It’s that time again…our children are heading off to college or even just starting school. For those parents that are a little unsure of what to expect for sending students off to dorms, one of our expert designers has come up with a perfect article for you…Enjoy!!
Dorm Room Basics
by DeSitter Design Partner – Vanessa Nunley Designs
The List…
There are many reasons why Area Rugs are recommended for homes. Some of the reasons being for design and decor purposes while others are for safety or convenience.
Area Rugs are often used over different surfaces, such as hardwood, tile, lvt, laminate, etc. In these cases, Area Rugs may be used to pull a room together in a design sense or accent other parts of the decor. It can also be used as a bit of a safety precaution, such as for slipping on the hard surfaces. Area Rugs are also used to protect the hard surfaces underneath, especially hardwood flooring. Often, people like to include Area Rugs on their floors because it helps the floor not look so bare and it can become a focal point for the room.
Area Rugs can also be used over wall to wall carpeting. In that case, it’s purpose is usually more for design and to accent the interior’s decor.
Area Rugs look great in all different design settings. Because there are so many different design styles, there are a ton of different Area Rug styles. They range from traditional to contemporary to kids to solids and much, much more! To keep up with today’s changing design preferences, Area Rugs also come in many different shapes and sizes. The average “accent” rug size is a 2′ X 3′ and the sizes then increase to as large as 10′ X 14′, with oversized rugs even larger at 12′ X 15′, 12′ X 18′ and larger!
No matter what your design tastes are, you are sure to be able to find an Area Rug that would be perfect for you!
With increasing concerns about the impact of flooring products on the environment, many people are switching to more environmentally friendly solutions. These are typically nontoxic and recyclable but still serve their purpose effectively. Here are several tips to help you find a floor that’s not only right for your needs but also kinder to the environment.
Manufacturing products typically consume a lot of energy, and this is true of flooring products as well. They also leave wastes and emit dangerous fumes. Thankfully, all these can be minimized by getting a product that can last several years without needing to be replaced.
Thanks to the wide array of building materials on the market, you can find materials that require very low maintenance, if any, to give you service for years. You’ll be painting, re-treating, waterproofing, and polishing less often, which will not only help you save money, but can also benefit the environment.
Advancement in technology has allowed manufacturers to create products using lumber, hardware, millwork, various plumbing fixtures, and other salvaged materials. And, by using such products for your project, you help cut down on the amount of natural resources consumed in the manufacturing process as well as reduce landfill pressure. You should, however, not compromise on safety. Make sure the materials you’re using are safe for human beings.
Buying products and materials produced in your area will help save on energy and minimize pollution that’s often associated with transportation. You can find products that match or even beat imported products in terms of quality.
Some of the products and materials used for building purposes are known to release volatile organic chemicals into the atmosphere. Examples include solvent-based finishes, carpeting, and particleboard. When inhaled, these compounds can seriously affect the health of workers and occupants. They also contribute to depletion of the ozone and lead to smog in our cities. The trick is to research and find materials that don’t emit harmful gases during installation or over time.
Another tip on finding a floor that’s environmentally sound and healthy is to select responsible wood supplies. As a rule of thumb, only use lumber obtained from independently certified and well-managed forests. In addition, steer away from lumber products that are created from old growth material especially where there’s an acceptable alternative.
If possible, you can substitute engineered wood (which can bring up health concerns especially if made from cheap material), with old growth products such as Douglas fir. Also, don’t purchase tropical hardwoods if the seller cannot provide proof that the wood comes from well managed forests.
Pressure-treated lumber is no doubt one of the most widely used building products, but it has several cons. First, it often has toxic material in it which can be hazardous to one’s health. You have to take safety measures to protect the crew working on your project when cutting and handling this type of wood.
Second, because of the toxic material it contains, it can be quite difficult to dispose of. This explains why it’s not regarded as an environmentally friendly product. You should instead use detailing, which is effective in preventing soil contact as well as rot. You can even go for alternatives like recycled plastic lumber, if possible.
You can cut down on packaging waste by avoiding over-packaged products such as fasteners. Inform your supplier in advance why you’re doing this. You should, however, keep in mind that certain products need to be carefully packaged to minimize damage and resulting waste.
If possible, make use of salvaged lumber and other materials instead of getting new supplies from a local store. This may help reduce the amount of wasts and, in turn, lower landfill pressure. Before using any salvaged material, make sure they’re tested for asbestos and lead paint.
These use less energy as well as fewer resources to manufacture, transport, and build. They are good for the environment as fewer non-renewable resources are used and less greenhouse gas is produced. Examples include concrete blocks and recycled materials.
Each month, DeSitter recognizes one of our partnered designers for their beautiful work and talent in design.
This March, we have chosen to feature Karen Renzi from KJR Interiors in Hinsdale.
Below, you will find some pictures of her work and words of advice from Karen Renzi herself.
“Think Spring. The promise of spring brings thoughts of sunshine, warmth and everything new. Spring is the perfect time to renew and refresh your home. Maybe it’s just a couple of new throw pillows, a lighting update, area rug, a fresh coat of paint…or perhaps spring will inspire you to tackle the redecorating or remodeling project you’ve been dreaming about.
Karen Renzi, of KJR Interiors can take your vision, infuse it with design creativity, and turn it into a beautiful reality. Karen has a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. She has expertise and extensive experience in residential, commercial and retail design. No matter what your budget or size of your project, KJR Interiors will work with you to come up with innovative design solutions that express your lifestyle and evoke your personality.”
It’s that time of year that people are starting to think about and plan for their remodeling projects!
Spring cleaning is right around the corner too so there really is no better time to start your design projects; out with the old and in with the new!
Remodeling and redesigning is sometimes a difficult process, but we can help with that. Our sales associates are all very knowledgeable in our products and can set up a consultation with you to learn exactly what it is you’re looking to change!
DeSitter is currently doing our New Year Sale and Inventory Clearance Event, we are sure that we have what you are looking for!
Want carpet? We got it! Want Tile and Stone? Say no more, we have that too! Hardwood more to your liking? Fancy that, we have plenty of that to choose from too!
Designing and remodeling doesn’t have to be too expensive and it doesn’t have to be all done at once. Call Us Today or Stop by our showrooms to see what we have available to help you start your projects!
Interior design is not for everyone and that’s okay! That doesn’t mean you don’t want your home to look beautiful or have a brilliant sense of style and balance, it just means that you may have a little difficulty arranging the contents and selecting styles and colors for fabric, furniture and flooring so that they all flow wonderfully with one another. There’s no shame in that and there’s usually a relatively easy fix as long as you’re willing to put a little trust in someone else and can try and help them understand your personal preference on style and design ideas. Work with a designer!! Interior designers are amazing individuals who work long and hard to help you make your home beautiful and a reflection of your style choices. What may come as a difficult process for you is usually done effortlessly by them because it’s simply what they do!
This December, DeSitter recognizes Deb Diver as our Designer of the Month! Read below to get a quick feel for what Deb does and how she can help you! Please feel free to contact her office to set up a design consultation and see how she can help you Unleash the Beauty Within…
