Interior design ideas » Garden and Exterior Tips http://www.interiorhousedesign.net Just another WordPress site Wed, 13 Mar 2013 23:39:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Garden Tea Tables Design Idea http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-tea-tables-design-idea/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-tea-tables-design-idea/#comments Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:22:28 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=3098

Garden tea tables are very beautiful devices to have in the home. They are also very useful in the purpose that they serve. The garden tea tables can be used to host tea parties in the house on a regular basis. They can also be used for private dining out in the garden in the afternoon or in the evening. One can come across garden tables of various designs in the market. While there are many innovative designs which exist, there are certain designs which one should stick to as far as the garden tables are concerned.
round garden table
The garden table designs should essentially be round. Garden tables which are of a square design are quite unattractive in terms of appearance. The round garden tables look good and are also more convenient to use in terms of mobility. They can be carried around quite easily from one part of the house to another.

They are also quite safe to use given that they do not have sharp pointed edges that can cause injury to an individual. The garden tables are of a minimum length and breadth with smooth surfaces. They ought to be polished once in every two weeks.
garden tea table decor
A garden table can be placed on a tea bush in order to look beautiful and interesting to its owners. While the legs of most ordinary garden tables are made of wood, having a garden table which stands over a tea bush would certainly be quite unique. The surface of the garden table should be one that is made entirely of glass.

A glass surface looks very elegant and sophisticated particularly when a tea party is being hosted in the garden. One should keep the garden tea table covered with a beautifully designed cloth in order to prevent the surface area from suffering from any damage.
garden tea party table
When buying a garden tea table made of wood one should ensure that the wood is solid and is also light in color. Malaysian wood is both solid as well as light and garden tea tables made of such wood would be very desirable. Light colored wood is pleasing to the eyes. Solid wood is also known to be able to last much longer than the ordinary wood that is used for constructing furniture items. Thus, there are some useful ideas which one can consider when proceeding to buy garden tea tables.

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Garden hanging basket decorating ideas http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-hanging-basket-decorating-ideas/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-hanging-basket-decorating-ideas/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 09:48:02 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=2961 Hanging basket gardens look pretty and are desired by most individuals who live in the suburban areas. Hanging baskets are generally filled with flowers of various kinds and are a most pleasant sight on warm summer’s day. There are quite a few ways by which such baskets can be decorated.

The baskets are generally made of twigs of various kinds and last for a long time frame. Such baskets seldom get damaged easy. In order to be able to decorate the hanging baskets in beautiful way one has to keep some really valuable ideas in mind.
hanging garden basket
One of the best ways to decorate the hanging baskets would be to make use of embroidery over the baskets. Embroidery looks very beautiful and shall make the hanging baskets seem picturesque and lovely. The embroidery work should done over the middle area of the hanging baskets and not over the handles.

An effective way to decorate the hanging baskets would be to fill these with artificial flowers. These are more in vogue these days in comparison to fresh flowers. Artificial tulips for instance will look very beautiful in hanging garden baskets. Artificial daffodils can also be a pleasant sight in a hanging garden basket.
artificial flowers hanging Garden basket
Decorating the garden baskets with red roses can succeed in making such baskets seem extremely desirable. Red roses are the most popular among all the fresh flowers that exist and placing a bunch of these in a hanging basket will result in such a basket look splendid.
Red roses garden basket
Green vegetables can also look quite innovative and nice in a hanging garden basket. Green vegetables like egg plant and carrots can be used as decorative items within a garden hanging basket. These should be replaced with fresh ones once they begin to decay slowly and steadily.
Green vegetables mixed hanging basket
A garden hanging basket will look very beautiful if it is filled with clay figurines along with artificial or fresh flowers. Clay figurines are cheap to procure and can be placed on one side of the garden basket. Such figurines can especially make the baskets seem most attractive to little children.
clay figurines hanging garden basket
Decorating a garden basket can be done in a variety of ways. Garden baskets constitute a pleasant sight and should be done up in manner that makes them soothing and pretty to look at. They should also be cleaned on a regular basis in order for them to retain their visual appeal.

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Exterior Lighting Ideas For Your Home and Garden http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/exterior-lighting-ideas-for-your-home-and-garden/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/exterior-lighting-ideas-for-your-home-and-garden/#comments Sat, 07 Jul 2012 08:59:13 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=2554 If you think that exterior lighting is just a way to safety and security, then you are absolutely mistaken. Yes, one good reason that exterior lighting has become an all the rage option is its knack to draw attention to the spectacular architectural features of your home.

