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How to Choose Plants for Your Landscape Design 11 Dec 2023 4:25 PM (last year)

Once you’ve settled in your new home, you can give some thought to the landscape design you prefer. It will suit your lifestyle and needs and can be as straightforward or as complex as you like and have room for. You’ll need plants in any design, so how do you choose them? Here are some tips from professional landscapers:

• While there are many beautiful plants, you won’t be able to fit them all in. If you try with just one of everything, your garden area will most likely look somewhat hodge-podge, with no cohesion to tie it all together.
• If you work in a small area, your choice may be even more limited. One way to choose plants is to ensure they can do more than one function. For instance, an espaliered apple tree can provide privacy, cover an unsightly wall or fence, and give you fruit. A tree or shrub can have exciting bark, give vertical interest, provide shade, and also delight you with perfumed flowers in season. If the leaves have a pretty autumn colour or if it has berries on it throughout winter, so much the better.

• Contrast colours. When choosing plants there are many different shades and hues, not just in the flowers, but the foliage. Find greens that contrast and plant darker greens in the background with lighter greens in the front, or have them side by side. You can also find plants with deep red or chocolate-colored leaves. A rich burgundy or purplish colour paired with chartreuse finds both colours enhanced.
• Look at shapes. Contrasting shapes is another thing to consider when choosing plants. Broad, round, thin, spiky leaves, pendulous or vertical – all interest the garden and overall design. The overall shape of each plant can also be a factor in your choice. Round mounding shapes look good with taller more vertical shapes.
• Some repetition provides cohesion. Try a couple of different plants with the same or similar coloured foliage. Two or three different plants with silvery blue foliage and a couple more with that golden look that brightens your day will look fabulous.
• For some people, a garden is all about annuals. But while showy in season, these create a lot of work because they must be replaced frequently. Consider using perennials or shrubs and trees that will be permanent and give visual interest all year round. Choose evergreen columnar shapes to contrast with a rectangular hedge or trees with pendulous or weeping branches. Just ensure you know how tall each one will be when mature and that it is not planted where it will be a nuisance.

Swimming Pool Design 5 May 2023 5:48 PM (last year)

If you have a family, you may have had pool builders install a swimming pool so they can have fun swimming at home without any need for a trip to the beach or a public pool. However, rather than just having a pool suitable to the children’s energetic lifestyle – jumping in and out all the time – make sure you add some accessories to make it a great place to relax.

After all, you will be spending time there, overseeing the children, so it’s important to be comfortable. You don’t always want to sit on the edge of the pool, or even get in and swim. So here are some tips on designing your own custom pool and making your area the best place ever, not just for the kids, but for parents as well.

• Add comfortable seating. Don’t just drag a folding chair down there when you need it; install proper pool-side seating that has a backrest and allows you to put your feet up. It should be something that does not need to be moved back inside every day, so it should be made from outdoor fabric that is UV and water-resistant.

• Now you’re sitting comfortably; you’ll realise the need for a table. This is useful to hold your coffee or cold drink and can also be used for other things. Snacks for the children, a place to put their goggles so they don’t tread on them and so on.
• Add some pot plants. These not only enhance the surroundings, just looking at them makes you feel relaxed and refreshed. Make sure the pots have saucers so the water from them does not leak into the pool and ruin its pH level.
• Consider privacy. Growing a row of cylindrical conifers that don’t shed much in the way of leaves will give you privacy from close neighbours and may even give shade, depending on their position.
• Talking of shade, a table umbrella or a shade cloth will make your pool area much nicer to be in during those hot summer days. It will also reduce the need for sunscreen, something that children don’t always want to bother with.
• Safety is essential, so make sure you add a pool fence that is up to your council standards. Toughened glass is both modern and non-distracting, allowing you to admire garden from inside the pool area and keep an eye on the children if you are outside it. Ask your builder for advice in terms of choosing Building Materials.
• In the summer there are many nights warm enough to swim. Your kids may think it great fun to take a dip before bed. Make sure you have solar lighting or other lighting installed to ensure they can see properly. Evening pool parties are great fun in hot weather.

5 Reasons Why Glass Will Transform Your Landscape Design 31 Mar 2023 10:48 PM (2 years ago)

Glass is an extremely versatile substance which is used for millions of different things throughout the world. If you’re looking for an exciting substance that you can experiment with in your backyard, then consider including something like glass pool fencing or other glass features in your landscape design blueprint.

According to Clear Az Glass Fencing, when used right – for pool fencing or for something else – glass can transform your landscape design, changing an otherwise mediocre backyard into something that’s truly special. In this article I’m going to look at some of the top reasons why glass will transform your landscape design. These include:

1. Glass Looks Great

Glass is an extremely attractive building material, especially when it’s well maintained and cleaned regularly. Using glass for something like a new landscape project of a pool fence or a water feature will give your garden a stylish, upmarket look. There are very few other materials that offer the same aesthetic appeal as glass with the same amount of (low) effort.

2. Glass Will Give Your Garden A Modern Look

Glass is sometimes seen as something of a symbol of the modern gardening movement. Gone are the days when people planted things where they pleased, and where an unstructured garden was seen as attractive in its own way. A structured landscape design that incorporates glass elements will be seen as modern and stylish by your friends and family.

3. Glass Will Increase Visibility

While most barriers will effectively split your garden into different sections in a visual as well as a physical sense, glass fences and barriers will only split your garden in a physical sense. This will increase visibility throughout your yard, especially when glass is used for things like pool fences. An increase in visibility can make your yard appear bigger and can increase safety around swimming pools.

4. Glass Is Eco-Friendly

One of the biggest positive aspects of using glass in your landscape design is the fact that it’s super environmentally friendly. Incorporating glass into your landscape design will help you create the perfect outdoor space that’s both stylish and eco-friendly without having to use plastic based objects that have the potential to release toxic chemicals as they degrade.

5. Glass Is Very Easy To Maintain

One of the hardest parts about designing a new garden is keeping maintenance requirements to a minimum. When you use glass for things like water features and pool fences, you will find that it’s super easy to keep clean and in good condition, which will reduce the amount of time you have to spend working in your garden in the future.

Final Word

As you can probably see, glass is an incredible material which you should definitely try and incorporate into your landscape design in some way. Glass pool fences are probably one of the most common uses of glass in normal gardens, but things like water features and sculptures are also quite normal.

Speak to your local glass pool fencing experts if you’d like to find out more about installing a new glass pool fence in your backyard.

Rose Garden Design 23 Mar 2023 5:16 AM (2 years ago)

You gave your partner a dozen roses last year. Think big this year and present her with her very own garden of roses! How about a dozen rose bushes? There is nothing like the fragrance and look of a beautiful rose. By planting rose bushes their fragrance and beauty can be enjoyed every day.

If you want a bit of sophistication and perhaps a touch of romance, plant some roses in your garden. While red roses carry a romantic air about them, there are some other glorious colours available.

The Rose Garden Look

Professional landscape designers think that roses add an aesthetic visual to your garden. Fitting the roses into your garden landscape is a way to add that missing element.

When designing your rose garden, it’s simply a matter of deciding on where you want them and the look you want to achieve. Some rose plants require special care, so be aware of incorporating the right irrigation systems to ensure correct watering and care for them.

The Simplicity of a Rose garden

Renovation News advise that roses are one of the easiest plants to take care of, but you still need a landscaping maintenance plan to protect your investment. All plants are susceptible to disease and roses are no different. Your garden maintenance means inspecting the soil quality at times, and ensuring your rose plants are healthy. Roses need trimming as well to get rid of unnecessary growth.

