Most single women and bachelors are living in small apartments, pads, or condos. That’s because it is easy to maintain, lesser lease or rental fee, and they won’t be staying there for the most of the day. But then, this COVID-19 drops the bomb on Mother Earth and bam! Everybody needs to stay at home and do a self-quarantine. No business or office is open, not until there is a cure or the curve is flattened.
Everyone dreams of being able to say that they have a guest house. Not many people are vocal about it because it seems like a silly dream to have. However, I am sure that you can relate to it even if you don’t admit it verbally.
The reason is that owning a guest house practically shows that you have made it in life. A lot of individuals do not even have an apartment or car under their name, but you have a special place for your visitors. You do not need to live in it; it is just there anytime your friends or relatives come by, whenever that is. There is nothing more amazing than that!
The thing is, you cannot leave your guest house empty. You want it to look and feel like a home if you genuinely wish to impress your future visitors. Otherwise, they may think that you have pushed them to sleep in the storage room.
The first step to decorating your guest house is painting the walls. Now, remember that this project is not cheap at all. You may have to cough up anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the size of your guest house. Thus, you need to know what colors and brand will suit your new place and budget best.
When choosing your interior paint, therefore, you need to:
Know Your Pricing Options
Pick the color combinations and see which paint brands offer them based on the funds you have set aside for this. If you are looking at a mid-range rate, to be specific, you will be safe with brands like Valspar Signature, Benjamin Moore, Glidden, and Behr Premium Plus. Their prices play between $20 to $50 per gallon.
Don’t bother checking out paints that are above your budget. Doing so will either make you max out your savings or feel depressed for not being able to afford them.
Decide Between High Or Low VOC
VOCs are harmful organic chemicals used to stabilize the base paint’s consistency. However, you can opt for brands that add very little of them to their products or not at all, considering low-VOC products are more kid-friendly.
As a rule, paints that contain a high amount of VOC are less costly than the ones without or this chemical. Again, you need to consider this fact before buying interior paint.
Choose The Right Finish
Flat, eggshell and semi-gloss are the paint finishes you need to know about. If you have to cover up a patched wall, you can go with the first one. If you don’t want a stained wall, however, you may opt for an eggshell or semi-gloss finish.
Final Thoughts
Excellent paintwork can do wonders for your dream guest house. In case space is small, for instance, you can use light colors to create the illusion that it is bigger than it seems. If you do not want to add a lot of other decorations, you may turn the walls into canvases.
Nevertheless, set your ideals straight before you visit the paint center. Like what most people say during the election period, choose wisely.
How was your experience doing the small projects in the first half of this two-part blog? What did you enjoy more, the thought of showing your creativity or the fact that the ideas allowed you to save money?
There is no incorrect answer for the latter question, to be honest. You can be glad to be able to spend less on every project and have a gorgeous decoration as an output. That’s our goal here, after all: to show you that you don’t need to use all your savings to make your house pretty.
Still, wreaths, pots, and lamps cannot complete the revamping task that you may have in mind. You need larger items to display and become the centers of attraction when guests come. That way, you can entertain them even if you are busy cooking or doing something else for them.
Here are the other repurposing ideas that you may want to do as well.
Ladder Shelves
Metallic or wooden ladders can easily get transformed into instant bookshelves. For the folding type, you may cut the parts that prevent both sides from being extended too far. That will be great on the wall corners. A single ladder, on the other hand, is suitable for horizontal or vertical use.
Bar Headboard Rack
When you feel like changing your old spindly headboard into something that suits your contemporary lifestyle, you may turn it into a towel rack in the bathroom or kitchen. If you live in a small apartment where space is scarce, it will be cool to make a new hanging spot for your clothes out of the headboard as well.
Stool Caddy For Umbrellas
While umbrellas are helpful whether it is rainy or sunny, they have no use when you enter the house. Hence, upcycling your timeworn kitchen stool to create a unique umbrella caddy will be amazing. All you need to do is turn the chair upside down and perhaps repaint it before dropping all your umbrellas in it.
Chandelier Wine Bottles
There must be a period in your life in which you have consumed one too many drinks with your friends. You know that it is going to be a bit embarrassing to let your neighbors see you hauling a big box of empty wine bottles out of your home. The smartest thing you can make out of this situation is to tie strings on the mouth of each bottle, hold them up together, and put a lightbulb in the center. Now, you can say that you have made a chandelier by yourself.
