Wooden Floor Installation from Singpanels

Yesterday, I had emailed by Sing Home, They announce their products while show me how to installing a wooden flower by their product.

"If you have concrete flooring for your existing home, We have a better solution to keep your feet warn in the winter by adding insulation on top of the concrete, then laying the insulated Sing honeycomb panel over the insulation layer (plate foam type or raised floor system). The paneling has been finished at the factory with a polyurethane coating. It is the easiest insulated flooring to install and uses the strongest plywood"

By those argument, I will Show you about installing wooden floor:
1. Step on to installing Sing wide plank floor
Before installing Sing Wide plank panel floor check the level of 2x4 sleeper, make sure it is shimed if not level.

2. Fasting Wide plank floor panels
Fasting 2x4 to the concrete with 3" concrete nail. Then lay the wide plank floor

3. Installing Wide plank floor
Start to lay reclaimed wood floor. The largest wood floor panel in USA. Floors are pre-coated with urethane at the factory.

4. Cutting Wide plank flooring
Lay the wide plank floor, 4 foot in width is the widest floor evermade. It is easy way to lay complete finished wood floor.

5. Sing honeycomb wide plank flooring
Sing Honeycomb is diminsionally stable, it is the only material that is able to install the jumbo size floor with extreme precision. Why not save your money and time use our high precision floor panel.

6.Fastening Wide plank flooring

Fasten the edge to the 2x4 with glue. This floor will not only never squeak it also is least troublesome when the water soaks into the floor. Normally you need to replace the whole floor it water gets in between.

7.Finished Sing wide plank floor panel
This is how pretty the Sing wide plank floor looks. The easiest way to install DIY wood floor.

My New Kitchen

I wanted to share with you the plan for my new kitchen. It's one thing to hunt steampunk stuff and post it to the blog or introduce a lamp next to your bed, but I'm finding it much more challenging to design actual rooms in a way that all the pieces will work together and come in within a budget.

Like most people, I can't afford custom cabinets, so I went with the most-quality-for-your-money Ikea kitchen cabinets. "Ikea?!" I hear you saying, "How can that be steampunk?" Well, it's a challenge, but if you think Ikea is nothing but Scandinavian Modern, you may want to take a look at the Liljestad cabinets. An added plus for steampunks -- Ikea kitchens can be varying levels of DIY. We'll probably assemble all the cabinets ourselves and use a contractor to actually hang them, but if you have more time than money, doing the entire install yourself is entirely feasible.





Ok, enough of the Ikea commercial, on to my kitchen. If you want to see the specific layout of my kitchen you can see it here and here. I chose Liljestad because it has the nice dark wood I like. With lots of glass front doors, I'm hoping it will have the feel of a turn of the century Parisian Bistro.

I'm steampunking it up with a handful of elements. The light over the penisula will be Architects and Hero's Akordian Two Light.


And the backsplash will be antiqued metal -- most likely copper. Here are two of the contenders:

Antique Copper PVC wallcovering

Korel Design Tile (porcelain, with a copper, bronze, and platinum glaze) This may end up on the floor instead.

The hardware for the cabinets will likely be brass or copper bin style pulls. (Could I combine copper and brass elements? Would this get too "busy"?)

The problem I'm running into is countertop material. The sort of look I'm going for means the traditional countops would be sheet metal -- zinc or copper for instance -- but that's an expensive and impractical plan. The other traditional counter surface is white carrera marble. Now, I would love carrera marble, but it's fragile and prone to staining. So where does that leave me? Stuck. Do I use a fake carrera marble like Okite's carrara bianca? Do I find a marble that's mostly white (most of them have a lot of yellows and gold in them, which might work nicely with the brass?) Choose a manufactured stone in something that resembles travertine? Any one have other ideas?

So this is more of a "brain dump" sort of post, but I would love your ideas and opinions. Anything strike you as a particularly good or bad idea? Anything else I should have though of?

The Inspirations of creating healthy house in cities

There are many aspects to consider in creating a healthy house planning, Sometimes we called a healthy house as a green house design. I hope by these considerations can give you an inspirations, based on astudio.id.or.id, you can creating a maximum benefit from minimalist design by home improvement or house remodeling:

• The use of site for maximum room zoning, by placing rooms in compact and integrated arrangement, you can reducing the complexity of the room compositions.

• The use of wide openings and ventilations to support 'breathing' rooms, this step can also make your room more attractive, you can also let the natural lighting entering your room, so we can also reducing the cost of electricity used.
  
• Maximize empty and green areas to grow gardens, This way can improve the capacity of oxygen, so we can get more fresh room.
  