Somebody once wrote that a single rose can be my garden. But you can have a whole rose garden of your own.

Theme Gardens

If you have seen some beautiful gardens that you think you could copy, then a theme garden is a great option. With just a bit of ingenuity and some landscaping advice, you can bring the garden of your dreams right into your backyard.

You can do this on your own or you can hire the services of a landscape designer to help you recreate your favourite garden theme. It’s not a bad idea to get some advice, particularly if your climate is not suitable for foreign plants you want to import, or use.

There can be some other considerations as well, so an expert opinion on plants and design would not go astray. Things to consider for your theme garden are statues, water features and lighting systems, all brought together to turn dreams into reality.

Look at all the things you can include that help accent your garden with themes from around the world. Add your own custom designs or work to a plan with the theme in mind.



Like all gardens, you have to give it plenty of attention in the initial stages after installation with maintenance, check soil quality, plant health, trimming and pruning and disease control. What a great place to relax and even show off to friends and family when they visit. The fruits of your landscaping labour can be amazing.

How To Properly Maintain Your Solar Energy System 10 Feb 2023 2:57 AM (2 years ago)

Solar energy systems continue to gain popularity among businesses due to their sustainability and cost-effectiveness; however, like any other equipment, solar panels, solar batteries, and even connections, all part of the installation, require regular maintenance and care to ensure they function efficiently. So, given their importance, here are some tips to help you properly maintain and care for your business’s solar energy system.

Monitor Performance

Monitoring your solar panel system’s performance is vital to ensure it is operating at its full potential. Keep track of your energy production and consumption and compare them with previous months or years to identify changes or fluctuations. If you notice a significant drop in energy production, it may indicate a problem with your system that must be investigated.

Regular Inspections

It is a good idea to arrange for someone to inspect your solar panels regularly. This could be you or an employee. However, the best practice is to hire a professional solar system engineer to conduct the inspections. This will mean they can also do technical checks on electrical connections, for example.

The main things that inspections are designed to highlight are the cleaning needs of the solar panels, whether any damage has occurred to the solar panels and any other issues that affect the operation or efficiency of your business’s solar energy system.

Cleaning Solar Panels

The main reason that cleaning solar panels is so essential is to avoid a drop in their efficiency. That efficiency drop occurs over time as dust, dirt, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris start accumulating on the surfaces of the solar panels. As this debris covers more and more of the solar panels’ surfaces, less sunlight can penetrate, and thus, less electricity is generated.

You have two options here. ‘DIY Cleaning’ where you or a staff member cleans the solar panels or you bring in the professionals, which will cost more, but it is more likely to produce a better result.

• DIY Cleaning: If you or someone else within your business is up for a bit of do-it-yourself cleaning, grab a soft brush, a gentle detergent, and some water. Mix the detergent with the water and gently scrub the panels using the soft brush. Rinse them off with clean water and allow the solar panels to dry naturally.
• Professional Cleaning: If nobody, including yourself, is keen on getting their hands dirty, you can always hire a professional solar panel cleaning service. These experts will have the tools and know-how to clean your panels thoroughly and safely. It is a good idea to have them cleaned at least twice a year or more often if you are in an excessively dusty environment.

Solar Panel System Damage

Solar panel damage can happen in several ways, often influenced by where and how the solar panels have been mounted. Examples of solar panel damage are cracks, chips, and scratches, which can all negatively impact the efficiency of the solar panels. Damage can also occur to the connections on the solar panels, and corrosion on the mounting structure is also a risk. All of these should be repaired by a solar panel engineer as soon as possible.

Pest/Vegetation Control

 Believe it or not, pests can cause havoc for your solar panel system. Birds, possums, and rodents may nest under your panels, potentially damaging the wiring and reducing your system’s efficiency. Implement regular pest control measures, such as installing mesh or deterrents, to keep your solar panels free from uninvited guests. Also, choose the right plants surrounding your solar panels or trim any branches on trees or plants that may block sunlight from reaching your solar panels.

Landscape Design Ideas for Tricky Terrain 14 Jan 2023 9:50 PM (2 years ago)

Not every property you buy is going to have a backyard that’s as flat as a pancake. It might be the easiest to incorporate into a landscape design, but it’s often not the reality for everyone.

If you have a particularly tricky section due to lumps, bumps, and slopes, then you might strike trouble. How are you supposed to create an outdoor paradise when you can’t walk without tripping? Here are a few landscape design tips and ideas to help you on your way.

1. Consult an Expert

If you’re looking at your new backyard, scratching your head, then that’s a sure sign it’s time to call in a landscaping expert. If you haven’t yet figured out how to deal with the tricky terrain, then it’s likely you never will.

Instead, you may spend a lot of money on “might work” solutions. A landscaper can come to your house, discuss what you want and don’t want, then draw up a plan. You’ll have your dream backyard paradise in no time.

2. Decks & Steps

Finally, use those terrain challenges to your advantage with decks and steps. Dig out areas of the slope to build steps, then get expert help with creating a composite decking area for entertaining. You’ll be saying “what annoying terrain?” in no time.  

Almost anything is possible when you put time and energy into landscape design. If you don’t know where to begin, consider these tips below or call for expert landscape design assistance.

3. Build Walls

An excellent way to deal with elevation in your yard is by building walls. Retaining walls don’t have to look bland and dull, and they can create endless planting opportunities that work well with your landscape.

Broken-style concrete pavers, for example, offer plants the opportunity to grow into every nook and cranny, creating a plant wall that manages that elevation beautifully. Walls are some of the most popular landscape design ideas for tricky terrain.

4. Perfect with Pots

If you have a gradual slope in your yard, with garden beds that don’t have edges, then complete the look with flower pots. A gradual slope along a well-travelled path can become the picture of perfection when you line it with an assortment of containers. You can then fill them with vibrant and easy-care plants that will take care of themselves.

5. A Colorful Oasis

Not every hilly area in your property is one you want to incorporate a lot of landscape design. It might be at the back of your property, not often utilised, and very rarely seen either.

If that’s the case, go for the simple landscape design option of rocks and natural plantings. Use hardy, heat-loving plants that enjoy elevation, and plant the entire area out until it’s a colourful and vibrant oasis. It still looks like a hill, but it’s not sitting bare anymore.

Web Design – 5 Reasons Why You Should Consider A One Page WordPress Website 14 Dec 2022 10:01 PM (2 years ago)

Web design is a continually evolving field that can sometimes be hard to keep up with. One of the latest big things in the web design space is one-page websites. While a one-page design will not suit everyone, it works exceptionally well for small businesses and other people who don’t have a lot of local content to display.

Advice from experienced SEO agencies is that it can sometimes be considered advantageous for SEO purposes because of the amount of high-quality content you can add to your most important page, your home page.

An important caveat for SEO is that you cannot just stuff all your keywords into one page if you have many in your industry. However, if you have one primary keyword that is likely to provide 90% of your traffic, then this can be a viable option. If you need other pages to target either secondary or long-tail keywords, you could create a blog and produce blog posts to target extra keywords.

It’s essential to think carefully before building a one-page website. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a short list of our top 5 reasons why we think you should consider a one-page WordPress website. They include:

1. One-page websites are perfect for mobile devices

Single-page websites are very easy to browse on mobile devices. Your site visitors won’t have to load a new page whenever they want to look at something new on your site, which should reduce your bounce rate and increase your visitor retention time. Single-page websites are also well-adapted to the ‘scrolling’ nature of most mobile devices, making them increasingly popular.

