Make use of that awkward space

We all crave the large, airy, light-filled rooms featured in interior magazines that promise relaxation and sophistication without the real life tangles of TV wires and cluttered surfaces, and unsuitable furniture.

In reality, most houses and flats include at least one awkward space, maybe a narrow hallway, or a tiny study struggling to double as a spare bedroom, or an oddly-shaped lounge.

Surprisingly, these can prove to be assets. Problem rooms can be transformed into charming and original spaces with just a bit of knowledge, confidence and the ability to highlight the positive points and minimise the negative. We all have a room that we wish we could fix. Either it's too small, too dark, too narrow, has a low ceiling, or other undesirable features. Here are some tips:

Go smaller 

Is your room too big? Divide it into more intimate areas. Grouping a couple of chairs with a love-seat  two chairs and a small table, a sofa and chair, or other similar arrangements will make the room seem cosy. Warm colours advance visually, so painting the room a warm colour will make the room seem more intimate.

Small spaces 

Internal windows are a clever way of increasing light, and giving small rooms a welcome outlook into adjoining areas.

Narrow spaces 

Distract attention from a room's narrowness by adding a dramatic colour or painting to one of the shorter walls. Place a sofa covered in a horizontal stripe fabric on a short wall, which tricks the eye into seeing the wall as wider.

Awkward shaped rooms 

Be bold when decorating an oddly-shaped room a half-hearted attempt makes the whole thing look like a mistake. Choose a soft colour or subtle print -anything too dark will make the walls close in. Soften angles and strong lines by painting walls and ceiling white or a pale receding colour. Create symmetrical displays on shelves and tables to offset angles.

Go taller 

Is your ceiling too low? Add height to your room with tall, vertical elements, such as bookcases. Long curtains which drape on the floor can also add visual height, as will tall lamps or torches. Painting the ceiling a light, cool colour (which appears to recede) will make the room seem brighter and more open. Stretch a room's height by using full-length curtains on windows regardless of their size. Use up-lighters to direct soft light towards the ceiling making it appear further away. Accentuate the vertical with floor-to-ceiling stripes on walls.

Go shorter 

Is your room too tall? Lower the ceiling by incorporating more horizontal lines in the room. Shelves, art and crown moldings are just a few of the elements that can lower the height of the room. Another way to lower the room is to install molding or chair rails one half to three quarters of the way up the walls. This trick visually shortens the room. Painting the ceiling a dark, warm colour will also shorten the visual space.

Go brighter 

Uncover windows by opting for shutters instead of curtains, or sweep drapes clear of the frame back onto walls. Paint garden fences and walls white or a pale colour to bounce light into the interior. Lay pale-coloured paving stones below doors and windows for a lightening effect. Use sparkly, shiny surfaces to bounce light around a room — mirrors, kitchen units in stainless steel, or mirrored splash backs.

Makeover Magic for Small Spaces

We have a lot of questions about how to decorate small rooms and spaces. Homes of all sizes and shapes often have small rooms that can pose decorating questions like these...

How can I make this space the most functional? Or how can I make this small space stylish and inviting?

And, the most frequent question of all... Is there any way to make this room look bigger?

Here are some design tips:

1. Limit the furniture in the room. Keep the furniture pieces small in scale...in other words, use a love seat instead of a sofa, and consider a slipper chair instead of an over sized easy chair. Large, bulky furniture pieces will only make the room look smaller.
2. Make sure that the major furniture pieces are upholstered in either a solid colour, or a very subtle pattern. If your sofa has a bold pattern, consider slip covering it in a solid colour, if you don't want to pay for reupholstering.
3. Use patterns sparingly, and in small areas. Good choices for pattern usage are throw pillows, floor rugs and throws/blankets. As a general rule, any patterns in the room - upholstery, window treatments, rugs, wallpaper - should be small in scale. That is to say, think of a small, delicate floral print rather than a pattern with large, dramatic flowers.
4. Hang mirrors of any size on the walls. Mirrors are probably the easiest way to instantly expand a space.
5. Paint walls in a solid colour, or use a very subtle faux finish with two very similar colours combined. If you opt for wallpaper, go with either a solid colour or an extremely subtle pattern.
6. Use cool colours (blues, violets, greens) on the walls to give the impression of expansion. But if you like warm colours don't worry - you can paint the walls in a neutral colour with a slight cool overcast. For example, you can use a white with a slight tint of blue (rather than a slight tint of red), or a cream with a slight tint of green (rather than a slight tint of orange).
7. If there are few or no windows in the room, hang paintings in attractive frames to create the feeling of a window-clad room.
8. Be sure to keep clutter to a minimum. To make this very easy, ensure that the room has adequate hidden storage spaces. Take advantage of tables or armoires with drawers, window seats with storage space underneath, and coffee tables that open up for storage.
9. Think vertical! Use tall furniture pieces (bookshelves, armoires) to extend the perceived height of the ceiling. Place decorative accents at the top of tall furniture pieces, such as real or artificial greenery, to draw the eye upward. Hang long drapes from the ceiling that reach to the floor. Line the top of the wall, where it meets the ceiling, with shelving or a wallpaper border. 

