Home Interior Design – Connecting Little Rock

Archive for April, 2011

What is Hydroponic Gardening

These days, when the humanity faces many challenges, associated with natural resources depletion, bad ecology and many health problems, stemming out of the wrong food choices, it is, perhaps, the best time ever to return to natural ways of producing food for the sake of our own and our planet.

It was a common practice for our ancestors to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers for their own needs. Nowadays, the natural way of growing plants reappears with hydroponics as the particular technique, which makes plant cultivation possible even in urban areas without the use of soil. With more and more people involved, hydroponic gardening develops rapidly these days. Irrespectively to whether it is your hobby or professional activity, indoor gardening brings significant benefits for all.

Hydroponic and soil indoor gardening – The World of Gardening for the Future

If you are only making your first steps in mastering the art of hydroponic gardening, our site will become a valuable resource for you. Our hydroponic library is a source of theory on the basics of indoor plants growing, and our shop is a one-stop destination to find everything you need for your hydroponic needs, starting from vegetable seeds and wide variety of growing media to start growing your plants, and finishing with reliable equipment, such as growing lamps and climate control, to help you gather rich harvest.

The definition of hydroponics

Hydroponics most often refers to the science of growing plants (vegetables, herbs, flowers) without the use of soil. Plants are cultivated on a special growing medium, and all the nutrients, required for growing, are supplied via specially formulated nutrient solution. The primary task of any growing medium, used in hydroponic gardens, is to support plants’ roots along with retaining water. There are many books on hydroponic gardening, so if you would need to expand your knowledge in this field, please browse our Literature section or the online library for further information on hydroponics.

Water-wise “naturescapes” offer savings

When it comes to watering your lawn and paying water bills, sound gardening practices can cut down homeowner investments of effort, time and money, reports the American Association of Nurserymen. And, you don’t have to turn your lovely colorful landscape into a rock garden featuring a sprinkling of cactus plants.

This popular approach to water management and water-conserving landscape design has been commonly known as Xeriscaping, and because the term comes from the Greek for “dry” many people assume it describes desert landscapes. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In contrast, the approach focuses on working with nature’s guidelines to create a lush looking landscape. As a matter of fact, “naturescaping” can be another way to describe this water-wise landscape design and management.

Turning your yard and garden into a “naturescape” requires some common sense and planning. That entails choosing the best plants, soils, locations, and irrigation systems for efficient water use. Some of those water-wise plant materials include vibrantly colored perennials and lush varieties of shrubs.

The keys to “naturescaping” involve how, when, and what you water in taking care of your property. Low-volume irrigation systems such as drip-watering devices reduce water use by 50 percent. Early-morning watering cuts down on evaporation.

Water-wise “naturescapes” offer savings. Grouping plants by water requirements is a smart way to guard against overwatering some plants and underwatering others. Save water by replacing leaky parts of irrigation devices and positioning sprinklers to shower areas of vegetation, as opposed to the driveway, garage, or deck.

A constant among guidelines for being water-wise is maintaining the health of your plants. Strong plants don’t need as much water as weak ones do. We have many reports from gardeners that Spray-N-Grow helps their plants withstand drought much better than those not sprayed with Spray-N-Grow. That’s because Spray-N-Grow helps plants develop a better root structure-more roots that are larger and longer. Plants that have a better root structure are more able to “find” any available moisture.

Be sure to add the needed soil amendments and mulch around plants to keep the roots moist. When adding to your landscape, don’t forget to include drought-resistant plants and grasses to those you already have.

Before you begin planning your new “naturescape” or planning how to convert your current landscape into a more water-efficient one, be sure to check with the experts at your retail nursery/garden center. They can offer the most valuable assistance for getting the best results.

Luxury Interior Design

Nowadays Interior Designing has become a Common thing for all Kinds of House. That too a luxury and Deluxe Home interior Design is famous, which show your individuality and taste. There are different types of Interior Designs like False Ceiling, Flooring, Wall Decoration, Partitions, etc. The color and design of the interior works depends on the style of the building. These luxury interior works takes your home to next level. Luxury and Contemporary Interior Designing works can be implemented on all kinds of Buildings like Residential and Commercials.

