Smart Homes May 2018

From Garden to Getaway INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Tel: 417-7777 | www.simpsonmotors.com

Credits

GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER M. Anthony Shaw MAGAZINE EDITOR

& DEPUTY BUSINESS MANAGER: Lyle Jones HEAD OF ADVERTISING - NATION GROUP Paulette Jones CIRCULATION MANAGER Adrian Bowen – Tel.: (246) 430-5500 email: adrianbowen@nationnews.com Writers: Camille Alleyne, Cara Briggs, David Hinkson, Rosemarie Layne, Natalia Nunes, Leanne Tasher, Katrina Francis-Worrell Photography: Dan Christaldi COVER: The Enchanting Hunte’s Garden Design/layout: Derrick Gill & Brian O’Neale Advertising Executives: Yvette Berry– Tel.: 246 430-5521 Email: yvetteberry@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

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Editorial Note

very now and then, we crave an escape— a break from everyday responsibilities, and an opportunity to clear our minds. I don’t know about you, but in those moments I like to relax at a nice beach or recreational spot. However, the idea of creating a personal haven at home had never quite occurred to me— that was until preparing this issue of Smart Homes magazine.

In this issue, we explore the great outdoors!

It turns out that a little imagination goes a long way in creating our own personal sanctuary. One home upgrade you can consider is planting a garden. Our cover story (Reaping a Fabulous Flower Garden) provides inspiring pointers and you’ll see that outdoor living has become quite trendy in recent times.

Gardening is therapeutic, and naturally, helps you become one with nature. It could be a great treat for the senses— allowing you to breathe in fresh, crisp air, feel the gentle breeze and feast your eyes on a stunning product of your own imagining.

If you are interested in growing a garden, but feel a bit intimidated, a professional(s) can help you realise your vision. Needless to say, I’ve added learning how to garden to my bucket list.

When the weather permits, outdoor entertaining is a great way to unwind with company. See the article Six Ways to Charm Guests with Outdoor Décor for practical tips and in Welcoming Colours for Exterior Walls, you’ll see why the appearance of your house matters.

We did not neglect the inside of the home; we speak to freshening up with essential oils, doing Mini Makeovers for Massive Results, decluttering your space, and making storage stylish.

So, whether you prefer lounging indoors or out, you can purpose your space to promote inner peace.

INDEX PAGE ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Alison Licorish – Tel.: (246) 430-5552 Email: alisonlicorish@nationnews.com 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 MAY 2018

Member Editorial Team

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. ©2017 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED

Contents

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Oh, the power of scent!

Starting a ‘Bed & Breakfast’

Welcoming Colours for Exterior Walls How Does Your Insurance Company Rated?

Setting Rental Rules: Tips for Landlords Mini Makeovers for Massive Results AFSH Design Challenge: Making Dreams Come True Reaping a Fabulous Flower Garden

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From One Gardener to Another Marvel Guests with Memorable Outdoor Décor Clutter Be Gone! Easy Tidying Up Tips Storage & Style Something Old Something New Flashy & Functional Kitchen Gadgets How to Keep Your Home Termite-Free

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Oh, the power of scent!

by Rosemarie Layne

Revive your home with aromatherapy

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mell is perhaps the most emotionally charged of our senses. We exude the most subtle of these when we feel happy, excited, content, sad or vulnerable. Scent can transport us to many wonderful moments in our lives. Aromas evoking nostalgia can give us the feeling of time standing still, and open up a world of possibilities.

Certain scents have been scientifically proven to improve mood, and can be used for stress relief and a myriad of other uses. Plants, flowers and aromatherapy can help create a calm and soothing environment for your family and promote well-being, and can be effective in treating conditions ranging from anxiety and depression to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Below are the top oils that might come in handy.

Lavender The most versatile of essential oils, lavender has a beautiful, fresh floral scent with a hint of sweetness and a herby aroma. One breath and you feel blissful! It is extremely calming, and so, it is ideal for people suffering from anxiety.

Place lavender essential oil on your bedside table and smell it when you’re getting ready for bed, or rub it on your temples. You can also sprinkle a few drops on your pillow. If you can get the dried flowers, you can make sachets for your drawers to scent clothes and repel moths.