2. One page websites are simple

Building a one page website is very easy, which means that they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg to create. This is perfect for people like small business owners who don’t necessarily have a lot of money to spend on creating a website. In fact, most people would be able to build their own single page websites, even if they have no previous web design experience to speak of.

3. One page websites make perfect portfolios

If you’ve a creative who relies on your previous work to land you new jobs, then you should think about building a single page portfolio website. Single page portfolios won’t overwhelm potential employers, but they can still exhibit enough of your work to show your strengths. When built well, single page websites can even include a simple contact form and an about blurb.

4. One page websites are good for selling something

One of the most common uses for single page websites is as landing pages designed to convert users and make them either sign up for something or buy something. If this sounds like you, then you should consider creating a single page website that’s separate to your main site – if done well then it will help increase your conversion rate!

5. One page websites can help improve user engagement

In the modern world, people don’t have time to trawl through a website to find the page that they’re looking for. Recent statistics suggest that the average person will stay on a website for just 15 seconds, which means that it’s essential to make sure that you get your message across as fast as you can. Single page websites let you do this.

Single page websites certainly aren’t for everyone, but they’re definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a simple, affordable website option to present a small amount of information. Do some research and speak to your local web design expert to decide if a single page website is right for you.

Your Essential Guide To Buying Office Chairs 27 Sep 2022 8:10 PM (2 years ago)

Of all the items of commercial furniture that a business buys, it is office chairs that require the most thought. You should certainly take time to choose desks, tables, and workstations, but it is office chairs that require the most consideration for one extremely important reason; office chairs will influence the comfort and well-being of those sitting in them the most.

If you take an office desk for example, whilst it will need to be functional, at the right height, and being good order, an employee working at a desk is not going to be in contact with it much, other than occasionally resting their elbows. However, that same employee could be sitting in their office chair for several hours each day, and so it must provide them with support, comfort, and ease of use throughout that time.

This is why those tasked with purchasing office chairs for a business must do so with due care and attention, plus they also need to have reasonable knowledge of the types of office chairs available and their numerous features. To that end, we have prepared a brief but essential guide to buying office chairs which we hope aids in making that choice.

3 Main Types Of Office Chair

Below we have outlined details of the three main types of office chairs you will likely come across. Note we have excluded large, executive chairs, which we would place in a different category to the normal office chairs used by most employees.

• Fixed Office Chairs

As the name suggests, these chairs do not move or swivel. They tend to come fully assembled and are designed for occasional use of up to 2 hours. They are most suited for meetings and reception areas rather than for employees working at desks, for example.

• Standard Swivel Office Chairs

These may require some degree of assembly. They normally have wheels to move them easily across the floor. Also have tilt and swivel movements, padded seat and back, and possibly adjustable arms. Can be used for several hours, although the recommendation is usually 4 hours maximum per session.

• Ergonomic Office Chairs

Designed for long periods of working of more than 4 hours. Tend to be designed for specific builds and heights, although there is some degree of adjustment in each chair. The concept is that the chair provides maximum comfort based on the chair’s touch points with the body, especially the back and arms.

Office Chair Features To Consider

These are the main features of office chairs that you will need to compare and assess before purchasing.

• Seat Height: Getting this right is crucial for comfort and avoiding aches and pains. Must be adjustable unless an adjustable desk is used. The height setting should allow feet to sit flat on the floor without the thighs feeling compressed.
• Seat Depth: This is the measurement from the front to the back of the seat that, ideally, should be adjustable. Users should be able to sit with their back against the backrest without the front of the seat pressing on their knees.
• Lumbar Support/Backrest: The size and the shape of this should be appropriate so that it properly supports the upper and middle back of those using the chair. The better office chairs have adjustable lumber support or backrests.
• Backrest Tilt: Not found on all office chairs, but those that do have it provide additional support and allow users to adopt different postures such as sitting upright, or leaning back. This can also promote better breathing.
• Armrests: Important for supporting the weight of the arms. Some have fixed heights, but the best office chairs have adjustable armrests which can be used to alter the height, distance apart, and angle.
• Swivel: Swivel action allows users to reach parts of their desks easily. Without this, they may have to otherwise stretch and twist to reach which does not promote a healthy back.
• Seat/Back Surfaces: These can vary greatly but the rule of thumb is they should be firm enough to give support, but also soft enough to provide comfort and not create pressure points on the body.

7 Steps To A Kitchen Renovation That Works For You 20 Sep 2022 5:35 PM (2 years ago)

Of all the many projects that can take place in a home, resdesigns and renovations done on kitchens are arguably the most comprehensive. Large-scale projects in bedrooms, lounges, and even the bathroom, all seem somewhat minor by comparison due to the planning, materials required, and logistics required to renovate kitchens.

Not that we are diminishing in any way the hard work and effort it would take to renovate any of those other rooms, but we hope you will agree, given the importance of a kitchen in a home and the work required to renovate one, we can give the title of “Most Comprehensive”, to kitchen renovations.

As such, it will not be surprising to you that a kitchen renovation project for homeowners requires a significant investment of their time and thoughts. As for the financial investment, we are sure that is also not the least significant investment a residential property owner makes in their home. Given the size of the project, it can easily lead to homeowners becoming somewhat overwhelmed by what is necessary.

This is understandable given that renovating your kitchen is not something you would do regularly. We imagine most people might only renovate a kitchen every 10 to 15 years, so hardly an everyday occurrence. That is why you must follow a set path to take you from initial idea through to completion, and the ideal tool for that is a checklist.

Checklists are used in just about every industry you can mention and are useful for almost every activity you want to complete well. Kitchen renovations are no different, so here is a simple 7-step checklist that you can use should you ever wish to have your kitchen renovated. It will help you stay on track, and more importantly, ensure that the final design and renovation that follows is right for you.

Assess And Decide What Your Priorities And Expectations Are: This is not to choose design specifics but instead to consider the “big picture” and to give yourself an overall concept of what you want your kitchen to be, how you plan to get there, and when you want to start.

Determine Your Budget: Most budgets are finite and thus we recommend allocating what level of funds you are going to use at the start and also ascertain how you will obtain those funds be it from savings, a loan, or releasing equity.

Research, Evaluate, And Then Choose A Kitchen Renovation Company: Take time over this and do your due diligence to pinpoint a kitchen company that has a solid track record, great reviews, and that can commit to the type of kitchen renovation and design you are considering.

Decide Your ‘Must Haves’, And ‘Would Be Nice To Have’ Design Features: In discussion with your kitchen renovation company,  it is time to get into specifics and especially agree on what your kitchen must have, and at the other end of the scale, design features you would like but are not essential given the constraints in size, logistics, and budget, for example.

Agree Upon Kitchen Shape And Other Major Design Features: Now that you know what is and what is not possible, you can now focus on agreeing on major design features with the kitchen renovation company such as the shape of your kitchen, location of features such as cabinets and appliances, and materials.

Choose Specifics Such As Appliances, Gadgets, Decor, Colours Etc.: Further discussions and decisions need to be made on specifics such as cabinet door colours, wall tiles, flooring, kitchen furniture, lighting, sink and taps, your kitchen’s decor and not forgetting, smaller kitchen gadgets such as the toaster and the kettle.

Finally, Set The Timing For The Work To Begin: Your kitchen renovation is now planned and designed so all you need do now is agree on which dates your kitchen renovation company are going to be doing the work. Bear in mind you and your family may need to make arrangements for meals on those dates, given that the kitchen may be out of commission for a few days.

