Author: Mervin McGrafan

Design

How To Pick A Design Style For Your Home

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

With your home, you will have responsibilities for it. The first thing that will come to mind is the bills that are needed to be paid. But in addition to that, you will also need to maintain your own home. It is not only to increase the value of your own but also for your benefit. Then you will also want to make your home as your own. It is not by having it in your name but by making it look like it is yours. 

To do that, you will have to know and learn about the different kinds. Here are some ways how you will pick them:

1. Know Your Budget

The first thing you should need to know is how much will you be allotting with your furniture and decor. Some designs might be a little bit pricier than the rest. If you have the capacity, you can go for it, but there are also other cheaper choices you can look upon. Also, what you can do is to be patient and creative. You can go to thrift shops or could do some DIY for yourself if you think your budget will not be able to carry the design you prefer. 

2. Know Your Interests

Then there are also your interests. If you are into arts and crafts, you likely would want to have your home reflect on it. Your creativity will be seen if you will have it displayed or used around your home. You can also have your creativity in repurposing some of the furniture and make them more useful or just fun and whimsical.

If you are more of a quiet type and into books, you can also use that. Have some shelves to accommodate your collection. Then you will make your home warm and cozy so that you will be relaxed while reading a book. You can have this in your living room where you can also share with your visitors or the comfort of your own room. You can also have it all around if you want to and make it work.

Another example is having a traditional or vintage looking home. If you are a person who is into old-style furniture or antiques, then this is for you. Heirlooms and statement pieces that are passed on you will be handy with this style.

3. Know Your Personality

Your personality will also affect in choosing the design of your home. How? Well, it is through your personality you would see your preferred design. Like for example, the minimalist design is mostly preferred those who want to keep things simple. Boho design, on the other hand, tends to be for those who are more free-spirited.

Your lifestyle also counts. Inviting close friends and family will tend to like a cozier and more welcoming home. If you like having parties then the design of your home will also affect that, because it means you will have something that has more space and also easy to adjust and to clean up. 

Appeal

How To Make A Cheap Apartment Look Nice

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

To have someplace to live is a great accomplishment on its own. Sure, it is a need, but it would be something you gained no matter what. It also does not matter if it is big or small or even just rented, you can still have it as your own.

When you are living in an inexpensive apartment, one of the things on your mind is that it is temporary and would leave as soon as you can move to a better one or even bought one. But that does not mean it will stop you in making it look nice. It is still a place you will live in, and you can make it so.

1. Add Color

If it is allowed, the first thing you will need to do is to repaint your apartment in something you like. Then, you could also add color through the decors. You can place some rugs and artworks. Another way to add color is by adding plants which are also a great way to add life in your home and also bring in nature that will be lacking if you are in a city.

2. Add Comfort

To have your place feel like home is for it to be cozy. And to be cozy, it should be comfortable. Pieces of furniture such as couches and beds will do that. Having a rug is not only good for adding color but can also put in some comfort. But of course, coziness is all about what makes you feel good and relaxed and nothing beats heating up by a fireplace in cool nights. Lighting can also make a difference because of the ambiance it gives. Natural light will be the best, but you can also add different kinds of fixtures around your apartment.

3. Add Personality

To make the apartment looks like it is really yours is by adding your personality and interests. If you love to read, you can add on shelves with your favorite books in it. That is also the same if you are into movies with your DVD collections or TV. If you are into art or crafting, you can have your creations displayed all around. It is not only with your interests. You can also add in some framed photos around or can also be trendy by having polaroids on a string then displayed as a banner. It can also be themed like musical or travel. Just let your imagination flow with this, and it will be your own.

4. Add Function

Adding function in your apartment means it is used and lived in. This can be done by adding some appliances in your kitchen and really use it. Even if you are not much of a cook, you can still make toasts or microwave or even just fry something. You can even set up a coffee machine which will be great if you love coffee instead of buying one in shops. Then, you can also have things that are double in purposes such as ottomans for extra storage or daybeds and futons for your naps and sleeping area for your visitors.