It helps to spice up every corner, especially your entrance, thereby offering more security from theft and along with, making your guests feel envy of your unique fashion statement.

But whether you choose to light up your entrance, walkways or landscape, there are some crucial things that you should always bear in mind.

• Safety being the first feature on the list, while considering exterior lighting, requires a homeowner to wisely choose the lighting options. The main entrance, walkways and steps should be light up in a way that tripping hazards could be avoided. If you have a sidewalk or steep staircase, then you can choose to install stylish lanterns or other bright light options.

• Next on the list is security from theft and intrusions. Good lighting along the borders of your home can keep you away from any aggravated burglary or larceny. For this purpose, you should always choose fixtures that can properly shed light on the perimeter of your home and can throw light up to a good distance, as well. This will also help you to keep an eye outside your home, by simply sitting inside.

• For setting the tone of ambiance, exterior lighting can be a wonderful option. From the entry of your gate to the garage, every corner can be beautifully illuminated and you can also choose some green options to save energy.

If you find it difficult to deal with the aspect of exterior lighting then consulting a lighting professional and then making an opinion can also be a good idea. A proper plan for exterior lighting always helps to choose to the right fixture as per the size of the property. Professional guidance also solves the purpose of installing lights accurately along the boundary of your home. So, tag along these guidelines and make the most of exterior lighting.

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Simple steps to ensure your garden is fit for summer http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/simple-steps-to-ensure-your-garden-is-fit-for-summer/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/simple-steps-to-ensure-your-garden-is-fit-for-summer/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:23:28 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1776 The snow has long melted, the buds are beginning to break and the brown slushy mess called a garden lawn is slowly turning into fresh, green grass. Mid-spring is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the summer season ahead but giving it a little spring clean. Getting your garden ready now will really pay off come summer.

Follow the tips below to ensure you are ready for the season ahead.

Have a walk around your garden and tidy up. The dry, grey stalks and stems of last years’ perennials such as purple coneflower and sedum no doubt look a shadow of their former self. Grab you garden shears and cut them to the ground to make way for the fresh growth appearing from the crown of the roots.

If you have got this far, well done, because no doubt you would had to find your way through the forest of un-cut grass which has been layering itself on your lawn all winter. There is a quick and easy way of trimming your grass using a petrol brush cutter. Simply sweep the cutting head from left to right just above ground level to produce an arc of about 30-40 degrees. As the ground is cleared, move forward, sweeping up debris as you go. Keep aware of any glass structures or windows throughout, as stones and debris may be thrown up at any time which could cause damage or injury.

Next, feed your plants a spring tonic as this means more blossoms and healthier plants come summer. Compost is the best tonic for plants as its nutrients are released slowly, allowing a steady supply of food all season long. Be sure to spread a fine layer of compost across the top of your flower beds using a three-pronged cultivator or garden trowel, but never over the crowns of your perennials and shrubs.

Once you have trimmed, clipped and top dressed, give your garden the finishing touch but formulating a sharp, clean edge between the flower borders and lawn. Dig a shallow trough a few inches wide along the length of the garden using an edger, using a board to keep the edges straight. It’s the perfect way to smarten up a small garden.

Follow these tips to ensure your garden is ship, shape and shiny this summer!

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Easy Curb Appeal – Green Curb Appeal http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/easy-curb-appeal-green-curb-appeal/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/easy-curb-appeal-green-curb-appeal/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:35:11 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1072 Curb appeal is an elusive quality that can be hard to describe. However, most of us know it when we see it. Usually applied to homes that are beautiful and well maintained, curb appeal also implies a welcoming sense of invitation; a house that says “home.” If you’re willing to use a little ingenuity and elbow grease, your home can be just as easy on the eyes.

Take an Honest Look
As long as your siding or stucco is in good shape, chances are your home only needs a few cosmetic improvements to get it into tip-top form. A broken sprinkler head, a crumbled brick in the flowerbeds or peeling paint on the trim are all easily fixed. Spreading your projects out over time reduces the cost.

Doing simple repairs by yourself or enlisting the help of friends or neighbors in exchange for a barbecue later are effortless ways to make big changes.

Keep it Clean and Green
Renting a power washing machine is an inexpensive, easy and even — on hot summer days — fun way to improve the overall look of your home. Wash down the walls, windowsills, siding and gutters to remove spider’s webs and a winter’s worth of accumulated grit and grime. Routine lawn maintenance is a must. Even if your lawn could use a good replanting, regular mowing, edging and watering will keep it looking green and inviting.

