Walls of wood are one of the ways of resolving the problem with focal walls. Even in the bathroom, when relaxing in the tub, why not rest your eyes on something precious and rich like wood? Focal walls in bathrooms are an interesting idea as long as the walls covered in wood slats or panels enhance the space and bring out the best in the bathroom’s design. Flawless modern design using walls of wood can accentuate the warm atmosphere of a house, be it minimalist, traditional or eclectic. Wooden walls can lead to debates about deforestation and reforestation. Walls of natural wood connect the interiors to the peace-giving outdoors by reminding you to surround yourself with simple, natural materials.

If you can’t decide which portion of your home needs a makeover, look at the detailed walls of wood in the photos below and you will surely find at least 5 favorite looks – my top favorite is the first photo, where curved glass collides with walls of wood and guides natural light inside. Walls of wood can add spiritual simplicity to that space behind the bed, the one we see every night right before we go to sleep. Wouldn’t you like to see a natural colored wall of wood as a comforting, warm image before you rest? Or would you rather spend some vacations enjoying the forests?

Read More »

With so many of you in love with The Hobbit Movie and with the characters depicted by J.R.R. Tolkien, we decided to put together a special post. And because design and architecture is our thing, we made a list with some of the most striking architecture projects that resemble or are derived from the famous fantasy novels. Enjoy!

#1.Sustainable Woodland Home in West Wales

Simon Dale of Wales envisioned a sustainable woodland home in a hill on the countryside, which may be considered “cartoony” enough to match the small hobbit homes from the Lord of the Rings. The project is daring, highly practical and it only cost its owner £3,000 to build. A nice way to escape the hassle of monthly energy bills, wouldn’t you agree?

#2. Lord of the Rings Residence in Barbados

If it wouldn’t have been built in 1975 (long before the movie itself), some would probably argue that this 3,500-square-foot multilevel home by Ian Morrison on top of a hill in Barbados, is definitely inspired by the Lord of the Rings movie. Built in a stunning setting with soothing interiors that seem to be brimming with green life, the house brings a relaxing atmosphere that you can “almost” feel.

#3. Cute Lord of the Rings Hobbit Houses in New Zealand

The Hobbit scenes from Lord of the Rings Movie Trilogy were filmed on a hillside lot in Matamata, New Zealand. Now the little Hobbit Homes have become a tourist attraction, but also they became homes for some of the sheep from a nearby farm. The interiors of these white structures were never finished because the scenes shot inside were actually filmed on a studio set. Although the place where these Hobbit houses rest under the sun are not an intimidating fun Disneyland-like  amusement park, one can visit the countryside and get a chance to learn more about the sheep raised here and even pet the lambs.

#4. The Dune House

Even though architect William Morgan did not intend for the Dune House in Atlantic Beach, USA to resemble any fantasy dwelling, the project may strike some interesting correlations with Tolkien readers. Initially built in 1975, this original looking residence consists of two almost identical 750-Square-foot, each having a bedroom and a bathroom.

 #5. Shire-Inspiring Underground Residence in Switzerland

The unusual architecture display for this home was envisioned by SeARCH and Christian Muller Architects. This particular “hobbit home” includes all the facilities a common house has, such as a guest room, an entertainment area, but also “specialized” interiors like an underground pathway. The entrance is a wide oval opening that you are driven to by some traditional stairs made in stone. Large windows make it noticeable and draw attention to the inside decors.

#6. The Hobbit House of Peter Archer

Architect Peter Archer designed a perfect little retreat in rural Chester County, about 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia, USA. “We wanted a single structure, a relaxing place that was diminutive in scale, for the owner to come and hang out and just be in solitude with his collection,” explained the architect. The fantastic abode inspired by the two famous novels- “The Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings”- was built in collaboration with a team of craftsmen and it is not meant to be a Hollywood interpretation, but a timeless dwelling.

#7.  The Water Wheel House by Chris Whited

Displaying a charming undulating shingle roof, asymmetrical walls and even a water wheel, the home built by Chris Whited in Bainbridge Island, Washington meets our idea of a fairytale dwelling. The project has a total surface 1,200-square feet, is perfectly fit for human life and was built out of sheer passion, without the intension of making the headlines.

#8. Hobbit House in Montana, USA

The Hobbit Villageis a real-life “Shire”-inspired place dedicated to Tolkien characters. During the spring and summer months, visiting hobbit enthusiasts can inhabit the village for prices beginning at $195 per night. It is here that we came across this charming hobbit house with an interior that does not lack the comfort of modern living.

#9. Standard Abode in the Hobbit Village

Round windows and front door, earth walls and grass covering- now this is how a real hobbit home should look like! Admit it- you would love to inhabit a small home like this, even if it does require a little sacrifice. At least for a little while.