The Colour Needs of Your Home

Always wondered whether the sofa complements your wall colour? Or the curtains go with the cushion?

Here are a few home styling ideas from our very own styling expert @home that will answer all the queries you always had when styling your home.

• Placing a rug in your living room can give a different emphasis of colour to your room.
• By changing the rug you can change the whole character of the room.
• Keep your sofa a few inches away from the wall. This will make your room look more spacious.
• Wall shelves are a great way to display decorative items.
• It is easy to install and adds a great decorative element to any room.
• Smaller pieces of furniture like nest of tables and cabinets which also complement your main piece of furniture can make all the difference.
• Now that you are all equipped with new home styling ideas, take time out from your maddening schedule and go ahead, style your world.

Tips to Renovate Your Home

Renovating your home has never been an easy task. Here gives some tips that you should keep in mind while renovating your home.

It always starts with a small change in the house and then it's just a cascading effect. While getting your kitchen painted, it might just strike you that why not renovate the whole house? But it's easier said than done. It might take good three to four months for your whole house to be re-done. Here are some important points you should take care of.

Do your homework

As rightly said, grass is always greener on the other side. You may want the same wall colour as what you saw in one of those magazines, but do you actually think you can stay with it for a considerable amount of time? Mark the key zones in the house you want to work on. If its the door and cabinet knobs you want to change, choose one from a store or order them before you start off with renovating.

Hire professionals or 'Self-help' yourself?

It is always advisable that you decide whether you want professionals helping you or are you competent enough to handle the whole change on your own. You can always combine the two as well.

Where's the moolah?

Renovating your den is not a joke. If you've decided to go ahead with your plans, then why not put in some decent amount of money and get the desired results, rather than being unhappy about the outcome for years to come. And for this you need to check your liquid cash. Moreover, do have a rough calculation for the amount you want to spend. This regardless of the fact that you will overspend from what you have decided.

One of the most important thing to keep in mind while renovating is the electrical wiring and the switch boards. Preferably you should have them behind furniture or cabinets so that it does not look bad. Do not forget to ask the workers to leave behind a can or two of the same paint just in case you have to do some touch ups.

Comfort zone with the workers

With so many people coming in and out of your place, you might just lose your cool for some reason. Try not to. They are there to work for what you have wanted, so be patient.

Stop Running Toilets from Wasting Your Water

Running toilets are not only noisy and annoying, they are wasteful, too. Fixing a running toilet is usually a simple, inexpensive fix any homeowner can do.

A running toilet is usually the result of one of two things: a poorly functioning ball-cock valve or flush-valve assembly. To find the source of your running toilet problem, take a look inside. Remove the top cover from the toilet, then flush and see what happens.

If the water runs but does not fill up the tank, the flush-valve (stopper ball) at the bottom of the tank is the problem. 

1. To replace the stopper ball, turn off the water to the toilet tank. The shut-off is usually located behind and below the toilet tank. Flush the toilet.
2. Unhook the guide wires or chains that attach the stopper ball to the handle assembly. Remove the old, faulty stopper ball.
3. Set the new stopper into place on the valve seat. Slide the collar back down the overflow tube and center over the ball. Secure the collar to the ball.
4. Attach the ball chain to the handle arm, leaving half an inch of slack on the chain. Test the assembly and replace the toilet cover.

A running toilet can also be the result of a toilet tank that is overfilling, pouring water down the overflow tube. In a properly functioning toilet, the tank will stop filling about three-quarters of an inch below the top of the overflow tube. When you watch the internal mechanism of your toilet work, if water fills to the top and over the over-flow tube, the ball-cock assembly (float and arm) are the likely culprit. To test this, lift up on the float arm. If the overflow stops, the float assembly needs to be adjusted or replaced.

A float may malfunction if it is cracked and filling with water. The heavy ball does not rise high enough to lift the lever and stop the filling action. To fix a cracked ball-float, simply unscrew the ball (counterclockwise) from the end of the float arm and screw on a new float.

If the ball-float is intact, bend the float arm slightly and flush the toilet. If the tank fills properly, the problem is solved. If the tank continues to overfill after these measures, the washers on the ball-cock assembly are probably worn and need to be replaced. Turn off the water to the tank. Disassemble the ball-cock from the lever. Remove and replace the washers. Put the assembly back together and flush.