Lavender oil can be used as an antiseptic and pain reliever, soothing minor burns, insect bites and stings, and painful muscles and joints.

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“With its uplifting and fresh scent, lemon oil can help clear negative vibrations and enhance concentration and mental awareness.”

Citrus oils like grapefruit,

lemon, and lime are excellent for perking up those of us who are not morning people.

Sprinkle or burn as essential oils, or add to the breakfast table. Enjoy a freshly cut grapefruit, or add lemon or lime to a cup of warm water first thing in the morning.

With its uplifting and fresh scent, lemon oil can help clear negative vibrations and enhance concentration and mental awareness. Rub a few drops on your chest and throat while setting an intention to get flowing! It is also an antiseptic and antifungal, making it a wonderful remedy for scrapes, cuts and other open wounds.

Rosemary

is a delectably edible way to introduce a calming influence into your evening routine.

Savour roasted chicken or grilled fish, topped with a handful of rosemary sprigs. Besides being mouthwatering, it is good for soothing tension.

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Wild orange oil

acts as a digestive aid and has purifying properties. Place in a diffuser for a warm, inviting home environment. Add a drop of this antioxidant rich oil in a glass of water as an efficacious supplement for overall well-being. It is also effective as an organic environmental-friendly household disinfectant.

Peppermint oil is both stimulating and soothing

due to its main component, menthol. Peppermint promotes mental clarity and relieves congestion, headaches, migraines and digestive issues, and also soothes achy muscles. Massage a little on the temples and any sore area, first diluting it with a carrier oil such as grape seed oil. Sipping peppermint tea is also a great alternative to caffeinated beverages.

Eucalyptus oil

has a fresh and clean aroma that is sure to open up the air passages! This powerful oil is a natural antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral and antiinflammatory. It is ideal for respiratory problems - colds, coughs, asthma, and congestion – and also wounds, muscle pain, mental exhaustion, dental care and skin care. Add a drop to a hot bath to clear nasal congestion.

Tea Tree oil - A very popular form of alternative

medicine, tea tree oil boasts excellent astringent properties that alleviate oily skin (good for oily face and scalp), and its terpinen content gently soothes minor wounds. Add a few drops to shampoo before washing for wonderfully clean scalp, a drop to a natural deodorant crystal for extra anti-bacterial protection, or mix with coconut oil and baking soda for superbly clean teeth and fresh breath.

Similarly, add a few drops to your laundry load, or mix with water and spray on linens, drapery and kitchen and bathroom surfaces for an effective household disinfectant.

When purchasing or using essential oils, ensure that they are 100 per cent pure and therapeutic grade. You should also dilute

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essential oils with carrier oils or water, depending on use.

For any health concerns, be sure to consult a physician.

Whatever your source of stress – work deadlines, family issues or relationship challenges – creating an in-home oasis with plants and essential oils makes a tremendous difference in providing a space for escape.

Starting a “Bed and Breakfast”?

by David Hinkson

Here’s what you should know.

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n our fast-paced world, where people are travelling more frequently, for shorter periods of time, or on a strict budget, they may not necessarily want the burden of paying for a traditional hotel or guest house. Some visitors want a more genuine “cultural experience”, which they believe they can only obtain by staying in a “regular” community as opposed to the highly commercialised tourist belts where most hotels are found.

SMART HOMES MAY 2018

“One of the first things you should do is offer amenities for your guests such as toilet paper, soap, bed linens and at least one towel and pillow per booked guest.”

As a result, “home accommodation”, where people in the community open their homes to visitors, has grown more popular, with AirBnB and HomeAway being the best known websites, offering locations all over the world. The idea was first mooted in Barbados prior to the West Indies hosting the ICC World Cup in 2007, but seems to have gone quiet since then. However, turning your house into a “hotel” is not as simple as it sounds, so here are a few tips on how to go about it.