• The use of roof to deal with rain and hot sun, so we will feel more comfortable
  
• The use of high ceiling to make the rooms fresher and cold, it also can make the room looks more elegant.
  

Natural Stone Installations for Minimalist Design

To install the natural stone for the stylish minimalist design, it will be better if we paid attention to the stone kind that was used. Because the minimalist design usually used some neutral colours. The other natural stone such as the sandstone was appropriate enough to be used for the style of Mediterranean architecture, classic or ethnic. This picture describe of several stone compositions for wall or garden's floor. Choose like your imaginations, created by images.lowes.com.

On Fantasy Libraries and Herringbone Floors

I'll be done with the library theme pretty soon, but I just ran across this "fantasy" library on Journal 703. It's lovely. He has the most romantic flooring discussion:

The floor I'd choose would be a floor I fell in love with as a fifteen year old boy in one of my friend's house. His parents had a beautiful federal style two story Colonial Revival home. Later, they added a traditional den/library to the back of the house. I've never forgotten the floor. It was brick; very smooth brick from an old street that was dug up and replaced in town. These bricks were reddish brown and very smooth. It had a sealed appearance that was very smooth. I later found out how they managed it. The brick was set, and sealed and coated with gloss polyurethane. On top of that were many coats of oxblood wax.

I'm a big fan of herringbone floors -- it's a unique way to use a standard rectangular shape, which means you can create a particularly unique floor pattern using off the shelf components. I'm building an addition to my house, and for the new upstairs bathroom, I'm going to use standard stock American Olean 3"x6" Subway tile ($.22/piece) laid in a herringbone pattern with a dark grout. I'm hoping it ends up looking like this:

image from Greenwood Marble and Tile.

Tile or brick not appealling? Wood floors are the most traditional herringbone flooring.


The herringbone floor pattern dates back to Roman times, which is long enough ago that I think it qualifies as "timeless."

Steampunk: The Worlds First Exhibition

Art Donovan's curating what's turning into an amazing Steampunk Exhibition at the Hamptons Antique Galleries in Bridgehampton, New York. He's got work by my favorites -- Jake von Slatt, Datamancer, Eric Freitas -- plus regulars on Brass Goggles (Crab Fu!), plus more artists I've never heard of.

The opening reception is August 16th from 5-9PM, if you're anywhere near the area.

The full release:

The Worlds' First Exhibition of "Steampunk Art + Design"
Premiering at the Hamptons Antique Galleries,

2546 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, New York.

August 16 through August 24, 2008.

Opening Party on August 16, 2008 from 5 to 9 pm.

RSVP by email: ltdonovan at optonline.net

About the Exhibition

Currently raging on the internet, "Steampunk" is quickly becoming one of the most unique & powerful new styles-

now influencing the disciplines of Art, Design, Architecture, Fashion & Technology. Steampunk has recently been featured

in the Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, The New York Times, the Discovery Channel, NPR Radio, CNN and 'NBC Tech News'.

The elite group of International Artists featured in this first public collaboration are the original "Steampunk" innovators

whom are currently capturing the attention of influential private patrons & collectors of the arts.

This exhibition, curated by Art Donovan, is a comprehensive review of their work from The Netherlands, France, Japan and the U.S.

This promises to be the first definitive, visual statement of this new genre.

The works to be displayed are a combination of both exhibition pieces and works for sale for the first and ONLY time,

with many pieces created exclusively for this showing. The Exhibition Catalog features a 'Forward' by the

renowned local Architect, Author & Editor, Anne Surchin, A.I.A.

We truly look forward to see you at the event opening on August 16.

unique stairs from asis-leif.com

This unique upstairs are produced by asis-leif.com, on above images, we can see a spiral model upstairs, suitable for minimalist room design. On the second picture, there is a winding style upstairs, an unique design with a simple design, On the third picture, we can see skylight above stairs, see another unique staris on ais-leif.com.

Best Baby Bedroom Design from Walmart

This bedroom is one of Walmart collection, named olivia, a best baby bedroom design. The Olivia is made from solid New Zealand pinewood and has non-toxic finishes. You can't tell from the photo, but it has a two compartment under-drawer for extra storage. The mattress can be adjusted to four different height levels and crib can be converted to a toddler bed or daybed. Keeping in line with Walmart prices, the Olivia crib goes for $299.88.

Furnished Model Home by Jeff Click Homes

This Furnished Model Home created by Jeff Click Homes, Jeff Click Homes has been recognized by colleagues in the industry as a standout among its competition for this home, which has been honored with awards in three of five categories in the 2007 Central Oklahoma Home Builders Associations' annual Parade Of Homes. Builders, designers, Realtors, and other industry professionals from throughout the state toured Parade homes entered for the awards, which were comprised of 5 total categories and divided by price point and region.