A toilet that is still overflowing after these measures needs a new fill valve. Purchase one and install according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Most problems with running toilets are quickly fixed by troubleshooting and following these steps, or replacing inexpensive, internal mechanisms improperly functioning from wear after repeated use. Persistent problems that cannot be remedied may require consulting a licensed plumber.

How to Repair a Running Toilet

A running toilet can be a simple thing to fix, and the water savings add up quickly. Start with the simplest solutions first. If those don’t work, move on to the more serious repairs.

what you'll need

• Pliers
• Flapper
• Toilet float ball
• Tank to bowl bolts and gasket
• Flush valve

Step 1 – Fix the Rod or Chain

First, check the guide rod or chain on the tank flapper. If the rod is bent or the chain links are twisted, simply straighten them.

Step 2 – Adjust or Replace the Float

Next, check the float mechanism. If lifting the ball stops the water from running, try to bend the float arm down to get the right buoyancy. If the ball has water in it, it needs to be replaced. Replace it by unscrewing it from the arm and putting a new one in its place.

Step 3 – Clear, Clean or Replace the Flapper

If the toilet is still running, the valve seat and flapper may have corrosion or build-up, preventing the flapper from closing. Lift the flapper up and check for any objects in the way. Gently scour the seat and the rim. If there is a great deal of damage, replace the flapper.

Step 4 – Replace the Flush Valve

The flush valve assembly may have to be replaced if the toilet is still running. Take the old parts with you when purchasing the new inside gaskets and assembly to ensure a perfect match. If the shaft of the assembly is cracked, the whole shaft and assembly need to be replaced.

Replacing the flush valve involves removing the tank from the bowl. After removing the tank, turn it over and remove that large plastic nut in the middle of the tank. Remove the flush valve from the tank, take it to the hardware store and buy a new one. Install it and put the tank back on the bowl.

TIP: Get It Fixed’s plumbing consultant Kumar suggests, “You may want to get a new tank to bowl gasket and replace that, as well as new tank to bowl bolts. As long as you have the tank off, I recommend doing it all at once to avoid future problems. When installing the tank on the bowl, tighten the bolts one side at a time… slowly with the same tension on each side. If you tighten one side too tight, when you tighten the other side it may crack the tank.

Cleaning Burned Milk off a Cooktop

When boiling milk, it only takes a second for the milk to boiled over and burn fast to the cooktop. There are several cleaning tips, depending on the type of cooktop you have, that will remove the burned milk without damaging the surface.

Glass and Ceramic Cooktops

When milk boils over and burns fast, it's imperative to clean it as soon as possible because it can interfere with heating and can cause smoke.

Step 1 - Making the Paste

First, pour as much baking soda into a bowl as you like because the paste can be stored in an airtight container. Next, add small amounts of warm water to the baking soda and stir until you form a paste.

What you'll need

• Baking soda
• Warm water
• Razor scraper
• Lint free towel
• Paper towel
• White vinegar
• Mild dish detergent
• Scouring pad
• Dish detergent
• Paper towels

Step 2 - Cleaning the Cooktop

Mix a small amount of detergent with water until soapy, then clean the cooktop with a paper towel. Dry the cooktop off with a lint free towel and then rub the baking soda paste over the burned milk on the cooktop. Wait up to an hour, then use the razor scraper to remove the paste like you're shaving. Make sure the razor is as flat as you can get it. If the burned milk is still hanging around you can repeat this step.

Step 3 - Buffing and Finishing

Now that the burned milk is gone, you can make the cooktop good as new. Mix white vinegar to warm water at a 2:4 ratio. Dip the paper towel into the solution and scrub the cooktop down. This is a slow process but important if you want that shine back. Finally, dampen the lint free towel and wipe down the cooktop to remove the vinegar and any residue. Do not use the cooktop until it's completely dry.

Metal and Standard Cooktops

Milk and other things that are spilled and burned onto standard cooktops are much easier to clean, but there are more parts and areas to consider as well.

Step 1 - Burners

Fill your sink with warm water and add a cup of baking soda, stirring until the baking soda has dissolved. Place the metal risers into the water and allow them to soak. In about an hour remove them and set them on top of a towel and let them air dry. Rinse off with normal water then wipe down with paper towels.

Step 2 - Cooktop and Underneath

Mix water to dish detergent at a ratio of 2:1 and fill a spray bottle with it. Add a drop of vinegar for those tougher spills. Spray the solution onto the cooktop and let it sit for ten minutes. Use the scouring pad to scrub the sprayed area and remove the burned milk. Next, use a damp lint free towel to wipe off any residue. Lift the top of the oven up to reveal the burners and reservoir area, then repeat what you did on the cooktop. Lower it and replace the metal risers.