Final Thoughts
Only the size of the outputs in this blog makes it different from the ones in the previous article. The ease of making them, though, does not change. You merely have to imagine what other things can get created out of the items that are practically trash at home.
There are more repurposing ideas that you can surely do on your own at home. How about crafting a desk or utensil organizer from scraps of wood? Why don’t you use the old TV set to build an aquarium, a dollhouse, or a bed for your pet? After all, imagination is the only restriction here.
Decorating a house is always fun, regardless if it is yours or a friend’s. The thought of taking out the old stuff or filling your new home with fresh items can make creative juices flow throughout your body. All of a sudden, you know which paintings will look amazing on your walls. You have an idea about what kind of vase to add as a centerpiece on your table. You may want to add pops of color here and there as well.
The only issue that hit people after days of brainstorming, though, is the fact that buying the decorations requires a lot of money. If you look for vases on Amazon, for instance, the basic glass type starts at $11.00. In case you want something with a unique shape and design, you may have to shell out up to $50.00. And if you have five tables or mantels to put a vase on, you need approximately $250.00.
I’ll say what you must be thinking now, “That’s a lot of money for one type of decoration!”
Yes, decorating a house can be that expensive. To share my experience, the first time I did it, I ended up spending $10,000.00. I did not even go to a boujee store, mind you, and the cost still turned out like that. It was not something I wanted to go through again, so I had to think of ways to decorate my home a second time in a more affordable manner.
What a friend suggested was repurposing old items that I already had at home. That’s what I did, and I basically had to pay a couple of hundred dollars for paint, wires, and whatnot.
On the first half of this two-part blog, let me share the small repurposing ideas I had.
Paint Can Pots
If you are like a miracle worker when it comes to plants, check your garage or the neighbor’s for empty paint cans lying around. After cleaning, piercing holes underneath, and maybe painting them, they will pass as unique flower pots.
Hose Wreath
Garden and vacuum hoses are not indestructible; that’s why many people go to the hardware store to replace these. The broken ones, however, can still be refurbished as a fancy wreath. As long as you get to tape a hose up in a perfect circle and add crafty decorations to it, the length does not matter.
Oil Lamp Bulbs
Lightbulbs can still provide luminosity to someone once you transform it into an oil lamp. It cannot be left out when talking about repurposing ideas for your home because every section of a house requires light. Each time that a bulb expires, you can fill it with any oil, drop a wick in it, and have your unique candle ready.
Final Thoughts
The projects mentioned above are not too difficult to do, especially if you are a creative person. They will not take up your entire day. You can finish decorating your home in less than 24 hours without outsourcing the job or paying thousands of dollars. Amazing, isn’t it?
In an industry where a single construction can cost millions of dollars, it is imperative to hire a real estate developer who understands the requirements of the clients and is capable of delivering them promptly. Luckily, the knowledge of Jason Halpern, the Principal of JMH Development, regarding property expansion covers these things and more.
Where Did He Learn It All?
Jason is comparable to an apple that does not fall too far from the tree. Aside from the education that he received at the university, he has learned how to evaluate and improve lands earlier in life from his family. After all, his predecessors have been in the world of real estate for over 50 years. In truth, a few members of the Halpern clan conceptualized and organized more than 100 residential spaces specifically in Westchester County and New York City. They have also spearheaded the development of a multimillion-dollar commercial project in the former county that enclosed thousands of square meter of land.
What Has Jason Halpern Accomplished With JMH?
As the leader of the company and a role model to his employees, Jason Halpern struck several essential business transactions in recent years. All of them have enabled JMH to grow their client base and increase the number of services they offer. Because of the openness of the developer to handle various assignments, big or small, they have built marketable and housing establishments in Manhattan, Miami Beach, and Brooklyn, to name a few.
To be particular, JMH Development recently renovated Florida’s Motel Ankara, a historic structure created in 1954, and turned it into the posh Aloft South Beach. This location is not too far from the Lake Pancoast and the Collins Canal. The company teamed up with ADD, Inc., Plaza Construction, as well as Madden Real Estate Adventures to situate such a luxurious accommodation with 235 rooms.
