Prioritizing healthy communities

One of the first things we learn on lockdown is how much we crave and rely on our relationship with our neighbors. It creates a deep sense of community and it can help everyone feel seen and valued.

Allocating green spaces

With limited access to the outside world, people are starting to see the things they take for granted. Communities are looking for parks and green spaces to enjoy with their friends. There’s also a sale increase for plants and backyard tools.

Maximizing the layout

With the homes becoming a school and office place, the practicality of home spaces has become a priority. It needs to have enough space and good lighting to cater to our new needs.

Buying instead of renting

Despite the rise in unemployment, 1 out of 5 people is still planning to buy a home in the future.

People want the space and greenery but also need the convenience and services of urban cities. As we move forward, balancing these two will be explored.

Stick with a neutral color palette

Neutral palettes never go out of style. It’s timeless and never goes out of style.

Invest in your furniture and appliances

Good furniture will also be worth every penny because it lasts long.  If you have an old TV, blend it in different artworks or invest in a slim frame.

Upgrade your fixtures

Updating your outdated drawer handles and tap can transform your room.

Use cabinets that fit

Buying a cabinet that exactly fits the space will make it look like you have custom-made cabinets.

Go big with artworks

Huge statement pieces can add character to your room. Make sure you have enough space though.

Remove clutter and unused stuff

Don’t hold on to stuff you will never use. Donate or throw them away!

Accentuate and Layer

Add an instant grandeur to your home with ornate moldings. Add depth and layer your pieces together.

Remove unused stuff

Don’t hold on to stuff you will never use. Donate or throw them away!

Use it as a centerpiece

You can use a large standing mirror as a statement in your living room. You can pair mirrors with furniture too — round and arched mirrors go well with curvy furniture. Unique-shaped mirrors can be used as an art piece or you can group it with paintings or photographs.

Don’t be afraid to use more than one

Hang three or more mirrors on your wall like how paintings are grouped in art galleries. You can also symmetrically hang them for a calm and composed atmosphere.

Use it to add depth

Mirrors can reflect the light around a dark dreary room to make it more lively. It’s also great for making the illusion that your space is bigger than it actually is. Adding a standing mirror in the hallway is a great idea.

Mirrors are versatile decors you can add to your home. Feel free to experiment.

Here are 6 tips for revamping your courtyard.

Pick a color palette

Focusing on a color palette is the most important step in renovating your courtyard. Everything will fall into place once you’ve decided which colors you will stick to.

Stick to a theme

Now that you sorted out the colors, it’s time to work on your theme. Choose pots and sculptures that have a coherent style.

Add a water feature

Your courtyard doesn’t need to have grandiose fountains. A simple water feature will create a zen atmosphere you will love to relax to.

Utilize your brick walls

Hide them using decor or climbing plants for a beautiful backdrop. You can also enhance brick walls for an industrial vibe.

Attach deck floors

Use timber to bring warmth to your courtyard’s atmosphere.

Bring it to life with plants

Flowering plants and fruit-bearing trees will attract different birds and insects. They’ll also help you pollinate your courtyard!

Ade Plant

Succulents are the most resilient and low-maintenance plants.

Aloe Vera

This plant can also be used for moisturizing your skin!

Mother-in-law’s Tongue

This plant thrives in dry areas far from direct sunlight.

Zanzibar Gem

This plant is not heavily-reliant on water and sunlight.

Peace Lily

This plant can thrive in low-lit areas.

Agapanthus

Famous for being a fire-retardant. They grow anywhere but if you want their flowers to bloom, make sure they can enjoy the sun.

Star Jasmine

This evergreen plant can thrive anywhere. It also has a nice fragrance.

Crepe Myrtle

If you’re planning on adding a bit of blush in your courtyard, this plant is perfect, especially during summer.

Canna “Tropicana”

This plant is bold and striking. Its orange flowers and striped leaves will bring life to your courtyard. Place them under the sun. They can also tolerate wet soil.

Nasturtium

This plant’s blooms don’t last long but the seeds it leaves behind will surely grow a new one in their stead.

Don’t give up! Growing these plants should help you become more confident.

Long-Leaf Figs

A classic favorite among households.

Madonna or Peace Lily

Illuminate your space with this flowering plant.

Boston Fern

Lush and vibrant hanging plants thrive in bathrooms.

