Smart Homes June 2019

The natural beauty of wood

INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Credits

GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER M. Anthony Shaw HEAD OF ADVERTISING - NATION GROUP

Paulette Jones CIRCULATION MANAGER Adrian Bowen – Tel.: (246) 430-5500 email: adrianbowen@nationnews.com Writers: Cara Briggs, Camille Alleyne, Coretta Joe, David Hinkson, Gail Hunte, Maria Collymore, Natalia Nunes, Tirshatha Jeffrey and Nick Nunes Photography: Dan Christaldi COVER: Dots Place Design/layout: Brian O’Neale Advertising Executives: Yvette Berry– Tel.: 246 430-5521 Email: yvetteberry@nationnews.com Joycelyn Johnson – Tel.: (246) 430-5516 Email: joycelynjohnson@nationnews.com Donna Francis – Tel.: 246 467-2868 Email: donnafrancis@nationnews.com Debbie Brathwaite – Tel.: (246) 430-5518 Email: debbiebrathwaite@nationnews.com Asha Jones – Tel.: (246) 430-5519 Email: ashajones@nationnews.com INDEX PAGE ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Alison Licorish – Tel.: (246) 430-5552 Email: alisonlicorish@nationnews.com

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Editorial Note

here’s something about wood that appeals to the senses, whether it’s the strong fragrances, the texture when you touch, the appealing appearance in its natural state, or the breathtaking transformations when prepared for various applications.

In the good old days, its ready availability and affordability recommended it as the go-to material for building, but with the changing times, its popularity gave way to alternative materials guided perhaps by thoughts of strength and vulnerability to pests and the other forces of nature.

Thankfully, part of our landscape still features wooden houses spanning the income divide. Join the discussion inside as we chat with an architect who shares a perspective on why building with wood can be a smart choice.

As we enter the half of the year when remodeling, decluttering, repurposing, deep cleaning and more step into high gear, it can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together a package including some of the areas we felt would help to ease the stress a bit.

From design considerations using colour to mixing old and new accessories to give a fresh look; and using technology for home security to making your house more energy efficient, you’ll find ideas inside.

At this time of year when many are on holiday and have lots of time on their hands, it’s the perfect opportunity for home projects. With this in mind, we’ve also included some DIY projects for you. Perhaps one could be creating or redesigning your pet spaces. Just for you we’ve included suggestions for making your pets feel at home too.

The dreaded hurricane season has begun, but it’s also the party season, so ensuring you’re covered lest nature or man intrudes, is critical. Thanks to modern innovation, and insurance companies keeping pace with such developments, property owners can and are benefitting from ensuring their investments are adequately protected.

See inside how insurance companies are embracing smart technology and how their customers who are managing their risk by embracing it, reap rewards too.

Kelly Henry – Tel.: (246) 430-5554 Email: KellyHenry@nationnews.com> ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Wendey Delaney – Tel.: (246) 430-5517 email: wendeydelaney@nationnews.com Printers: Printweb Caribbean Ltd. (246) 434-6719

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SMART HOMES JUNE 2019

Smart Homes is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of The Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies.

For general info email: smarthomes@nationnewscom. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions. This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without the explicit permission of the Publisher. ©2019 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED

Contents

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10

Emerging Trends in Bedroom Design Tech Safe, Tech Sound

Insurance Companies Embracing Technology More Than A Bright Idea Mixing Antique Accessories & Modern Décor

Decluttering is a Maths Problem

Ridding Our Homes Of Germs

24 26

Five For Five: DIY Projects for Summer Pet Spaces And Their Design

SMART HOMES JUNE 2019

12 18 16 20

Why You Should Consider Building a Home With Wood

So You Want A She Shed

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Ten Creative Ways To Colour Your Home

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Ten Creative & Unexpected Ways To Add Colour To Your Home

by Natalia Nunes

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et’s define colour. According to my friend, Google, colour is “the property possessed by an object producing different sensations on the eye as a result of the way the object reflects or emits light”. Then there’s pigmentation.

Google says that colours like white and pink are not present in the spectrum because they are the result of our eyes mixing wavelengths of light. White is what we see when all wavelengths of light are reflected off an object, while pink is a mix of red and violet wavelengths.

Enough science now – which I failed miserably. Let’s get back to the subject at caption. Nowadays, very little is actually unexpected as this is a time when everything is explored, including colour. In my youth, homes in the Caribbean were quite conservative and conventional. Vibrant colours are now commonplace on the exterior and interior of houses as well as other buildings, as we borrow styles

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from the European, Mediterranean and Asian parts of the world.

1. Front entrance doors were traditionally brown or black. Just about any colour that will stand out is now acceptable and is actually aesthetically pleasing as it creates a very bold statement. The moldings around the door can also be painted with a non-traditional colour and the same situation can be applied to windows.

2. The norm of the past – white walls, white ceiling and white mouldings – even that can be jazzed up. If, for you, the ceiling is too modern, a move for a bold colour (stunning in my eyes!), then take a baby step with the moulding. Break away from tradition and embrace a stand-out colour, ceiling, as well as base boards – I dare you.

