts in infant safety suggest that a firm, flat mattress, without soft bedding underneath your child, greatly reduces the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) when baby sleeps on their back.

Changing tables are now seen as a standard inclusion in a modern day nursery setting and, are regarded these days as an essential item. This feature can add to the look and feel of the room, as well as providing useful storage space and the obvious practical platform for dealing with the business end of our cherubs. Prevention of backache and a hygienic workstation are all positive elements to this modern day service station.

Choosing appropriate bedding for babies can be a difficult process. Organic products not treated with any formaldehyde or chlorine bleach, are seen as the best choice for the health conscious. Pure organic bedding is made from cotton grown without chemicals and pesticides. Organic bedding composition is softer and will assist in maintaining an ideal body temperature for baby throughout the seasons. A baby's body temperature balance usually means they will have a better nights sleep. If baby sleeps well then so do baby's parents. Sleep deprivation, as every parent will tell you, is a form of psychological torture and can cause misery and arguments galore.

However you choose to decorate your baby's nursery is a matter of personal preference and taste. Your own creative talents and craft artistry can directly affect the amount of money you have to spend. A hand painted mural, for example, can be a more delightful decoration than any designer wallpaper. Your child's nursery is personal to you and your family so decorate it in the style you want to and don't hold back from looking around or be daunted by stylish nursery boutiques, where one or two key items my be waiting to be picked out by you and settled beautifully, as core focal points in your baby's special room.

Choosing Ergonomic Chairs for Your Office

When you start working in an office, normally, the first thing that you will recognize is the fact that you have to spend a lot of time on your desk. The more highly paid the job is, the more time you are likely to spend glued to a computer screen or working on a briefing. On the other hand, if you have been professionally working for a couple of years now, I'm sure that you will be quite familiar with the routine that is normally followed.

Consequently, spending too much time at your desk can take its toll on your body. You might not feel it right now but sooner or later, your body will start to show it in the form of back pain, neck aches, leg bending problems and other such medical issues. These can become worse as you grow older. So what is it that you can do to remedy these issues? The answer is to purchase an ergonomic office chair.

Nonetheless, there are numerous models of ergonomic chairs available on the market. It becomes quite difficult to decide which one you would like to get. Therefore, this article will provide some information on the attributes that an ergonomic chair should possess and what you should be looking for when shopping for these chairs.

The first issue is that of seat height and an ergonomic chair must possess a pneumatic adjustment lever that allows the user to adjust the height of the chair from about 16 to 21 inches. This height range is optimal for almost every user allowing him or her to place their feet on the ground.

On the other hand, seat depth and width of an ergonomic office chair is another important factor that must be taken into consideration. Optimally, the width of the seat should be between 17 and 20 inches whereas the depth of the seat should be such that a person can sit in the chair with his or her back aligned with the backrest. Also, the distance between your knees and the front of the chair should be about 2 but not more than 4 inches. An ergonomic chair also allows you to adjust the recline angle of the back rest in accordance with your requirements.

Lumbar support is also one of the most vital features offered by an ergonomic chair. Every human being possesses a lumbar spine that needs support while an individual is sitting down. If you continue to sit for excessive periods of time without catering to the support requirements of your lower spine then you will find yourself suffering from terrible back pains. An ergonomic chair provides proper lumbar back support through its adjustable features, height and width.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Platform Beds - A Great Bedroom Furniture Choice

Platform beds are different from the ordinary bed because it does not have box springs in the frame. The base of the bed is comprised of solid panel and wooden slats. Many people prefer this bed in their room because of its simple and minimalist look. Likewise, the bed gives firm and compact cushioning. The good thing about this bed is the space beneath that can be used as storage. This bed is ideal especially if the bedroom has limited space for cabinets.

There are different types of platform beds. You can choose from leather, metal or a wood bed. The wooden platform bed is conceptualized with European designs thus provide high-end sophisticated furnishing. The furniture has undertaken innovative transition to ensure highest standard and top quality. The wooden bed is durable and strong because it is made from 100% dried veneers as well as tropical hardwood.

On the other hand, the metal platform beds have great offerings. It is not only sturdy and strong but it does not require frequent maintenance such as repainting and re-staining. This bed is made of tubular steel with footboards and headboards. In the same manner, the modern model that is made from leather comes in sleek shapes that would surely complement any décor. Definitely, this elegant platform bed makes a strong statement.

The platform bed is ideal for an elderly person because of the lowered base. There is nothing to worry about regarding the space of your bedroom because there are several sizes of platform beds available in the market. The available size includes Queen, Twin, Full, King and Cal King. Aside from being comfortable and versatile, this bed comes in reasonable prices. That is why if you are looking for a bed that brings class and elegance yet offers a reasonable price you should consider one. Likewise, this kind of bed easily matches with other home furniture. That is why you need not buy the entire furniture set because it complements well.

One of the most popular designs is the Japanese platform bed. It comes in light colors that perfectly match with traditional furniture. Since the bed is made of sturdy construction, a user can expect having it for longer years. In addition, sleeping in this bed enhances your health as you can have sound sleep. Likewise, as you rise up in the morning you will not complain for back pain because the bed ensures firm support and comfort.

Therefore, if you notice that your current bed is sagging and makes your night sleepless then consider buying a platform bed. It does not only make your bedroom attractive but helps alleviate health concerns of little rest by the user. Although it will come at a cost, still it's actually worth it. Nevertheless, you can have the opportunity to find cheaper platform type beds by searching in online stores. However, you should be very careful when buying online make sure that the bed will be delivered in good condition. Once you have the platform bed you can expect that your sleep would be like sleeping in the clouds.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Solid Wood Bedroom Furniture Of Appeal

Picking The Right Items

Most people have made the mistake of going to a big box store and getting some modestly priced stuff to meet their temporary needs. But if you are ready to move up in quality, style, attractiveness and durability then it is time to pick out some solid wood bedroom furniture that will provide years of comfort and pleasure.

  • Best Quality - Solid wood furniture, as opposed to particle board stuff, is high quality furniture. Most items like beds, nightstands, dressers and bedside tables found in the big retailers are produced with a mixture of particle board and real wood. The natural wood will expand and contract during the seasons based on humidity levels. This causes joint to break. However, a piece of furniture made solely of real hardwood will not break at the joints and will last for years.

  • No Covered up imperfections - When purchasing solid wood bedroom furniture you can see exactly what the lumber looks like. There won't be weak spots, knots or other similar imperfections. This allows you to have confidence in the item you are buying.

  • Long lasting and durable - Hands down, solid wood bedroom furniture will outlast other types of furniture for ages. With the ability to refinish the surface it is also a good choice for people that like a particular item and wish to hang on to it as time marches on. This type of furniture can usually be repaired as well if there is a break or damage.

