Remodeling Ideas Etc

Lighting has brought tremendous benefits to our lives since it's power was first harnessed. Designed well, a lighting scheme can emphasize and enliven all areas of the home. Dimmer switches can turn the mood romantic and night lights can be a great comfort to children who otherwise might not sleep in total darkness.

Good lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of practically any space and, accent lighting in particular, can work wonders very quickly. Look at any commercial show room to see how this type of lighting brings attention to the items they most want noticed. And you can do the same with your home lighting in order to highlight special features.

There are many choices from table and floor lamps to track lighting and wall or ceiling fixtures. When thinking about home decor, lighting should not be overlooked in your plan. It can make all the difference between a room feeling cold and one that is welcoming. Accent lighting, if chosen wisely, will surpass it's main function and set the tone you're trying to create in your home.

Posted August 27, 2008 Comments(0)

Regardless of where you live, closing up or winterizing your pool is an important process in order to protect it from the elements and keep it in the best possible condition, ready for your enjoyment next summer.

Preparing an above ground pool for winter, in areas where the water doesn't freeze is less involved. Often you'll need to do little more than cover it and reduce the amount of time the pump circulates the water by half.

In areas that suffer a colder winter, closing a swimming pool involves removing some of the water in order to prevent ice damage in the coldest periods. However, before draining your pool, you need to make sure the water is in good condition otherwise it will spend the winter stagnant and unfiltered. To do this chemically balance your water by making sure the pH and total alkalinity are within the correct range.

Clean the floor and surface of your pool, removing dirt and debris by vacuuming and skimming the surface. This will ensure that the leaves, pine needles and general dirt don't break down over the winter and cause algae to grow in the water.

Using your usual pool supplies, shock the water one final time and run your filter constantly for a 24 to 48 hour period to ensure the pool water is as clean as possible before winter.

If you have a sand filter you will probably need to backwash it before winterizing. If you have a cartridge filter, it should be removed according to manufacturer's instructions after the pool is partially drained.

Posted August 14, 2008 Comments(0)

This outdoor hanging lantern is a brilliant addition to any patio. Not only is this a functional light, but a wonderful conversation piece from both an art and historical perspective. It has been created in the style of the Arts and Crafts movement and the Tiffany glass shade is topped of with Bergamo finished circular piece. Earth tones and a wonderful three dimensional geometric pattern allow this lantern to cast welcoming shadows for your guests to enjoy. The lamp measures 16.5 inches high and 12 inches in diameter. A 150 watt medium base bulb is required for operation, but is not included.

For a different range of landscape lighting visit the link for some suggestions.

Posted August 13, 2008 Comments(0)

This Amalfi inspired lantern allows you to bring a taste of the Italian coast back to your home. The unique clear water glass shade is complimented by the rich terra bronze finish. The rustic aluminum frame provides a simple, yet elegant style for the outdoor lantern. Understated scrollwork adorns the top and bottom of this unique lamp. Your guest will love the way the light shines through the water glass and reminds them of the ocean. The dimensions measure 26 inches high by 9.5 inches deep with a 13 inch diameter. Also in 31 inches high by 12 inches diameter by 16.5 inches. Three 60 watt candelabra base bulbs are required for the smaller lantern and 4 for the larger.

Other versions include the: Hanging Lantern and Post Lantern

For an exammple of a Tiffany Style Hanging Lantern, click on the link.

Posted August 13, 2008 Comments(0)

This exterior wall lantern has a historic design with iron details that prompt memories of classic New Orleans. The clear, seedy amber glass shade adds a welcoming glow inviting guests into your home. With a sophisticated black Mercado finish and elegant scroll accents, this is a stylish lantern that would make a great addition to any yard. It is built to last, using machine grade resin so it can be enjoyed for years to come. The dimensions are 28 inches by 12 inches deep, with a 15 inch diameter. Three 60 watt candelabra base bulbs are required for operation and need to be purchased separately.

The Mercado is also available in:

Post Top Lantern
Wall Lanterns in 3 different sizes.
Flush Mount Light Fixture
Hanging Lanterns in 2 sizes.

Click here to view a Bronze Finish Wall Lantern.

Posted August 13, 2008 Comments(0)

A handsome wall lamp with stained glass accents, this sconce looks just as pretty during the day as it will in the evening. When night rolls around, the beautiful colors will brighten your patio as the lights shine past the stained glass. The etched glass panels are complimented by the rich Medici bronze finish. This is not only a fixture, but a conversation piece. The Capri lamp is from the Quoizel Collection where you can find other styles to go with this piece. This wall lantern is 15 inches high by 13.5 inches deep. Three 60 watt bulbs are required for operation and are not included. As an alternative to the wall sconce you might like to consider a wall lantern.

Posted August 13, 2008 Comments(0)