To Select the Luxury Interior Designs for your home, there are online stores available on the internet, where you can find all kinds of designs and colors in accordance to the home. And i always suggest grandpad.com, is the right place where you can choose and select the right interior designs for your home. Along with this you can also find products like Home Automation Products, AV Integration Products, Deluxe Home Cinema, Lighting Design, Home Networks, Biometric Systems, Water and Fine Art, etc. These Product gives your home a great look and make it secured by means of Automation products.

At Grandpad, you can find the latest luxury interior designs in various styles, which suits to your home. This Interior Design, will show the style and taste of the individual. There also some Biometric systems which makes your home secured by means of Burglar Alarm, Fingerprint Door lock, etc. These equipments stops the unknown person to enter the building. The Luxury Interior Design may be much cost, since it has been designed in accordance to the client taste and is tailor made. Because when it comes for luxury interior design, the company takes care of Wall Decoration and Painting, Partitions, Ceiling and Flooring works, etc. These Interior works can be done with an quality products and done by the professionals. Hence these Interior Designs, attracts people and makes the individual to be comfort at home.

So Select the right interior design for your home, it may cost high but the quality and Luxuriousness of the home can be brought by means of Luxury Interior Designs.

These are the materials that mimic the soil in everyday gardens. It serves as a support system for your hydroponic indoor garden. They function mainly for anchoring the roots and a reservoir for water and nutrient solutions. Special attention is also placed on aeration or proper plant respiration and drainage. A balance must be kept between keeping the plant nourished and over saturating the roots.

 Types of Growing Mediums

 Choice of a specific growing medium mainly depends on the type of growing system to be used. Certain systems have no mediums used because plant growth is best when roots are suspended in air or water. Improvement made with newer growing medium mixtures has been introduced for optimum plant growth in certain systems. Ideally, an equal mixture of water and air is advised making it available for the roots to utilize at all times. Water by gravity always moves downward through coarse mediums only to be deposited in the bottom of the container. This is eliminated with the use of a hydroponic system as water is constantly circulated in the system. The only system that this would not work would be the Ebb and Flow Systems.

 Clay Pebbles

Recyclables, it can be constantly reused indefinitely reducing upkeep costs for your indoor garden. Size of the pot is one limiting factor as they do not possess good nutrient lifting ability, but effectiveness is enhanced in smaller pots and containers. Another advantage would be their neutral pH and they don’t retain nutrients. Ventilation and aeration are also maximized because of the spaces created between pebbles.

Clay pebbles are usually used together with net pots in drain and flood indoor hydroponic gardening systems. Water flow in roots is enhanced by their natural shapes and spaces hey create between them, therefore maximizing the absorption of nutrients. When using the Drip irrigation hydroponic system, use absorbent mediums to provide better retention and nutrient circulation.

 Coconut Fiber

Shredded husks of coconuts as a growing medium has also been growing in popularity. Packaged in a variety of ways like blocks, pellets, cubes and shredded fiber it can be a good substitute for any type of growing medium. It is also commonly mixed with other growing media such as perlite or rockwool.

 Why Use Coconut Fiber as a Growing Medium?

 Coconut fiber is actually a waste product; its ability to be used for other useful means takes a great step towards recycling and environmental awareness. It is the first totally organic medium which could be utilized for indoor hydroponic gardening. It is superior to rockwool in water handling ability and oxygen capacity. Coconut fibers also possess root stimulating hormones and prevent root disease and fungus infection. In its natural state, coconut fibers provide a good and rich medium for the coconut when it lands in the ground.      

Special attention should be given as to the quality of the coconut fiber to be purchased. Low grade quality is not well suited for gardening as they contain high sea salt content and fine grain texture. 

Perlite

Originally used as an additive to aide aeration and improve soil drainage, it has become one of the popular hydroponic growing mediums. Commonly used with a 50/50 mix with vermiculite, it is derived from volcanic glass with holes throughout produced by exposing it to high temperatures created by water bubbles.

 Advantages of Growing with Perlite

 Inexpensive and readily available is one of the causes of its popularity. Used in wick type hydroponic systems because of its aerate nature thereby giving a good wicking action.

 Disadvantages of Growing with Perlite

 Health hazards come with the use of perlite when inhaled, a mask is suggested when working with perlite as a growing medium. A high degree of care and maintenance is also required. Water retention is one of its weakness therefore constant watering is required.

 Vermiculite

Used in conjunction with another growing medium compliments the qualities of the other. A popular and common mix is that with perlite. In a 50/50 mix vermiculites property which is water retention (200 – 300% of its weight in water) complements perlites very porous quality and a balance is achieved.