What To Do If You Want To Get Rid Of Excess Office Furniture When You Relocate 13 Jun 2022 10:12 PM (2 years ago)

When people move home they use it as an opportunity to get rid of a load of household junk they no longer need, including furniture. For some strange reason, when businesses relocate, they fail to take the same opportunity to declutter. Now, other than being under instruction from a financial advisor or accountant to keep all assets regardless of their condition, if you have an imminent office relocation then take the chance to get rid of old, damaged, or unwanted office furniture.

If you are thinking, “I would love to, but how?”, then keep reading because we are going to highlight some ways that will help you get rid of any office furniture that is surplus to requirements.

Carry Out An Office Furniture Audit

The first step in determining what office furniture is unwanted is to carry out an audit to determine what you have. This should be done in connection with you planning what furniture you will need in your new office. For your current furniture, mark, it based on its status so that could be, ‘Keeping’, ‘Damaged’, ‘Surplus’ and so on. By doing this, you can then decide what you wish to do which each item, and you will also know what new furniture you need to order.

Plan How And When The Furniture Is Going To Be Removed

You need to plan for the removal of your excess furniture whether it has going to be sold, donated, or disposed of. The reason for that is that some of it might be needed up to the day of your move so do not agree to its removal until then unless you want your staff being left with nothing to sit on and no desks. Coordinate the removal with your removalists from Brilliance Removalists who should be willing to help.

Sell What You Can

For those items of office furniture you have which are in reasonable condition but are no longer needed, one option you have is to sell it as second-hand. The outlets you have for this are plentiful and include your local trade magazine, local newspapers, eBay, and could even post them for sale on your social media pages. One other option is to ask other businesses you deal with if they would like to purchase the furniture for a reasonable price.

Donate What You Can

If want to be altruistic, instead of selling your excess furniture you could donate it. The organisations you could donate to include local charities. Another could be a local business that you know would appreciate the offer. Bear in mind you might wish to do business with them in the future so, your good deed could be a shrewd move that brings rewards at a later date.

Recycle If Possible

If you have decided some office furniture is not suitable for selling or donating, such as those pieces which are damaged, then you need to dispose of them and do so thoughtfully. Given the types of materials that office furniture tends to be made from, it is more than likely that much of it can be recycled. If you are unsure speak to a local recycling plant for advice.

Call In The Experts

A final option that would make the whole process easier is to hand over removing your excess furniture to office clearance experts. They will have a team who can take it all away for you, as and when it suits, and it should all be done on the same day.

How To Use Social Media To Help You Design The Perfect Kitchen 31 May 2022 5:05 PM (2 years ago)

If you were to consider kitchen design and social media, your first thought might not necessarily be that neither one of these has anything to do with the other, however, you would be wrong. Today there are not only numerous different social media platforms, but you can find information, advice, and ideas on just about any subject you can think of on social media, and that includes kitchen design.

If you approach it sensibly, social media can be a huge help to you regarding the design of your new kitchen. If you are still unsure as to how social media can help you, here are five ways it can, or rather, here are five ways you can search on social media for the help and advice you need on kitchen design.

Ask Friends, Family, And Followers For Their Recommendations

You may have already thought of this, but we’ll mention it anyway. By making a post or sending messages to the friends, family, and followers you have on the social media accounts you have, you can ask them to send you their recommendations. For those that live locally, this can be about kitchen companies they have used. From others, it can be recommendations in terms of layout, appliances, organisation tips like using pantry labels, cabinet doors, worktop types and so on.

Use Hashtags To Search

This will work on those social media platforms that use hashtags, such as Twitter and Instagram. The method is simple as you enter a search using a hashtag that is related to the specific aspects of kitchen design you want to research. Examples could include #kitchenworktops, #kitchendesigns, #kitchencabinets, and so on. Each result may not take you any further forward, but some will, and could give you some inspiration or a design feature you had not previously considered.

Search For Well-Known And Trusted Brands

This method works regardless of what your project relates to so in future remember it for searches relating to things that are nothing to do with kitchens. How it works is that you first make a list of all the top kitchen and kitchen design brands you can think of. You can also include interior design companies that design for every room in the house. Then you visit their social media pages and look through all their posts, images and other media for ideas and advice.

Create An Image Gallery

Some social media platforms are far more visual than others. For those that have a plethora of images, what you should do is download and save any images which grab your attention, or which contain something you might wish to include in your kitchen design. If you download a lot of images then within your image gallery create folders relating to the image content. For example, a folder for worktops, one for cabinets, one for appliances, etc.

Follow Accounts Relating To Kitchen Design

This final tip is where you may either still be looking for ideas, or may have narrowed down your options and are starting to focus on specific kitchen types, and possibly even local kitchen design companies. What you do here is you follow the social media accounts or pages of those people and companies which you have found to be useful thus far, or which you want to find out a bit more about. You may even take this a stage further and post questions on their pages.

Tips for Hiring a Bathroom Renovation Expert 27 Jun 2021 3:11 AM (3 years ago)

Early on in your bathroom renovation project, you may have realised that you need to hire an expert. You couldn’t possibly tackle everything on your own. But how do you hire a bathroom renovation expert? completebathroomsolutions.com.au offer some tips that might help.

Decide on Bathroom Designers vs. Bathroom Contractors
Even though the two professions have ‘bathroom’ in their name, it doesn’t mean they do the same job. A bathroom contractor works from your plan, while a bathroom designer handles everything from start to finish.

The beauty of hiring the latter is that you don’t have to worry about managing any part of the project yourself. Once you choose your preferred design and materials, they can handle everything else.

Make Sure They Have the Appropriate Credentials
Bathroom renovations can require consents, insurance, and licencing. That’s why you can’t do the majority of bathroom alterations yourself. Ensure that the expert you hire has the appropriate experience level and qualifications for the job at hand.

Pay attention to any licencing they have – if licencing is required in your state. Make sure they have insurance and even ask for references. Otherwise, you can search for their business online to see if they have any social media or Google reviews you can check out.

Determine a Timeframe
Given that your bathroom is one room in your house you can’t do without for an extended period, find out how long it will take for your chosen contractor or bathroom designer to complete the job.

The last thing you want is for them to rip out your toilet and shower, only to be waiting weeks – or even months – for them to return and finish the job.

Get the Costs in Writing
Most people understand the importance of having a budget to renovate their bathroom. Going above your budget can mean you risk overcapitalizing or spending more than you have to spare. Before you sign any agreements, get the cost estimates in writing.

This document should have all renovation work in great detail – down to the itemised labour and material costs. Do not settle on a verbal agreement. This can work against you in a dispute.

Read Through the Fine Print
Before signing any documents, make sure you read through them thoroughly. These documents can outline the schedular payments and other important information. As a general rule, you shouldn’t be required to pay any more than a third of the bathroom renovation’s cost until the job is complete.

Talk to Friends and Family
Hiring a bathroom renovation expert can take a lot of homework and planning. You want someone who is competitively priced but also who will get the job done to a high standard. Talk to friends and family who have previously hired contractors or bathroom designers to work on their homes. If they are happy with their experience, they will be more than happy to recommend them.

Get More Than One Quote
It always pays to receive at least three quotes for a single job. You can then compare all the details of each quote to make sure they are the same.

It’s important to note that it’s not always in your best interests to opt for the cheapest quote. Consider choosing the one with everything you need and has been provided by a well-regarded, reputable company.

Once you have considered all of this information above, it’s time to get your bathroom renovation underway. There’s no time like the present to hire a bathroom renovation expert and give your bathroom a new lease on life.

Gifts for Bridesmaids 31 May 2021 10:52 PM (3 years ago)

Planning a wedding can take weeks, months, or even years. But while it’s essential to plan every small detail down to the table arrangements, it’s equally important to think about gifts for your bridesmaids, like bridal robes or personalised pyjamas, for example.