#10. Bilbo Baggins House

Last, but not least, check out Bilbo Baggins House at the Hobbit Village in Montana, USA. Particularly inviting, this picture perfect dwelling will probably not be as appealing to adults, as they can only take a peek inside and not actually…live inside it. Find it as pretty as the “real fantasy” version?

Read More »

There is no doubt that your home’s interior takes all the fanfare when it comes to your decorating and home improvements, although there is no doubt that your exterior home is what makes the first impression. One area of your outdoor home that is almost always forgotten is your garage door. It’s almost the “step-child” of the home improvement world! Well no longer, if you are in the process of choosing a new garage door, here are tips to choose the right style for your home.

1. Choose a material that works for your climate
It’s easy to think of your garage door as only a functional, utilitarian door that offers shelter and security for your vehicles and storage, but it also needs to work well with your climate. Depending on your geographic location choose from metal,  fiberglass, or wood/timber for your home. Metal and fiberglass tend to be more durable and will last over time, although wood is natural and creates a beautiful aesthetic to your outdoor home. If you have salt in the air – ask your local garage door retailer what material works best to resist corrosion.

2. Wood garage doors are gorgeous but are an investment
Everyone loves wood! Whether you are choosing furniture or siding, the natural inherent of wood can be matched by no other material. If you have a rustic exterior home, or like the sleek and modern contemporary lines of wood garage doors – look to Cedar, Hemlock, and Larch as wood varieties to consider. Remember, wood is more costly than its metal counterparts but can give you a look that you love. Contact a custom wood door garage door manufacturer to see design options for your home.

3. Metal garage doors can be strong or lightweight in construction
Depending on your home’s location, a steel or aluminum garage door could be ideal. For home’s that are in hurricane or typhoon prone locations with high winds – steel is ideal for resistance to damage as well as burglary. For home’s that are older, steel is a good option as it has longevity and can be painted in a variety of colors. Aluminum doors are durable and lightweight and are ideal for homes that don’t want to use a higher-powered motorized garage door opener.

4. Consider fiberglass doors for extreme temperature changes:
If you live in a climate that experiences high heat or low colder temperatures a fiberglass door is ideal. Fiberglass is durable and it also is a great insulator and will keep your heating and cooling bills from skyrocketing during the season temperature changes. Fiberglass is also more resistant to splitting and cracking unlike wood doors garage doors.

5. Choose a style that matches the architecture of your home:
After you have chosen a material it’s time to consider what aesthetics you’d like your garage to have. Garage doors have come a long way from just being a solid field of color! Today you can get doors that have lites or windows in them and you can get doors that mimic the architectural details of your main home. From traditional carriage doors for individual doors to double sided contemporary varieties, there is no limit to your creativity! Many homeowners are seeking out garage door manufacturers that custom build garage doors.

6. Ensure your garage door has the safety requirements you need
Just like the exterior doors of your main house your garage door needs to have the functionality to access your home and belongings but also the safety requirements to ensure it is safe from harming anyone. Based on the garage door opener and/or how the opening devices for the garage door operate will be based primarily on the space in your garage as well as what type of door you choose. Ask your garage door professional about a roller, canopy, side hinged or sectional style opening garage doors. They will be able to assess your garage for the right mechanism style.

7. Teach your family how to be safe around the garage door
While the safety mechanisms such as a motion controlled sensors for operating the door without accidentally coming down on a person or object is important. Another safety tip to consider is to teach family members and children not to play in or around garage doors. Ensure you point out the sensor area of the garage door and talk about being safe and to stand back when the garage door is being operated.

8. Before selecting a garage – understand the maintenance required for upkeep
While you may think you can purchase a garage door and never have to repair or maintain it again, think again. Like any other mechanical feature your garage door should be serviced by a garage door professional every few years to ensure the springs, mechanical parts, garage door opener and integrity of the door is still sound. Look for garage doors that won’t require a lot of maintenance. Many homeowners prefer not to use a garage door opener and to open it manually. The choice is always up to you.

9.  Adding unexpected curb appeal with your garage door façade
Another way to find the right garage door is by standing back at the street and reviewing your home as a whole.  Similarly to determining the right color for your exterior home, standing back will help you assess your entire exterior. What is it lacking? Is your garage in plain site on the front face or is it hidden behind trees? Does your garage need to coordinate with the surrounding house or can it have a design aesthetic of its own because it’s positioned facing another street? Once you answer these questions you may find by paying more attention to your garage detailing will spruce up your curb appeal.

10. Choose a garage door that works well with your family lifestyle
Once you have taken the other 9 tips into consideration, don’t forget one of the most important factors – your lifestyle. If you love the look of the glass front garage doors but have active children that play in the driveway with balls, skateboards, and neighborhood friends – you may need to reconsider one without glazing (glass). Remember your garage door should reflect your lifestyle just like your home – enjoy choosing one that makes your house and you feel great!
If you enjoyed this article, please share it!

Read More »