 Dangers of Using Vermiculite

 Vermiculite can be a health hazard if not handled properly. Due to its nature of containing small amounts of asbestos, it can be very dangerous when inhaled. It easily dries on an individuals fingers when touched even when wet. It is not also practical to reuse because of the rinsing and drying required. Water retention is also a problem, because of its high water retention if not used in pair with another growing medium, root damage is likely and plant death are the result.

 Rockwool

Rockwool specifically made for indoor hydroponic gardening systems. It has remained as one of the popular growing mediums. Transplanting plants when grow too big from their previous containers is also eliminated. When this happens the existing cube with the plant is merely placed on top of a larger cube and the roots would grow through both cubes. Water retention qualities of rockwool is 10 times greater that of water. Its porous nature makes it virtually impossible to over water. Recyclable, it can be used for the next crop by merely rinsing, making it economical and environment friendly.

 Disadvantages of rockwool

 A natural pH found in rockwool is one of its disadvantages, pre-treatment is required before it is used as a growing medium. Methods of lowering its alkaline content includes mixing it with a solution of pH down, trace mineral solutions and a 24 hour fish emulsion and is then rinsed thoroughly. Gloves should be used when handling rockwool because of skin irritation but is not when rockwool is wet.

Kitchen table and chairs can be made from other materials as well, including other metals and woods while being finished in different stains and painted colors. Kitchen Table and Chairs – Kitchen Table and Chairs: JustKitchenTablesandChairs.com is the premier online retailer of kitchen and dinette tables and chairs. With kitchen table and chairs, there are many selections to choose from, so, you can have the ultimate place to have a good time, a relaxing sit down dinner, or just a spot where your kids can work on craft projects or where you can do the bills. Round kitchen table and chairs set is a perfect choice of kitchen furniture for any modern home. FOR SALE: KITCHEN TABLE AND CHAIRS, WHITE CERAMIC TILE AND WOOD Top, WOOD LEGS ? 0. Deciding on your kitchen table and chairs is very important, as this is probably the family gathering place for you and your family, other than large holidays. Believe me, your kitchen table and chairs will stand out like a sore thumb if they do not match the cabinets, counters or the appliances within your kitchen. When choosing your kitchen table and chairs from us, you need to make sure to choose those, that withhold the test of time. I have a very similar kitchen table and chairs and I painted mine red. Hand painted, like you. You might find a round kitchen table and chairs as a normal table height of thirty six inches or so as well as in a high top configuration. Consider replacing your kitchen table and chairs – this will enable you to change the ambiance and style of your kitchen without out-laying too much money and going through the ups and downs of renovations. Q. I have purchased a kitchen table and chairs that are unfinished older wood. This set will get a lot of use. Check out her articles on kitchen table and chairs and dining tables and chairs . My wife and I looked for a kitchen table and chairs for over two years before we decided to buy from Amish Tables and we could not be more happy that we did. The furniture is better than any I have personally looked at and the price was almost half from what I could purchase locally. When looking to purchase a kitchen table and chairs, we have the selection for you. If it\’s time to update your kitchen table and chairs, read on for some valuable tips and advice about finding the best furniture options for you. We\’ve been in need of a new kitchen table and chairs set for a while, and finally decided to bite the bullet. How can you buy a good round kitchen table and chairs set for your home. Basically, there are a lot of kitchen table and chairs options, but what is important it to get something that will last, is comfortable, and is also appealing to the eye. And there you have it…the whole kitchen table and chairs all painted. I\’ve enjoyed them like this for 6 years now and can\’t imagine changing them back to stained wood (or another color) anytime soon. Well, the problem might be that the kitchen table and chairs you have in place are uncomfortable. You can purchase a small round black kitchen table and chairs or large round table online and have it delivered to your house the next day if you need it. For instance, you may find a round black kitchen table and chairs, that would be absolutely perfect if they were just in a lighter color. So, it is important to have a comfortable kitchen table and chairs in place and what makes one that way is how the set\’s chairs are designed. If you get ones that are not very supportive, then everyone is going to end up with back aches. Another important aspect of buying a round kitchen table and chairs set is to choose the right material. Locking casters aid in easy mobility of the kitchen table and chairs.