Upgrading

What Upgrades Add Value To A House

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

One of the things that you own that will be a great asset is a home. It is a great thing to have but what is greater is that once you decided to sell it for some reason, you will surely get something back. But do not have your hopes for it to be high because it will need a lot of work for that to be gained.

Some of those work will require a bit more expensive, but it will also be beneficial for you. You will be able to enjoy it too while you still have it. Having added value is just a plus.

You can just upgrade just about anything, but the following will be the greatest factors to increase your asset:

1. Kitchen

One of the best rooms to remodel in your home is the kitchen. The reason for this is it is what pulls buyers. It is also said it is what gives you the biggest return. The reason for this is because of the upgrade of materials that are used in the kitchen such as cabinets and counters that may be from wood to marbles. Also, there are other utilities such as the sink. Then add to that the gadgets and appliances that will be upgraded. You do not have to go over the top, just make sure that the kitchen is nice and cozy.

2. Bathroom

Another room that will give you a big return is the bathroom. It is also one of the rooms that most buyers will ask about. But what is better is that it does not need too much or anything major. You will just need to upgrade your plumbing, vanity, and toilet. You might also modernize your faucet, shower, and sink. Another thing to consider for upgrade is making them more environment-friendly. Fixtures are also a must in upgrading. 

3. Curb

There are a lot of sayings about being love at first sight or judging the outside appearance. This is also true for a house. The first thing people notice is the exterior, and that is why it is important to make it look good and pleasing to the eye. Curb appeal is not just some term invented, it is actually needed especially if you are looking for potential buyers. Because of this, you will have to have it always clean so that it will always look great in appearance. You might also add something that is attractive such as a pathway.

4. Landscape

The yard is actually part of the curb appeal, and you will need to maintain it to remain its look. So, you will have to mow and weed it regularly. Landscaping is also a great way to add value. All you need to do is to choose the right plants and trees to be added. You could ask some help from landscapers, so you will have the idea then do the rest by yourself if it is one of your hobbies or would want less expense. 

Planning

How To Improve The Value Of Your Home

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Having your own home is a great achievement for you. Aside from you are living in something you have gained or accomplished, but you would also have the chance for a great investment for your future if you come up with the decision to sell it.

It will not be easy of course, but you will just have to look at the factors of it. You can also do something to improve its value. It is easier than anyone thinks though it might affect some of your budgets. But think of it this way, aside from increasing the value, you would also live quite comfortably because of the changes.

Here are some things you can do to improve the value of your home:

1. Home Improvement

Giving improvements in your home must be the most known thing to do. All you will need to do is make your home attractive. The reason for this is because first impressions last and people will surely be judging on what they will see. Ads to that, it will also be beneficial for you.

One of the things you should need to improve is what people will see first, and that is the exterior of your home. This includes the curb and your garden. Then, of course, you will also need to improve the inside too. What makes most is the kitchen and bathroom, so you should consider having that first. Of course, you should also look around what needs to be fixed such as leaking ceilings or broken doors. Some small changes in bedrooms and living room may also make a difference. 

2. Home Upgrade

Aside from improvements, you should also look for some things that needed to be changed. These things include those outdated faucets and electrical wirings. It will be a great appeal to have something that is new. You can also add in some gadgets that are useful for security, safety, It is not about being trendy, but it is about knowing the latest that will be great to secure your home and is also great for you to be safe and ready from fire and other calamities.

Another form of an upgrade is adding something to your home. An example of this is adding an additional room that may be a need for you now and will also help in increasing value. You can also expand your home. You can do this by adding a deck or a patio. This can also be done by expanding your rooms like your kitchen or living room.

3. Home Maintenance

Then of course, in order for your home to be strong and long-lasting, you will have to properly take care of it. To do that, make sure to not be reckless and handle what you have with care. Do not have anything in your home to be neglected. Other ways to maintain your home are mentioned above. If something needs to be changed because of time or being outdated, do so. Also, keep in mind about pests control which will be bad for both the beauty and structure of your home.