A bride’s bridal party can play a significant role in how the day plays out. They take the lead on ensuring appointments are kept, items are picked up, and everything runs like a well-oiled machine.

It makes sense to want to thank them for their efforts – even with a small token of your appreciation. If you’re stuck for ideas, we’ve included a few of the most popular gifts for bridesmaids below.

Personalised Pyjamas

The gift of personalised pyjamas can be well-received by any bridesmaid. They come in handy for pre-wedding events, but they are also something the bridesmaid can use long after the wedding celebrations have stopped.

You can also have the bridesmaid’s full name, first name, or initials monogrammed onto them as another beautiful touch. What’s more, they are available in various styles and colours to suit your preferences.

Jewellery

If you’ve allowed plenty of room in your budget for bridesmaids’ gifts, you can’t go wrong with jewellery. A beautiful necklace or bracelet can be a lovely way to tell your bridal party just how much you appreciate them.

You can even go one step further and engrave them with some sweet words. “Valued bridesmaid 11.11.2011” or even their name can make for a memorable gift.

Gift Baskets

Why buy one present when you can buy a basket of them? You can make gift baskets yourself or buy them pre-made with goodies like candles, champagne, beauty products, and chocolate. The benefit of making them yourself is you can add whatever you want and stick within a set budget.

Photo Album

Once the wedding excitement has died down, take a moment to go through photos you’ve had taken relating to your wedding. Compile them in albums and give them to your bridal party as a reminder of the special event. Wedding excitement can fade from your mind, but photos will be around for years to come.

Gift Vouchers

Suppose you’re looking for something nice to accompany a thoughtful gift like a set of personalised pyjamas or engraved jewellery. In that case, gift vouchers can meet the mark. These can be for anything you want, such as spa treatment, a hair service, beauty service, or something else. Whatever you select, they are bound to be very much appreciated.

A Framed Photo

A lot of money goes into most weddings, which can leave you with very little leftover once you say ‘I do’. However, you don’t have to spend too much money on a gift for your bridal party to love it.

Buy a frame for each bridesmaid and insert a photo of you and that bridesmaid together. They will surely be impressed by the thought that went into it, and you don’t have to spend the earth.

To make sure your bridal party knows just how important their part was in your wedding celebrations, treat them to a gift. Be it personalised pyjamas, jewellery, or something else; it can be a memorable way of showing your appreciation.

4 Ways Your Dentist Can Give Your Smile A Makeover 5 Apr 2021 7:52 PM (4 years ago)

Whilst there are lots of reasons why anyone might visit their dentist, if you have an issue that in particular is affecting your smile, then that is certainly the medical professional you want to go and see. Long gone are the days where dentists were seen as the person who drilled your teeth and made you sloosh your mouth out with that pink liquid.

Today, dentists still drill teeth (Sorry, that is not likely to change), but they can also offer a range of services that go beyond just filling in cavities. They can literally change the architecture of someone’s mouth by repairing, reshaping, and replacing damaged, stained, or missing teeth.

So if your smile is not what it once was, or you have never been happy with your smile and want to upgrade it, then here are 4 ways your dentist can help you to achieve the smile you want.

Teeth Whitening

One of the biggest reasons that someone’s smile is not what it was is due to the discolouration of their teeth. Discolouration can be caused by many things, but the main ones tend to be ageing, smoking and poor oral hygiene in terms of not brushing teeth often enough.

The point is that often someone might have perfectly healthy teeth and gums, but no matter how healthy teeth are, they can still discolour. The answer, apart from obviously brushing them more often, is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be done at home using customised kits, which are created from moulds of your teeth.

A second way is laser teeth whitening which takes at the dentist’s clinic. The beauty of this method, apart from your white teeth, is that the treatment can be effective after just one visit.

Porcelain Veneers

These can be used for a number of issues such as discolouration that whitening cannot resolve, gaps between teeth, crooked teeth, and teeth of irregular sizes and shapes.

The process normally takes place over several visits to your dentist and will always follow an evaluation to ensure that you are suitable for this kind of treatment.

The dentist will take an impression of your teeth and then some temporary placeholders will be fitted to your teeth, whilst the actual veneers are created. The veneers will be shaped, sized, and coloured so that once they are fitted to your teeth they will be indistinguishable from normal, white, healthy teeth.

Porcelain Crowns

Not to be confused with porcelain veneers, although they are manufactured from the same material, they look completely different, and serve several different purposes.

They are mostly known as a means to replace a lost tooth but there are more uses for them than that. Crowns can protect broken teeth, keep a fractured tooth in one piece, and can prevent a tooth from breaking apart completely.

Of course, there is always the point that we mentioned about crowns replacing missing teeth, and as such bringing your smile back to its full complement of teeth.

Enamel Contouring

This is a treatment that can be used to re-contour teeth that may be overlapping, not symmetrical, cracked, or chipped. In effect, it reshapes the tooth back to how it should have looked originally, and it can normally be done in just one visit. However, the effect is not immediate and therefore the recontouring of the tooth is a cumulative result, rather than an instant one.

How to Know Your Diamond is a Fake  24 Feb 2021 5:03 PM (4 years ago)

Whether you’ve been gifted a piece of jewellery that you’re not sure of, or there are some inconsistencies with your engagement ring, you may be questioning your diamond’s authenticity. It can be easy to play off a fake diamond as a real one, causing some problems when you don’t buy from a reputable jeweller.

Buying from a high-quality, reputable jeweller such as www.diamondsandpearlsperth.com.au, is one way to know your diamond is real. However, how are you supposed to know if your diamond is fake? There are several ways to go about it.

See a Jeweller

Whether you just want peace of mind or you have genuine concerns, seeing a jeweller can be the way to know if your diamond is fake. Jewellers have years of experience in the industry, so any engagement ring or jewellery piece is no match for their eagle eye. Within minutes, they will be able to tell you whether you’ve got an authentic diamond or one that’s disappointedly fake.

Use Fog

Did you know you can tell a diamond is fake just by using your breath? Hold your diamond in front of your mouth and breath onto it to try and fog it up. Just like you would do to a pane of glass or a mirror.

If the stone fogs up and stays like that for a few seconds, then there’s a high probability that it’s a fake. Condensation doesn’t stick to the surface of a real diamond, so it will rarely fog up.

Buy a Blacklight

This technique is not fool-proof, but it can give you a fair idea of what to expect from fake and real diamonds. The majority of authentic diamonds (but not all) will show off a blue fluorescence under a blacklight. However, if you don’t see blue, but rather a grey, yellow, or green colouring, the diamond is more likely to be fake than authentic.

Use a Glass of Water

If you don’t have a piece of jewellery or an engagement ring, but rather a loose diamond, then you can use the water test to check if it’s real. Fill a glass with water and drop the diamond into it. Authentic diamonds have quite a high density, which means they will sink in water. A fake diamond doesn’t, so it will float.

With a Magnifying Glass

You don’t have to be a diamond expert to use a magnifying glass and tell if your diamond is fake or not. Believe it or not, you can know within seconds with this tool. Put it up to the diamond and look at the stone with magnification. You should be able to see imperfections in the stone. Of course, flawless diamonds do exist, but they tend to be quite expensive or created in a lab.

If your stone has no flaws whatsoever, it’s more likely to be a fake stone than a flawless diamond. But, if you’re not sure, try out the other methods alongside the magnifying glass one.

It’s never a nice feeling when you buy a piece of jewellery or engagement ring and believe it might be fake. Rather than always wonder, why not find out for sure? Any of these methods above can give you all the information you need.

