Framed artwork and pictures add a splash of color and character to a space. It may seem simple to just add one to any given wall, but there are rules to be followed. A wall beside a pretty window, for example, doesn’t need to be filled with art; the view should be the focal point. …
Trend: handcrafted
The word “handmade” used to make me think of itchy sweaters and macramé plant hangers. Not now — having pieces that are one-of-a-kind and not mass-produced add a sense of individuality and quirkiness to a space. The wave probably has something to finish with our world becoming a smaller place: handcrafted African baskets are easily …
Painted Doors
So I discovered that numerous visitors are confused as to whether or not to paint the backs of their doors (obviously I just found exactly how much you people chat in the forums — where have I been?). I state yes, do it. Of course, a traditional semi-gloss black is always a great option — …
Statement furniture
A few weeks ago I blogged about some terrific furniture that was made with reclaimed lumber at Restoration Hardware. I was on their web site last week and I couldn’t believe the new and stunning room shots they had to show off some of their other items. There is a big European influence here with …
New Wallpaper
Vivienne Westwood + Cole & child = maybe the freshest wallpaper I’ve seen in a year. I was thinking I had seen it all when it concerned wallpaper (damask print anyone? ? still very lovely, but yawn), and then along came this new collection: a bit punk, a bit Brit, but mostly just plain cool. …
Apple announce iphone 5 – Here’s What You need to know
A few years ago a new Apple announcement meant very little in the home automation world. But now that the smartphone is increasingly becoming the preferred interface to our homes, a new iOS device is a much more essential event. Tim cook and the rest of the Apple generals are on stage best now so here’s our cheat sheet of hightlights …
X10 Going into Receivership
It seems the rumours of the last few weeks are true and X10 is really heading into receivership. We’ve heard on the grape vine that Marmitek may have done an exclusive deal with ShangHai very smart electronics to continue to supply X10 products. We also talked to a couple of UK home Automation sellers too …
End of an era as HomeVision calls it a Day
We’ve reached another ‘End of an Era’ this week as Crag Chadwick has announced that his HomeVision home automation controller business is winding up. It’s testament to Craig’s design that the 8-bit hardware has survived well into a 64-bit world and indeed still powers many homes today. Its legendary reliability, expandability, flexibility and elegant macro …
Marmitek BabyView 725: Wireless monitoring for your digital home
While numerous baby monitors have moved to work with mobile apps, Marmitek’s newest creation has opted to use it’s own touch screen monitor. The Marmitek BabyView 725 uses digital transmission to offer a protected and interference totally free audio and video link. The video camera is mains powered while the monitor uses a rechargeable battery do …
Design Quote: Susanna Salk On Symmetry
In her newest book, It’s The bit Things, stylist as well as author Susanna Salk looks at the details that add style to every room, like the significance of symmetry when embellishing with color. This strong bedroom employs the utilize of pairs, seen in the symmetrically stacked pillows as well as night tables that mirror the look …