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3. It flatters period featuresIs your home blessed with the elegant detail of Victorian or Edwardian house building? If so, it will stand out beautifully when painted white against a grey wall, focusing attention on the room’s assets. The prominence of this room’s high skirting board and cornice shows how grey avoids getting into a fight for attention.
The colour: Pinky-greyWhy it’s a contender: It’s grey, plus warmthMauves and heathers are for decorators who’ve fretted about grey looking too cool. The pink element means that threat is avoided, but the tint doesn’t stray into candy territory.This teaming of wooden cabinetry with pinky-grey is a combination to note if you’re after a kitchen with maximum warmth.Wondered how grey and rose gold would look together?
Check out the rivals to grey’s throneThe colour: Indigo blueWhy it’s a contender: It’s cocooningFor a room that welcomes you like a hug, a deep, rich blue is hard to beat. It pulls off dark grey’s trick of making a space feel cosy and it’s a calming colour that invites relaxation. Concerned about the longevity of this trend? Walls in this shade have already proven they’re no fly-by-night fancy, so you won’t have to get the paintbrush out again for a while if you decide to take the plunge.
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Stainless steelBy far the most popular material for kitchen sinks, stainless steel sinks are heat and stain resistant and are available in a variety of types, styles and sizes. I recommend going for a brushed or satin finish rather than a mirror finish – water marks and scratches will be less noticeable. Also, look for sinks that have sound-absorbing pads on the bottom. These pads, rather than sound-absorbing spray or a thicker gauge of steel, perform best in reducing the noise commonly associated with stainless steel sinks.Prices for stainless steel sinks run the gamut, but you can get a decent quality stainless steel sink for not a lot of money, making it my pick for those on a tight budget.Wondering how to find the perfect stainless steel sink for your kitchen?
This under-lit pool gives a clear view of the layered floor tiles. Even the walls are dotted with recessed lights, which gives a soft glow to this outdoor space. Usually wet-location lighting or waterproof LEDs are used in these wet zones, as they are water-safe.
Baffle filter: A baffle filter is best suited for the Indian style of cooking. These filters are made of overlapping layers of steel and aluminium, which change the direction of air flow. This ‘cut-and-chop’ technology separates grease from smoke. The best part about baffle filters is that even if the filter is full of grease and other pollutants; the suction power of the chimney will not get affected.Carbon filter: A carbon filter is used in ductless chimneys. The air first passes through the grease filter, which traps grease particles, and then through the charcoal filter, which absorbs smoke, gases and odours. The purified air is circulated back into the kitchen. This filter type needs to be regularly replaced – within three to six months, depending on the usage. Read more:5 Things to Know Before Installing a Modular KitchenHow to Make Open Kitchens Work in Indian HomesTell us: Which type of chimney would work best for your kitchen? Tell us why in the Comments section below.
Wall-mounted chimneyA wall-mounted chimney is fixed on the wall just above the stove as in this image. It gives a modern look to the kitchen; the hood is available in a pyramidal shape or a sleek straight-line design.Tip: Make sure that the size of the hood is equal to the size of the stove or hob so it covers the entire cooktop and absorbs the smoke effectively. Also, the distance between the chimney and the hob should be 26 to 30 inches to ensure optimum suction of smoke and fine particles.
Kitchen chimneys can be primarily categorised as ducted and ductless (or recycling) chimneys. Both these types are available as wall-mounted, built-in or island chimneys.A ducted chimney pulls in the dirty air, traps the heavy particles of grease and spices in its filters while expelling the smoke, fumes and odours from the kitchen via a PVC pipe. It costs more, but is also more effective in clearing the air.A recycling (ductless) chimney draws in the polluted air, absorbs the pollutants and releases the clean, deodorised air back into the kitchen. It is considered less effective, as it returns the same air into the kitchen, and cannot remove heat and moisture.The most important components of both kinds are the motor, the exhaust fan and the filters that catch the pollutants. The chimney’s air suction capacity determines how effective it will be. It’s measured in cubic metres per hour – referred to as m3/hr in the trade. The higher suction capacity does a better job but the motor is noisier and the system costs more.There are additional trimmings, such as LED lights, sensors and controls – you can pick and choose according to your requirements and budget.
Round Another more recent trend is the round dining table. Those who like to have intimate dinner parties find these can foster lively conversation, since each person can clearly face every other. Of course, round bistro tables of as little as 2 ft. (61 cm) in diameter have been around a long time, and many breakfast tables are 42 in. or 48 in. (107 or 122 cm). But a formal dining table needs to be at least 60 in. (152 cm) in diameter and can easily be 72 in. (183 cm) as well.
RectangularCarefully consider shape when buying dining room tables. Rectangular ones are the most traditional and readily available. Some rectangular shapes come with leaves so that you can extend them for larger dinner events. Most widths are 36 to 42 in. (92 to 107 cm). Lengths vary greatly, but formal dining tables usually need at least 66 in. (168 cm) in length to work properly with six table settings. You can get tables that extend up to 120 in. (305 cm), sometimes a little more; leaves that are 72 to 84 in. (183 to 213 cm) in length are common for stationary tabletops. This transitional space has a traditional rectangular table that can expand with leaves.Wondering what’s your dining table style?