Weed regularly or use an inexpensive ground cover cloth (readily available at home improvement stores) covered with bark mulch to inhibit weed growth. Remember to clean up after yourself. A rake leaning against the wall or a garbage can in the corner detracts from the overall visual impression of your home.

Plant Wisely and Well
When choosing plants for your garden, always consider your climate, temperance zone and average rainfall levels. Selecting plants that are unsuited for your environment can lead to unnecessary expense or downright disappointment. Some people enjoy replanting various annuals in their walkways or borders several times a year. Others prefer plants that are as low-maintenance and self-sufficient as possible. Fortunately, the variety of flora available is virtually endless.

Take care requirements, sun levels and hardiness into account when choosing plants to place in your garden. If you truly dislike getting your hands dirty, you can always invest in a few hanging baskets or potted palms, or place potted plants in window boxes to add brightness and color.

About the Author
Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to NYC Real Estate .Hamptons Real Estate, home improvement and the latest architecture, design and fashion. Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.

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Perks to Having an Outdoor Shower http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/perks-to-having-an-outdoor-shower/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/perks-to-having-an-outdoor-shower/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:34:13 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1070 Being able to rinse off in an outdoor shower after a dip in the pool or hot tub is a welcomed luxury to many real estate owners. It is also becoming one of the most requested outdoor amenities for those owning pools and hot tubs, as well as those living along bodies of water in which they may occasionally go swimming or engage in water sports. The beauty of these outdoor showers are that someone can make or install them for next to nothing, and can design them to be as simple or luxurious as they see fit.

A lot of the beach side outdoor showers are nothing more than a wooden or concrete platform with a shower head and a knob to control the flow and temperature of the water. These are among the easiest to install for residential outdoor showers as well. That being said, outdoor showers can be designed to be as extravagant as possible as well. It is important to remember, the more luxurious one makes these showers, the more expensive the project will run.

The biggest thing to installing an outdoor shower is to know where the homes water lines are. Locating, and tapping into them may be the biggest expense of the entire project. With new construction, this can be built in without issue, and then tapped into once it came time to build the outdoor shower. Once the pipes have been installed/located, the rest is simply attaching the mechanisms to turn the water on and off, as well as the showerhead.

Wherever the outdoor showerends up, it important to make sure the water from the shower has the appropriate place to drain. If it is away from the house, make sure the ground underneath the shower floor is graded enough to have the water run away from the home. This also holds true if the shower is located next to the house. For those running next to the house, a drain can be installed to carry the water away from the foundation. This is easy to do, and will ensure the run off does not end up inside the home.

If one opts to install walls, they can also build these are part of the shower as well, but will want to remember to cover these walls with materials which will not only hold up to the use of the shower, but also the varying elements Mother Nature has been known to exhibit within the area the outdoor shower will be located. For warmer climates, tile and glass are solid materials to withstand the heat. In colder climates, stone may hold up better to the winter months. It is always best to research the climate and how each material will hold up to it prior to installation.

In conclusion, being able to rinse off the pool chemicals or salt and sand are the prime benefits to having an outdoor shower. They make a great addition to any outdoor living space where pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water are commonplace.

About the Author
Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to NYC Real Estate. Hamptons Real Estate, home improvement and the latest architecture, design and fashion. Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.

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Useful Information about Swimming Pool Chemicals http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/useful-information-about-swimming-pool-chemicals/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/useful-information-about-swimming-pool-chemicals/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:32:48 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1068 All the swimming pool owners want to keep the water of their pool clean and clear.

This is why; nowadays in most of the swimming pools high quality chemicals are used so that the water remain disinfected and keep on sparkling. Usually, these days a wide variety of swimming pool chemicals can be found in the market.

But all of them may not be that effective enough to sanitize your pool water. There is no doubt in the fact that chlorine is one of the most useful chemical treatments, which kill the harmful bacteria and keeps the water of the pool crystal clear.

Chlorine mainly comes in 2 formats- in tablets and in granular. These chlorine granules are first scattered on to the water surface then the chlorine tablets are placed in the skimmer basket where it can be slowly dissolved for a week. Chlorine can be stabilized as well as un-stabilized. Un-stabilized chlorine is also called shock chlorine.

On the other hand, algaecides are added to the water solely in order to kill algae. Usually, algaecides are of two forms-regular and longlife. Long life algaecides is one type of water treatment and it consists of copper whereas, regular algaecides does not contain any copper. So, if you do not want to use copper then you need to use this regular algaecides. Not only keeping the pool water clean, your goal should also be to maintain the right pH balance or acidity level in your water.