Prep the space One of the first things you should do is offer amenities for your guests such as toilet paper, soap, bed linens and at least one towel and pillow per booked guest. If you have a ‘kitchenette’ set up, make sure all appliances are working and leave instructions INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Always be mindful of your guests’ privacy. Fully disclose whether there are security cameras or other surveillance equipment at or around your property. governing their use. If you allow them to use your kitchen, set guidelines regarding its maintenance and the hours in which it will be available to them.

Safety is paramount, so put up a chart showing local emergency numbers and numbers for the hospital and the polyclinic in your area. Provide a clear emergency contact number for yourself, as well as backup, for easy guest reference. Also, make clear how you should be contacted if the guest has questions or issues arise.

Provide a basic first aid kit for your guests, and in terms of fire prevention, ensure you have a functioning smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector and fire extinguisher. Make sure that you have a clearly marked fire escape route and a map depicting the same.

Ensure privacy Always be mindful of your guests’ privacy. Fully disclose whether there are security cameras or other surveillance equipment at or around your property. Make sure you are aware of and comply with applicable laws. Establish safe occupancy limits - in other words, try not to ‘grab all the money you can’ by accommodating more guests than the property can safely hold.

Remove Hazards Go through your home to identify any areas where guests might trip or fall and either remove the hazard or mark clearly. Fix any exposed wires. Ensure stairs are safe and have railings. Remove or lock up any objects that may be dangerous to your guests.

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On that score, the property must also be safe for children and, where necessary, notify guests of potential hazards. Ensure your home is properly ventilated, and if you have air-conditioning installed, keep the unit properly maintained and leave clear instructions governing how to use it.

Since it is community-based tourism, you should inform your neighbours of your intentions, so they do not get too alarmed if they see a steady stream of “strangers” on your property.

You must respect your neighbours’ wishes too. For example, have clearly designated parking spots for your property so the guests do not encroach on your neighbours’ driveways, keep noise levels under control - you might want to restrict the types of guests you allow, or develop a strict policy governing guest behaviour. If you do not allow smoking, put up signs to that effect, but if you do allow it, have ashtrays available in designated areas.

Now, another aspect of home accommodation that is very important is insurance. An official at a local insurance company noted that “The General Insurance Association of Barbados has not yet come up with guidelines that will govern how insurance firms should treat this. However, homeowners must inform their insurance companies if they want to go this route, because their coverage will move from private residential to commercial. Since there will be people constantly coming and going, a regular private residential policy may not be able to cover any liabilities that may arise, for example, if a guest gets injured on the property and threatens to sue.”

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Welcoming Colours for Exterior Walls

by Leanne Tasher

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hen it comes to selecting impressive colour schemes, it may be tempting to focus on rooms within the home. However, the way our homes appear on the outside also makes a huge statement.

Painting exterior walls naturally requires lots of thought and preparation. You have to consider the surface materials and choose paint that would protect it from dust, sunlight, wind, rain etc. But have you ever wondered how significant the look of

your exterior walls really is? Well, it turns out that its hue might say a lot about you.

First off, it’s a great idea to seek professional advice on how to paint the surface for best results. Different materials, for example wood or concrete, have different needs. After covering your bases, you’re ready for the exciting part— the colour!

Now, colours generally have the power to affect our mood. If you enter a brightlypainted room, it might lift your spirits, and on the other hand, darker colours

Here are a few tips to ensure your home gets a thumbs-up.

Try neutral colours

You can never really go wrong with neutral colours. This includes whites, creams, beiges and greys. They are simply timeless!

These colours are very easy on the eyes, so they can be used as the predominant colour on outside surfaces. When mixed with different tones and textures, for example brick, wood, stone and tile, the results are usually quite attractive.

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might evoke solemn feelings. The funny thing about exterior walls is that their appearance doesn’t just affect us; it affects neighbours and passers-by. Colours can even leave a lasting impression on invited guests or potential buyers. For example, certain combinations of colour convey classiness and elegance, while others create a fresh, fun look. In contrast, some combos are very dull and boring or too loud and annoying. It’s also ideal to choose suitable colours that visually enhance the architectural design.

Use accent colours

It’s usually best to use smaller amounts of bold colours and pastels. These colours help create contrast and add dimension to the space. Try adding a pop of colour to areas like the fascia, door and window trims. Though it’s being used in small doses, it can still have a huge impact on the overall look.