  • No lack of choice - Getting unfinished furniture also provides a world of options. For instance, a child's room could be outfitted with a red bed, blue dresser and green nightstand. An elderly couple might like to have a bed frame with a dark stain and the remaining furniture to be painted a bright yellow or green to match wallpaper. The only limits are really the amount of money a person has to spend on paint and prep materials.
People often decide to first decorate their home in a theme and style that they really like. THEN, they pick out furniture to match. It can be a real chore trying to find the right furniture, in the correct size, and in a color that goes along with the existing theme. But unfinished solid wood bedroom furniture can be painted and even built in a wide variety of choices to match almost any preference.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Good Taste On Display Of Coffee Tables

The traditional rectangular shape has been modified by designers through the years in a multitude of variations for good reason. If your coffee table needs to complement other pieces in your living space, this shape easily fits with many styles of furniture and is tremendously functional. Round tables encourage circulation and engage conversation; an oversized round table can even double as a dining area. Square coffee tables add a splash of sophistication and can break up other rectangular aspects of your living room such as doors and windows. Staggering the surface heights of tables heighten visual interest and increase function in your room. These rules of thumb will help you determine how your furniture fits in your personal space.

What's underneath your coffee table? Do you need a second level to hold magazines, books or stow away used trays of food for comfort or convenience? Some coffee tables include folding lids for extra storage underneath that still provide a clean look. Or would you rather be able to stretch your feet under your table or have room for Fido to relax and still be within petting reach? Recessed legs can help provide hidden space for these considerations.

Your living room is as unique as you are. Whether your style reflects an intimate, urban space or a large country home, the coffee table is one indispensable item that sets the tone for your personal style. This statement piece is a "must have" for any common area. Contrary to their name, coffee tables are rarely used to just hold a cup of Joe or an aptly named coffee table book! With so many sizes and styles available, choosing the right one can be an overwhelming decision. The great selection of tables online will help you find the perfect pieces to complement your home.

When choosing coffee tables for your home, consider what other furniture is in the room. If you've already purchased your sofa, chairs or other seating furniture, the coffee table should fit with your theme and function. Do you have an L-shaped sofa or several overstuffed chairs? While rectangular tables are still the most popular, if you have guests over regularly, you may want to consider multiple pieces or a round table for circulation. What is the traffic flow? Will your guests both sit and stand in your living room? If you have just one table that is the focal point, make sure to choose one that is roughly the same height as your sofa cushions or slightly lower. The table should be just far enough from the seating area to reach over and grab a snack but spacious enough to circulate around it without banging your knees. Low coffee tables are popular in Europe, allowing a more casual approach to entertaining.

Coffee table sets make a living room fun and versatile. You may find that nesting coffee tables provide a great solution; saving space but providing function for that Superbowl party or an intimate gathering. They can also be accent pieces to add a splash of color or texture to your room.

Finally, do you prefer wood, metal, glass, or a combination of these elements for your table? Do these materials match the fabric and wood of your seating, paint, trim and carpet? If you going to move the table frequently, you might want to choose a design that is lightweight and easy to pick up when clearing space for your yoga group or play space for small children.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Comfortable and Practical Outdoor Furniture

Being outside is such a great feeling and people who have gardens will often want to make the most of them when the weather is good. If you are looking for furniture for your garden you will want to make sure that you are choosing the best possible types for your needs. Maybe you have never bought outdoor furniture before and need a little help on the subject to make sure you get it right. So here are a few things that you should think about before you go out and purchase your furniture.

• What type of outdoor furniture do you need? Some people love the look of Rattan furniture whereas other people will always want to go for traditional wicker furniture for their garden. Spend a little time thinking about this and check out the different styles and you will soon know which type you would prefer in your garden.

• Is the furniture going to be outside all year round? Many people do not have the space to take their outdoor furniture inside during the wetter months. With this in mind it makes really good financial sense to choose outdoor furniture that is all weather. This kind of furniture will stand up to wet weather and hot weather and will not start to disintegrate all look old and shabby.

• Do you need to provide shade with your furniture? If you are going to be positioning your outdoor furniture in a very sunny spot you need to think about UV protection. Make sure that you can buy a canopy or garden umbrella that will match your furniture so people are able to protect themselves from the sun while they are sat in the garden.

• How much are you planning to spend on the furniture that you buy? If you are trying to stick to what you might want to consider furniture that is made out of lighter materials and has an aluminum frame. These will work out to be much cheaper than furniture is made from hand woven materials and so on. However when it comes to choosing furniture for your backyard you should never compromise on quality as you want this furniture to last for a long time and give you many years of use as you enjoy your garden.

• If you have children choose outdoor furniture that can be used by them comfortably. There are plenty of different sizes of furniture that you can buy a used outdoors. So consider your children when you're making your purchase and they will have the furniture that they need while they are outdoors.

• Can you build your outdoor furniture or will you need help? There are some steps that will come ready prepared and if you are not very good DIY you might want to think about buying this type. However if you have no problem with projects that will require you to build furniture yourself you can go ahead and choose any of the types that are currently on the market.

Get top quality designer wicker outdoor furniture at the lowest prices guaranteed. Retro Designs has a wide range of rattan outdoor settings from outdoor lounge to outdoor dinning furniture. Call or order online with our simple order process. All orders are backed with hassle free money back guarantee so you can shop with confident.

Modern Furniture For a Modern Way of Life

If you want to update the decor in your home there is no better way to do it than with modern furniture. Even an older home can be given a fresh new look with modern furniture, and if you have some precious antique or older pieces you want to keep it is possible to mix the two styles together.

Whilst older furniture was designed to look reassuringly solid & was made in fairly dark woods, the new modern aesthetic is light, bright & ethereal. White, pale beige & pale grey are the staple colours, but modern furniture is also being made in fabulous brights as well, either combine different colours if you are feeling brave, or combine with neutrals to create a special feature. Modern furniture is often the style of choice for many newer homes as it takes up less room. The clean lines & minimal styling mean it also looks like it takes up less space as well, an important feature when you are trying to decorate a smaller home.

The materials used to make modern furniture are an important part of this, white gloss lacquer reflects the light, whilst glass, shiny chrome & pale fabric & leather, combined with thin legs on tables, sideboards & sofas add to the illusion of space.

In addition technological advancements & market demand has lead to many pieces of contemporary furniture having hidden, inbuilt storage or being decorative space efficient storage in their own right. The new wall units are a perfect example of this, leaving the floor empty they are barely there yet provide an incredible amount of storage for all of the possessions that might otherwise be scattered around your living room.

Most of the best modern furniture is made in Italy. Whilst not inexpensive the quality & attention to detail make it worthwhile. Contemporary furniture can be very unforgiving, marks on the top of a table won't give the piece an air of shabby chic, it will simply make it look like it should be thrown out, so it is important to buy pieces that will last for a long time whilst still looking good, & that look good to begin with.

Because the Italians are so expert in creating contemporary furniture they also lead the market in terms of innovations. From special mechanisms for extending dining tables to amazing new storage options for wardrobes & the most incredible leather on their sofas it is fair to say no one makes furniture like the Italians.

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons modern furniture from Italy is so popular is that it is made to order. Whilst this means customers will have to wait anything up to 12 weeks it has some significant advantages. The first is the choice of colours available, which means you can incorporate new furniture into your existing colour scheme easily. In addition a lot of contemporary furniture from Italy is made in a lot of different sizes, so if you have a difficult gap to fill, or simply want to make sure the size of the piece suits your room it is always possible to get something that is just right.