Appeal

How To Get Rid Of Roaches In An Apartment Permanently

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

One of the biggest problems in your home is pests. It does not matter where you live, but it is especially a big problem in a city and in a building where you are not the only one who is living.

The most common pest would be roaches. It is a menace and seems really hard to get rid of. Add to that, they are really sickening not only on what they look like but with their nature overall. If these pests will not get rid of, it will truly contaminate everything in your home that will affect health and living.

So, what will be the best way to get rid of them?

1. Maintain Cleanliness

What roaches love are leftovers of everything, so one of the solutions you could do is to clean your apartment regularly as you can. It would be wise to clean up right after you have eaten something that way the roaches will not go for it. This also includes taking out your trash regularly. Also, roaches would also live off with any kind of debris, so you will also need to vacuum and dust your place regularly. You should also check and clean up your refrigerator and cabinets. 

Aside from food sources, the reason why you need to clean up is to eliminate their hiding spots. These spots, where they also nest, are usually dark places including some clutters such as cardboard boxes or papers then in your cabinets. Because of that, you will either have to throw away or recycle that unnecessary clutter and trash lying around your house. This also means that you will have to schedule a general cleaning in your home at least once a month if you are busy.

2. Use Baits and Sprays

After cleaning up, you would not get rid of them that easily. Because of that, you will have to set up products to get rid of them completely. You can use baits that come in many forms such as gels, chalks, or powders. There are also traps, and you can make one your own using the mentioned forms of baits.

You can also use sprays which are a popular form of insecticide and are usually seen used by professionals. The problem with it is that it is risky for contamination that will have an effect on your health. In addition to that, it is usually foul-smelling that is hard to get rid of.

3. Ask for Professional Help

If it is a really big problem, you can ask for help. You can suggest it with your landlord, so other units can also be checked if they have the same problem and be eliminated. It would still be a big risk for roaches to get back if other places are contaminated because they still have that entry point. With professional help, they can also help you identify the main source of your problem. Because of that, you can also learn about prevention, and they may also give you products for it.

Upgrading

How To Set Up Internet In An Apartment

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Nowadays, it seems like everyone has a gadget on hand. Whether it be a smartphone or a tablet, it is what keeps them entertained. All you need is an internet connection, and you can do anything with it. You can watch movies or listen to music or play games. You can even stream and download on the go. You can even shop with just your fingertips.

It seems to be having internet in your own home is a must-have. It might sound like it takes a lot to have but, it is not really. Especially if you are in a city, it is not that hard if you have the right equipment and materials to set up.

1. Buy a Router

In a city, the internet is usually not a problem. The plan is usually set up and all you need to do is to have something that will connect with it. Some would offer for rent, but it will be better to buy your own. Why? Because it is faster and more reliable. It will be more expensive, but if you are planning to have it for years, it will be worth it than paying for it monthly which will not be a problem if you will get your own.

2. Change Name

After connecting, there will surely be a default name and password that comes along with it. The first thing you will need to do is change the name. Why would that be important and needed? That is because having a default name will make it easier for others such as your neighbors to be able to connect to your internet. Because of that, it will be the cause of your internet being slower and also even make you pay more. It will also be a problem with your security because this will be easier for hackers to access.

3. Make a Creative Password

With the changed name, you will also need to change your password because having a default one will be a great risk for your security. It is easy to guess especially for those who are experts about it. Because of that, you will need to have a password that is difficult to guess. It is recommended for all to make a strong one which contains numbers, letters, and other characters and not something predictable such as birthdays. It might be hard to come up with one, but it will be worth it to your end. 

4. Know About the Security and Speed

Of course, if you want to have your internet to be really secured, you will have to know and set up protocols about it. You will have to upgrade your firmware, and this will be great for your security because it will be updated. If you are scratching your head because you have no idea how this will all work, you can always call a tech about this that will help you with setting up and will also teach about the needs. They will also help you how to speed up your internet, so you can enjoy it to the fullest.