GIF Cleaning Methods: Cleaning Your Kitchen

More and more of us are becoming more active in doing the things that our grandparents did without a thought, like maintaining our own yards and cleaning our own homes.

This guide is designed to help you clean your home thoroughly, easily, and quickly, using tried and true techniques that have been proven effective for generations, along with a few tricks your grandmother never knew about. After reading this guide, you’ll be better prepared to:

• Clean your kitchen
• Remove food stains
• Remove pet stains
• Clean your carpet
• Clean your furniture

Clean Your Kitchen

The kitchen is the one room in the home where cleanliness is a must, for the obvious reasons. But, it’s also the one room that doesn’t get the cleaning it deserves on a routine basis. If you do it right, it really won’t take that long.

The Cooktop

Grease and other types of grime can easily accumulate on cooktops over the course of preparing a meal. These surfaces typically range from modern ceramic/glass cooktops, to traditional baked enamel finishes on electric or gas ovens. Special attention is necessary for each type.

Cleaning a Ceramic/Glass Cooktop – Wait until the cooktop is completely cool and then sprinkle baking soda (or another non-abrasive cleaner) on the surface. Use a damp synthetic scouring pad or sponge to rub the surface. Rinse with clean water, making sure you get all of the debris up and then buff the surface with a clean cloth until it is finished. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents or steel wool scouring pads, as they will permanently mar the surface.

Cleaning a Baked Enamel Cooktop – Washing the surface of a baked enamel oven or stove with warm soapy water after each use will help maintain a pristine cooktop. Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents and steel wool pads, as they will damage the surface finish. Reflector bowls, grids and drip pans should be washed in soapy water whenever anything is spilled on them. If you have a gas oven, use a thin metal wire (avoid using toothpicks as they can break off) to clear the holes on the burners. To make cleaning the cooktop easier, remove all of the plastic knobs and soak them in warm soapy water while you clean the surface. After washing the knobs, dry them with a clean towel and reinstall them.

The Countertops

For routine countertop cleaning, a mild dish detergent works wonderfully. Before you begin, remove all of the appliances and cutting boards. Wash the entire counter with a soft sponge and warm soapy water. Allow it to sit on one section of the countertop while you move on to the next section. Use clean hot water to thoroughly rinse the countertops and buff them dry with a clean towel. When replacing the appliances you removed earlier, be sure to wipe down the bottoms prior to setting them back on your clean counter.

The Sink

If your sink has dried food sticking to the sides, fill up the sink with hot water prior to cleaning it. This will help make it easier to get the food particles off the stainless steel or porcelain. Next, sprinkle baking soda or your choice of non-abrasive cleaner and scrub everything down with a non-abrasive scouring pad. Baking soda offers a double benefit, as it not only cleans well but it also helps to control odors after it’s rinsed down the drain. After rinsing the sink, wipe it down with a clean dry towel. This will help prevent water spots from forming on your stainless steel sink.

The Appliances

Baking soda can not only get your kitchen appliances looking and smelling their best, but in the right solution it can even bring back the brightness of their white exteriors. For general cleaning, mix ¼-cup of baking soda with ½-cup of white vinegar in a gallon of clean hot water. Scrub the appliances with a non-abrasive scouring pad or sponge and then rinse it with clean water and dry. For improving the white exterior of appliances, mix ¼-cup of baking soda with 2 cups of warm water and wipe the exterior down with the solution. Allowing it to stand on the appliance for about 15 minutes. Rinse the solution off with clean warm water and you should notice an improvement in the whiteness of the appliance’s exterior.

The Cabinets

Cabinets can easily become smudged with dirty fingerprints, food and grease, and the longer you let them go between cleanings, the harder it is to get them clean again. For routine cleaning, a simple solution of warm water and liquid dish soap will do the trick. But, for heavy duty cleaning, a commercial cleanser will work better. When using stronger agents, always test the solution out on an inconspicuous part of the cabinet first, to make sure it doesn’t ruin the finish.

Cleaning Your Gas Stove and Oven

Regular cleaning of your gas cook stove will keep it looking as good as the day you bought it, but you need to take care with the cleaning products you use on your gas stove or oven. Many commercial cleansers and abrasives will cause discoloration and can scratch gas stove and oven surfaces.

Before cleaning any gas stove or oven surface, be sure the unit is off and completely cooled. Steam burns can occur from wiping a hot surface with a wet cloth or sponge. Follow these guidelines for care and cleaning without damaging your gas stove or gas oven surfaces.