We have various styles and designs for your kitchen table and chairs. From Home is very pleased to make the Via Lorado kitchen table and chairs available for sale in our safe and secure store. You need consider everything you plan on using your kitchen table and chairs for and be sure to choose something that will meet your whole family’s needs. Most of the leading brands of furniture offer round kitchen table and chairs in all the possible variations. Common Area- Couch and living room chairs, end table, kitchen table and chairs, large trashcan, and full kitchen. A spacious table top is also a big factor when it comes to kitchen table and chairs since you should go with something that provides a lot of room for different activities. I even decided it was time to say goodbye to my cool retro Kitchen Table and Chairs. Some guest rooms also have a wet bar, a sleeper sofa, and a kitchen table and chairs. In a way I am actually happy that we don\’t have a traditional kitchen table and chairs arrangement, because just looking at our dining room table and how it is being used for all kinds of other activities on top of the eating, I\’d be concerned that it would get quite messy. This entry was posted in Kitchen and tagged kitchen table , kitchen table and chairs , kitchen table sets , kitchen tables . One of the friendliest places in your home is right around your kitchen table and chairs .

If you’ve ever spent time rearranging furniture in a room, browsing antique shops and second-hand stores in search of hip vintage furniture, or obsessing over accent walls and window treatments, you might want to consider joining the ranks of interior designers. By marrying your creativity with the right education, you can earn a comfortable living in a flexible career field.

As a career, interior design engages creative service professionals to plan and design spaces in public buildings and private homes. Interior designers work with clients and other design professionals (including architects) to create safe, functional, and attractive rooms. The job requires a keen sense for creative visualization, as well as solid aesthetic technique, customer service, and professional communication skills, which interior designers use to present design plans to clients. For any given job, interior designers make recommendations for materials to be used and must explain how different textures, colors, and lighting schemes combine and interact to create a pleasing design. Finally, interior designers must also understand technical requirements of a given space, including health and safety regulations, and building codes.

Interior Design Careers: A Flexible Living
Besides the ability to put your design skills to work, there are other benefits to working in interior design. One major benefit to an interior design career is flexibility. If you aspire to a stable, full-time position, several top-paying industries employ interior designers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics specialized design services employed 20,820 interior designers as of May 2007. Other top industries employing interior designers included architectural, engineering, and related services (with 9,680 interior design jobs in May 2007), and furniture retailers (with 5,770 jobs).

Depending on your preparedness to face the competition and your desire for high earnings, you may find some industries more attractive than others. Specialized design and architecture firms tend to offer larger and more stable salaries. In May 2007, mean annual wages for interior designers in specialized design services stood at ,520. Designers working for architectural, engineering, and related services earned ,000 on average.

If you’re looking for a more flexible pay scale and schedule, you can ply your trade as a self-employed interior designer. In 2006–the last year the Bureau of Labor Statistics accounted for self-employed interior designers–26 percent of interior designers were self-employed.

College Education for Interior Design Careers
As you might expect, finding a niche for yourself in any interior design industry requires a lot of hard work. Equally important, however, is postsecondary education. To gain entry-level interior designer positons, experts recommend postsecondary education–especially bachelor’s degrees. Although many colleges and universities offer two-year certificate and associate’s degree programs, bachelor’s degrees are generally considered more appropriate if you want to move from a college degree into internships or formal apprenticeship programs. Between formal college training and an apprenticeship program, you can prepare yourself to gain state licensure, a requirement for interior designers practicing in twenty-three states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

With so many different venues for new designers to ply their work, ample compensation for dynamic, creative work, and as many as 250 postsecondary institutions offering degrees in interior design, you have every reason to make space for your talent. Check out interior design career training today.

Fluorescent Grow Light

 Inexpensive and readily available in hardware stores and be utilized with regular light sockets. Producing less heat or none at all compared to full-size fluorescent grow lights.

Not just because of its small size and low heat output; compact fluorescent lights also produce the widest range of color spectrums to any type of lighting. It is ideal for shelf gardening due to their low heat output making the use of multiple shelves on top of each other possible. Compact fluorescent lights can be used with seedlings and small plants in a well designed hydroponic system indoor garden.

 Common Problems with Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

 Problems with compact fluorescent light bulbs like inefficiency and poor light penetration are common.  Several compact fluorescent bulbs maybe used and consume energy as that of one HPS bulb, but do not produce the same useable light for the hydroponic indoor garden. 