5 Problems That Designer Teeth Veneers Will Eliminate 22 Feb 2021 8:46 PM (4 years ago)

You are hopefully aware that your dentists are there for more than just pulling out rotten teeth and filling those that can be saved. In fact, they offer a whole range of services and use a number of different treatments and procedures depending on what their patient requires.

Obviously, a lot of their work will relate to oral health, but they also do cosmetic dentistry too, which is the means by which teeth and gums are made to look better. This kind of work can range from whitening teeth to fitting dental implants, and there are even dentists who will etch tattoos on your teeth if you ever want your smile to truly stand out from the crowd.

On a less extreme level than having your teeth tattooed, one of the treatments that your dentist might recommend for you is veneers. These are made from ceramic material, which in most cases is porcelain. They are applied to the surface of teeth and can be used to treat several different issues and eradicate a number of problems as you see from what follows.

#1 Gaps Between Teeth

One of the most common reasons why patients approach their dentist for cosmetic dentistry, and veneers in particular, is their having large gaps between their teeth and wanting those gaps to be gone. Apart from the self-conscious aspect of knowing the gap is visible when they smile, people with gaps can find it more difficult to clean their teeth effectively due to food getting stuck in those gaps.

#2 Uneven Teeth

Apart from possible difficulties from grinding teeth or increased pressure on a certain part of your jawbone, uneven teeth are also a cause for someone to want to change the appearance of their smile. Veneers made to specific sizes, once applied, can make your teeth appear to be uniform in size and shape.

#3 Discoloured Teeth

Discoloured and stained teeth are frequently the reason for a patient requesting cosmetic surgery. Options such as teeth whitening exist, but for a more permanent solution, veneers can be applied. They can make teeth look naturally white but bear in mind that will only be the case if you maintain high levels of oral hygiene and cleaning, once the veneers have been applied.

#4 Cracked Or Chipped Teeth

Even someone who looks after their teeth diligently can suffer from a cracked or chipped tooth, with the most likely cause being some kind of accident where something, or someone, bumps into their mouth. The cruel irony is that a tooth which is damaged or broken in this way will be all the more noticeable when someone who otherwise has perfect teeth, smiles.

The degree of damage will dictate whether or not veneers would be the most suitable treatment, and if so, they will hide the offending damage. For more serious damage, the dentist may recommend an alternative treatment such as a crown.

#5 Worn Teeth

Worn teeth is an issue which can occur for individuals who tend to grind or their teeth, or clench their jaw closed a lot. Normally it is the top row of teeth that suffers the most damage, and one or more of them may start to wear to the point of being noticeably flatter than other teeth.

Veneers are one way in which this damage can be hidden, and your smile returned to its full glory, however, even with veneers fitted you should still seek guidance from your dentist as to how you can stop grinding your teeth.

Landscape Design For Small Gardens 16 Nov 2020 8:51 PM (4 years ago)

A small outdoor space doesn’t mean that you cannot have the garden of your dreams. Circumstances mean that some people have no option but to live in a small home with a small garden, for others, it is their preference. Whichever the reason Principal Landscapes advise that you can build a perfect garden if you customise the landscape design according to the space available.

Although smaller, it does not mean that you cannot use as much imagination to create your landscape design as you would if you had an enormous garden. The space might be limited, but your ideas need not be. To make sure your garden is utilised to the maximum, consider some of the suggestions we have made below.

Get creative with the shape of the garden because it’s a primary factor in determining the overall look of it. You can choose whatever pattern you like and what suits best according to the location and the available space.

Don’t settle for a conventional rectangular shaped lawn. Think outside the box and try a circular, oval, or even a square shape. Trim your plants and the edges of your lawn to convert it into the desired shape, to add some multi level dimensions consider garden pots from thebalconygarden.com.au.

Is your home the first choice of your family and friends for outdoor gatherings? If yes, then opt for smart furniture choices to maximise the potential of your little garden. Invest in folding chairs, extendable patio tables, or choose bench seating that will take less space than single seats.

The colour, style and pattern of paving stones is a decisive factor in the overall appearance of your garden. A landscape design for smaller spaces includes light coloured paving because using all darker shades will not go well with green plants and can make the area appear even smaller. The ideal choice would be to go for a blend of light and dark colour.

Research to find plants that are smaller, and which do not grow to large sizes.  Another suggestion is to use columnar trees or dwarf species of different plants to give your garden a perfect green outlook without taking too much space.

Do not clutter your garden with too many plants, shrubs, and flowers. Instead, a landscape design for a small garden will focus on growing the garden in a vertical direction. You can choose stacked crates, wall-mounted plants, small hanging baskets or railing planters. This will enable you to add a lot of greens to the garden despite the limited space..

Adding multiple levels can make your garden look bigger and provides a pleasing aesthetic feature at the same time. You can choose the lower level as the patio area, and the upper levels can be utilised as a lawn. Terraced landscaping can also create extra space for plants, and the lower level walls can be used as bench seating.

Ornaments and water features can add a lot of class to your landscape design, but they do take up space. If you wish to include them, choose intelligently by selecting suitable sizes and try to locate them logically so that they do not appear to clutter the small space.

Finally, do not use large boundary fences, assuming your neighbours are okay with that. This will make your garden look much bigger because the viewers cannot distinguish the boundaries of your garden and any greenery either side will appear as if it’s the same garden.

Tooth Tattoos And What They Add To Your Smile 16 Aug 2020 9:53 PM (4 years ago)

If we told you that the next time you want a tattoo, you should go and see your dentist, you might think we have gone mad. After all, a tattoo artist creates tattoos. Well, they do if the tattoo is going to be located anywhere on your skin. Still, the latest in individualistic body decoration is to have a tattoo on your teeth, and their popularity is growing exponentially.

Let us say from the outset that the dental procedure for having a tooth tattoo is not the same as you will go through if you want your children’s names on each arm, or your favourite rock group emblazoned across your back. In this respect, it is not the tattoo parlour you need to make an appointment for; it is your dentist or at least a dentist who offers tooth tattoos as one of their services.

Tooth tattoos can be either temporary or permanent, and here again, the process for each is entirely different. First, if you want a tattoo that will only last more than 24 hours, you can buy decals that stick to your tooth’s surface. These might be fine for a one-off event such as a party, but as we said, they last no more than a day.

Regular temporary tooth tattoos last for up to 3 months, and the fact that they are not permanent makes them highly popular as those who have them know they can change the artwork.

This is where we should say that, strictly speaking, we should not call these ‘tooth tattoos’, as they are created on crowns or veneers. Your dentist will first take an impression of your teeth and then send that to a dental lab that not only manufactures the crown but also has the skills to create the artwork for the tattoo.

Depending on your chosen tattoo design, the dental lab will add the tattoo to the crown and seal it there using a special dental sealant. This sealant will also protect the tattoo from the acids in food and your saliva. Once the crown has been created, it will be sent to your dentist, who will arrange an appointment for them to be fitted.

For permanent tooth tattoos, the process is entirely different, as this is where a dentist is drilling the artwork directly into your tooth’s enamel. The process can be lengthy and often lasts several hours, especially if the design is an intricate one.

As you will appreciate the skills a dentist needs, this kind of artistry will not exist in every dental practice, so you may have to go out of town to find a dentist who offers this kind of permanent tattoo service. Another factor to consider is that the cost of permanent tattoos will be much higher due to the required time and skills.

You must also understand that permanent tooth tattoos are not easily removed. You simply cannot brush them away; even drilling them away is a long and challenging. For this reason, if you choose a permanent tooth tattoo over a temporary one, ensure you want it for life.