Surface Burners and Burner Box

Most newer gas stove models have sealed stove top burners. This means they are completely sealed off from the burner box (area of the stove top below the metal cook top). Sealed burners should never be removed by home owners - it's a job only for professionals during installation and service. Sealed burners also mean that food and spills cannot spill into the burner box, so removing the burners is not necessary in order to clean the stove top  If you have an older model stove with a lift-up cook top, follow your manufacturer's instructions for opening the surface for cleaning.

Regular cleaning of spills will lessen your cleaning work load. Wipe your stove top after each use when it has cooled. Clean burners with dish soap and a plastic scouring pad. Stubborn cooked-on spills can be cleaned with a mild abrasive cleanser and a cloth, or make a paste from baking soda and water for a mild homemade alternative. Wash removable burner grates in a sink full of warm, soapy dishwater with a plastic scouring pad. Rinse all parts with warm clear water and dry.

Be careful to avoid the gas ports on your burners. If they should become plugged with debris, poke the ports clean with a toothpick or straight pin, or brush gently with a soft-bristled brush. For pilot-less stoves, check the port and area below the igniter wire and clear it as well. Debris left under the igniter can keep the gas burner from lighting.

Clean the solid cook top surface with soapy water. Avoid abrasives and harsh chemicals as they can damage the surface of stove top finishes like porcelain enamel. Rubbing alcohol and household ammonia diluted with water (1:1 ratio) are other good stove top cleansers that will leave your top shining.

Controls

Remove control knobs and wash them in warm, soapy water. For clocks and display areas, wipe with a damp cloth and dry. If you are cleaning the display with glass cleaner, spray it first on a cloth and not directly on the surface to avoid cleaner seeping inside the mechanisms. Replace controls after they are cleaned and turn each one on briefly to ensure proper replacement.

Oven Door

The oven door on nearly all ovens is removable for easier cleaning. Avoid soaking the door or window with excessive amounts of water; it can seep inside and caused staining or discoloration. Wash the door and window with soap and water and rinse with clear water. Use glass cleaner only if sprayed on a cloth first. Do not use abrasive pads, powdered cleaners, or steel wool on glass and enamel, or the surfaces will be scratched.

Oven Interior

Mild abrasive cleaners and plastic pads can be used inside the oven. Metal scouring pads will scratch the oven's surface. Commercial oven cleaners should be used according to manufacturer's instructions.

Acidic spills (like tomato and milk bases) should be wiped up as soon as possible to prevent discoloration of the porcelain. To absorb a spill when it is hot, pour salt on it and wipe it up when the oven has cooled. A mildly abrasive baking soda and water paste can be used in the oven, too.

Remove oven racks and clean them in warm, soapy water. Stubborn messes can be cleaned by using mild abrasive cleansers or a soap filled scouring pad. Rinse and dry the racks before returning them to the oven. For easier cleaning of oven racks, soak and wash them in the bathtub - they fit much better into a bath.

Trim

Spills and drips from fat, grease, and acidic foods like tomatoes should be wiped up immediately using a paper towel to keep your trim and finishes from discoloring.

Metal trim can be cleaned with glass cleaners or mild cleansers, soap and water. Abrasives or cleaners made for oven interiors should not be used. Plastic trim pieces are best cleaned with a glass cleaner on a soft cloth. Any abrasives and harsh cleansers can cause pitting and discoloration to oven surfaces, and so should not be used.

For a good, general, all-around cleaner for your gas stove and gas oven, use warm, soapy water. Avoid anything that is very caustic or abrasive. Baking soda and water pastes are good back-up, mild abrasives. When using commercial cleansers, read the manufacturer's directions to be sure it is safe for use on your stove's finishes. Consistent care and cleaning of your gas stove top and oven will keep your appliance shining and new looking.

5 Tips on Creating a Sexy Bedroom

Spice things up by turning your sleeping space into a sexy bedroom. A sensuous room makeover will help you relax or may even improve your relationship without even costing much. Keep these tips in mind when you decide to redecorate your space to create a romantic ambiance.   

Tip 1 - Remove Clutter

Your bedrooms might be crammed with excess furniture, paperwork, television sets, children’s toys, exercise machines or even books. Work to make your bedroom look spacious, comfortable and organized. Remove the unromantic clutter by discarding things you do not need—find another space for them in your home. Focus on creating a relaxing zone where you and your partner can communicate, so banish anything that causes interruptions.   

Tip 2 - Transform the Walls

There is nothing like a paint job to transform the look of the room. Paint your dull white walls a bold romantic color such as light red or honey gold. If a passionate deep red strikes your fancy, use it for one of the walls, since painting the entire room a dark color will make it look smaller. You can keep the ceiling white or go for a softer neutral tone.