Optimizing Fluorescent Grow Lights

 With the disadvantages of comparative inefficiency compared to HID lights, several things maybe done to counteract this.

Properly matching lights to the corresponding growth cycle.

Increasing Watt ratings increases light penetration

One cheap and easy way to maximize energy consumption is by the use of reflectors. Compact fluorescent lights have a 360 degree of distribution but only 90 degrees of it can be practically used. Reflectors direct the light to corners in order to maximize the light produced.

 High Intensity Discharge Lighting

 HID light bulbs are the most after lighting system by both hobbyist and professional growers. It has made possible all-year, all-season planting for thousands of indoor gardeners and industrial nursery growers. Due to their efficiency ( 10x more light produced than conventional incandescent bulbs) and color spectrums ideal for plants have resulted to better yields and plant quality all year round. Metal Halide (MH) light bulbs mainly produce blue lights, making them ideal for plants undergoing the vegetative phase of development.

Industrial cultivators the world over are the main users of HID grow lights. HID lamps provide numerous advantages that conventional Fluorescent and incandescent lights lack. Monetary benefits abound, it boosts overall plant production giving better harvests, and environmental factors are eliminated allowing all year-round production. HID lights operate stock 110 to 220 volts AC home currents and have a standard three prong adapter to link up. HID grow lights mostly come with a ballast resistor and reflective hood.

Photosynshesis in plants allows plants them to produce their own energy. Chlorophyll in plants enables plants to convert CO2, water and energy from light to nutrients and sugars. When all this elements like CO2 and nutrients are readily and plenty in a desired surrounding, the potential for growth is bound only to the amount and quality of light available.

 High Pressure Sodium (HPS) light bulbs produce reddish light, it is ideal during the fruit phase of the plant cycle. Cooler (blue) and Warmer (orange) color spectrums raise chlorophyll production and fruit energy. The sun produces cooler lights when it is higher in the skyline, seen in the summer calendar months. It is essential for plant growth shape and keep it tight. Warmer light, experienced when the sun is lower in relative position to the skyline is important for blooming plants and during the fruit phase.

Choice of lights can also depend on the type of plants grown. Metal Halide growth lights are ideal for bushy harvests such as cabbage and vegetating herbaceous plants. Blossoming plants on the other hand is better suited by high pressure sodium growth lights. Conversion light bulbs are also available for different organizations. More expensive than other lights, conversion lamps give that extra advantage of starting your plants with a metal halide growth light giving taut, small development and being replaced by high pressure sodium light bulbs when the fruit stage of the plant is reached. Recent developments have introduced convertible ballast resistors for regular metal halide growth lights and high pressure sodium light bulbs.

HID grow lights main advantage is that it eliminates such factors as climate, temperature and time of day. Season dependent plants can be grown throughout the year; they provide an alternative to solar light. For those who are garden and flower hobbyists, this would be a plus.

Hydroponic growth lights also gives you control over light exposure. Allowing us to hasten a plants growth or that flower to bloom. Ideal light color, duration and concentration are the key factors in growing those choice plants.

 High Pressure Sodium Bulbs 

A clear ceramic arc tube suspended inside a glass bulb characterizes High Pressure Sodium Bulbs. Xenon gas is the main component inside the inner tube which is then ignited to produce an arc of light. Sizes range fro 35 watts up to 1000 watts. The most popular of which are the 250 watts, 400 watts and 1000 watts.

 Advantages of High Pressure Sodium Bulbs

 Efficiency is one of its advantages; they provide the best light penetration and have strong light spectrums necessary for plant growth. Mainly producing red and yellow lights or little or no blue lights, they mimic the autumn sun. Popularity for HPS lights are mainly attributed to their low energy to light ratio and is the most economical and efficient than any other type of lighting system. HPS lights work best during the flowering or fruit stage of the plant growth cycle.

 Disadvantages of HPS High Pressure Sodium Bulbs

 High Pressure Sodium Bulbs produce great amounts of heat. Proper ventilation and good garden construction and planning help to offset this negative effect. Like all HID growth light systems price is the main drawback compared to fluorescent lights. HPS lights are currently more cost effective compared to other HID growth light systems.

High Pressure Sodium Light bulbs are replaced after 24 months to ensure their and your gardens efficiency.

 Metal Halide Bulbs

 Metal Halide bulbs are constructed by placing an inner arc tube inside vacuum-sealed glass tubing. Electric currents passed through the inner arc which in turn ignites mercury and iodide materials in the tube.