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3. Interior doors also offer an unexpected surface to embrace colour as well as the surrounding moulding. Hardware for same may also add a jolt of colour. Picture a gorgeous glass knob in a striking colour – door jewellery!

4. The choices in household “stuff” are almost limitless. Think of boldly coloured light switches – yes, they can be had.

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5. Kitchen appliances are fun to colour coordinate as they are available in an array of tints. Even large appliances – fridges and stoves can make quite the statement as with the widely preferred open-concept design; the kitchen is no longer a place to be hidden away.

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7. The laundry is often overlooked, but it’s where much of the homemaker spends his or her time, so it ought to be just as attractive as anywhere else in the house. Brightly coloured baskets to house folded items can be pleasant to look at while doing a very mundane chore. A laundry room deserves to be decorated just as nicely as any other room in the house, so don’t forget pictures on the walls and shelves with decorative objects interspersed between necessities such as detergents and softeners.

8. If you have a home office, you can create a very cool theme there, even with sports memorabilia – a bicycle on the wall to add a bit of drama and dimension, not least of all, colour. Why not? A great space-saver as well!

9. The powder room is another area where unexpected colour can tickle the imagination. Countertops come in a myriad of shapes, textures and colours, as well as basins – nothing is out of bounds. How does a red toilet grab you?

10. Bedrooms are almost inexhaustible as they are such private domains that it’s totally up to the individual to explode or hold back on colour here. A funky colour on the bed is sort of unusual but not unique. In a child’s room, colour can overstimulate, so be careful to measure boldness with moderation.

Honestly, the list is inexhaustible. Open a window to your creativity and splash on some colour!

INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Rest Here:

Emerging Trends in Bedroom Design

by Cara Briggs

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t would be a fallacy or impossible to call somewhere your home if it’s not where you sleep.

Your bedroom is your private, safe space. A place where you can feel comfortable and well rested, and where you can also showcase your personality through design.

Here are some simple ways you can use design to transform a blah bedroom into your personal oasis.

Texture Natural textures are playing a key role in interior decorating.

Pom-poms, tassels, fringe, and mixed fabrics add tons of character without going over the top with colour and pattern.

Test the waters with a tasseled throw or blanket across the foot of the bed, or take the plunge with a textured comforter or duvet.

Decorative pillows can also add tons of texture to your bedding set;

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styles made of velvet, faux fur or big, chunky knitted textures are at the top of the list of current design trends.

Another particular material which has been making a comeback is rattan. D urable and lightweight rattan has been a staple craft material for centuries, particularly for furniture.

The popularity has returned full circle, with rattan being the go-to material used in ornate furniture design, especially headboards and side tables.

Red, Gold & Green

Neutral and Pastel Colour Schemes: While bold prints and maximalist patterns are hard to miss in current bedding trends, minimalist colour schemes still seem to reign supreme. Some prefer to keep it simple with an exclusively neutral palette, while others are making a subtle statement by mixing in pastels.

If you really want the space to pop, consider contrasting your neutral bedding with darker, complementary accent colours.

Popular picks at the moment are gray, blue, dark brown or deep red. For additional visual interest, choose subtly patterned pieces in your favourite neutral shades, which can seamlessly complement your existing furniture on a small budget.

Big, Bold Headboards In a sleeping space, the headboard is often the centrepiece. Today’s trendiest bedrooms use the headboard to make a style statement.

Soft upholstery with button and tufting are mainstays in current headboard designs.

To really pack a design punch where your headboard is concerned, choose unique materials, oversized features, and rich textures like velvet or satin, and let your design speak for itself.

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Organic & Responsibly Sourced Bedding There are new up-and-coming popular bedding materials that are grabbing consumers’ attention when it comes to sheet sets. It’s bamboo, a fibre that is hygienic, sustainable, affordable and durable, while being just as soft as its cotton and microfibre counterparts.

Consumers worldwide are paying more attention to how what they purchase is produced, and with that, purchasing sheet sets, pillows, comforters and mattresses that were most likely treated with toxic chemicals such as flame retardants, is becoming more unappealing.

To avoid exposure to these chemicals, materials like bamboo provide an easy and inexpensive way to keep it certified organic all the way.

Specialised Lighting The bedroom is the most important room to get the lighting right.

Investing in the right lighting scheme for your bedroom can help to achieve a tranquil and relaxing space.

From mood enhancing lamps to dimmable overhead lights, it’s all about being able to control the level of light to suit you.

Unless your bedroom is extremely small, it needs more than one source of light. Various combinations of bedside lamps, floor lamps, ceiling fixtures, and mood lighting make it easy to read in bed, get dressed and undressed and relax.

Pendant lights are a wonderful way to add on-trend style to your bedroom. Simple pendants on either side of your bed or a larger chandelier are both excellent options for your sleeping space.

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terrifictiles INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Tech safe, tech sound

by Nick Nunes

A beacon of light to our dark distrusting nature is that you don’t actually have to break the bank or have strangers monitoring your every move. You can do it yourself.

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ear and paranoia have been the driving forces behind much of human endeavour since language evolved. A look back through millennia of anthropological studies and finding what humans and our precursory ancestors were doing leads us to finding walls.