Tip 3 - Bed and Bedding Detail 

Pick a bed that is comfortable and inviting. Novelty beds can be heart-shaped, vibrating or even rotating, but you can make even a standard king, queen or full very romantic.

Whether you purchase a new bed or use your old one, dress it up with silk sheets. These are luxurious, feel great against the skin and are known to enhance romance. A large variety of these sheets are available in stores. Purchase a set in bold colors like red or black, or with patterns. You may also spray some of your favorite fragrance on your bedding for either relaxation (scents like lavender and vanilla) or stimulation (citrus scents).

Tip 4 - Electronic Detail 

Keep some music handy to elevate your mood. You do not need a hi-fi stereo system to get things rolling—just a simple bedside stereo system will suffice. Play a selection of soft or classical music in the bedroom to relax.

Keep bedroom lighting minimal since you will be supplementing it with candles. Opt for mood lighting and select pink since it has a soft glow. Make sure all your bulbs are dimmable.

Stock your in-room minibar with a bottle of champagne to get things rolling, and chocolates or other treats for late night indulgences.  

Tip 5 - Add Additional Detail to Your Room

Spruce up your bedroom by paying attention to details. Use aromatherapy candles or potpourri to add fragrance, or even decorate with scented candles in all shapes and sizes. Purchase the ones that appeal to you. Colossal candles are best for bedrooms since they burn slowly and emit a passive light and faint smell.

Add romantic touches such as sequenced cushions for the bed, floor rugs with beautiful trim or even a luxurious bear skin rug.

11 Tips For A Bathroom Makeover

Followed by the kitchen, the bathroom is often one of the most used rooms in a home. With a few simple tips for a bathroom makeover, you can turn your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary. Not only will it help to escape from the daily grind, an updated bathroom may add value to the home in the end.

Tip #1 - Color Makes a Difference

Color can set a mood. Ask yourself what colors are most calming to you. Stick with neutral color tones like beige for a subtle, quiet appeal. Brighter colors can be added through accent tiles and accessories.

Tip #2 - Skylights

Skylights can add a feeling openness to a small bathroom, making it seem larger and more engaging.

Tip #3 - Wall Coverings

Rather than paint, choose a subtle print wall covering and/or a border to pep-up the walls.

Tip #4 - Mirrors

Instead of ordinary painted walls or wallpaper, try mirroring an entire wall of the bathroom for a more modern and sleek look. It will immediately open up the space and make it much more inviting.

Tip #5 - Wood Cabinetry

Wood cabinets can quickly add warmth to the bathroom space; darker woods like cherry and mahogany add depth.

Tip #6 - Countertops

Replace old countertops with newer countertops made of updated materials such as Travertine or slate. Formica countertops of the past tend to make bathrooms look outdated and dull.

Tip #7 - Custom Showers

Customize shower components to create an imaginable shower experience. Install new faucets, spa-like showerheads like “rain heads” and other streamlined additions to make the room feel like a day spa.

Tip #8 - Create Calm

Create a calming environment via some strategic lighting and sound can make a welcomed difference. Task lighting is said to work well for the shower and mirror areas while ambient lighting is best for relaxing in the bath or listening to music.

Tip #9 - Sound Systems

Sound can soothe the soul; a small stereo system can bring in music or music can often be piped in through the home's main stereo system.

Tip #10 - Commodes

Replace traditional white parceling toilets with newer models like tankless and/or sleek European designs that are popular and available at many home improvement centers or through professionals. Just by changing the toilet’s color can also make the world of difference.

Tip #11 - Sinks

Remove old sink basins that have stained or worn out their welcome and replace them with newer, state-of-the art vessel-shaped designs. These days, many homeowners are adding small make-up areas that are complete mirrors surrounded by matinee-like bulbs.

The bathroom has quickly gone from a place to wash and groom to one that has become a great getaway for many. Whether you do-it-yourself or hire a professional, your new bathroom should look great.

5 Apartment Makeover Tips

Your apartment has a case of the "blahs" and its time to freshen the place up! With a little time, a little effort and (best of all) with very little money you can give your apartment a nice little makeover that has a great big effect.

1. Clutter be gone: It's time to find a place for those things you said you'd find a place for last year. A space with no clutter has a chance to show off its lines. The general rule is: if you haven't touched it in three months (or forgot you even had it) throw it out! Remove or downsize the number of knickknacks, paintings or pictures, put them in a box and rotate them every other month! Less is definitely more!
2. Give furniture a new look: Grandma's slipcovers are a thing of the past. Now there are stylish slipcovers for living room furniture as well as for kitchen chairs that will give your dining area an elegant, sophisticated look. Check out slipcovers in a variety of colors and patterns that will add just the panache you're looking for!
3. Get creative with walls: Living in an apartment may mean that you've signed a lease that doesn't allow you to paint the walls. Not a problem! Buy a length of tasteful yet inexpensive cloth from a sewing store and drape it from chic and classy hooks. Add pictures or paintings to finish the look.
4. Grab a screwdriver: Nothing changes the look and theme of an apartment better than changing the knobs on cabinets or dresser drawers, light switch plates and curtain rods. (And when the time comes for you to move out, you can take it all with you!)
5. Lay it on: The easiest change to make in an apartment is also the quickest! A lovely area rug will pull a room together - and adding color coordinated rugs throughout the apartment will provide a lovely continuity throughout the entire living space, giving the final touch to your makeover.