 Advantages of Metal Halide Bulbs

 Metal Halide Bulbs mimic sunlight during summertime. Producing a blue spectrum of light most ideal for plants in their vegetative growth phase. They are also a good choice for indoor hydroponic garden systems because of their efficiency in producing light.

 Other Metal Halide Bulb Information

 Available from 70 to 1500 watts, Metal Halide bulbs present a wide variety of choices. Most popular and commonly used are the 250, 400 and 1000 watts metal halide bulbs. Ballast specifically tailored for each bulb is also essential. Mounting positions depend on its specific bulb type (marks or guides are usually provided). HOR bulbs are mounted horizontally, BU/BD is vertically mounted and U (universal) bulbs could be mounted either way. The vertical position is the most ideal and provides utmost efficiency.

If you are just beginning a new project, invest a moment to read about “The 7 Interior Design Mistakes”. Here we discuss 7 common mistakes that can prevent your project from reaching your design goals.

1. Don’t Forget… “The Wow Effect”

We have all seen it before. At times it is almost impossible to describe. Everyone is trying to create this dramatic effect in their home or business, but it is very elusive. There truly is an art to creating “The Wow Effect”. Most Architects and Interior Designers will look back on their careers, and reflect on one or two projects that they are most proud of. On those occasions, they were able to bring all of the elements together and create… “The Wow Effect”.

When you are just beginning your next project, set the visual and effect goals for the project very high. If members of your design team can see that you are not passionate about the project, they will follow your lead, resulting in a less than dramatic effect.

There will be many days, when it seems like every idea that is presented, falls short of creating the drama. When this happens, sleep on it, and take your ideas with you to bed. Think about the emotion and sense the completed vision of your project. The next day, you will be amazed at the variety of ideas that will present themselves. Not sure why this works… just know that it does.

2. Oops… Clearly Identify The Vision Of Your Project

Often times when we are beginning a new project, we are so eager to get started, we will hurry out, choose our favorite wall color, and start painting. Next, we will begin our search for the other layers of the project. Unfortunately, many times the effect does not always create the drama we had hoped for.

Important – At the very beginning of any project, and before anything is purchased, painted, or papered, you must visualize the entire project from beginning to end. You may find a dramatic finish, texture, or fabric, which would require a different shade of paint or change the direction of the project completely.

Most people will minimize the importance of this step. You will invest a lot of time working this process. But, if you truly wish to create a dramatic project, you must visually complete your project from beginning to end. There is no easy way to do this. The more detailed the specifics, the greater the chance for a dramatic effect.

3. Funding… Establish an Interior Design Budget

It is so important to identify a budget for your Interior Design Project. The cost for ideas can swing dramatically in price. Once you have established your budget, this will provide the needed structure, and will ensure your project is completed on time.

Through the design process, new ideas will be introduced, which may raise your budget. Many Interior Design projects are completed in phases. Most of us do not have unlimited funds.

Clearly identifying the approximate cost of the entire project, will give you the needed structure for this process.

At this point you can make the decision whether to divide your project into phases. Breaking your project into Interior Design phases ensures that your Interior Design Project will have funding, without settling for a collection of design effects that may fall short of your initial vision.

You can now focus on creating the vision and the drama, without becoming overwhelmed with the financial numbers of the project. Do not begin your Interior Design project, until you have established an Interior Design budget for the entire project. This will become the foundation for the project, and will release your energy to focus on … Creative and Dramatic Interior Design.

4. Capturing Your Ideas, Always Begin with a …”Design Board”

Dramatic Interior Design ideas are like the wind. You need to capture all new ideas as they appear. Most people do not do this, but this is such an important step.

When you are creating your design project, put all of your ideas on a presentation board or design board. These are often called concept boards or mood boards.

It is much easier to test new colors, fabrics, textures, or ideas. You will sense when “The Wow Effect” magic is beginning to happen and your Interior Design project is taking form.

Focusing your creative energy is critical to creating “The Wow Effect”. There are no short cuts or easy ways to create dramatic design. We have all seen Interior Design Projects, where an investment of a little more thought, and creative focus, may have produced a more dramatic effect.

When all of your ideas are placed on a design board, visually, you will be able to sense what is creating drama and what is not working. Introducing new ideas is much easier and the process will start to flow.