Another significant task that Jason Halpern’s firm accomplished was the erection of no less than 340 residential flats on the more lavish part of 184 Kent Avenue in Brooklyn. Also, JMH served as the main contractor for the reconstruction of the Townhouses of Cobble Hill. In its place, they made nine new townhouses that were ready to accept inhabitants.
What Is His Specialty?
Jason Halpern has shown a keen interest in transforming historic buildings into modern establishments. Such projects are supposed to bring a lot of profits to the proprietors or the city. He tends to search for old properties in diverse parts of the United States and start renovating them as soon as possible. Other than the fact that it allows Jason to follow his passion, it also provides a productive space for various families or entrepreneurs. Furthermore, every development project that Jason Halpern organizes gives an opportunity to the unemployed locals to earn money. It becomes a win-win situation for everybody.
Final Thoughts
Jason Halpern proves every day that you can mix business with pleasure in a wholesome fashion. As long as you have a dream, you can find a way to realize it.
Can you relax if your room is messy? Are you inspired to do your job in a workspace so bland? Would you travel and spend a lot of money just to see boring places? The places we see, spaces where we work and the house we go home to every night after a long day can affect the way we feel, according to a therapist.
There are many things that you need to remember now that you are already a licensed architect. Keep in mind that you have to be careful in everything you do because you already have a career. You cannot just do things without thinking twice. Always keep in mind that according to a psychologist, a person needs to find mindfulness so that he can avoid making rash decisions that can end up in significant life problems and issues.
If you are an architect who recently obtained a license and authority to practice the profession, then this article is intended for you. We understand that you have tons of questions running in your mind. Do you know what to do next? Are you aware of the ways on how to attract clients? Is it possible for you to market yourself in this lucrative profession? What are the things that you must do and those that you have to avoid? If these inquiries bother you, then we highly recommend that you read this article from start to finish.
We aim to let every new architect in town feel more confident about the start of something beautiful. We want to show you that being an architect is a fulfilling career that can change your life for the better. Here is the list of things that you must remember:
Humility Is Key
Be nice. I know some women might not like this word, but in this context I mean: Be respectful, supportive, and willing to challenge, but not in an attacking way. — Mira Brancu, Ph.D.
The first thing that you have to remind yourself continually is the significance of staying humble at all times. No matter how amazing or excellent you are in the field, it is best if you will show everyone your humility. Take note that no one likes a show-off or someone who thinks highly of himself. You have to recognize the fact that there are other professionals out there who are as successful as you are. The truth is that others may have been more experienced and more fantastic than you do. Start your career small and let your excellent work do the talking.
Look For Opportunity To Learn
Another thing that you must instill in your mind is the reality that learning does not end after you obtain your architectural license. Keep in mind that you have to open your mind for new knowledge. Whether you like it or not, it is a reality that some of the concepts in the field have not been taught in school. As such, do not be offended if someone corrects you whenever you do something wrong in your job. Learn from the pros or those who have been working as an architect for a long time. Instead of attacking the said individuals, consider them as a mentor who will help you build a successful career in architecture. It is not going to be easy, but it can be worth it.
Make sure that you do not show to everyone that you are aloof. As much as possible, make an effort to build your connections slowly. Dedicate some of your time to attend meetings, seminars or conventions. These are the events that can help you get in touch with other architects and even potential clients. All you need to do is to show up during the said meeting and work your way out to the crowd. Remember that most of the people you will encounter at these gatherings are strangers, which is why you have to be sensitive in every single thing that you do.
Take Care Of Clients
Furthermore, you must also remind yourself that clients must always be your number one priority. They are the ones who will build your name in the industry. Remind yourself that these individuals are not only looking for quality work from an expert in architecture. At the same time, they are searching for someone they can trust and work with seamlessly. Be sure that you are that person so that they can attest to your expertise to their friends and family members. If you do this right, you can gain several clients who can help you get up on the professional ladder.
Time frames should be set realistically, to enable you to achieve your goals whilst staying comfortable with your finances. — Gaby Pfeifer, Ph.D.
In everything that you do, be sure that you love what you are doing. Keep your life full of passion and happiness. Never let circumstances prevent you from experiencing success. If you do all the things mentioned above, then there is a high guarantee that you can achieve ultimate success in less time. Believe that everything is possible and be committed to serving others with a purpose.