We have an inherent need for safety. We crave barriers to keep the unfamiliar world of the unknown outside and feverishly guard the things we’ve accumulated and care for. We don’t trust, we wonder and wander into suspicious hypotheticals of ‘what if’.

The 21st century has introduced us to new fears, sophisticated ones. More can go wrong and we perceive that we have more to lose; maybe we do.

Once upon a time it was enough to have a simple deadbolt and a window latch. Today, we have bars on our windows and invisible lines of light to sense anyone encroaching on what we call precious. You can arm your house, alert neighbours with lights, turn on all-seeing camera eyes, and be your very own Big Brother.

A beacon of light to our dark distrusting nature is that you don’t actually have to break the bank or have strangers monitoring your every move.

You can do it yourself.

Security is essential for a sound mind.

How many times have you left home and wondered—‘Did I leave the gas on?’, ‘Is the window open?’, or any number of particular ‘Is it safe?’ queries?

The world of tech security for your home is vast and the expanse won’t end anytime soon; the good stuff just starts getting cheaper. The greatest part of doing a DIY job for your home security is that you get to choose everything you want and nothing you really don’t need.

Do you have a large yard with property in the open that you wish to safeguard? Motion sensors to monitor your private perimeter can really take a load off your mind. Sound alerts to deter potential prowlers or burglars or even flood lights depending on your desired level of privacy protection.

Cameras inside, outside, and for a variety of reasons can be a great ease towards your own peace of mind. If your smart home security system comes with any camera, you’ll want to consider the features available on them and what will work best for your home.

Alerts to your mobile smart phone can be sound-based, vibration-based, or push-based to get your attention to anything happening that shouldn’t be.

When looking at a smart home security system, you’ll want to consider

Pros and Cons of DIY Security Systems Pros • • • • • • Cons • • • • • • •

the included cameras, sensors, and alarms. Such considerations will depend on the size of your home and how much coverage you desire. There are window sensors, water leak sensors, those that detect smoke and carbon monoxide, and many more. Many systems will even include an audible alarm to deter intruders and alert anyone in the area to a break-in.

No installation fee Many systems do not require contracts Easy installation without the use of tools Install equipment wherever you choose Purchase only the equipment that you need and want Easy to transport if you move to a new home May perform an improper install Upfront costs can be higher Purchasing add-ons can get expensive May have limited technical support You are responsible for maintenance Could be responsible for system repairs May not offer professional monitoring

Safeguarding your sanctuary is its own reward; however, the ability to see all could possibly increase your already growing paranoia.

Monitoring your environmental systems while out of physical proximity is great. Having mobile access to your abode at a distance is awesome.

Look for smart lights, smart locks, smart thermostats, garage openers, and more to help you automate simple tasks. Being able to automate your microcosm and turn on and off your varied systems can bring tranquillity through security. The tech of today and tomorrow always has something new in store.

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Insurance companies embracing smart technology

by David Hinkson

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here’s an app for that” has become the standard answer to many questions over the past decade as smart technology has made virtually all types of information more accessible at the click of a mouse or touch of a screen on a PC, tablet or smartphone.

The majority of the insurance companies in Barbados have fully embraced this technology as well, enabling people to carry out transactions online that would previously have required a visit to the company’s office and lots of paperwork.

From the start of the process, when you decide to insure your property, online forms are available through which you can submit the relevant information and receive a quotation. Once that is done,

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you can go ahead and purchase a policy, and you will eventually receive the policy documents via email.

When the policy is in force, you can make your premium payments online using your credit card, or via service providers like SurePay or the online banking facilities offered by some of the commercial banks. One company is also offering customers the relatively new option of bitcoin technology for payments. You can check your account balances, renew your policies, and claims forms are also available for the various types of incidents for which you might need to make a claim, such as burglary, fire, flood or storm damage. Another firm has a facility in which you can submit photographs of your home’s contents for valuation purposes.

Smart technology is also coming on stream with homes, which is yet another element insurance companies did not have to think about years ago. These apps allow owners to control certain functions in their homes via their mobile phone, tablet or PC, and many of them relate to keeping the property safe. These functions include activating alarms, controlling appliances, locking and unlocking doors, programming security systems, turning lights on and off, watching surveillance video footage, and sending alerts and real time data.

Some of the more common ones are timed lighting, which was one of the first types on the market and is aimed at, according to lendingtree.com, “giving the appearance of home occupation, the idea being that if you have a device that will automatically turn

your lights off and on at preset times during the day, you will be less of a target for home burglary.”

Other features are door and window sensors, “smart locks”, which allow homeowners to gain quicker and easier access to their homes, either via smartphones, Bluetooth key fobs or the traditional metal keys. Some also use electronic keys (e-keys) that only work on specific days and times.

Smart smoke detectors are also available, which apart from their designated function, can let the owner know when it needs batteries. Water and flood sensors can detect water leaks around sinks and other appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, and alert the owner by sending emails or texts.