Save Cash on Painting

Painting is one of the fastest and least expensive ways to revamp the look of a room or even your entire interior. But, it can still be somewhat costly.

Throughout my years of painting, though, I've run across some awesome money-saving tips. You can change the look of your home without breaking the bank.

Skip the Painter's Tape

One of the many mistakes I made when trying to paint my first apartment was snapping up rolls of painter's tape at the hardware store. Not only did it take a nice chunk out of my budget, but it also prompted my brother, the contractor, to give me that "Are you crazy?!" look that I've gotten so used to. I quickly learned that painter's tape can be a handy little prep tool, but it's not a necessity. At a few bucks a roll, painter's tape can tack on a hefty sum to your total painting costs, especially if you're painting several rooms.

Instead, Contractor Brother gave me a quick lesson on how to carefully cut in around windows, doors, and ceilings with an angled trim brush. Inexperienced painters or those with unsteady hands-like me-can also opt to use paint edging tools. To keep my project even cheaper, I used a piece of thin, rigid cardboard as a barrier between the wall I was painting and the area that I want to keep clean.

Replace Expensive Drop Cloths

Any painter knows that protecting your furniture and floors is important. After all, you don't want to end up with that bright blueberry paint on your nice new chocolate brown carpet. Odd combination, I know, but that's what I get for letting my fiance pick out the color scheme.

Instead of dropping big bucks on commercial drop cloth, we decided to use some cheap old blankets and heavy sheets we were going to throw out anyway. They didn't cost us a thing, since we already had them laying around. Of course, if you don't have any, they'll only set you back a few bucks if you purchase them from a thrift store.

Refresh Your Old Colors

This is where I always seem to go wrong. When I change the look of a room, I go all out, and choose a completely different color. Not only does this take more time and frustration to cover up, but it also makes it much more expensive to cover up.

If you can live with the same colors-or even just a different shade-you're in luck. By opting to stick with a similar color palette, you'll be able to use less coats of paint, which means that you'll need to buy less paint. In some cases, you may only need one coat of paint, cutting your paint costs in half.

Track Down Cheap Paint

Obviously, one of the most expensive parts of your painting project will be buying the paint. However, by being flexible on which color you want, you can save a bundle on buying paint. I was able to find a rich forest green for my bright office just by poking around the old forgotten shelves at my local paint store.

Almost all paint and home improvement stores offer deep discounts on paint that has been returned or mistinted. Many of these stores have clearance paint sections, but you may have to ask for it specifically. And, your local hazardous waste recycling center most likely takes people's extra paint and sells it to thrifty do-it-yourselfers to save them the disposal fees.

Buy Only as Much as You Need

If you're only painting a small area, such as an accent wall or trim, there's a good chance you won't need more than one gallon of paint. Determine the square footage of the area you'll be painting or use an online paint calculator. In some cases, you may be able to get away with buying a quart of paint or even an inexpensive pint sample.

Invest in a Good Primer for Dark or Bright Walls

You may be tempted to save money on your painting project by skipping the primer, but this could end up costing you in the long run. Dark and brightly colored walls are notoriously hard to cover, and may take several coats of regular paint.

Using a primer on these surfaces, however, will make it much easier to cover these colors. This means that you'll use less paint overall, and therefore spend less money.

Skip the Roller Pan Covers

This is one money-saving paint tip I learned very early. After all, I couldn't justify spending money on little pieces of plastic that I would simply toss later anyway.

While they do make cleanup much faster and easier, roller pan covers are just another unnecessary painting expense. Instead, nix them completely and take a few moments to wash the pans out afterward, or cover them with grocery bags or inexpensive garbage bags. The bags can be scooped up and thrown in the trash when you're done.

Take the Time to Clean Your Tools Properly

Letting paint dry on your paint brushes and roller covers is one of the biggest money wasting habits that do-it-yourself painters have. I can't count how many expensive brushes I've ruined because I was just too tired to do a good job cleaning up. Once I let paint dry on my brushes, they become completely useless, forcing me to go out and buy new brushes.