Chairs Dining chairs come in an extraordinary range of shapes, sizes and styles. Which are best for you depends on the size of your spaces and the theme of your decor. Here an urban loft with generous volumes mixes contemporary style with traditional chairs around a detailed rectangular wooden table. Fully upholstered chairs head the table, and chairs provide further seating. The dining chairs in the photo below have a significantly smaller footprint and flow with the sleek modern theme in this urban high-rise. Also note that tables supported by an individual or double pedestal can work better in smaller spaces. The loft can easily take on the four legs of the large wooden table.These chairs have a footprint of 20½ in. in width and 20 in. in depth (52 by 51 cm). The upholstered armchairs in the loft photo are closer to 26 in. in width and 26 in. in depth (66 by 66 cm), and the wooden side chairs are about 2 ft. (61 cm) in width and depth.
Kitchen relationshipBalancing formality using artwork and its position within a kitchen area, this dining room straddles purposes. The table can be set formally and viewed from the living area. It can also be closed off by the oversize sliding wooden door and become a workspace for multiple cooks who can use it as a preparation surface. Convertible spaces can assist when square footage is limited. Notice that the lightweight chairs allow visual airiness as well as ease of movement, which is essential in this scheme.Check out these amazing dining table and chair combinations
Urban combination layoutMore than a few homes in urban environments have layouts similar to this one. A large, rectangular shape houses the living room, with windows at one end of a large space and a kitchen at the other. The dining area must rest between these points. Note that the backs of two chairs align with the backs of two bar stools. You will need more space in a similar setup if you will use these seating positions simultaneously; less if you will use them independently. Also note that the dining table chairs are arranged opposite each other. Placing one on each side of the table is another option.
Suburban open planThis dining table is nestled between the end of the kitchen and a living area. Its proximity to the kitchen takes care of tableware storage. The rug underneath helps to define the parameters. Notice that there is plenty of space around the table and chairs. Be sure to provide extra space when placing dining tables within circulation routes, as has been done here. Not only does traffic pass from the kitchen into the living area, but it also crosses to exit through the sliding glass door to the right and connects to the room at left. Leaving 48 to 60 in. (122 to 152 cm) beyond the edge of a table can be sufficient for this type of layout.Here’s how to tackle the decorating dilemma in open plan spaces
Use this illustration as a simple guide to assist in selecting furnishings and planning arrangements. Important elements are:Room widthRoom lengthTable shapeTable sizeChair typeChair sizeCabinet type (sideboard or hutch)Cabinet sizeCirculation clearances
Urban open planOpen plans are still trending, and many, whether urban or suburban, integrate dining spaces into contiguous living and kitchen areas. The challenge is that wall space will likely be minimal for the placement of sideboards and china cabinets. In the design here it is solved with tall glass-enclosed cabinets that offer storage for tableware and lend decorative appeal. Cabinets for this purpose can be as shallow as 10 in., but 12, 14 and 16 in. (25, 30, 36 and 41 cm) work better. The widths will depend on your circumstances and what pieces you can find that work with your style. Just keep in mind that you will want to maintain at least 36 in. (91 cm) clear off the edge of your table for occupied chairs so that others can comfortably pass around them. You will need 54 in. (137 cm) if you require wheelchair access.
ContemporarySmaller-scale furnishings in modern designs will suit contemporary tastes well, as illustrated in this room. This layout also supports a sideboard, but its table is a fixed rectangular plank style with bentwood chairs and rush seating that give respectful allusion to traditional fashion. A modern glass chandelier replaces the traditional crystal type shown in the previous photo. A dimension of 36 to 42 inches (91 to 107 centimetres) around the entire table allows for chairs to be occupied with space for others to pass. If your table is 36 in. (91 cm) wide and 72 in. (183 cm) long, this scheme will work in a room that is as little as 11 ft. (3.4 m) wide by 12 ft. (3.6 m) long, considering a 2-ft. (61-cm) depth for the sideboard.Do you know what contemporary decor means?
TraditionalTraditional dining rooms can be generously proportioned, as this one is. Long, rectangular tables that adjust with leaves typify its style, while a sideboard provides storage for table linens and serveware and functions as a serving platform. Freestanding glass-enclosed china cabinets are still readily available; however, the design here shows a built-in that serves this purpose on the wall between the windows. Spaces with these features and furnishings require a larger-than-average room. You will need at least 14 feet (4.3 metres) in width and 16 ft. (4.9 m) in length for a similar arrangement, but 15 ft. (4.8 m) wide by 20 ft. (6.1 m) long will likely function better.
“Apart from the gazebo, the terrace also holds scattered seating and entertainment options, such as an outdoor projection and screening area, and an open party space,” Desai says. This space is internally connected to the house by a lift and externally through a staircase, allowing the guests to go directly to the terrace.Read more:Mumbai Houzz: A 900 Sq Ft Colaba Home Gets a Retro MakeoverTell us:What did you like the most about this house? Tell us in Comments below.