Modern furniture is growing rapidly in popularity, because it can be adapted to the way we live, & makes our home a calming refuge from our ever busier world.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Ways To Achieve Success In Your Backyard Furniture Business

In any business whether it is a backyard furniture or metal patio furniture business, there must always be the element of success. You don't have that business just to earn. You don't own that just because you want to make use of your skills in furniture making. But, you have such business because you aim for success. For sure, you want to feel how it is to be on the peak of success knowing that you have worked so hard. Today, a lot of people think of getting into ventures despite the fact that they already have their jobs. Maybe because they want to have another alternative in case of a financial crisis or they want to practice whatever managerial skills they have. Now, if you have chosen to be a part of the furniture making industry, below are the ways on how you'll achieve success.

Hire Good People: You don't need to work alone just to make sure that your backyard furniture business will become stable one day. If you are the one who started it then just take the managerial position. Be the manager of your own business and manage every deal, manage costumers, workers, etc. As you take the authority to run the business, make sure that you hire good people. Filter your employees thoroughly before hiring them. Make sure that your people are experienced, skilled, can work under pressure, and are trustworthy. The success of any business is not only due to setting goals but also in having good people.

Be Updated With The New: As the trend for backyard furniture making changes, your company must also learn how to adapt to such changes for it to succeed. If the latest magazine issue talks about home improvement revealing contemporary chair designs then get the latest updates, call for a meeting and inform everyone involved in the company. The only constant thing in this world is change so if you want to meet your costumers' demands and you want to be always updated in furniture making, learn how to adapt, communicate fairly and set rules.

Use Quality Construction Materials Or Equipment: Since shoppers become wiser everyday, use only quality construction materials or equipment in building your furniture sets. Tell your people to always prioritize the quality. Allow them to use more efficient tools for fast furniture making and be the one to check the materials that are being used. Make a list of quality and durable materials in furniture making and always double-check. If you don't cheat in giving clients what they need, success can be at reach.


Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Decorating With Solid-Slab Furniture

The Growing Trend

One of the most popular trends in furnishings and design today is the use of pieces that are eco-friendly or "green". An example of this is found in the popularity of solid-slab furniture, which is made from large, solid pieces of wood that has often been reclaimed or reused from another source. Wood used from naturally fallen timber, rather than traditionally produced timber, is another example of eco-friendly sourcing for furniture. This way of recycling wood makes for unique and attractive pieces of furniture while conserving resources. The shape of the furniture is usually slightly irregular, not a traditional rectangle or circle, which adds to its handcrafted aesthetic appeal.

Varieties

Perhaps the most common examples of solid-slab furniture are tables. Kitchen tables are topped with a large, often irregularly shaped piece of wood, and paired with legs that either complement the rustic aesthetic, such as wood, or contrast with it, such as steel or metal. Other pieces that are made from solid wood include headboards, dressers, cupboards, and chairs.

Complementary Decor

This type of furniture fits in with a few different styles of decor. It obviously works well with rustic, cabin-like settings since it's very natural-looking and woodsy. Many times, traditionally rustic beds made from rough-hewn logs are given a solid-slab headboard. Yet, solid-slab also suits a more contemporary design, particularly when it is paired with industrial or metal finishings. A table with sleek metal legs and a natural, organic looking solid-slab top is an example of this "contemporary rustic" design.

Organic Appeal

Just as people are looking for ways to buy organic foods, so they are seeking to include organic design in their homes. A solid-slab table, chair, or headboard works well with this idea of decor. Many retailers offer pillows and bedding made from organic cotton, which look beautiful and natural paired with a solid-slab headboard. Another way to add organic or organic-looking accessories is to use natural materials such as reeds, dried flowers, and other plants in decorating and filling vases, rather than plastic or fake flowers. These type of organic arrangements look perfect on one of these kinds of tables.

Advantages

In addition to their unique visual appeal, solid-slab furniture is generally very high in quality and lasts for many years. Its durability and size make it furniture a good long-term investment. Well-crafted pieces can even be passed down to future generations.

Going green has never looked as stylish, contemporary, and stylish as it has with this trend. The ability to express your design aesthetic as well as your eco-friendly mindset in one decorative piece is amazing.

What Type of Furniture Should I Buy?

What is Solid Wood Furniture?

Solid wood is wood that has been harvested and cut into solid slabs and fashioned into furniture. The common types used are Mahogany, Cherry, Oak, Maple, and Walnut. Our Custom Furniture and Imported Furniture is hand crafted using sustainable solid mahogany and other Grade A woods throughout, we do not use particle board or Medium Density Foam.

While it is cost-effective and other times practical to use veneers and other composite wood materials, the best choice for longevity is solid wood furniture. Furniture manufactured by MBW is built to last a lifetime. Each piece is hand crafted, resulting in truly unique characteristics.

Why should I buy solid furniture?

Appearance
Solid wood will have the most naturally beautiful wood grain.

Durability
Solid wood furniture is durable and with proper care, will last for generations. Unlike composite wood, solid wood will more resistance to water damage and not disintegrate.

Maintenance
Small nicks and scratches can be easily touched up. Also, the finish of the furniture can be changed more easily. Whether it is to refresh the piece repurpose an item to fit in another space, solid wood can be stained and re-stained time and time again.

Design
Wood allows for much more ease in carving intricate details and ornamentation. This is especially important in Antique reproductions and other furniture that require many curves in the wood.

Will Solid furniture cost more?
Wood furniture (solid) requires large sections of wood that are relatively free from defects, so the cost is higher than those made of composite wood and veneers. however, we are able to offer superior solid wood furniture for the most affordable prices. Be assured that you are getting an heirloom quality piece of furniture that, with appropriate care, will last for decades or generations.

What does it mean when the wood is Kiln Dried?
Kilns are large ovens in which wood is dried or cured through carefully controlled heat and humidity. Kiln drying removes about 93% of the moisture from wood. Our factories employ this method in order to guarantee that your custom furniture maintains its stability for years to come.

Kiln-dried wood advantages:

Wood that has been kiln dried resists warping splitting and cracking.

Less likelihood of stain or decay during transit, storage, and use.

Reduced susceptibility to insect damage.

Increased strength

Better "hold." Nails, screws, and glue hold better in seasoned wood.

Better finishing. Paints and finishes adhere better to seasoned wood.

Better preservation. Dry wood must be used when treating with most wood preservatives.

Wood placed in kiln to removes moisture content for maximum durability and stability

What is Teak?
Teak is a type of tropical hardwood, recognized for its durability and stability. Teak is more durable than any other hardwood and has unparalleled rich beauty. Teak can withstand all types of weather, making it the perfect choice for patio or deck furniture.

Why should I buy Teak Furniture?
Teak is very durable in all kinds of weather, rain or shine! Teak is a very dense grain hard wood that preserves its original form and is resistant to physical changes such as warping or termite attacks. As teak gets older, its appearance actually improves since it develops a silver grey patina that really adds that individual character to the furniture.

Does MBW offer Teak furniture?
We offer most designs to be built with solid Teak wood at the customer's request. Please see our collection of Teak Furniture.