Whether it be one at some point or simultaneous, many workers in Britain deal with anxiety, depression or stress. Not everyone likes to have a conversation about it, and yet, the issues bring about a lack of productivity in architects as they stay at home and don’t go to work. Also, the stigma associated with the subject of mental health means that most architectural practices have nothing in place to support those employees affected.
There is sufficient evidence from history and research that architecture and one’s mental well-being are closely connected, though this fact has received so little attention for the past decades. Currently, the principles of architecture and design have changed considerably and have created a more generalized awareness of the field about physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In a study done on the Royal Institute of British Architects, there was an increasing number of people who got ill because of the negative effects of the environment, including noise, air quality, and overcrowding. The study also focused on the behaviors that make up a flourishing population, the way an environment is built that instills positive behaviors in people.
The UK government additionally formed a project that was associated with the physical and mental well-being of people living in a certain environment. Included in the project were the five methods of well-being that signify positive behaviors that relate to improved well-being.
While ‘nature’ isn’t the key, ‘nurture’—the context in which architects work, may be stymieing authentic personal and even architectural expression. — Toby Israel Ph.D.
Connection. This describes the number and the quality of social interactions people make. Designing an office or a building environment that provides ample public space, in turn, creates a chance for the people in that environment to connect, further improving their well-being and widening their community.
Generally, the key qualities are the location (close to the market or school), adaptability (spaces with no assigned function that can provide impromptu activities), feeling of home (a place that is familiar and safe) and specialness (unique features, peace, and cleanliness). In summary, spaces that bring people together and where communities and friendships were established were essential to maintaining positive mental well-being.
Keeping Active. Exercise, active work, and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle have all proven to decrease symptoms of mental illness. Regular cycling, walking, joining yoga and meditation classes, and running were extensively related to reducing the causes of mild to severe diseases that lead to disability and death. A design conducive for an activity usually includes access to sports centers, parks, and gyms. It is also a convenient location for home and office environments that are accessible through walking and public transport, a design characteristic that provides an added benefit to physical activity either outdoors or indoors.
Never turn your back on a wave. This is a metaphor meaning be willing to stay involved even when there are big waves coming in. — Mira Brancu, Ph.D.
Source: geograph.org.uk
Continue Learning. Dreaming big dreams tend to produce bigger and better outcomes. These dreams may be influenced by one’s environment, and those who are engaged in extra-curricular activities like music, ballet, and evening classes usually achieve a better sense of well-being. The project proved that the physical environment of a house, school, or any particular building influence intellectual progress. Parameters include cleanliness, safety, good lighting, and organization. Also, factors like seating arrangement, a semi-circle classroom design.
Be Mindful. Paying attention to the now and being aware of your current thoughts and feelings are traits that decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Open spaces that are filled with greens hard landscapes have also resulted in a higher likelihood of improved mindfulness and wellness.
Don’t fall into the trap of conducting a postmortem on your recent job application or round of interviews. It’s impossible to go back through the mental “tape” and critique every little thing you did. — Amy Armstrong, MS, NCC, MCC, LPC
Offer Help And Spend For Others. These altruistic behaviors, when practiced by someone, ultimately, lead to more happiness and contentment. There is evidence that the urban community has less altruistic people compared to those from the rural community. Also, the addition of plants and flowers in a home or other type of building can also make a difference in someone’s mental well-being. A bigger scope of study involving specific neighborhoods integrating positive physical and environmental traits of space design showed a significant impact on the behavior of the residents or the people that abound the area.
Final Thoughts
Architectural designing for mental health and wellness can create many opportunities and different criteria. The technique is that these designs should be good enough to meet the health requirements and should also flexible to support one’s well-being. It is therefore important that architects create designs that encourage residents or users to practice positive behaviors not by controlling their environment but by providing suitable stimuli for positive behavioral changes to occur naturally. It is building something that would create a harmonious living environment. This can be achieved by, for example, using pleasant color, modifying floor-to-ceiling heights, or changing the style of the floor surface.
Source: pixabay.com
It is among the gifts of architecture that through design, material, and space, it can affect relationships among people and the environment by which they work or live in. It affects people’s lives by either decreasing or improving their sense of wellness. Windows, walls, lighting, seat and table materials, and door size and style are some of our delights that support the five methods of well-being.
In case all the architectural planning has taken a toll on your mental health, you should get the BetterHelpapp. That will allow you to talk to a licensed therapist quickly.