Lighting

Look at how light hits the exterior. A paint colour can look very different in a sunlit area as compared to a shady area.

“Using colours that clash with your home’s architectural design might create a strange look and feel. Think about the character of your home and do some research to learn what might work best. Also consider the style of the house”.

Consider the architectural style Assess permanent structures

The colours you choose should complement surfaces such as the driveway, roof shingles, patio and tiles. These are materials you will have to work around unless you are completely renovating your home. If you’re not renovating, examine the colour of fixed materials and try using its undertones on other areas.

According to diynetwork.com, there’s another option: “If you’re stuck, try pairing opposites in terms of colour temperature. For example, if you have a warm red brick foundation and you want brown for your exterior paint, choose a taupe with cool gray/blue undertones instead of a peachy tan.”

Using colours that clash with your home’s architectural design might create a strange look and feel. Think about the character of your home and do some research to learn what might work best. Also consider the style of the house. For example, shades of grey might be more suitable for a house with a modern design as opposed to pastel shades.

The surroundings/neighbourhood

Try not to offset the aesthetic of the surrounding areas. Not doing so could make your home stand out for all the wrong reasons.

Think about where your home is located, its proximity to the street, and the general appearance of the neighbourhood.

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“Although some unrated companies are able to meet their obligations, having a good rating can be likened to a stamp of approval”.

How Does Your Insurance Company Rate? Learn why rating agencies matter.

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by Leanne Tasher

nsurance companies play a significant role in our lives. They protect the assets we work so hard to acquire. But unlike products, for example, their financial strength cannot to be “test driven” before servicing the public. That’s where insurance rating agencies come in. Agencies like A. M. Best Co., Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poors offer an independent and objective assessment of an insurer’s ability to fulfil its obligations to policyholders.

Although some unrated companies are able to meet their obligations, having a good rating can be likened to a stamp of approval. To learn more about the industry, Smart Homes consulted the general manager of Brydens Insurance David Alleyne, who based his responses on his knowledge of A.M. Best. “…when engaged by a company, [the agency] undertakes an independent and objective comprehensive analysis regarding the ability of that insurer to fulfil its contracted obligations to its policyholders and to others desirous of insuring with the company.

“The rating agency’s opinion and final issued rating is the result of a detailed quantitative and qualitative evaluation of many aspects of the company’s operations. [The operations are assessed by, for example] critically reviewing balance sheet strength, historical operating performance, business profile and risk management…This exercise is conducted annually,” he said.

As part of the assessment, the rating agency takes the risks an insurance company insures into consideration. A company’s

financial strength is weighed beyond its ability to cover basic, everyday claims; to be rated highly, it has to pass a “stress test”.

Alleyne explained that the major risks, such as natural disasters, give an agency a sense of what the company is exposed to.

“Companies in regions that are faced with exposure to catastrophic risks like hurricanes and earthquakes have to have the capacity and resources, financial and otherwise, to withstand loss events from Mother Nature…

“The Caribbean is such a region. The accumulation of claims from one loss event is what rating agencies will take into consideration while rating companies. The real test of an insurer’s ability to meet all liabilities lies not in day-to-day ‘one off’ claims, but in the financial ability to respond to a catastrophic event, like a hurricane, where there are multiple large losses occurring at the same time.

“An independent financial rating service, like A. M. Best, ‘stress tests’ a company’s ability to meet these large accumulation of losses. The “stress” means that they assess and validate the company’s financial and other resources to respond positively, not only once, but critically, at least twice in a financial year,” he said.

Alleyne noted that insurance is ultimately a risk transfer mechanism; persons transfer to the insurance company the financial impact of a disastrous happening that could cause financial ruin or great harm. He said that a home and vehicle are among the assets persons typically insure.

Signs of a reliable insurance company: • •

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Balance sheet strength must play a significant role in anybody’s evaluation of a good company, as this is the first indicator of an ability to meet financial obligations.

Responsiveness by employees to clients when information or assistance is required is a positive sign. Good companies enhance our environment by contributing to the social good, for example, by engaging in initiatives that help us keep safe.