ENGINEERED WOOD

What is Plywood?
Plywood is created by pressing several layers of wood together. In certain cases, plywood is used with a combination of veneers instead of solid wood because of its resistance to cracking, shrinkage, and twisting/warping, and its general high degree of strength. It has a similar look to wood, but its layered structure is visible on the ends. While plywood maybe used in back panels and other parts of furniture, it is no match for solid wood in terms of beauty or ease of carvings and ornamentation.

Plywood with veneer

What is MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)?
MDF is an engineered wood product formed by breaking down solid wood into wood fibers, combining it with wax and a resin binder, and forming panels by applying high temperature and pressure. It is commonly used in budget-friendly furniture in combination with veneers and is not as durable or strong as solid wood.

Medium Density Fiberboard

What is MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)?
MDF is an engineered wood product formed by breaking down solid wood into wood fibers, combining it with wax and a resin binder, and forming panels by applying high temperature and pressure. It is commonly used in budget-friendly furniture in combination with veneers and is not as durable or strong as solid wood.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Getting Organized With Wall Coat Racks

If you have children, you know how difficult it can be to keep your home organized. When children come home from school, books, backpacks, coats and jackets, all may be strewn throughout the house. Having a designated place to keep each persons belongings can help with this problem. This can help the frustration everyone feels when they need to find their belongings and can make for a more peaceful sendoff to school and work.

In order to create a place for items that make their way into the home a small space is needed. If you can find a bare wall anywhere in your home, you can make a dedicated place for organizing personal belongings. This place does not need to be in the entryway. A hallway, corner or back-porch area will work fine. Finding a wooden coat rack that is the size you need will be your first task. If you have the space a large coat rack is a good idea because items can quickly accumulate. A shelf that you can place underneath this rack, with room for baskets will make it possible for things to be neatly stored. You can find baskets at many department stores, and finding baskets that fit in your bookcase or shelf will not be hard. If each child has one or two baskets this should be sufficient. All of their school books, important papers and other school items can be left in these baskets.

A picture frame, painted in the same colors as your coat rack can be made in to the perfect bulletin board. You can create a bulletin board that does not use thumb tacks by using ribbon to hold your items. This will let you avoid the problem of having thumb tacks fall on the floor. Cover a piece of cardboard in a fabric that matches your decor. Next take ribbon and wrap it in a crisscross pattern across your new bulletin board. This will be placed in your frame for a great place for children to slip in school notices, pictures and other important items. This should be hung at a level where small hands can reach. Children can learn to place important items on this bulletin board. This will prevent misplacing letters, invitations, report cards and any other items that need to be seen by parents.

A large basket can be placed on the floor for shoes, sports equipment or other items that need a home of their own. When you make a dedicated place for things that are used daily, it will be easy to keep your home organized. It can also help everyone be ontime for school and work when everything is located in one place.

Summer Romance

There are many things to look forward to in the summer - the weather, the beach, vacation and of course, the possibility of falling in love. There is something about the summertime that makes people want to fall in love. Maybe it's because the warm weather keeps people out longer, inspires them to flirt or just generally makes them a bit sexier. Perhaps it's the tans, the liberating clothes, or the saltwater hair, whatever it is, it makes us all hopeless romantics.

Romantic summer must-haves:

White lace:

Fashion is as important to summer as anything else. From denim shorts to bright coloured maxi dresses, espadrilles to big beads, it's everything you need to be hot and gorgeous all summer long. There is something about white lace though that just feels so romantic. Perhaps it's the creaminess and the sandy colour it turns when dragging along the beach, but white lace is something every girl should have in her summer wardrobe.

Beach reads:

'Love and Summer' by William Trevor, 'Too Much Happiness' by Alice Monroe, 'Love' by Toni Morrison, these are all wonderful books to bring to the beach with you. They will suck you in and entertain you while you lay back and relax in the sun. They are wonderful love stories that will help you escape your world of singleness, if that's what you're looking for.

Somewhere to rest outside:

One of the nicest parts about summer is the ability to doze off outside in the middle of the afternoon. It's warm enough that you don't even need a blanket. Whether you're on a boat or in your garden you should have some sort of chaise lounge to take a little nap on. Collapse on an outdoor couch, love seat or hammock with your summer love and let the sun kiss your skin while the wind keeps you cool while you sleep.

A sense of adventure:

If you want to experience summer love you have to be open to it. Those who are in the mindset to go out and enjoy their summer, meet new people and try new things are the ones who will probably find love. Be a bit adventurous with your time this summer. Plan a camping trip with friends, take a road trip to the beach for a day or so, explore new parts of your city and take in a festival or two.

With the right environment and the right mindset, you may end up finding love this summer after all.


Sunday, July 17, 2011

My Leather Couch Can Beat Up Your Fabric Recliner - Leather Or Fabric For The Masses?

Are chocolate sundaes more fattening than vanilla? Coke or Pepsi for a summer day at the beach? Did the Beatles have better bangs than The Rolling Stones? Are boxers more comfortable for skydiving than briefs?

The great debates of the world seem like they will rage forever, across continents, during both war and peace.

But, maybe the biggest debate of all is this: Should my next sofa, recliner, sectional or chair be covered in leather or fabric?

Tough stuff, I know, but I'm willing to tackle it.

Drawing Lines In The Sand

Of course, just like there are cat people and dog people who will never cross over to the dark side, so too are there leather and fabric people who can't imagine living the desperate lives of the others'.

The leather gang celebrates the style, durability, comfort and versatility of their furniture covering of choice.

And the fabric crowd? They celebrate its style, durability, comfort and versatility.

Uhh... wait... something's amiss here. So, let's dive in point-by-point and see what's going on.

Comfort Is As Comfort Does

Fans of leather like its supple softness. And leather does get softer and more comfortable with age, like the love of a good friend. (I hope this doesn't make you weep for hours, but it's true.) As long as you maintain and clean your leather furniture it will be comfortable for years to come. It's a little slick and has a nice cool feel that many people are drawn to.

Folks who tend not to wear a lot of clothing prefer fabric. They report sticking to it less. Of course, high quality leathers aren't very sticky anyway. And there are many kinds of fabrics you can use to cover your furniture, so if you are looking a very specific texture and feel you can get it with fabric.

Pets Love Your Furniture A Little Too Much

Leather is winning the pet war. Many cats avoid it, probably because they think it's not ideal for a 12-hour nap. While it can be scratched by claws, leather is easier to clean than fabric and won't absorb smells and fur as easily.

Will It Outlast Aunt Edna?

A well-made leather couch is usually more durable than all but the highest quality fabric sofa. Of course, this all depends on how you maintain your sofas and whether you have five kids who play flying superhero games off them while eating cheesy poofs.

The Kids Are Alright, As Long As They Eat At The Table

And speaking of kids, some folks swear that leather couches are easier to clean and keep stains off than fabric. If Little Johnny spills his Sunny D, you can quickly and easily wipe it off a leather couch. If he spills it on fabric it will quickly soak in and might never come out. Of course, if you choose a fabric with good Stainguard protection you are in good shape too.