Why You Should Invest Time and Money in Landscape Design 18 Dec 2019 7:30 PM (5 years ago)

It can be hard to decide whether or not to invest time and money into your landscape design. On the one hand, it can significantly improve your property’s appearance.

But on the other, it can cost money.

Intreeg Landscapes say if you’re on the fence about whether to enlist the help of a landscaping expert, dabble in some DIY, or touch your yard at all, then read on.

Here is why you should spend that money and take that time. It can all pay off in the end.

Improve Your Property’s Value

You may not think it, but it’s not just that new kitchen or bathroom that adds value to your home. It’s the new water feature in the yard, the freshly-painted fence, and neatly manicured lawns as well.

When prospective purchasers wander through your home, they are viewing both the inside and outside.

Landscape design can be worth the investment if it means you’re going to get more profit at the end of the sale.

It Looks Amazing

If you don’t think you’ve got a single creative bone in your body, then it’s worth considering a landscape design expert. While you may not be able to achieve a standout finish, a pro with years of experience can.

All you need to do is outline your expectations, budget, and anything you must have, then let the landscaper put together a plan. Once they’ve brought that plan to life, it will look incredible.

It’s Good For Your Health

There’s a reason why hospitals have gardens, plants in medical wards, and gift stores with bouquets.

Many studies prove the power of plant life.

Those who grow up in ‘green’ areas report lower stress levels, and the simple addition of a water feature, some small plants and shade sails in your yard can make you feel more in control and less hassled about life.

You’re bound to notice the difference in how you feel once your yard goes from being a barren wasteland to a peaceful green paradise.

Somewhere for Guests

On a beautiful summer’s day in Australia, no one likes to be cooped up inside.

However, if you invite guests over and you don’t have a landscaped yard with an entertainment area, then what other choice do you have?

The addition of time and money into landscape design means you can entertain to your heart’s content. You will also have somewhere to sit and relax with a book and beverage on the weekends.

When some things in life cost time and money, it can take a long time for people to see the value. They weigh up the pros and cons and spend more time thinking about something than doing it. When it comes to landscaping, you are going to want to jump into action. The sooner you put a plan in place, the quicker you can reap the many rewards.

Benefits of Dental Design Procedures 13 Dec 2018 9:56 PM (6 years ago)

When you see the price tag of some dentist offerings, you may wonder why people make twice-yearly appointments. However, once you know what’s involved in any cosmetic dentistry procedure and how a dentist can virtually design the perfect smile, you’ll realise it’s not out of the question.

There are many benefits associated with cosmetic dentistry, and before long, you’ll be making an appointment of your own.

Feel More Confident about Smile

Dentists say that an alarming number of people choose to look miserable in photos because they aren’t happy with their teeth. Some people prefer to show a close-mouthed, neutral look, even at the most joyous time of their life, because their teeth make them feel self-conscious. A dentist can design a new smile, meaning you’ll be more confident to show your teeth and grin – both in photos and during happy occasions.

Teeth whitening can offer that gleaming, sparkly look you see on models on TV. Caps and veneers, on the other hand, are ideal for closing gaps, removing chips, and taking care of permanent staining.

Improve Your Work Prospects

Nearly a third of Americans in a study said they observed a person’s teeth the first time they met them. They would then go on to remember them after the meeting was over. Healthy teeth leave a lasting impression – especially for future bosses and hiring managers.

If you are about to apply for a new job, and your teeth are not how you would prefer them to be, then it might be time to ask your local cosmetic dentist what they can do for you. An in-chair or take-home whitening treatment may be all it takes to turn heads. Otherwise, you can fill gaps with dental implants. Improve your job prospects as quickly as letting your dentist design your new smile.

Boost Your Self-Esteem

How confident would you feel if you were missing your two front teeth? What if you had severely damaged teeth that showed when you smiled? You would likely avoid being the centre of attention, potentially missing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Boost your self-esteem with the help of a dentist.

They can offer Invisalign braces to fix your crooked teeth, whitening to improve the shade, and veneers to fix that gap that always brings you down. You would be surprised at how having a mouth full of perfect teeth can change how you feel about yourself.

You might think that a trip to the dentist is all about getting fillings and scraping away plaque, but it’s not. A cosmetic dentist can design a killer smile that boosts your confidence self-esteem, and opens a whole new world for you. See your cosmetic dentist and find out the benefits for yourself.

Web Design: Early Web Browsers And Changes 4 Sep 2018 2:17 AM (6 years ago)

For us to appreciate the state of the Internet today, it is essential to have a solid understanding of where web browsers and websites originally came from. For web designers and digital marketing agencies, understanding the history of web pages, and the evolution they have undergone, we can begin to comprehend the drastic changes necessary before we could enjoy the internet for what it is today.

The Browser Wars

During what is commonly referred to as the “Browser Wars” early on, Microsoft and Netscape duked it out to see which would rise as the prevailing browser. For a long time, the victor appeared to be Netscape. However, when Internet Explorer 4 was introduced, popular opinion quickly shifted. As this browser essentially became a regular feature of Windows computers, it inherited all the more authority among the landscape of browsers. Also, because Windows computers were widely sought out at the time, naturally, users were more exposed to Internet Explorer than its competition.

Since most people at the time were beginning to warm up to the idea of personal computers, Internet Explorer was essentially seared into their minds as a search engine. Also, as Microsoft had a much larger budget of disposable income available than its counterpart Netscape, it more efficiently funded its own IE development.

Other Browsers Along The Way

Naturally, Netscape made its source code open-source, finally landing in Mozilla’s hands. As Mozilla underwent many years of development as a non-profit foundation, it eventually launched Firefox in 2004. Firefox rapidly grew in popularity, as well as its user database. Fast-forward to 2008, and the next heavy-hitter in the browser wars became Google Chrome. With Google Chrome leading the pack currently, Firefox, Internet Explorer, and various smaller browsers have their competition laid out for them.

Today, browsers are much more friendly toward curious users who wish to discover their inner workings. This is because the landscape of browsers currently includes much more open-source code than ever before. Open source code allows us to gauge the internal dynamics of our software.

Rendering Engines

For example, we can now see the programming that lies behind browser rendering engines. During the early days of web browsers, none of this source code was available to the public. Images and HTML are some tasks that rendering engines are responsible for. They are also helpful in summoning the data available within PDFs. Unquestionably, what we see today is the result of the early pioneering and productivity of people like Tim Berners-Lee.

As web browsers have undergone drastic changes in development, websites themselves and the careers of web designers have broadened in scope. Within the following few versions of early HTML, web pages were swiftly becoming more capable of displaying visuals and more savvy text blocks.

Web Design and How it Helps Your Business Succeed 30 Mar 2018 1:32 AM (7 years ago)

The digital age has seen all businesses move their marketing strategies to the online realm in order to garner the most success. Every business needs to have a good online presence if they want to keep a competitive edge in this day and age. Having a good online presence relies on several things being taken into consideration but the most important aspect of it all is the website of your business. Having a basic website is not good enough to count as a strong online presence, your company’s website needs to have good web design in order to be helpful for the success of your business.

Importance of Good Web Design

There are several key elements which contribute to making a good online presence. The web design for your company’s own website makes up a crucial aspect of it all.

If you are wondering exactly how important it is to have a good web design, you should know that the web design can either make or break the success of your online business. The website of a business is the first impression which the customers have of the business. It takes just a few seconds for a visitor to your website make a decision about whether or not they want to engage with your business. Here’s a look at how a good web design can benefit your business.