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•

Staff show compassion: Claims staff should act with empathy and integrity when a loss has occurred. The claim paying reputation is the ultimate sign of effective operations.

Insurance tip: Wondering if you’re in safe hands? Ask around; how have your friends and acquaintances been treated when they have had to make a claim? Fairly? That is the sign of a good/reliable insurer.

by Cherita O’dell

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Setting Rental Rules

How Landlords Can Protect Themselves from Bad Tenants

by Camille Alleyne

n recent times, the level of tenant delinquency has increased phenomenally due to heightened economic challenges and downright “don’t carish” behaviour. In an attempt to best protect landlords, agents often exercise due diligence by requesting professional references, a previous landlord’s reference and trusting their gut.

Always be weary of tenants who want to move in urgently, within a day or two. Many of them are running from a tough situation, including being kicked out for non-payment, so get to the bottom of their back story before you quickly embrace them.

Pay attention if coming up with the security deposit and first month’s rent is seeming like a stretch. If the start of the rental is such a financial strain, how much easier is it going to be for the tenant to come up with the rent every month?

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Once you have identified a prospective tenant, put everything in black and white. Have a solid lease agreement outlining: 1. The lease agreement beginning and end dates.

2. Rent and other monies due such as security deposit, pet damage deposit, etc.

3. Any utilities included e.g. gardening maintenance.

4. The usage of the property, residential, commercial, etc.

5. The obligations of the landlord and the obligations of the tenant.

6. Rights of entry: You have a right to inspect your property while respecting the tenant’s privacy.

7. The landlord’s rights if the tenant doesn’t follow the agreement.

8. Proper notice on either side to vacate the property.

9. Notice of daily fees for late rent.

10. Renewal terms.

Ensure that the tenant signs the Rental Agreement prior to his signing off.

If ever you make updated adjustments to the terms of your arrangement, do not be satisfied with a verbal agreement. Many landlords want to be easygoing and shake hands to seal a deal.

Remember, if issues arise and there’s nothing in writing, it will be very difficult to enforce your rights and win a case in court.

Ensure that the tenant signs the Rental Agreement prior to his signing off. Just in case the landlord has second thoughts about entering an arrangement with the tenant, even though initially agreeing to, he is free to change his mind without being legally bound. The landlord should ensure that utility transfer authorisation letters are given to the tenant only when the rental agreement is signed by both parties and rental deposit received.

A request should be made for a copy of the electricity transfer receipt to ensure that it has indeed been switched over to the tenant in a timely fashion.

The landlord owes it to the tenant to ensure that the property is prepared for the start of the tenancy. It should be handed over in good condition, the premises should be secure with proper locks and lighting. The grounds should be clean and all of the property’s fixtures should be in working order. An inventory should be taken of any appliances or furniture and notes made on the unit’s condition in the instance that there are aspects of wear and tear prior to the tenant moving in. Landlords need to be reminded that tenants are paying them a portion of their hard earned money every month and they owe it to them to deliver a sound property in exchange.

During the term of the tenancy, a landlord should not be dismissive of even minor infractions such as late payment by a few days. Issue a pleasant reminder that rent is due in a timely fashion.

It sets the tone of the landlord-tenant relationship. If you are too casual in your approach as a landlord, your good nature will be taken advantage of.

So, landlords remember, communicate clearly, put everything in writing, do not postpone taking action and keep records. It is a professional arrangement. However, don’t be cold. The reality is that sometimes a tenant may fall into hard times. The landlord should be kind and empathetic, but remember not to let the tenant’s personal issues affect the business relationship too much.

Sadly, in spite of even the best efforts, bad tenants are a reality.

Be prepared.

Mrs. Cherita O’dell (BA, MBA) is a real estate broker.

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Mini Makeovers

for Massive Results

by Tameshia Gooding

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ini makeovers are a fun, economical way to refresh a space when you are on a tight budget and don’t have that much money to splurge on a complete room makeover. You can make a huge difference by using what you already have and initiating a few small changes.