Style Is In The Living Room Of The Beholder

Some people would rather wear a purple tube top, a checkered mini skirt and plaid leg warmers, all at once, than put an ugly leather couch in their home. And some leather nuts think adding a leather couch to their living room is akin to parking a red Ferrari in the corner - which they think is a good thing.

While leather couches, sectionals, chairs and recliner come in a wide range of colors and styles, there will always be exactly 12,812 more kinds of fabric available to cover your fine furnishings. So, if you are trying to match your next settee to the exact shade of chartreuse on your emu lampshade, you will probably have to go with fabric.

Can I Still Afford Hair Extensions?

The cheapest real leather couch is always going to cost more than the cheapest fabric couch. But, leather aficionados say a good leather couch will last your whole lifetime and gain character and suppleness with age. If you are looking to get the most long-term value in a classic piece, leather is probably the better value. If you want a cheap item to tide you over until your book of cat poems gets on the New York Times bestseller list, go with fabric.

Faux Vs. Real Leather

Fake leather is great for college dorm rooms, transmission shop waiting areas and 24-hour diners along state highways. Don't buy it unless you want your home to look, feel and smell like one of these pungent locations.

Maintenance Is For Lovers

You really don't have to do anything other than wipe leather off occasionally, to keep it looking good. Some leather conditioner a few times a year - especially in hot, dry climates - is a great idea too.

Fabric couches usually require a little more maintenance. If Senor Fluffy sleeps on it you will find yourself vacuuming a lot more with fabric. Of course, some people never clean any of their furniture, so it's a moot point for them.

Conclusions, Conclusions, Delusions

It mostly boils down to your personal style and preference. A classic leather couch is going to cost a lot up front, but should last longer and be in style through four or five presidential terms. A fabric recliner can be had in almost any color or style, but pets, kids, and drunken uncles might damage to it easier.


An Online Guide to Door Stops

Door stops are the tools or devices that are used to keep the doors open or closed. These can be termed as useful tools or silent helpers that are being used in the offices as well homes. They perform several functions such as:

• Holding a door open
• Preventing a door from opening too far to protect the walls
• Door stoppers can prevent your children's hands getting their hands by the heavy
slamming of the doors.

There is a wide range of door stops so that users have the option to choose the most suitable one for them. You will find a large number of online stores that offer a variety of Door stoppers in different colors and designs. It depends upon the demands and needs of the people to choose the most appropriate door stop for them. Following are the different kinds of it:

• Funky, these are designed with unique patterns.
• Novelty
• Animal, these are designed with animalistic patterns and shapes
• Fabric
• Magnetic

Fabric and the Magnetic ones are mentioned in details as follows:

Fabric

Fabric ones perform two functions; practical and decorative. Some important features of the fabric door stops are:

• These Protect the doors by preventing the powerful slamming of the doors and create the beautiful look of the entire door frame.
• In the fabric, the inner material is pretty heavy so they can keep the doors open or closed effectively.
• Most people prefer fabric Ones because they do not leave the scratch marks like the metal door stops.
• Since the fabric door stops are available in different shapes, patterns and colors, you can synchronize with colors and designs of your interiors.

Most people prefer to use the ones which perfectly match with the curtains, furniture and the overall interiors to create an outstanding look of the rooms.

Magnetic

Using of Magnetic stoppers are an effective way to keep your office or house doors closed or opened. This can be defined as a wall or floor mounted device. It utilizes magnetic to hold a door open. During the older days bricks or stone were used as stoppers. In modern times, these are an ideal option for houses as well offices. The include the magnet to control the movement of the doors. With the help of magnetic stoppers:

• People can keep the doors opened or closed
• They do not get slammed as they move the it slowly to shut them.

These magnetic ones are available in different colors and patterns with beautiful finishes like:

• Polished Brass
• Antique Brass
• Oil Rubbed Bronze
• Brushed Nickel
• Antique Nickel
• Polished Chrome.

The weight of the doors plays highly significant role while choosing the doors. If your doors are heavy, you need to choose the suitable door stop having the strong enough magnet to hold the doors open.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Enjoy the Summer With Garden Furniture

Summer is filled with time to sit in your garden and enjoy the weather. Now all you have to do is get the right garden furniture for you new favourite pass time. So what is the best garden furniture? You have to keep some things in mind when deciding on what furniture you are going to get.
What types of garden furniture is there?
The first thing you will notice when looking for garden furniture is that there are many options. The type that most people get is a set where you have a table and chairs. The style of the table can vary from square to rectangle to circular. Garden loungers are also popular as you can rest on them while you soak in the sun. You can also get hammocks and benches were you can sit in the sun. Some of the other furniture will be gazebos, parasols and umbrellas that help you when the sun becomes too much.
Conservatory furniture and your own style
Style should be taken into account when you buy conservatory furniture. The style you have in the rest of your house should continue in your garden and conservatory. This can be achieved through the different types of furniture and cushions that can be placed on the chairs. If you want to have a different feel to the garden then you can also achieve this.
Rattan furniture and the weather
If you want rattan furniture then you have to be sure you can protect it. Many people do not get this kind of furniture because they believe that the weather will play havoc with it. While this was the case previously it is no longer the case. It is possible to get rattan furniture made to survive all types of weather. This will include rain and intense sun. If you do not want to get the weather resistant rattan then you have to be prepared to take care of the furniture. You will either have to cover the furniture when not in use or move it indoors.
What about folding garden conservatory furniture?
Do you find that you do not have that much space in your garden? Does furniture just get in the way? If the answer is yes to these then you should consider folding garden conservatory furniture. There are many different kinds of folding furniture that you can get. People generally think that the only folding chairs you can get are the caper chairs and this is not true. You can get wooden loungers that fold up as well.
Maintenance and cleaning of garden furniture
Garden furniture will need maintenance and cleaning. If you are going to have wooden furniture then you have to treat the wood so it becomes weather resistant. You should clean the furniture regularly so that dirt does not build up. This can be done with a cloth and some water.
Summer is the best time to sit outside and enjoy the weather. This is best done when you have good garden furniture that you feel comfortable in. Caring for the furniture is also important as this enable it to last much longer.

Monday, July 11, 2011

Big Box Stores Or Regional Stores For Your Mattress Purchase

Without a doubt, buying a mattress is one of the most important long-term purchases you will make. The wrong choice can result in health problems, missed work and obesity. And because mattresses are built to last at least 5 years (sometimes even more than 10 years), the decision is one you will have to live with for a long time. The long-term nature of your purchase decision means you really have to know and understand the product you are looking to purchase. So while big box stores might be able to offer considerable savings on current or older mattress models, the smaller, local retailers can often offer the right kind of advice to make sure you buy a product that will suit your and your body's needs. There are pros and cons to each type of mattress retailer. Read on to find out more.

Local/Regional Retailers

Believe it or not, but a lot of local or regional mattress and furniture retailers perform exceptionally well it comes to bedding, mattresses and overall sleep health. With retailers who earn more than 75% of their total revenues from mattress sales, shoppers can expect a much higher level of expertise when it comes to the product itself as well as how it will suit a sleeper's body and needs. In other words, the level of knowledge from regional vendors is typically high as far as the overall industry goes, so if you need advice (i.e. you have not done your research on your own) then a smaller, specialized retailer is ideal.