Design

How To Keep A Top Floor Apartment Cool In The Summer

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

As much it is really cool to be living in an apartment top floor because of the view, you will not be saying that much once the hot season starts. It is not easy and at times, you might just want to go somewhere else and not to stay at your home. Add to that when you have guests over, and it will be a lot harder.

There are a lot of solutions you can do though, so you can still have that time to relax at your own home and here are some:

1. Keep the Heat Out and the Cool In

If you manage to have that cool air, you will need to have it kept in your home. The first thing you will need to do is close the doors of rooms not in use, but keep those that you use frequently such as bedroom, bathroom, etc. 

With the cool air in your home, you will also need to block out any sources of heat, and one of these is the sunlight especially during midday when it is the hottest. Because of that, you should keep your curtains or blinds closed during this time. You should also avoid doing something that will add extra heat to your home. So if possible, do not do so much cooking in your home because ovens and stoves just add temperature. You can do it once in a week or times when it is less hot or have it done outside. 

2. Take Advantage of Nighttime

During the night, it will be much cooler unlike in the day. You would want to take advantage of that and have that cool air store in your home. You could do that by opening the windows during the night. You can also use some devices that will help the air circulate in your home even during the day.

3. Fans

There are a lot of fans you can use during the heat. First is the one you will use for yourself. If you do not want to consume much energy or pay big for electricity, you will opt for an electric fan or ceiling fan. For an electric fan, put on some ice to make it cooler. It is really nice to have it directly on you but if you want the cool air to circulate, you can have it rotate around your room. This is also what a ceiling fan does.

Another kind of fan is exhaust fans. What it does is it takes out the smell and odors from your kitchen and bathroom. But it is not the only thing it can do, it can also take out the heat from your home. Open them during the hottest time of the day, so the cool air from fans or air conditioners can circulate faster.

Things you can do for yourself:

Aside from cooling your home, you should also help yourself.

  1. Take a bath or shower.
  2. Stay hydrated and eat cool food.
  3. Wear light clothing.
Appeal

How To Decorate A Studio Apartment On A Budget

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

It is really fulfilling to have your own space that you will call home, and it does not matter how big or small it is. What matters is you will have someplace to go at the end of the day and just rest and relax after an exhausting day.

But of course, you will also need to make space your own and to do that, you will have to decorate it according to your style. One of the challenges will be the space and how to make the most of it. If you are living in a studio apartment, it will surely be small and might need ideas to manage it. 

How will you maximize those spaces? How will you make it look cozy and uncluttered? How will your personality show?

1. Find Right Furniture

The first thing you will need is, of course, the furniture. You will need to find a size that will be a perfect fit for your apartment. You can choose pieces that are small that are stylish. You can also choose some big pieces such as love seats or L-shaped couches that will not take much space to your home. Less is more for a studio apartment, so do not put many seats. You can have some extras in case of visitors. You can also have furniture that has more purposes such as daybeds, tables for working and eating, and so forth.

2. Make Use of Light

One thing about lighting is that it makes the room bigger. Because of that, you can paint your walls with lighter colors and also have your windows take in natural light as much as possible. Because of that, choose curtains that are sheer to have that light. Another way to add some light is to have some of your accessories and decor in a light color so that it will be brighter. You can also add some additional lamps and fixtures if needed.

3. Decorations

To avoid clutter, you can minimize your decor. You can have some framed paintings and pictures here and there, but not too much. To add some life and color, especially in a city, you can add potted plants. You can also have rugs and shelves to divide your rooms. If you want to make your space look bigger, you can add pieces of furniture that are made of glass or of clear materials. You can also hang some mirrors. 

4. Storage Solutions

The source of clutter is usually the lack of storage. Even if you do have those, they seem to be the source of clutter too. Because of that, you will need to have better storage for your things. It might be harder to find one for small spaces, but there is a variety available that can also be used for dual purposes. Examples are ottomans that can double as a storage area by putting in some magazines or any other items or trunks that can double as a coffee table. There are a lot of possible storage solutions available, and you need to be creative with it.