For the $200K-400K price point in Edmond, JCH was awarded “Best Overall Design,” which encompasses the design and functionality of the home’s floorplan in general.

Jeff Click Homes also was awarded "Best Kitchen." Judging in this category included both design elements, use of materials, and overall functionality.

Lizabeta’s Condensed Recommendations for Hunting Steampunk Treasures on Ebay

Lizabeta has some excellent suggestions for searching out steampunk goodness on eBay. Some highlights (although you really must go read the whole thing):

Old Looking - This is great for two reasons. One is, a lot of folks just don’t know what they have. They can’t find a better way to describe it. Two, if it is old looking, but they don’t know how old, you could be getting a really great deal because they haven’t listed it directed at the market that is looking for it.


There is just nothing like taking advantage of someone who couldn’t figure out what they had, was too lazy to figure it out, or just has too many items to sell to take the time to look. Put the words “I don’t know” in quotations marks.

These are two fun ideas that would never have occurred to me. Wasn't Lizabeta gracious for sharing her clever ideas?

Home Design Color Trend of 2009

Color trend is unpredictable, but with based on several people ideas, it can be predictable, here are several home design color trend of 2009. Living in today's world, where color and design have became a rather individual expression of our personalities and our way of thinking and living, inspiring industrial product designers and stimulating their creative senses is not limited to introducing new colors and finishes. The selection includes fourteen colors, drawn from bright yellows and warm reds to classic whites and blue. To create visual delight, I divided it into five categories.

• Unpredictable Resurgence of Luminescent White

Includes two whites and a special effect finish. It is reminiscent of the days of glamour, elegance and luxury. It provides free expression going beyond the self.

Chimera: a luminescent and elegant velvety white, suggestive of a grotesque product of the imagination.

Albertstein: a blushing rosy white, indicative of excessive wild intelligence.

Cold Scent: an aromatic, silverish special effect reminding of Alpine mountains.

• Artistic Passion

Includes two reds, an orange and a metallic finish. Finding names for these colors meant tapping into our heritage from an artistic angle. Home designing by using this color, can make the room more artistic and passion.

• Mother Nature in its Infancy

Natural is neutral, with natural home color, we can keep the originally of the color. Includes two clean natural yellows and an organic green. This category is an expression of joy, happiness, growth and harmony.

• Traditional Illuminations

This is simple color for your home, includes a dark blue and a dark grey. It insinuates trust and accountability, and promotes the feeling of being closer to the home.

Bookshelves

This is more of a resource list than a post, but the next time you're shopping for bookshelves, you may want to consider these.

The Faulkner Library Cabinet from Crate and Barrel.

Stiles Brothers Library Components by Bauer International.

Sundance Catalog's Draper Cabinet.

For a tougher look, the Emile shelf, also from Sundance.

The Library Cabinet from Z Gallerie.

Arhaus's Athens Collection.

Shane's Steampunk Apartment

Shane Kruse sent me these pictures of the office and living room in his recently decorated apartment.

I love the framed hanging computer monitor -- I had to look twice to realize that's what it was. The monitor was simple enough, a 19 inch flat panel monitor stripped the plastic framing off and repositioned the power and menu buttons so they are accessible right under the bottom of the frame. I picked up the frame for about $15 at Joann's and got busy with the glue gun.

The lamp is a simple selenite crystal which by itself conducts light very well. I found a rustic style candle lamp at local store cut out the bottom and put in a light with a toggle switch (oh I also put an old AOL CD under it to help reflect more light). Total cost: $35

Mmm. Brass nails!

Most of the stuff I get come from the local transfer site where all sorts of good junk can be found (like the desk actually!). This all go to show that you don't have to weld, refurnish, or put hundreds of hours into steampunk projects, nor must you significantly lighten your pocketbook.

Simple, inexpensive projects, pulled together into a coherent whole. Nicely done! Shane's got a number of other projects planned, so hopefully we'll be hearing from him again.

The usage of Stainless steel in kitchen remodeling

According to the several sources, the stainless steel appliance trend is on the way out. Many of the agents, however, did say that stainless steel appliances are still a big item. They provide a "wow" factor and can still sell homes.

While stainless steel appliances in the kitchen might still seem like a great idea for your kitchen renovation project, consider what the value of those items will mean to potential buyers in 5 to 10 years. Many of the those buyers may have already had steel appliances in their homes and are fed up with them. Think of some of the "hot" kitchen trends from as recently as the 90's -- many of those have fallen out of favor and are being replaced in today's modern kitchens.