The flaws with these smaller stores is that the salespeople are most often commissioned. They may prefer one product over another if there are special commissions associated with selling one instead of the other. In most cases, their primary goal is to turn you into a repeat customer, so if Product A is better suited to your needs and they sell you Product B, chances are good that Product B is going to be the next-best alternative. As well, you can expect to pay a little more on the regular retail price; sales prices are ideal as they will be more than competitive compared to the big box stores.

Big Box Stores

A lot of big box stores will retail bedding products, but most often the staff are either shared (e.g. work in electronics on Saturday, bedding on Monday and lawn and garden on Tuesday) or they do not have the same level of expertise as a smaller store. This is not always the case, however; big stores like Sears and Macy's often have a dedicated staff - finding which stores have the true experts and which have the true salespeople is virtually impossible, though.

The biggest benefit with big box stores is that their prices are steeply discounted. They make great sense for the true bargain hunters who have invested the time to properly research a product and who fully understand their sleep and mattress needs. As well, these stores make it easy to test out products without the pressure of pushy salespeople who are more often salaried or paid hourly than commissioned (again, some big box stores have specialized departments).

Where To Buy

Again, depending on the shopper's knowledge level and understanding of the product, it is always best to shop at a store that will meet your individual needs. Partnering with the wrong retailer can result in long-term dissatisfaction with a product and possible consequences, which ultimately means that instead of shopping on price, shop with your needs at the forefront of your mind.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Recognizing Good Chair Upholstery and Fabric

Comfort is an important factor to take into account when considering chairs. Upholstery provides added comfort to your seats by creating a plush surface and distributing pressure while providing you with extra support.

Upholstery is not as straightforward as it sounds, and what may be passed off as upholstery may not really provide any added comfort to your seating experience. Here are some key features to look for when buying upholstered seating.

Springs

Springs provide structural support in the chair seat. The two types of springs used in chairs are coil springs and zigzag springs. Coil springs are laced together and attached to the frame of the chair and move. Zigzag springs are attached to the frame but are stationary. It is important that the springs in the seat provide adequate support; if the coils flatten out easily, it will cause the chair to become uncomfortable.

Industrial webbing

Industrial webbing provides added support to the upholstered seat. It is comprised of interwoven strips which are stapled to the base of the chair. This type of reinforcement makes the upholstery more durable and comfortable.

Cushion fill

The comfort and durability of the upholstery is dependent on the type of material that the fill is made from. Polyurethane foam and down are the two most commonly used fill materials. Although down is soft and comfortable initially, it flattens easily. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, provides as much comfort as the density of the foam will allow. Any foam with a density less than 1.8 will flatten over time and not provide much comfort.

Fabric

Poor quality fabric will wear out quickly and expose the foam. Not only is this visually unappealing, it can also be quite uncomfortable to sit on. Consider how much use you expect to get out of the chair and how long you want it to last when choosing fabrics.

Tailoring

Not only does tailoring affect the physical appearance of an upholstered chair, it also affects its durability. Poor tailoring can be a warning sign of poor workmanship, and this type of upholstery will easily tear or come apart at the seams.

Familiarizing yourself with the components of a well upholstered chair will make you a savvy buyer and will help you choose a chair with confidence. Whether you are purchasing chairs for your home or business, it is important to invest in quality from the beginning.


Saturday, July 2, 2011

Are Bunk Beds Safe for Kids?

Bunk beds seem to be a staple in many children's bedrooms. However, you may be wondering about how safe these beds actually are for your children. Are there any risks associated with them? What about children who don't like heights? You may also want to think about the other options for children who want bunk beds but are on their own.

What are the risks of bunk beds?

There are many risks that come with bunk beds. Falling from the bed is the most common risk and results in the most injuries. Studies have shown that this risk is greater for children under the age of 6 when they are in these beds. The ladder of the beds is also a great risk as children can slip off it or hit themselves on it. Older children who are using these beds will run the risk of hitting their head when getting up in the morning. It is possible to reduce these risks by having a few rules agreed with your children.

Sleeping on the top of bunk beds

Sleeping on the top bunk is something that any child will want to do. That does not mean that every child should do it. There are certain rules you should stick to when it comes to sleeping at the top. The most important one would be that the child has to be over the age of 6. Younger children run a higher risk of hurting themselves if they are on top. Generally it is the older child that should be placed in the top bunk. Children who are fearful of heights may have a problem with the top bunk.

Bunk beds and night walking

Does your child walk around at night? Do they have sleep disturbances? If the answer is yes to these questions then you may want to wait before buying bunk beds. Children who sleep walk should never be placed on the top bunk. Additionally, if they are on the bottom bed they run the risk of hitting the ladder when they get up. Children with other sleep disturbances should not be placed on the top bunk as well as they may fall while sleeping or when they try getting out of the bed.

Midsleepers as another option

If you only have one child but want to get bunk beds you may be looking for another option. Midsleepers are a great way to give a child a bunk bed without having the additional bed going to waste. These beds will have the mattresses raised with space under them. This space can be used as a play area or a study space. Many manufacturers now add fun items to the space beneath the bed. Some midsleepers even come with slides as well as ladders for children to have a fun and easy way to get off the bed.

Bunk beds are considered normal for a child's bedroom and children love them. However, there are a number of risks of injury that they carry and you need to be aware of them. If your children suffer from sleep disturbances or sleep walking then you will need to carefully consider whether these beds are right for them.

Friday, July 1, 2011

Bedside Tables for All Occasions and Spaces

Bedside tables are more than just a convenience. They are a necessity these days, as the modern bedroom has become something of a retreat from the workaday world we live in. While people used to barely spend eight hours in the bedroom, today's master bedrooms are built as a sanctuary of comfort and luxury.

In the old days, an alarm clock or even a glass of water could be placed on a dresser off to one side. But as we spend more time watching television, reading or surfing the net on our iPads in bed, bedside tables have become indispensable.

While you could conceivably make due with a floor model lamp for lighting, it's far nicer to have a small table lamp that is scaled to your bedroom. Bedroom lamps are made specifically to fit on bedside tables. Typically the base is smaller, consuming less table space. It is also shorter in stature, allowing you to easily reach over and turn out the light when it's finally time to get some shuteye.

There are other bonuses to bedside tables as well. While you can opt for a table that is open on the bottom with a shelf, you can also get one with one or more drawers so you can keep all sorts of things near your bed. This can range from additional books and eyeglasses to those unmentionables you love to wear, but don't want to always have in a shared dresser.

Of course, who doesn't get an occasional runny nose in the middle of the night? A box of tissues next to the bed will be a real convenience, should you get a case of the late night sniffles.

While you could go to any discount store and find a serviceable table, top quality bedside tables are easy to recognize and add to the beauty of your room, rather than detract from it. One of the great things about bedside tables is that they don't have to be a traditional nightstand. If a table is the right height, nearly any occasional or accent table can be used bedside.