Finally, you will never forget the moment, when everything is working, and your design project is taking form. It is almost like a “Runners High”. All of the elements are finally coming together, creating the dramatic vision of your project.

If you truly wish to create “The Wow Effect”, do not skip this critical step. Your investment is too great, not to ensure a final dramatic effect. Always use a design board or concept board on any Interior Design project.

5. Understanding … The Principles of Layering Color, Texture, and Effect

Think about it, almost everything that is appealing to the eye, was created with layers of Color, Texture, and Effect. Visually, we love to admire things that incorporate the “Principles of Layering”.

Color and Texture are the tools you work with, and Effect is that intangible that is generated when you bring the layers together.

Think of the seasons, how in the Fall, the colors naturally compliment each other. If the wrong colors were introduced, the final effect would be much different.

Your layers will include, your Floor Plan or Unique Spaces of Opportunity, Paint, Italian Venetian Plaster, Faux Finish, Wallpaper, Ceiling Finish, Flooring, Fabrics, Furniture, Drapery, Lighting, Accessories, and Plants.

There truly is an art to layering. On your design board you will learn first hand about the principles of layering. Your senses will tell you immediately what is working and what is not creating drama.

Invest some time to learn more about “The Principles of Layering”. There are many good books on this interesting subject. Dramatic Interior Design can only be created in layers.

6. You are the Director … “The Importance of Staging”

Staging is the process of creating the mood, ambiance, and feelings, for a designated are. This is such an important step to learn.

Correctly staging the area that… precedes your next area of opportunity, is critical to creating “The Wow Effect”.

If you have too many colors, decorative items, or visual confusion going on in the staging area, this can and will distract from your unique spaces of opportunity.

Staging will create the maximum effect and control the visual emotion as you move through your home. Drama and effect are rarely created by accident.

Remember, “You Are The Director”. How you set the stage, light the room, choose yours colors and texture, will determine the success of your Interior Design Project.

Learn more about the “Importance of Staging” and “How to Stage you Home”. If this is done correctly, walking through your home will be like reading a great novel. You cannot wait to get to the next room or chapter.

7. Looking for Ideas? … Share a Coffee with an Interior Designer

Everyone is always interested in a good idea. If you feel you would like to discuss your ideas and your project with someone else, I would strongly encourage you to meet with an Interior Designer or Interior Decorator.

There is no obligation for this meeting, but you will be surprised how your project will become focused almost immediately. Ask around to your friends for referrals, to view some of there previous projects, and also discuss their fees.

Everyone will not need an Interior Designer. But there may be times, when the layers of your Interior Design project are not coming together. When this happens, meeting with an Interior Designer may be one of the best decisions you ever make.

Finally, creating “Dramatic Interior Design” is a challenging process. You will spend many days of struggle and effort. At times the tension and difficulty of the process, will make you want to surrender. But I am here to tell you, if you stay with it, and invest the time…

“Someday in the still of your home, you may hear your friends or family members quietly whisper … Wow!

“At that moment, no words need to be spoken, you know in your heart, … You Did It!”

Mark Nordgren

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Systems

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) as described in the previous paragraphs is one of the most important elements needed for plant growth. CO2 is combined with nutrients, water and energy from light (grow lights/ sunlight) is utilized during photosynthesis producing essential sugars that provide energy for the plant. Any factor missing needed for photosynthesis will limit the plants growth potential. In order for a plant to grow to its utmost potential and for it to yield the best results all of the elements must be present. 

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Injectors

One of the most cost effective way of adding CO2 to an indoor hydroponic garden system is with the use of CO2 injectors. A valve, regulator and gauge are used to measure CO2 levels injected to the air. Sophisticated CO2 injectors are also used to control CO2 release. CO2 tanks are readily available from medical supply outlets and restaurant supply stores.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Generators

Investing in CO2 generators would also be wise for long time use in your indoor hydroponic garden systems for several crops. CO2 generators burn propane, natural gas or other carbon based fuels to produce carbon dioxide. More expensive than CO2 tanks, they provide a more convenient way of producing CO2. Long period and continuous use of CO2 generators has proven to be more efficient and economical than purchasing injectors and many tanks.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Monitors and Controllers

CO2 monitors with controllers automatically maintain indoor hydroponic garden systems CO2 levels. It is advised for large-scale gardeners or hobbyists and enthusiasts with that extra cash to invest. Often in the hundreds of dollars, they are quite expensive but are really effective if you can afford it. An electronic CO2 monitor together with a CO2 controller are used to maintain CO2 levels. Monitors could be sold separately and can be used with various types of controllers giving room for flexible indoor hydroponic garden designs. 