Smart technology in its early stages required professional

These apps allow owners to control certain functions in their homes via their mobile phone, tablet or PC, and many of them relate to keeping the property safe. installation and was very expensive. However, there are many do-it-yourself kits available now which are Wifi-based and do not require special wiring, and some insurance companies in the United States offer discounted rates to customers with these devices in their homes. They offer customers greater peace of mind as they can check out what is happening at home even when they are miles away or indeed in another country, and devices controlling the heating systems, light and water can result in lower utility bills.

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In Barbados, many of our insurance companies currently offer discounted rates for alarm and other security systems monitored by recognised security firms, as well as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and burglar bars. Some Barbadian security companies are offering the smart technology, but since it is not a common feature in most local homes at present, the insurance firms for the most part do not recognise it. However, some of them are willing to consider offering lower premiums to customers who embrace smart technology and incorporate it into their properties.

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More than a bright

idea I

by Nick Nunes

t’s always coming up and energy will always be moving forward. Humanity has had a massively devastating impact on this world and a good deal of that comes down to our unreasonable energy use and requirements.

We’ve industrialised our entire world and wrapped the globe in a net of electrical processes that are strangling it and scarring the planet as we crave and carve out more and more to feed our greed.

Do you leave the fans on when you aren’t home? Are your rooms lit when there’s no one present to see? It’s very much a grumpy old man thing to do. Following around family members and turning off lights as they pass from room to room.

But, why are we wasting all this energy anyway? Have we grown so complacent that we take for granted the processes that lead to our indoor worlds being well lit?

Though Barbados is leading the world in solar water heaters per capita, many of those solar panels are severely out of date. Even worse, how many of us have solar panels for more than just water heating.

Every switch flipped and every aspect of our lives involving energy needs to be re-examined with cost efficiency and eco energy efficiency in the fore of our minds.

Robotic vacuum cleaners and smart appliances have already debuted on the market for improving convenience around the home. We are now living in a technological renaissance that is burgeoning with an artistic elegance of intertwining comfort, function, and holistic efficiency.

Now is the time to look into the appliances

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we all use to move towards the energyefficient brands. Low flow toilets, energy efficient washers and dryers, and Energy Star rated appliances of all kinds all add up to a home’s lowered expenditure.

All over Barbados you can find LED lights marked for their energy efficient nature and with added bonuses of being smart bulbs that can be controlled from your smart phone. Every year, tech gurus are making it easier for less-than-modern homes to convert to energy-efficient tech solutions.

Barbados gets back-breakingly hot during the summer. Those with air conditioning see the pain two-fold when the Light and Power bills come from all that extra cooling cost. Even air conditioning units can be converted to cut your power bill by orders of magnitude.

In all ultra-high efficiency AC-powered mini-split units, household electricity enters the air conditioner and passes through a rectifier, a component that converts the incoming Alternating Current (AC) to Direct Current (DC). The DC current passes through a frequency driver which applies power to the motor.

The frequency of the power determines the output of the motor, which can be digitally managed to precisely control the motor’s speed. Because DC power can be used more efficiently, all of the highest efficiency AC-powered heat pumps and air conditioners on the market use DC powered compressors.

With all the connectivity available today, it’s important to take a look at managing the power that is quite literally at our fingertips.

“Low flow toilets, energy efficient washers and dryers, and Energy Star rated appliances of all kinds all add up to a home’s lowered expenditure”.

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Mixing Antique Accessories & Modern Décor

by Natalia Nunes

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ld folk….do you know how much value they add to our families? The stories we enjoy hearing over and over because they never grow old, always entertaining the newest generation and teaching the generation that will be the next antiques, how life is done…or not to be done – PRICELESS. The parallel between human “antiques” and the next generation is simple – great value and very cool aesthetics. Having inherited way too many from my husband’s side as well as my own, it was difficult for me to say …”GASP…Where would I put that old thing”?

Beggars can’t be choosers and as newlyweds with no furniture to fill our first home, hand-me-downs were not to be scoffed at.

Determined to put my own fresh mark on relics that had made some of the very stories my husband and I love hearing, even now, I sanded, painted, upholstered and sutured dying furniture feeling amazed at the new pulse I had created in mere pieces of wood.

Thirty-five years later, I still do CPR on my treasured antiques.

Mixing antiques with modern pieces is easy. First, make sure the antiques are sound – all the joints should be strong and secure.

Any brass or other metal should be in good condition as well as knobs and handles. Even soft antiques can stand the test of time if they are lovingly cared for. I still have three of my grandmother’s table cloths. Depending on the size of a room and the pieces you have to create an interest, bearing in mind that your theme is actually modern, accentuate like you would dress yourself – new dress, new shoes, new make-up, paired with Gram’s antique earrings and bracelet.

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So say you have a new modern sofa – maybe a sectional. Invite that antique chair into the mix and if you have two, all the better but, be careful to have the soft areas in complementary fabrics. It is important that colours and patterns don’t conflict, in order to achieve a pleasing flow.

Relics can create quite the conversation piece either looking as they are – rusty, dented and scratched-up or with new life breathed into them. An old, metal fan when cleaned up is often very cool (pun intended) even if the electrics are kaput. An old, dial-up telephone can now become a piece of art displayed in a modern setting. It will be playful and teach the young ‘uns what communication looked like before Digicel. Play with settings.