The key is to find bedside tables that fit your needs, including your personal tastes, usage and storage needs.

When thinking about which bedside tables are best for you, first consider what you'll be using the table for. Will it just hold a book and tissues, or will you need a space to store cosmetics, remote control, chargers for your cell phone or iPad, etc.

You also want the table to fit your décor. This should be fairly straightforward. If you have a traditional bedroom set, then you want to go traditional. If you have modern, then stick with modern. However, you can vary this a bit, by going with an accent table, which is meant to stand out on its own. With accent tables, you can also change it up a bit, going with two different accent tables, one for each side of the bed.

Shape and size is something you also want to think about. While nightstands are typically square, you can add visual interest to the room by going with an oval or round table instead. If you're going to go this route, however, keep in mind that these tables need a little extra elbowroom since you need a larger table to get the same amount of table top.

If your room is on the small side, you may want to consider having just one table next to the bed. You never want to overwhelm a room with too much furniture, even if you treasure the extra storage it offers.

Most important, be sure to pick out something you like. There are literally hundreds of choices out on the market and as with any quality piece of furniture for the home, you'll be living with your decision for a long time.


Where to Go Shopping for Furniture

Furniture shopping can be a rather daunting concept. The thought of having to first find a store and then walk through it can put anyone off. It is for this reason that more and more people are looking for local stores to do their furniture shopping.

Why use local furniture stores?

The first question that may pop into your mind is why you should use a local furniture store. There are a host of advantages from not having to spend money travelling far to faster delivery. In today's economy with the price of petrol rising you don't want to have to travel very far to go buy furniture. Additionally, local stores are more likely to give you right price furniture. Delivery is something to consider when buying furniture. You generally need the furniture so you don't want to have to wait too long to get it. A local store can get the items to you much faster than one on the other side of the country.

Where can you buy furniture?

If you are looking to buy furniture from your local store there are many ways to find them. Certainly there are many stores in your city that sell furniture. The stores that you will find are not branches of large corporations which means that they price may be lower. If you are, for example, looking for furniture in Limerick you could try Instore which has been selling furniture since 1988. You can find a local store or a branch of a nation-wide chain.

Online furniture shops and their benefits

There is of course another option if you don't want to go out and find an actual store. Online furniture shops have increased in number and the benefits that they offer. One of the main benefits is that you do not have to leave home to view a large range of furniture. Additionally you can move from one store to another with just the click of a button. In order to get you business many stores will offer fast and free delivery of your furniture regardless of where you are. Reviews are another benefit of shopping online. You no longer have to hope that you made the right choice when it comes to furniture. There are stores that rate and review the furniture so you can see what other people have to say.

Discounts and furniture sales online

Online furniture shops will often have discounts and furniture sales. The reason for this is that they have to compete more fiercely to get you business. These sales can make a great difference to your budget and even allow you to get more than you originally thought possible. Discounts are things that everyone looks for and it is a great way for stores to get more customers. You can get discounts online for a single piece of furniture or a whole collection.

Where to go shopping for furniture is something you may wonder about. There are many local stores that you can try. These stores may be part of a chain or not but they do hold a host of benefits. Additionally, buying online also has a host of benefits that you should think about.


Friday, June 17, 2011

Furnishing Your Living Room

Most people, characteristically, take immense pain to decorate their living room also known as the drawing-room. This is, after all, the face of a house and often casts an impression about the minds of the people residing in it. In fact, every impression about a house, the taste and preference of the residents, is formed by experiencing and seeing a drawing-room. That's why people spare no expense or labor while buying furniture for the living room.

Drawing-room furniture does not merely mean the sofas and the tables that are major constituents of the room but also includes sundry other smaller pieces of furniture that gives the room a comprehensive feel and look. These include side tables, drawers, television sets and other displays that would help you to add a new dimension to the manner in which your living room is stylized and fashioned.

Several ends could be attained using drawing-room furniture. It's important to know that furnishing a living room not just involves filling up the space. When placed properly, the furniture can break monotony and make the sections of the room look more even.

While choosing drawing-room furniture, it's important to not only select the pieces that look attractive and interesting, but conform to the proportionate size of the room. They must never be too small or too large for the room. For instance, it can still be accepted to sport a slightly oversized sofa, an oversized center table would look odd and make the room look disastrous.

Pure wood is the undisputed king as regards furnishing the living room. There's no replacement for wood for drawing-room furnishing. Wooden furniture is the commonest kind of furniture to be found in any living room. Although steel finishes and wrought iron furniture have made vast inroads regarding drawing-room furnishings, because of the high price of wood, the latter hardly has any equivalent. Full leather upholstery has also created ripples in recent times. None of these, however, can retain the charm and elegance of wood for years on end.

Buying wooden furniture for the living room can prove to be beneficial in a number of ways. For one, wooden furniture tends to retain that eternal appeal and keeps on looking fresh for years. Although wooden furniture requires a good degree of maintenance, the effect that it can produce, as against wrought iron furniture, is beyond comparison. Wooden furniture gives a subdued and muted, yet a rich and grand effect to the room. The elegant texture of wood as well as its imperfection can never be replicated with any other medium and certainly not with wrought iron furniture.

Wooden furniture can sport various kinds of finishes. While some can be made to look smooth, others can sport a texture. Each variety of wood has its own appeal and need a different care. You have to select your wooden drawing-room furniture as per the place and its parameters. While light colors can forge a sense of space and openness, a darker polish can create a more distinguished look.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

The Advantages of Sleep Number Mattresses

Nowadays, there are already many different body pain problems related to the type of mattress that you sleep on every night. According to research, there are over 90% or Americans who are using the wrong type of mattress for their body type and sleeping needs, thus, leading to back and lumbar pains, as well as lack of sleep. Due to these problems, doctors all over the world started to do a research on what type of material can actually help people sleep better. Many mattress manufacturing companies worked with various orthopedic doctors in order to finally end the search which bore a fruit known as the sleep number mattresses.

Why should you choose to purchase the sleep number mattresses over regular mattresses? Well, the answer is simple; because this former type is made up of air chambers that allow the user to feel a gentle cushion but still with the same amount of support that the body needs in order to feel well rested the next day. In addition, you also get the opportunity to take over the firmness and softness of the mattress because of its high technology composition.

The following are among the many advantages of the sleep number mattresses that are certainly not available in any other mattress in the market today:

• Great for couples. Due to its dual adjustability mode, each individual can actually be able to control their side of bed with the type of mattress that they are comfortable with. Be it firm, or soft, or something in between; you have power over your bed. This means that you do not have to argue regarding the type of bed that you are supposed to purchase for your new house or for your new bed frame.

• Sleep Number ® comfort setting. This is the first mattress ever developed that can be manipulated with the aid of two controllers. As stated in the first advantage, this is the explanation as to how each individual can actually be able to make their side of the mattress softer or firmer.

• Just the right amount of cushion. Every Sleep Number mattress has an added Pillowtop Anti-Microbial cushion which is about 3 ½" thick which results to a 9 ½" thick cushion overall.

• Air Chambers. These chambers are composed of heat-bonded rubber which provides the support that is needed in order to have a relaxed and stress-free sleep.