Banana Trees

Convert your home into a tropical paradise.

Zanzibar Gem

The most resilient plant on this list.

Devil’s Ivy

Easy to maintain but not recommended for pet owners.

Dumb Cane

Brighten your home with this plant but keep it away from pets.

Fiddle Leaf Figs

This plant thrives when it’s basked in healthy doses of sunlight.

Lady Palm

Need regular watering and love sheltered spots.

Rubber Plant

Thrives in a brightly-lit area but needs to be repotted frequently.

Pin-striped Calathea

Place it in a bright area to enjoy its vibrancy.

Mother-in-law’s Tongue

Needs to be in a brightly-lit room away from the sun.

Prayer Plant

Keep it from direct sunlight but make sure it’s in a well-lit room.

Swiss Cheese Plant

Another plant that thrives in well-lit areas that aren’t directly hit by the sun.

Zebra Plant

Don’t forget to dust their leaves and mist them regularly!

Test your Paint first

Choose a spot first to test your paint. Sand and dust the area below eye level first so that the paint will stick and paint two coats so you get an idea of how it looks. If you’re mixing colors, paint it side by side with a few inches of space to help you see any differences.

Prep your wall

Fill any holes and cracks before giving the wall light sand to smoothen the area. Make sure to use a putty knife to press down any tape.

Follow the proper techniques

For smooth results, the paint should be applied wet onto the roller. Make sure you paint by sections in W motions for coverage. To “lay off”, don’t overload the roller with paint and lightly roll it from top to bottom. Remove any tape while the paint is wet.

Don’t forget, choosing the right paint finish is an important factor.  Using proper materials and techniques will make your wall look like it was done by a professional.

Mercator 130cm City Dc Black Ceiling Fan

This fan has 6 settings to choose from. It has a very modern and sleek design.

Fanforce Hawk 48″ Anti-Rust Timber 4 Blades Ceiling Fan

The blades are made with marine-grade plywood. It’s the quietest fan from this list.

Mercator Cooya 52″ Tahitian Outdoor Ceiling Fan

This tropical-styled fan is made for the outdoors.

Haiku Smart Home Fan

This fan comes with a remote and 9 different styles.

Java DC fan in natural timber 150cm

Powerful airflow technology with a reverse switch.

Brilliant Atrium 56″ 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel Ceiling Fan

The most powerful but efficient fan on this list.

Tahitian 132cm 5-blade fan

Another great tropical-style fan to accentuate your space.

52” Fan Remote Control 8H Timer 3 Speeds 3 Wooden Blades

Turn it on or off with a built-in timer to save on energy.

Darwin 65” Modern DC Motor Ceiling Fan

Simple but efficient ceiling fan.

Miami 52” White Modern Ceiling Fan

A ceiling fan that’s not too expensive but very relaxing to look at.

1. Cornices

As previously said before, the smallest of details will bring out the best in your space. Opt for a P50 Shadowline look.

2. Door handles

Simple designs are the best way to accentuate your area. Don’t go overboard with these.

3. Lighting

Place downlights along walls to create a subtle lighting effect in the room. Opt for wall lights to create a mood while adding character to space. You can also utilize floor and table lamps as well.

4. Flooring

Polished concrete is a bit expensive but it’s very versatile. Concrete veneers are a good cheaper alternative. Large-format tiles are great options too.

5. Fans

Depending on the fan, these not only keep you cool but also provide character to your ceiling.

6. Exterior

Keep your home’s exterior safe from damage by investing in good materials. Hardie Deck, Timber, Modwood, and Ekodeck are good choices.

The smallest details are often overlooked; these should help you update your space.

The Chalet Nova exhibit was designed by Clément Cividino in partnership with Mélissa Paul. It evokes an otherworldly feel because of its Lucite, steel, and aluminum exterior, providing a stark contrast to its surroundings. This is complemented with the curated ceramic exhibition found inside.

Chalet Nova’s original purpose was to be a holiday bungalow in France.  Clément Cividino had tracked down this mini bungalow from a postcard he saw. He often finds these exquisite structures in photos, archival documents, and even in old magazines.

The Chalet Nova was opened during the 2nd week of January. Currently, they only allow six visitors per entry and it has to be pre-booked as well. The exhibition will be open until spring. Afterward, the chalet will be moved to Paris for the FIAC week.