Try pieces together to see if they complement each other and if the antique needs a face-lift to merge with the modern, go for it. I have an antique bed post that I turned into a lamp. With a lovely, new shade and up-to-the-minute fabric, it throws a much appreciated, fresh light on any subject.

Recently my eyes were treated to a spectacular sight – an artist found a way to use what basically was thought of as rubbish, in a most creative way. He artfully put pieces of the most unlikely things together to create the most magnificent works of art. At a distance, faces and scenery are readily recognisable as his talent is undeniable. Up close, old nuts and bolts, dolls, old toys, bits and pieces of fabric and just about any object he could see through his limitless imagination, skillfully merged to create masterpieces. So don’t be afraid to mix the old with the new; should God spare life, we too will become valuable antiques.

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Why you should consider building a home with wood

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by Tirshatha Jeffrey

hen you think of wooden homes, you probably picture the few quaint chattel houses that remain in Barbados or those featured on postcards and painters’ canvases in local art shops. If asked to describe wood homes, words such as “traditional” or “outdated” may come to mind before “modern” or “cosmopolitan”. However, wood can not only be a contemporary choice for building your home, it can also help you reduce your environmental footprint and save money. Registered Architect Raquel Thomas spoke to Smart Homes about why building with wood can be a smart choice for your family and the planet.

Thompson says that building with wood is a sustainable choice. While concrete may seem like the more environmentally beneficial option when compared to timber, the production of cement is responsible for about eight percent of the global carbon dioxide emissions. Wood is “a [building] material that is better for our environment,” advises Thompson. “[It] is recyclable and biodegradable.” She also sees using wood as part of keeping on track with our environmental goals for 2025: “We are moving towards sustainability and energy efficiency [as a country] and it is unreasonable to think that we are still going to be building in a way that is contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and not changing the way we build things.”

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INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Yellow heart

• Ipe

• Teak

“There are several different types of wood that can be used to build a home”

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Cherry

If you are worried about the environmental impact of cutting down fresh timber to build your home, Thompson suggests using reclaimed wood. Making use of salvaged wood from other construction sites or projects can not only play a part in lessening your home’s carbon footprint, it can also be cheaper than buying and treating new wood or using concrete.

In our tropical climate, keeping homes cool can be a costly and frustrating endeavour. Wooden homes can help keep costs and frustrations at a minimum because they are inherently cooler than their concrete counterparts. “Wood has a low thermal mass, which means it doesn’t absorb and store heat like concrete or masonry does,” says Thompson. This reduces the need for mechanical ventilation in the form of air conditioning units or fans, which can result in lower electricity bills and a cooler, more comfortable home.

Wooden houses can also be built to fit your specifications.

Thompson asserts: “Any house that you build with concrete you can build with wood.” And those possibilities are virtually endless because wooden houses can come in a variety of designs.

“When you’re using wood, you can have a chattel house, a log cabin, or an ultra-modern post and beam building surrounded by glazing,” remarks Thompson. When it comes to décor, depending on your desires, you can choose to showcase the characteristics of the wood throughout your home or use accessories and finishes that mix the traditional look of wood with modern elements.

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Mahogany Oak

There are several different types of wood that can be used to build a home. For our climate, wood that is strong, durable and can withstand the effects of moisture and humidity are best. In the Caribbean, most of the wood used to build homes is sourced from South America and the most common and readily available types are green and purple heart. If neither of these is your preference, Thompson indicates that any of the following can be used in place of green or purple heart wood: • Oak • Cherry • Maple • Teak • (Spanish) cedar • Yellow heart • Ipe • Mahogany Using wood to build your home can be beneficial to both your design plans and your finances. If you want to ensure that you make the best decision for you and your family, while also being environmentally conscious, be sure to research all of the choices available for constructing your home. The possibilities of wood construction are virtually endless and the options available may surprise you.

Decluttering is a Maths Problem

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by Maria Collymore

hen I was going to school there are many aspects of maths I wondered how would I use them in my life. Why do I have to learn this? What was their purpose? However, I now realise just how many maths disciplines I use daily in my job. This may be very useful in helping your kids get organised and apply maths. Let’s explore how what we learnt in maths helps us with the clutter in our homes.

Decluttering starts with Sets Step one of decluttering is sets. Put the things out into sets based on what they are. Each category has a different function. When you begin to approach a room to sort it, you have to put everything that’s not in place into sets. These can be clothes, stationery, books, papers, tools. Start with all before sub-dividing as this helps with packing away. Then you have to sub-divide. If it’s clothes it may be by colours, or where you wear them, linen from clothes or pants from shirts and dresses. The more defined your subsets 26

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get, the better you can find them. Although, once sub-division is complete, your next task is finding a home or system to store them.

That leads to ...

Dimensions matter when packing Whether it’s dishes or screws or notions, it’s about space and volume. How can I fit all of these in this space? Having the right containers to pack into is about ratios and dimensions based on amount, and what size I’ll need.

Stacking is also size and volume.

The deeper or wider at bottom to smaller, shallower matter for packing plates, bowls or plastic containers. It’s recognising the ratio of each item’s size.