The sleep number mattresses will pay for all the sleep hours that you missed because of your unreliable mattress that continues to provide you with back pains and sleeping problems.


Saturday, June 11, 2011

Your Home Video Theatre Is Only As Luxurious As The Furnishings You Place In It

Movie fanatics are usually fussy about the way that they see a movie; for instance, many must be located at the exactly correct distance from the screen, perhaps in the center row, or maybe either to the left or right, and some will only view movies during daytime showings while others insist they must view nocturnal screening or else they won't see the movie at all. For the absolute control freak who contemplates homicide when sitting next to patrons who carelessly rattle cellophane candy wrappers throughout a screening, locating the theatre directly in your home may be the only method to maintain the perfect viewing conditions that you so desperately seek.

Many homes are fitted with wide-screen TVs these days, and some of them even have high-quality sound systems that work with a video screen and DVD or Blu-ray player, which gives your viewing experience a definite lift over standard-sized screens with one speaker mounted inside the TV, which rattles whenever low-pitched parts of the soundtrack play. You've purchased a plasma screen and eight-channel sound that you can turn up to Hindenburg-Disaster-like volume, so you can have it your way when you want to soak in a good kickin' dose of audio-video total immersion - you're ready to build your own private "Garden of Allah".

No detail about your home entertainment room is too minute to bother with, as you position cork panels on the walls and ceiling to achieve the optimal acoustic response, and you paint the walls a flat black so that no reflective light will distract you for even a moment from the hypnotic trance you will soon find yourself slipping into every time you lower the lights and press the "Play" button on your playback system. If you already have these measures taken care of, and perhaps have even installed a popcorn machine for an added touch of authenticity, the major element that you need to think about is home theatre seats, which apart from the equipment you own and the fitness of the room you choose as your entertainment center, can have the single most important effect on your comfort while you enjoy films and broadcasts at home.

It's perfectly acceptable to look for the most comfortable option when you pick the kind of home theatre furniture you want to put in your own home theatre, since a theatre chair's main function is to ensure that you can easily sit for two hours or more without feeling cramped, restless or achy. You won't want to neglect some of the accessories you can add on to your seating setup, such as drink holders, head rests and even retractable foot rests, for the ultimate in relaxation.

A home theatre supplies you with a lot of luxury and satisfaction for a relatively minor cost, and why shouldn't you allow yourself that?

Elite Home Theater Seating manufactures high-end custom home theatre seats, adhering to the highest levels of furniture excellence. The company has maintained a sterling reputation with their world-class luxurious chairs, and their clients include famous celebrities and professional athletes. EHTS has grown consistently in their marketing campaigns, now making their elegant handmade home theater furniture within reach of those aiming for style, luxury and comfort.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Brooklyn Oak Furniture - Is It Right For Your Home?

Buying wooden furniture is tricky at the best of times. Solid wood furniture is the choice of many a discerning household, yet oak collections offer something really special. But with so many options on offer, from rustic ranges to contemporary collections, from oiled to waxed to lacquered oak, how do you choose what's right for your home?

This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of the Brooklyn Oak furniture collection, so that you can make the decision that's right for you.

It's not hard to see why this stunning set is one of Britain's most sought-after wooden furniture collections. Its Scandinavian-inspired elegance, superb hardwearing capabilities and fantastic range of attractive wooden units make it a very popular choice in quality oak.

Contemporary Scandinavian design

The Brooklyn Oak collection features pale oak tones and clean lines which suggest a Scandinavian style. It's a far cry from the frugal nature of IKEA furniture however, carefully crafted with elegance and understated grace. If you're into loud furniture then this range is not for you, but if you're looking for quiet sophistication and a sleek modern look then this beautiful furniture range is definitely worth considering.

Durability and hardwearing

As a solid hardwood furniture range, Brooklyn Oak offers superb durability and will last for decades with a little bit of TLC. Its excellent hardwearing capabilities are one of the many factors that make this lovely oak furniture range one of the most popular today. Crafted from the best quality American oak timbers and with dovetail joints used to hold together the units, this is a hardwood furniture range that simply can't be beaten on resilience. Each item is finished with pure tung oil for added durability and a beautiful finish that highlights the natural grain pattern.

Pricing

Of course, one of the downsides of the excellent quality and design is that you have to pay a little bit more for it. This hardwood collection is naturally more expensive that veneer furniture, however many people consider it a worthwhile investment for the future. It's also important to remember that you can shop around; browse furniture shops online to get the best oak furniture at the best prices.

Family factor

Its sturdy resilience and hardwearing qualities make the Brooklyn Oak range a popular choice for families, who can rest assured that clambering children and family fun won't wear out their new purchase within a matter of weeks. One of the benefits of solid wood furniture is that marks and scratches can be gently sanded down and are easily repaired, without damaging the quality of the unit. In fact, with a little bit of love, you could be passing this stunning furniture set down the generations.

Range

One of the final factors to consider is the range of units that a collection offers. Are you furnishing your bedroom or your living room, your hallway or your kitchen? It can be so frustrating to find that perfect furniture set - but then discover that the range doesn't extend to the room you're focusing on. With over 60 furniture units, many of them versatile, you can be sure that this oak furniture range offers the furnishings that you require. From wine racks to wardrobes, linen chests to coffee tables, the Brooklyn Oak range offers plenty of options for your home.


Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Getting More Out of Adjustable Beds

One of the most important aspects of living is sleep. But due to the pace at which certain lifestyles impose, our sleeping patterns are often forced out of sync. Sleep is crucial for any human being to sustain functioning for the reason that it gives your entire body relief from the stress one has most probably accumulated throughout the day. A normal sleeping pattern usually consists of a duration spanning from 6 to 8 hours and is uninterrupted throughout the whole cycle. So what better way to get the most out of your sleep than getting one of the many adjustable beds to choose from?

These types of beds are often geared towards providing optimum comfort levels during sleep. A notable feature of such a type of bed includes functions which allow the individual to manipulate the structure of the bed at certain hinges or flexor points.

The most common of adjustable beds would have to be the single hinge type which allows the bed to incline the head of the bed to achieve the desired inclination. There are also more sophisticated models which make use of multiple hinges to structure the bed according to your needs. And there are even those models which allow you to tilt and/or adjust the height of the bed.

Although adjustable beds are often used in hospital settings, consumers may also use this type of bed in a home environment. It may be used for personal comfort or for situations that require home care of a loved one who may be acutely or chronically ill. In relation to the bed's medical benefits, it was found that assuming a specific position would help provide relief for certain illnesses. With that in mind, one could get a personal bed for his/her own comfort and which could also double for a hospital bed in the home setting if the need arises.

Although this type of bed usually comes with an additional price over regular flat memory foam mattresses, it would serve as a great investment since it allows you to adjust the bed's structure to meet your comfort needs for whatever situation.

For some who are willing to put out a few more bucks for such a bed, the consumer will also be able to get the best out of functionality and style. With the concept of hinges in mind, some manufacturers go for the extra mile and create adjustable beds which not only possesses a great deal of flexibility but one which is also pleasing to the eye.