Uncategorized

Urban Apartments: How To Do More With Less

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Location, location, location…many people are willing to sacrifice space for location. Urban living can be great, everything is within reach, from entertainment to restaurants to close commute to the office. Smaller living can help us focus on what is really important. Instead of having an overabundance of material things, we can focus on relationships and experiences. 

For the things that we do need, there are many storage solutions. Utilizing space that normally goes unused, is a great way to start. Using storage bins under the bed can be a place to store sheets, towels, and extra clothes. A free standing rod can be a place to hang more formal clothes that we don’t need that often. 

Another way to make the most of your space is to “go vertical” installing extra shelves in the kitchen for things you don’t need to access that often. Or for things you do need to get to on a regular basis, just get a step stool. 

Also using your furniture for multiple purposes. For example, you may not need a desk and a table, you can eat and work on the same surface. Over the bedroom door is a great place to install hooks, these hooks can be used for clothing. It is also a great place to hang an over the door mirror or shoe organizer. On the back of the bathroom door, you can install more hooks or rods, to be used for towels. 

Some furniture is convertible in nature, such as a futon that can be used as a couch or a bed. This can be used for everyday or for guests, depending on your individual needs. Some beds lift up for storage or have built-in drawers. A closet organizer is an inexpensive option to make the most of your closet space. 

Going digital can also help you have less “stuff.” Taking pictures of receipts and storing them in a file in your computer, or downloading digital books instead of buying and storing a book, also you can save recipes on your phone or computer instead of a written recipe. 
As we talked about before dual purpose is the way to go, a storage ottoman can be a place to keep shoes or clothing, or a cube organizer with bins can store a multitude of things and have a surface to display decorations. 

Bunk beds or a daybed (with a pull out trundle) can be a way to maximize floor space and is a great option if you have children. In the bedroom, side tables with drawers are a great option to store things. If you don’t have much room in the bathroom, you can put a shelf above the toilet, or a space-saving vanity for storage. 

Tables with leaves or that fold up are also a great option, for saving space. Some people choose to forgo the kitchen table and opt for a coffee table that has a top that lifts up for eating. 

A bench with storage can also be a good option, a bench can be used for seating at a table or in the living room. There are many options and benefits to living smaller.

Uncategorized

Considerations For your First Tattoo

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Hello everyone, today we will talk about some of the things you may want to consider when you are in the market for your first tattoo. Before you choose to finally go for it and get your first tattoo you may be nervous. I know I was when I was considering my first one. There are some things you can keep in mind to make this experience and end result turn out just the way you want them to. One thing that most people worry about when they go to get their first tattoo is is it going to hurt. This is a good question and the answer lies in the middle of what is your pain threshold and where is the tattoo placement on your body.

The next thing to keep in mind is what are you planning on getting and why. It is very important to keep in mind that tattoos are permanent. With this in mind, you want to get something that you are okay with being on your body for the rest of your life. You can have them removed by having a procedure done. However, this procedure is both expensive and quite painful. From what most say if the tattoo gun is going to go over a place where the bone is close to the surface of the skin this will hurt more than somewhere that is more muscular.

The design is something you can choose to either personalize or to find one that is already created you like. When it comes to what you get you are going to have so much to choose from. I suggest getting something that either symbolizes something or means something to you. This makes for a more thoughtful process but you may be happy with the outcome when you take these things into consideration.

Before you go through with whatever you have in mind for your first tattoo you may want to purchase some aftercare products. Once you get a tattoo it is very important to take good care of it. Some of the things you will need is something to clean the tattoo with. I suggest antibacterial soap. You will also need a product to moisturize the tattoo. Using these two things together will ensure that you have a low risk of infection and that the visual of the tattoo will be high quality once healed.

Keeping all of the tips and things we talked about in this article will help you to make a more educated decision on what you may want to do regarding your first tattoo. We always want the best outcome from something as expensive as a tattoo may be so these tips can give you the tools to have the best results. There are many online resources out there to help you find both services offering tattoos as well as designs and things to help you plan what you would like to get. We hope you enjoyed this article and it will help to send you in the right direction for your first tattoo.