Tables of multiplication create patterns in packing If, for example, you have a set of 12 glasses in a display cabinet, are

you packing 3 rows x 4 columns or 2 x 6 or 4 x 3 etc? It all depends on the space and effect you want in the display. I actually have a triangular shelf, so I may pack 5:4:3. It’s all maths.

Also, configuration has to do with different shapes; how do I fit circles with squares with trapezoids, when making them fit in the space? Then what is the best configuration to make them fit well and easy to access again?

Height: Ascending and descending order When packing, aesthetics matter; how appealing to the eye and how visible are the majority of items. So on a bookcase, hutch or bureau, balance and symmetry appeal to the eye.

On a bookcase, once sorted by topic, I’ll pack by height either ascending or descending order, either out from centre or straight across from one end to the other. In some cases, I will lay a book flat and go up creating a pyramid effect. This gives a beautiful appeal and if you remember what a books looks like even if you can’t remember the title, it’s easy to see and source.

Folding is pure fractions The first thing I do when folding is determine what size I need it to be when it’s done. So I know how many pieces I’ll need to divide it into, but as I am not cutting I am folding even parts, it’s fractions I need to use.

Basically, I start with segmenting that item whether shirt, towels or linens in twos, threes or four parts. Unusual pieces like dresses

wide skirts my aim is cut shapes till I can work with a square or rectangle We’ll use thirds for this example. So you’re folding a shirt, its two sides and centre, which is thirds. Based on whether you are stacking upwards or forwards (like files) determines how many ways you divide your fraction. Is it a large space so one more fold is good or are the drawers shallow so you have to divide it more to get it smaller? One fold makes your thirds into sixths , two folds ninths, and three make twelfths. Every layer is how I arrive at my denominator. Once you keep your fraction the same, you will have uniformity and if you fold on the right side and pack by colours they should be an easy find.

Symmetry This is my favourite part. How do I change the configuration when packing to make everything fit but also balanced. Whether its furniture or plastics, it’s like doing a puzzle. The challenge is how do I make this all fit and still be easily accessible, aesthetically appealing, and easy to maintaining its order. Many times people don’t need more space, they just need a better configuration of what they do handle it. In this case, odd numbers are awesome because they always give a clear middle so balance to the eye is easy to create.

Next time you go to clean or declutter, tidy beautiful use my little maths tips. Also, show your little ones so they too can have practical examples to maths problems.

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So You Want a She Shed… Here’s What You Need to Know

by Coretta Joe

“If you happen to have a toolshed that houses untouched garden supplies and a whole lot of clutter, pack those away and convert this space into something that you will actually use and love”.

T

here’s a chic, new space in town and it’s just for the ladies. Yes, the infamous Man Cave has some competition. Enter the She Shed: a bespoke nook curated for women to call their own. What started as a humble Pinterest trend has now attracted the attention of women all over who are reclaiming their need for self-care.

Ideally, the She Shed is a backyard structure that you can repurpose into whatever your whimsical heart desires. Whether you’re into DIY projects, you need a quiet home office, hosting ladies’ night, you want to flex your green thumb or you simply need

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a peaceful retreat or some ‘me time’, a Shed Shed is the perfect oasis for you to escape the monotony of your daily routine. But fret not. As luxurious as the idea of a She Shed sounds, it needn’t be over-the-top expensive. Here are some Smart Homes approved tips to get you started on your journey to the space of your dreams.

Use What You Have – If you happen to have a toolshed that houses untouched garden supplies and a whole lot of clutter, pack those away and convert this space into something that you will actually use and love. Next, do a thorough cleaning and check to

see if any minor repairs need to be done such as making sure the walls are not rickety and installing better wiring. Finally, spruce up that shed with a few coats of paint in your favourite colour, add some feminine décor and viola!

Shed Assembly Kits - If you don’t already have a shed you can spruce up, there are easy prefab kits that you can use for a simple solution to your She Shed woes. They come with pretty straightforward manuals and all you need are a few simple tools and a pinch of goodwill.

Build Your Own – If you’re a gal who loves to get your hands dirty and take charge of things from scratch, then by all means, build your own shed! What you do need is lots of time and patience, eagerness, basic tools and accessories and some panels and roof coverings. Lots of tutorials and instructions can be found online, so you can make it a family project or something for you and your gal pals to bond over.

Shipping Container – If you have access to an unused shipping container, you have the perfect opportunity to transform something bland and uninspiring into something exquisite. Experiment with bright colours and patterns and you can always add to what is already there by installing sliding doors, windows, shelves and other basic necessities to make your container shed as homely and cozy as you wish.

Smart Tips: Make the entrance to your shed inviting, especially if you plan on entertaining guests. You can decorate the exterior with romantic

outdoor curtains, white string lights and hanging DIY lanterns.

Check out flea markets, thrift shops and antique stores for deals and bargains on décor for your She Shed. No need to purchase brand new items.

Some must-have items in your shed are a mini fridge, beverages such as wine, tea and coffee and an assortment of snacks. Don’t forget your mini library stocked with your favourite magazines and books!

Make it YOU. Your She Shed should reflect your personality and interests. As you evolve and your tastes change, you can adapt your shed to suit.