The 150 square metres (1600 square feet) of terrace area was developed solely as a space for socialising. “According to the client, this was the heart of the project as they wanted a feeling of openness and an expansive area for meeting with friends and family,” Shah says.Check out these 10 ideas for a terrace makeover
“The kitchen has an earthy vibe to it, with neutral flooring, brown wooden cabinets and white lacquered top shelves,” Shah says. To give the space a touch of traditionalism, tiny arches, such as usually seen in old palaces, have been carved in the wooden entrance door.
Behind the multihued sliding door is “the fourth bedroom, which was converted into a lounge-cum-TV room,” Shah says. A bright teal sectional, a vibrant rug and pretty arched niches designed on a wooden pallet and placed behind the seating contribute to the charming, old-style look of the room.
The dining room is arranged in a large passage that leads to the kitchen and bedrooms; the fretwork screen separates the dining area without blocking out the light and space of the living room. Another screen, a wood-framed multi-hued sliding one, separates it from the TV room. “Two glass lights suspended above the teakwood table and the metal screen partition made by local artisans define the dining space,” Desai says. Dining table: AlankaramTake a look at the top 10 trending photos of dining rooms on Houzz
The living room is a large, comfortable place, furnished with sectionals. Plenty of natural light floods into the room, creating a lively, energised the atmosphere. The grey-blue seating and the white plastered walls keep the area looking neat and welcoming. “The living room is the most interesting space in the house, as it exemplifies the lifestyle of the client. The tumbled Kota flooring as well the red Agra sandstone work on the wall complement the soft-toned seating,” Shah says. Flooring: Tumbled Kota stone from Jayantilal & Co.; sofa: Alankaram; paint: Heritage Texture, ICI Dulux; lighting: Dorothy, Sunshine, Hive Home Wondering which tiles are perfect for Indian floors?
13. Locate your laundry room where it will be most convenientPlacement in a garage or basement is common but generally not very convenient. Where is your ideal laundry spot? Mine would be right next to my master bedroom suite. Since I dress next to my closet, it would be most convenient for me to toss clothes straight into a nearby washer. Pulling clothes out of the dryer and being just a few steps away from putting them back in my closet would be heaven. And it’s just me and my husband, so I don’t have to carry laundry to other rooms.But that scenario isn’t for everybody. Some people prefer the laundry room to be near – or even within – the kitchen so that they can run loads while doing other chores in the kitchen and keeping an eye on children. Just think about it very carefully. What location would save you time and steps?
12. Choose furniture with storageWhile built-in storage is wonderful, don’t forget to consider storage when choosing your furnishings. Storage ottomans give you a quick spot for stashing magazines, toys or throw blankets.
10. Put your furniture on the move with castersThis is one way to speed up sweeping, mopping and vacuuming, especially in dining areas. Just roll the table out of the way for a wide-open space to clean. Make sure those casters are the locking kind so the table doesn’t roll away while you’re trying to have a meal.
7. Consider upholstery choices beyond leatherThese gorgeous and sophisticated dining chairs use faux leather (yes, that is an upscale way of saying vinyl) on their seats. Vinyl upholstery has come a long way from the very plastic-looking white or black we are all used to. Good-quality designer brands have options that really, really look like leather. And if the leather look isn’t for you, they have textures that imitate fabric very convincingly.8. Don’t forget fabric Choose contract-grade fabrics that have been treated to be stain repellant. I’m having some custom-designed dining chairs made and have selected a luscious textured velvet that is treated with a stain repellent. Water runs right off of it so well that it is almost hard to get it wet. And I’ve chosen a deep garnet colour, so it doesn’t show every little smudge. Good-quality fabrics are worth their extra cost.
6. Choose upholstery fabrics that are durable, stain resistant and easy to cleanLeather upholstery is a favourite for people with children because it is easy to wipe off. I would stay away from white or ivory leather if you’re choosing it for ease of cleaning, because things like red wine and yellow mustard can stain the leather. A better choice would be charcoal grey, black, taupe, brandy or chocolate colours.Wondering which upholstery fabric is right for you?
2. Consider carpet tiles instead of wall-to-wall carpet or large area rugs They come in a wide variety of textures. There are some some good options out there with a softer and deeper pile than what we traditionally think of carpet tiles as having. They are just as easy to vacuum as any other area rug, but here’s the coolest thing: If a tile gets a really bad spill on it, you can take up that one tile and literally wash it in the sink. After it is dry you put it right back down. Easy peasy.Looking for tiling ideas for every room?
1. Start with the floorThis is the thing that gets dirty the fastest. My first choice is stained concrete with a protective sealer. Minimal seams and a non-porous seal make it a snap to sweep or mop and pretty much impervious to anything that may spill. Other great flooring options are laminate or luxury vinyl tile in a wood-look plank. Hardwood floors are easy to sweep and mop too. A good dust mop and sponge mop are all you need for all of the above, but with the hardwood, you can’t put off cleaning up any splash or splatter. If you must have wall-to-wall carpet, try limiting that to bedrooms, where you’ll tend to go barefoot.
5 Things to Know Before Installing a Modular KitchenSo you are on the verge of ordering your new kitchen. Have you considered these essential points?
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