When you're taking a break or finished with the job, clean your tools properly. Latex paint should be cleaned with soap and warm water, and oil-based paint should be cleaned with mineral spirits and dish detergent. Cleaning your tools thoroughly will keep them in tip-top shape for your next project, saving you both time and money.

Bathroom cleaning tips

WINDOW AND MIRRORS

In a 32 oz. spray bottle, add 1/3 cup white (clear) vinegar and 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol. If you absolutely must have another cleaner, add 1 tablespoon automatic dish washing detergent.

TUBS AND SHOWER STALLS

Alkaline deposits in the water cause those not so pretty spots on your glass doors and shower walls. Apply a car wax to the walls and doors, but not the floor or it gets real slick. Both fiberglass and glass are porous. The car wax seals those pores, which makes cleaning easier and keeps water spots away. Reapply twice yearly.

Squeegee or wipe down your shower after each use to further prevent buildup. If you're tired of fighting the soap scum buildup, switch to liquid soap, natural soap or Dove. It's the talc in most bar soaps that causes the buildup. Changing soap can eliminate the buildup. You still need to clean the shower once a week, but the job is easier.

Clean the showers once a week with an orange citrus based cleaner. Spray on and give it ten minutes to dissolve the dirt. Why do all that scrubbing when your product does it for you?

OK, so the soap scum refuses to budge and friends are coming for a visit. Use your orange based cleaner concentrated. Pour plenty on an old dishrag and wipe on the walls and doors. Use can use boiling hot white vinegar (wear gloves) but you must keep applying it as the white vinegar dries. It takes time to dissolve that buildup.

Patience now becomes a virtue. Wait and wait and wait some more. Go clean the rest of the house. If the cleaner starts dripping down the walls, wipe it back on. Check the walls with a fingernail. If the residue removes easily, round one is about over.

Use a white bristle pad to scrub. They look like fibers and are glued to a sponge. Use the white ones only. The colored scrubbers are coarser and do scratch. Test a spot to make sure it won't scratch the fiberglass. Dampen the pad, keeping it good and wet and gently scrub. This removes the soap buildup and most of the white mineral deposits on the glass doors. Nothing removes the etch marks themselves, but further damage is halted. Reapply the orange citrus cleaner if necessary.

Plastic shower curtains can be machine washed. Remove, spray with your diluted orange based cleaner and wait about 10 minutes. Wash with your rags and they come out quite clean. Air dry. If the curtain is long enough, cut off the seam at the bottom to prevent mildew buildup down there.

TOILETS

Ring around your toilet? Again, alkaline deposits cause those nasty rings. Depending on the hardness of your water, pour one or two cups of white vinegar into the toilet once a month to eliminate the problem.

Toilet bowl rings - Here I take a deep breath and plead with you to follow these instructions. Repeat. Follow these instructions. Do not deviate or you will scratch the inside of your toilet bowl.

Turn off the water flow to the toilet and flush to remove the water. Saturate a couple of heavy duty paper towels with white vinegar or the Orange Citrus Cleaner. Place around the edges making sure all areas are covered. Keep the towels damp for several hours, even overnight, until the water spots start dissolving. Then scrub with a stiff nylon brush.

If the white vinegar does not dissolve the whole ring, go to a janitorial supply store or a hardware store and purchase a pumice stone and a stiff toothbrush. Dampen one end of the pumice stone and keep it wet.

Gently, very gently, rub the pumice stone across the lines. When enough pumice builds on the sides, switch to a stiff bristle brush to continue working. Rub gently until the deposit disappears. Pumice will scratch the toilet. Use it only one time and cautiously. 

SINKS

Once a month, pour one cup of baking soda, followed by one cup of white vinegar down the drain. Wait an hour and flush with warm water. The combination fizzles away most of the buildup. Works for shower, tub and kitchen sink drains as well.

FAUCETS

Water deposits build up around faucets and drain areas. Use a paper towel soaked in white vinegar and place around the faucet. Plug the drain and pour 1/2 cup white vinegar in the sink and wait. It takes time for the white vinegar to dissolve the alkaline deposits. Scrub using a stiff bristled nylon toothbrush.

Do not use orange based or powdered cleansers on brass or gold plated faucets. These fixtures corrode and scratch quickly. Dry these faucets after each use to prevent water spot damage. 

MILDEW

Keep ahead of mildew so it doesn't become a problem. Every six months spray your bathroom ceiling with a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. Peroxide is a safe bleach and won't harm the environment or your lungs. Find larger quantities of peroxide at beauty or medical supply stores. 

Spray the mixture on and leave it. No need to rinse or scrub. If you currently have mildew, follow the above directions. Wait two hours and respray. Then wait 24 hours and spray a third time if necessary.