Water

Water quantity requirements vary according to the type of indoor hydroponic garden system. Adequate levels of water should be maintained whatever type of indoor hydroponic garden system used. Water deficiency even if reversed and corrected cause permanent loss in production.

Not only the amount of water but also quality of water is important. Poor quality also causes serious problems for any indoor hydroponic garden system. The use of tap water can affect the nutrient balance in hydroponic nutrients solutions. Tap water naturally contains mineral and salts. Often referred to as “hard water,” tap water is offset by constant monitoring and adjusting nutrient solution. Salt content should always be kept below 325 ppm (parts per million) whenever possible.

Temperature

Temperature is a gauge for optimum production for every plant. When plants are exposed to extreme ranges of temperature, stunted growth and poor fruit yields are the result. Plants have specific temperature ranges for their ideal growth. Warm-season vegetables and most types of flowers have 18o C and 260 C as an ideal temperature range. Cooler season vegetables like lettuces have a 10o C to 18o C range.

Red Door Interiors is a personally run company specializing in all aspects of interior design and decorating (refer to our Services page for a list of services) in the residential as well as the commercial areas of interior design. Red Door Interiors has been offering Interior Design services in the Gold Coast Area of Australia.

Any one or all of the following services are offered by Red Door Interiors:

Design and Planning: Making the most of your space by planning your interiors and solving your design problems. We design bathrooms, kitchens, plan office layouts and design custom cabinetry for bars, libraries, studies, reception counters and anything that needs to be custom made. We supply plans and drawings.

Design Concept: Forming the overall concept for the whole project, this is presented in a visual form that shows fabrics, furniture, colours and finishes. This will be the master plan for the project and future work to follow.

Interior Decorating Consultation: we can provide you with decorating advice on a once off or hourly basis if you need some guidance or expert assistance in the choice of colours, finishes or selection and placement of furniture.

Selection and co-ordination of finishes for investment properties or new homes: together with paint colours these items will form the shell of the interior and need to be coordinated with the overall concept to create the best background for the furnishings and help to sell your new investment. Elements included in this service are the specification of wall finishes – paint, paneling, wallpaper- floor coverings – tiles, carpet, stone, timber – light fittings and bathroom tiles and fittings.

Quoting, supply and installation of furnishings: creating a budget by obtaining prices and quotes on the items required for the interior and then managing the ordering and installation process. Red Door Interiors has access to wholesalers in all areas of soft furnishing, furniture, fabric and interior products, so the client is not limited to one retail supplier but rather has the choice of the best supplier for their requirement. These items include:

•    Window finishes: roller blinds (motorized or chain operated), external awnings, timber shutters, roman blinds, curtains, pelmets, swags and tails.
•    Soft furnishings: bed covers, bed heads, cushions, bed valances.
•    Upholstered couches and chairs: reupholstered or new.
•    Furniture: dining tables, chairs, occasional chairs, entertainment units, coffee tables.
•    Accessories: artwork, mirrors, rugs, lamps, plants, decorative objects

Colour consultancy: by selecting the best paint colours to suit your architecture, your lifestyle and your outlook we can create or change your image. We select and specify paint for all aspects of the project, both internally and externally. A full colour consultation will result in a colour board and specification list.

Furniture packages and styling: complete turnkey packages to suit various budgets can be supplied for the investment unit or presale presentation. All the furniture, bedding, electrical and white goods, artwork, kitchenware and accessories are supplied as a complete, stylishly designed package and within a set time frame to allow the investor total piece of mind that his investment will attract the best clientele without his having to furnish the property himself.

Corporate Design: Good interior planning and interior design of your office space can instantly upgrade your professional image and has been shown to improve staff morale and increase productivity.

Red Door Interiors has been offering Gold Coast Interior Design Services for 25 years and has vast experience in planning office layouts and decorating corporate interiors. We can provide you with a proposal to revamp your existing interior or design a totally new one. We handle all aspects from planning and layouts, designing receptions and boardrooms, colour schemes to suit or change your image, selecting office furniture, and supplying blinds, artwork and accessories. We can work in conjunction with your builders or can provide our own sub contractors for the interior construction and fitout.