In most of the swimming pools, small particles could be found but they are so small that they cannot be seen so easily. Still these particles can make the water look cloudy. So, in order to clear out the water from these unwanted particles you need to use clarifiers.

These are special chemicals used for gathering those tiny particles. Though nowadays a number of chemicals remain available in the market it is always better to test them before applying in the pool water. This is because; lack of precaution may cause serious damage to the water. Since change in color indicates chemical levels, after using these chemicals you should also check out if color changes are taking place or not.

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Cycle storage solutions http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/cycle-storage-solutions/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/cycle-storage-solutions/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:31:43 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1066 Bicycles – as anyone who has tried to lug one though a narrow passage will surely attest – are cumbrous devices. For things designed with streamlining in mind, they can be much bigger than expected once you get them into storage, with pedals and handlebars ready and willing to give you monstrous bruises every time you walk past.

Couple this with the single track of mud streaking along the nice cream carpet and you have a recipe for disaster.

It’s no surprise, then, that people have increasingly taken to giving their bikes their own dedicated storage, with a cycle shed allowing riders to securely lock up their bikes away from where you can clatter into them in passing.

Cycle sheds are the best option for bike storage as they offer security, protection from the elements and are hugely accessible, allowing the rider to put the bike in and take it out with relative ease and without too much lifting. They are easy to wash out if they become dirty and can also be used to hold other cycling paraphernalia such as spare tyres, inner tubes, pumps and tool kits, giving the rider a place to keep everything together.

Cycle sheds are often delivered flat-packed, so will require some assembly but nothing particularly heavy-duty or difficult. They should come with comprehensive instructions and all the tools needed to build it.

As far as safety is concerned, it’s not just limited to locking it away from thieves. Good cycle sheds are also waterproof and fireproof, so once locked away they should be protected from any external dangers that could potentially damage the contents.

Good-quality cycle sheds are typically made of PVC and galvanised steel, making them robust and also maintenance free. They don’t need regular painting and can be placed anywhere in a garden and be unaffected by what’s around it. They will also come with a guarantee, some for decades or more, which serves as a rather accurate hallmark of a quality piece of equipment.

So be it for security or spatial reasons, cycle sheds are the best way of protecting your bike, and keeping it out of your way.

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Garden design ideas http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-design-ideas/ http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/garden-and-exterior-tips/garden-design-ideas/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:30:30 +0000 admin http://www.interiorhousedesign.net/?p=1064 Where on weekend evenings do you love to spend the best moments with your family? Your garden, right!!! Well, majority of people love to sit and relax in their garden area and spend some memorable moments with the loved ones. This experience enhances if your garden has been perfectly designed.

When it comes to garden decor, most of the homeowners start spending money on expensive garden accessories. Well, the truth is, your exteriors can be made attractive with a little investment, but along with it you just need some creative ideas. This article includes a few tips and tricks which can provide a great assistance in making your patios and garden look gorgeous.

Fencing
Some people might think that fencing is just an extra expense that makes the pocket heavy, but in point of fact, fencing gives you a sense of privacy from trespassers, outsiders and other neighboring houses. You would love watching your kids play in an area which has been properly shielded from strangers and this will definitely keep you tension free.

These days, different types of fencing options are available in the market from where you can easily opt for something that can suit your budget. Iron rod fencing, wired fencing or strong grids, you can go in for the best alternatives which can fit into your budget and fulfill your requirement. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, then you can always choose to have trees and small underbrush or shrubbery alongside the fencing area. This is a green, safe and more natural way to do the framework for your garden.

Kitchen Garden & Paving
If you love gardening, then kitchen gardens are something that can keep you engrossed all the time. Moreover, there are several benefits of having such small gardens in your backyard. If you are thinking over to create a kitchen garden, then it is very essential to have a perfect plan, where different types of plants can be grown evenly.

Creating square box type areas for growing vegetable plants gives enough space for the roots to grow and mature healthily. Including pavement alongside different square boxes will offer you easy access to all the areas of your kitchen garden.

Garden Fountains & Ponds
If you are willing to spend prolifically, then you can reflect upon adding garden fountains. These not only create a center of attraction for your exteriors, but also produce a wonderful sound of flowing water, which adds to the overall experience of relaxing in the garden area. If you are ready to maintain, then ponds are also a good option, but the only requirement is that they need a lot of maintenance. A shallow pond for raising fishes is a great idea and it can be easily decorated with colorful pebbles.

For adding more charisma, you can choose to have garden statues of animals, birds, fairies or any other thing. These are a popular way to enrich the garden appearance and make it look livelier. So, reflect upon some of these tips and tricks to make your patios as beautiful as never before.

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