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Flu

Salmonella

Ridding our homes of germs G

Mould

by Camille Alleyne

erms are all around. They can be in the air we breathe, in the food and water we consume, and on the things we touch. These micro-organisms may be viruses, bacteria and fungi, and some of them can cause serious diseases and even death. There are a number of germs that make their way into our homes. It is, therefore, important to find out how to protect ourselves and our loved ones from these sickening pathogens. Influenza, salmonella and mould are common germs that may raise their ugly heads in any household.

VIRUSES

The Flu “The flu” is a common disease caused by the influenza virus. The influenza virus presents symptoms such as sore throat, fever, aches and pains, headache, persistent cough, weakness, and nasal congestion.

Prevention There are many ways to prevent the flu from spreading throughout the household.

1. Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or 30

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sneeze. Flush it down the toilet afterwards.

2. Wash hands often with soap and water.

3. Advise members of the household to avoid touching their eyes, noses and mouths. The virus can enter through these pathways.

4. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated.

BACTERIA

Salmonella Salmonella (a form of gastroenteritis) is a common bacterial disease that may exist as a result of eating faeces-contaminated food especially eggs, poultry and meat. Food can be contaminated during the butchering process where meat handlers do not wash their hands after using the toilet and before handling the produce. It also arises when home dwellers practise poor hygiene after changing diapers, dealing with pet faeces or using bathrooms. When vegetables carry the salmonella bacterium, it is usually because the crop was watered with water containing bacteria from faeces.

Possible signs and symptoms of salmonella include nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea, fever, headache, blood in the stool.

Prevention 1. Cook food thoroughly to kill the bacteria. Refrigerate or freeze promptly.

2. Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet, changing diapers, handling raw meat, dealing with pet faeces and touching reptile and birds (these are common carriers of the disease).

3. Prevent cross-contamination by: •storing raw meats away from other foods in the refrigerator, •using a specified cutting board for raw meats and a different cutting board for other foods, • disinfecting counters, sinks and dishes that were exposed to raw meats.

4. Avoid eating raw eggs - whether in shakes, ice cream, eggnog or cookie dough - unless the eggs have been pasteurised.

FUNGI

Mould Mould is a fungus and it thrives in places that are dark and damp like bathrooms, closets, basements and storerooms.

The Centre for Disease Control - a leading public health institute located in the United States - published an online article in September 2017 called, Facts about Mould and Dampness. Therein it was stated, «Exposure to damp and mouldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all.

Some people are sensitive to moulds. For these people, moulds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mould allergies may have more severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive

lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mould. These people should stay away from areas that are likely to have mould, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas.”

Prevention Occasionally ventilate all rooms.

Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers to keep the humidity levels at 50 per cent or less.

Use exhaust or extractor fans which vent the air from the clothes dryer, kitchen and bathrooms, to the outside.

Fix all leaks so that mould does not get a chance to grow.

Remove carpet and upholstery that has been soaked through.

Do not use carpets in bathrooms. Use removable mats instead.

Sun these on a regular basis.

Shower curtains must be sunned regularly.

Clean bathrooms with safe products that remove mould.

(1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water).

The article also stated, “Mould is found both indoors and outdoors.

Mould can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mould in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets …”

WHERE DOES MOULD GROW? Mould grows almost everywhere. It grows on paper, wallpaper, fabric, upholstery, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and in dust.

We must do all we can to eliminate harmful viruses, bacteria and fungi from our homes. A germ-free environment is a healthy environment. Let us do everything we can to keep our homes safe.

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Five for Five: DIY Projects for Summer

S

by Tirshatha Jeffrey

ummer is approaching and with it comes the opportunity to take advantage of long weekends and vacation days.

DIY projects are a great way to keep you and your family occupied or help you unwind from your busy summer schedule. Here is a list of five simple activities that you can complete with your partner, best friend, parent(s) and child(ren) or by yourself. Each project can be done using five (or fewer) supplies in five easy steps.

1

and coffee. Make future catch-up sessions even more special by decorating personalised Sharpie mugs together.

What you will need: • white mugs • rubbing alcohol • cotton balls • oil-based Sharpie paint markers in various colours • adhesive stencils Instructions: • Clean your mugs with rubbing alcohol and cotton balls.

• Choose a stencil and draw outlines of your desired shapes.

• Use the Sharpies to fill in your stencilled outlines.

• Let your mug dry overnight. Draw your design twice for a more vibrant finish.

• Bake the mug in the oven for 30 minutes at 180°C. To prevent cracks, place the mug in the oven before the appliance heats up and leave it in until the oven cools completely. Bake twice.

With a partner – Canvas photo

Commemorate your journey of love by turning a photograph of you and your partner into a work of art.

What you will need: • canvas • photograph (same size as canvas) • MATTE Mod Podge • printed or textured scrapbook paper • acrylic paint Instructions: • Cut four strips of scrapbook paper, making them slightly shorter and narrower than required to avoid overlap.

• Apply Mod Podge to the sides of the canvas and glue the strips down.

• Glue the photograph to the top of the canvas.

• Lay the canvas on wax paper and allow to dry completely.

• Apply acrylic paint to any spaces between the edge of the photograph and the edge of the canvas.