1. Brand Consistency

Everybody likes consistency, especially when they are online. Having a good web design means that the website design will have the company’s brand designing integrated into it. All of the pages on your company’s website will follow a similar theme that is representative of your company’s brand. What this does is that it ensures consistency and makes the experience of being on your company’s website more streamlined.

2. Navigation

This just might be the most important way web design can benefit your business and its online presence. It is especially relevant when there is a lot of information on your website and there are multiple pages. A good web design is going to enable the visitors to your website to navigate easily and understand what is there on your website much better. It’s no use having a website if it cannot convey what it needs to with ease.

3. Engagement

Having a good web design will mean that the layout of your website is going to be more attractive. The more appealing your website is, the more likely it is that they will stick around and engage with your business. Your website really needs to have the aesthetics that are both pleasing to the visitor and they convey your company’s message clearly. You can only achieve that if you have a good web design.

Bottom Line

All the successful businesses in this day and age have already created good websites. They have websites which convey their company’s message, they are easily accessible, provide convenient navigation options and reel the visitors in to improve their chances of engagement and sales.

Your company’s website is the first handshake between you and your potential customers and a determining factor for if they will engage with your business or ignore you and look for the next thing.

Delightful Garden Design Features That are Easy to Install 31 Oct 2017 5:49 PM (7 years ago)

Even the most ordinary garden can be easily jazzed up by using some kind of garden feature to enhance it. If you are on a budget, don’t worry because they don’t all require a landscaping specialist or a builder to install them. Many are simple weekend DIY projects that anyone can attempt successfully with a little preparation.

• The garden arch – an old fashioned favourite that will remind you of country cottages and never fails to add charm wherever it is placed. Most arches seem to be used over a gate, but don’t be limited by that. Your arch can go over a pathway, at the back door, or even become a feature in the middle of the garden with a bird bath under it. Choose a solid one, not the el-cheapo that will rust out or rot in a few years. Grow your favourite climber over it – roses are popular – but make sure you choose one that won’t grow out of control or be too heavy for the arch. An arch can be a simple metal structure or you could have a larger, wider timber one that is strong enough for a grape vine or another heavy climber.

• The folly – this is a charming addition to the lawn or garden. It is mostly composed of a gate between two gateposts, but it is not in a fence, hence the name, folly. You can add a panel of fence such as a timber rail that slopes from the top of the gatepost down to the ground for a more rustic effect. Grow a rambling rose or even a cucumber or pumpkin vine over it. It looks wonderful in the centre of the lawn and you can even add a bird bath nearby.
• If your block is larger, a meandering gravel or stepping stone pathway lined with compact, low hedging bushes is a delight to follow. The children will enjoy playing hide and seek in and around it, and it can lead to a feature such as a water-filled urn, an especially attractive shrub or tree with bench seat under it.
• Attached a white painted lattice with wider squares, to your patio or back deck. Grow pale pink climbing roses on it for an enchanting look. Of course, you could be bolder and paint the lattice black, then add something like yellow or red roses for a riot of colour.
• Create a hidden place with hedges, shrubs, a shady tree, not too tall and bench seating. Add a small table to hold your coffee and you’ll find many excuses to sit out in the garden and relax. Add wind chimes, an urn or some pretty pot plants – and a gnome or two for fun.

5 Tips For Successful Interior Design 14 Oct 2017 11:58 PM (7 years ago)

Whether you are choosing the interior design your entire home or just one or two rooms, there are several ways you can make the whole process, and most importantly the final result, successful. Here they are for you in no particular order.

#1 Think Comfort Before Looks

Renovation Network tell us that one of the biggest mistakes people make is they fall in love with a style or look of an item such as a chair. They then buy it, and when it arrives realise it is not fit for purpose because it is too uncomfortable to sit on for any length of time. Always ensure that when you are selecting chairs, sofas, stools and beds, you remember that their purpose is to be used, and to be comfortable.

#2 Don’t Rush It

There are countless interior design projects that have fallen by the wayside because the person ran out of money before they could complete it. The main reason for this is that they rushed out and bought everything at once, including the more expensive and luxurious items. Be patient by purchasing the items which are essential first, and then as your budget allows, buy the luxuries one by one.

#3 De-Clutter As Much As You Can

Have you ever noticed that employees with uncluttered desks at work seem to be stress-free and more relaxed than those with mess everywhere and paperwork piled high? The same principle applies at home, so if you want to live in a calm and peaceful atmosphere, design its interior so that there is the minimum of clutter and unnecessary bric-a-brac everywhere. The more free space you can create in a room, especially on surfaces such as tables and units, the better.

#4 Discuss Designs With Your Family

If you have a partner, spouse, children or other family living with you, their input and suggestions should certainly be considered. This is especially true if you are designing a room that is used solely by them, such as their bedroom. Just because you love orange walls in your bedroom, does not mean anyone else in your family does, so you should be willing to incorporate their own personal preferences into your design plans.

#5 You Don’t Have To Follow The Crowd

When designing your home interior, you will no doubt see and hear lots of suggestions especially in relation to the current ‘hot’ designs. Go for something that is currently in vogue if it fits in with your tastes and likes, but do not feel obliged to just because it is what everyone else is doing.

Remember, you spend a lot of time at home so you want it to be a place that you feel comfortable in, enjoy being there and are happy to live in. What you choose for your interior designs throughout your home should be what you want and not just a current trend that is popular.

Web Design For Beginners 4 Oct 2017 1:02 AM (7 years ago)

Web design has never been the easiest career path to embark on for those who are interested. However, that does not mean it cannot be done. Through hard work and diligence, as well as perhaps an ideal mentorship (online or in person), becoming a web designer is achievable. Beginning in 2014, the projected web designer career growth was estimated to be 24%.

In 2017, this statistic has certainly proved to be true, and the field is still steadily growing. In terms of getting on the path to becoming a web designer, most people have no idea where to begin. This is completely fine! It is normal to feel overwhelmed in the beginning. However, by taking it one step at a time, you will soon be looking back on these days as though you had nothing to be afraid of.

HTML And CSS
Every web designer gets started differently. They all begin honing a different aspect of the craft itself. It is recommended, that you begin building your base skill set by learning the basics of HTML and CSS. Every graphic designer needs to have a good grasp of both.

The Value Of Sketching

Experienced web designers, will often confess to skipping over sketching and jumping straight into Photoshop during their early days. This can be a big mistake. Amateur designers, have a tendency to overlook the importance of sketching out their ideas initially. It’s sort of like having an outline, if you were to undertake writing a novel. By creating an outline or sketch, you can flesh out an idea and ultimately save yourself a lot of time, if the idea is not worthy of being pursued.

As a designer, one of the most important things to keep in mind, is that the client most likely does not view your art as sacred. Of course, no designer wants to hear this, especially after putting their blood sweat and tears, into a project. But this is often the case, as many projects are likely to change.

Fix Problems As Soon As They Arise

From the beginning, you want to build the habit of fixing problems, as soon as they arise. What you don’t want to do is ignore what doesn’t work, hope the client won’t notice, and then have to redo the entire effort from the beginning. So as soon as bugs are discovered, go out of your way to ensure that they are eradicated. This entails being flexible, to make adjustments for the sake of your client.

Stay Learning!

You never want to reach a stage in your career as a web designer, where you stop learning. As the saying goes, you are only as young (or in this case, skilled) as the last time you took it upon yourself to change your mind. The moment that you stop learning, will be the same moment that another designer gets the job you wanted all along. Web design is an in-demand field, therefore you need to do everything you can to stay ahead of the game. Outdated and obsolete websites, receive little to no traffic, leaving their owners frustrated. By keeping up with the latest trends, you can more easily rest assured, that your pages will be frequently visited.