Updated Spaces to Reduce The Room Complexity

Reducing the space of the room can make the room more complex, so we need updated spaces with special way to reduce the complexity of the room. On this picture, homedesignrenovations create special design of kitchen and bathroom that enable us to use the room with the most efficiently.

To make the room more comfortable, we should use natural color and natural material. The choice of the suitable color can make the room looks more wider.

Comfortable Home Design from Midwestliving

How to create a comfortable home?, There's something comforting happening in the home. As life gets faster and more impersonal, Midwesterners seek a place to relax and regenerate, a place that expresses our own unique personalities and fosters connections to our family and friends.

Kitchen, Living room and room decorations are the important things that can make our house's conditions, Will it comfort? These are several tips from Midwestliving about comfortable home design:

"There is a trend toward open floor plans and fewer upper cabinets. Especially when the sink or cooktop is placed under a window with views of nature."
- Paul Dybdahl, architect, Middleton, Wisconsin

"My clients can't live without an island. They are so versatile: a work area for large projects like decorating cookies with the kids, preparing complex recipes, staging dining room dinners or informal buffet serving."
- Liz Firebaugh, kitchen designer, Petoskey, Michigan

"Alternative storage, such as drawers for dishes and tall pantry cabinets for more than food,are increasingly popular."
- Kristin Okeley, kitchen designer, Indianapolis

"Midwesterners have high expectations of this space. It's about lifestyle as much as it is about functionality. They want to hang out in their kitchens with areas for both work and socializing."
- Mick De Giulio, kitchen designer, Chicago

Can you curl electricity?

A piece of roccoco cast iron? Curls cut from a dark haired Rapunzel? Medusa's snakes? No, it's an outlet multiplier.


You can unfurl the locks to extend the power to where ever you want.


Made by Artecnica, it doesn't seem to be on sale anywhere yet -- but wait 6 months and I think it would be available at a number of places online.

Thanks to Tangelia for pointing this out on DesignSponge.

All About Bathroom Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling can improve the value of your bathroom, it make your bathroom looks more newer than before, but you can just save your money in get new bathroom, here are all about bathroom remodeling. Remodeling and redecorating a bathroom can include the upgrade and installation of sinks, faucets, vanities, fixtures, and accessories. A Jacuzzi tub may replace a normal bathtub, dual showerheads added to an existing shower, and there are even tile floors that can be wired from beneath to provide a heated surface for walking.

Bathroom Remodeling: Costs and Return on Investments

When remodeling a bathroom, the first priority involves establishing a budget. A recent study showed that an average bathroom remodel can cost between nine and ten thousand dollars, but a great percentage of that investment may return to the homeowner upon resale of the home. Dual showerheads, stereo speakers, whirlpool tubs, and wall installation of television sets can all add luxury as well as value to a bathroom.

Remodeling Ideas on a Smaller Scale

To begin the remodeling, choose a color or theme and coordinate accessories with that idea. Remodeling can be simple and cost effective by simply adding a few touches to an existing design. A flowering plant can be placed atop a pedestal to add freshness and life to a bathroom and cost very little. Simple accessories such as small, framed prints, decorative dishes with colored soaps, or even a small wall shelf with collectables can enhance a bathroom décor without physical or financial burden.

Remodeling Ideas on a Larger Scale

On a larger scale, a new bathroom mirror can add to or change an old look. If a bathroom mirror is sealed to the wall with construction adhesive, simply cover the surface with contact paper and tap the mirror surface with a hammer, shattering the glass and adhering it to the contact paper. A small screwdriver may be used to assist in prying the shards from the wall if necessary, and safety precautions such as goggles, gloves, and drop cloths should be utilized. Mirrors can become an excellent decorative accessory as well as brightening a room through bouncing light from windows and fixtures.

Installation of a Vanity

A vanity is also an excellent addition to a bathroom, as it offers ample storage in an otherwise wasted space. The vanity needs corresponding openings to plumbing pipes and drains, and should be placed flush against the correct wall to access those pipes. Then a sink may be dropped into the top of the vanity and secured with adhesive caulk. Supply and drain lines must be shut off and cleaned during the process and then reconnected. A minimum of plumbing and construction knowledge is necessary to ensure proper installation of plumbing and fixtures.

Bathroom Remodeling: Make Sure You Have a Plan

In any remodeling project, specific blueprints should be drawn up and measurements made to ensure shower doors may be opened, toilets can be accessed with ample legroom, and bathroom doors can open freely and completely.
Adopted from: homedoctor.net