2

With your best friend – Sharpie mugs

You and your best friend have shared years of laughter and tears over cups of tea

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3 With your child – Custom glasses frames In just a few minutes, your child can create a customised pair of glasses frames to rock to outings all summer long.

What you will need: • glasses frames • feathers • glitter/sequins • glue stick •clear nail polish Instructions: • Clean the frames to ensure that they are free of any dust or debris.

• Cover the desired part(s) of the frames with glue.

• Arrange feathers on the glue in your desired pattern or dip the glued part(s) of the frames into glitter/sequins.

• Let the glue dry.

• Paint a thin layer of nail polish over the frames to set the design.

4 With your parent – Herb and dried flower petal sachets With your mom’s or dad’s help, make a few sachets using your favourite herbs and dried aromatic flowers. Place them in drawers and closets to keep your clothing and linens fresh.

Suggested herbs and flowers: • mint • lemongrass • lavender • bay leaves • rosemary • roses • scented Geraniums • hibiscus • lilac

By yourself – Wooden keychain or jewellery holder

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For an easy solo DIY project, use a piece of driftwood or a tree branch to make a rustic key chain or jewellery holder.

You will need: • premade drawstring bags or breathable fabric ribbon or twine • sewing machine or needle and thread • dried herbs and/or aromatic flower petals • essential oils (optional)

What you will need: • tree branch or driftwood about 60cm in length • metallic spray paint • beading wire that matches the spray paint • hammer and nails • string

Instructions for making your own bag: • Cut two pieces of fabric to your desired size (add an extra ½ inch for folding) and sew together, leaving the top open.

Instructions: • Hammer the nails into the piece of wood.

• Spray paint the wood and let it dry.

• Wrap the beading wire around the wood, making sure to cover its length. Wrap the wire around the nails to reinforce them.

• Measure the string to your desired hanging length and tie it to both ends of the wood.

• Hang your jewellery or key chains to the holder and position it on a wall.

General instructions: Make your desired mixture of herbs and flower petals.

• Add a few drops of essential oil.

• Tuck the mixture into the bag.

• Tie the end of the bag shut tightly with ribbon or twine.

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Pet Spaces and Their Design: Making your pet feel at home!

by Gail Hunte

Getting a new pet? Follow these guidelines and your new pet will feel right at home!

Dogs

Outside dogs will need a pen that is raised off the ground, ventilated, tall enough so the dog can stand without the head touching the roof, wide enough so it can stretch its body fully and your dog must be able to move about without restriction.

It needs to be in a shady place and not flood when it rains.

If your garden is not fenced, your dog will need a running leash so they can walk about without danger of leaving the property. Your dog will also need pet toys and chews. When you treat your dog for fleas, clean their pen with a safe solution.

House dogs will benefit from having a comfy dog bed. To get them accustomed, whenever they lay or sit on their bed, give them a dog treat. Get them into a toilet routine and as with outside dogs, clean their bedding and where they sleep when treating for fleas.

Everything will be new and your dog will want to explore, even more so with puppies, so keep a close eye, so they don’t bite electrical wires or other hazardous items. Puppies need chew toys and it’s a good idea to cordon off an area in the house for them while they are being toilet trained, and for safety when you are out.

Never leave puppies alone for too long.

Your dog should also be licensed with Animal Control and vaccinated.

Feed daily and make sure they have access to fresh water.

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Cats

Indoor cats will need a plastic box filled with cat litter, which can be purchased from the supermarket. Clean regularly with a cat scoop and dispose of responsibly. Male and female cats will be safer if spayed and neutered, as they will have no desire to roam and possibly become a road fatality. If you cannot prevent your cat from going out at night, get a collar that illuminates in the dark so that drivers can see it. Make sure it’s elasticated so that if it gets caught on anything your cat can free itself.

Cats enjoy their own space, so place their bed somewhere quiet. Buy or make a scratching post if your cat stays indoors.

Cats benefit from a diet rich in protein and should be fed daily. Speak to your vet or the RSPCA about vaccines.

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Birds

Certain types of birds do better alone, while others thrive in an environment with other birds. The cage needs to be large enough that they can fly, and be placed in a safe shady area. They will need bird swings and a branch they can perch on, and toys.

It’s not recommended to keep birds in a household with cats.

Feed according to the species and make sure they have access to fresh water. Do not allow small children to handle birds unless carefully supervised.

Hamsters, Guinea Pigs and Rabbits

These small animals need a hutch or cage, kept in a dry place and with plenty of appropriate bedding. They will need an escape proof space to run and exercise. Like birds, some may get along, while others fight, so do your research and remember the saying “breed like rabbits.” Make sure they are given the correct foods and include fresh fruit and vegetables (research that none are toxic).

Note that guinea pigs really need to be with other guinea pigs.

Please keep these small pets away from wires which they may chew.

Aquariums

These need to be the right size, for the amount and type of fish you have, with pumps and cleaning filters installed. Seek advice about the correct plant life, to keep the aquarium healthy. Clean regularly and feed according to guidelines.

If you already have pets, introduce new ones gradually and supervise until you are sure they get along. A pet behaviourist can be called if problems arise with dogs.

by Gail Hunte

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