Decluttering Your Space

First and foremost, you would want to clean the space, get rid of things that you don’t need, haven’t used or won’t use. Storage is very important in helping you maintain order. Clearing away any clutter in a room frees up unused space, which can then be utilised in other ways. Sometimes clearing away and organising your stuff itself can be the mini makeover.

Painting the Room

A fresh coat of paint can really transform and uplift a room. You can choose neutral, light colours, as they can really open up the room, making it seem bigger and more spacious. Alternately, you can go for deeper, darker colours. They may seem intimidating, but used in the right way, they can give the room a very cozy feel.

If you are not afraid of colour, paint the room in a bold hue, or just choose to go for an accent wall in that same bold colour.

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Use a graphic design on the walls to add visual interest to the space; this can be achieved with easy-to-use stencils and paint.

There are various treatments that can be applied to walls to make them stand out; some you may even want to consider are a textured paint finish, fabric panels, or tiles.

Furniture

Similarly, you can revive or transform your furniture, whether it’s a piece you have had for a while, an antique, or a unique find from an auction house. Refresh the already existing paint colour or finish, or do something bold, and make that piece the focal point in the room.

Soft Furnishing

The easiest way to change the feel of a room is by introducing new curtains, throw cushions, bed spreads, rugs etc. Add vibrancy with bold, bright colours, or keep a calm vibe with neutrals, blues and greens.

Get playful with your textiles – they don’t have to match – you can go for different tones, or contrasting colors, and add patterns.

Paintings and Wall Art

To add new life to a space, hang a few new paintings and prints. You could just go for one big statement piece, or group multiple small pieces. When positioning the art, you can go for a symmetrical, or an asymmetrical layout, or play around with various placements until you find something you like. Get someone to help you with moving the pieces around, or simply cut the dimensions out in paper or card, and stick them up on the wall,

move them around until you get your desired layout, then mount your artwork, using the paper as your template.

Finishing Touches

Adding small finishing touches and accessories are the final step to tie the whole room together. You may want to change out or refinish any light fixtures, door handles, and hardware that may need updating. Include potted plants into your design and accents such as candles holders, vases, lamps, books, and small mementos to complete the space.

Ultimately it’s your space, and it’s up to you how you choose to express yourself and decorate it. You can draw inspiration from multiple sources, but your goal and end result should be a space that you enjoy being in, and that can be achieved without having to spend a lot of money.

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AFSH Design Challenge: Making Dreams Come True B

by Leanne Tasher

arbados’ most rewarding design challenge is back! For a third year, the Ashley Furniture Smart Homes Design Challenge will create exciting opportunities for local homeowners and designers.

Participants’ wildest dreams are about to come true; homeowners will receive a room makeover, and best of all, they’ll get to keep everything used to redesign the space!

The homeowner entries will be launched on July 2 and end on July 31. Of all the entries, three homes will be selected for the room makeover.

Designers are also in for an incredible, once in a lifetime experience. Entries for the decorators and designers can be

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submitted between August 12 and September 9. Think you have what it takes to win the design challenge? Simply send a video entry to Facebook.com/designchallengebb.

The design competition begins with a mini challenge on September 16.This is where designers showcase their skills by remodelling an Ashley Furniture showroom. Competitors are given a theme and colour with which to make over a space.

Three designers who stand out and impress the judges will carry on to the final phase of competition. The finalists will be challenged to make over the homes between September 24 and 28. And finally, the winners will be announced during a presentation on October 7.

Before

After

Last year’s winning designer Anna-Lysa Nicholls

This makeover earned second place.

Smart Homes caught up with last year’s winning designer Anna-Lysa Nicholls and homeowner Angela Hall, who were thrilled about the experience and rewards. Anna-Lysa’s prizes consisted of $2 000 in cash, a staycation at Rostrevor Hotel, an internship at Ashley Furniture store, Dwellings, and Plumbing World. AnnaLysa’s work ethic was so impressive that she landed a full-time job at the Dwellings Design Studio, a leading design house that is also part of an international brand.

Anna-Lysa said the challenge was a once in a lifetime opportunity that she would “never trade for the world”. Though talented, she said she was a bit hesitant about entering the competition, and doubted herself along the way: “I remember recording the entry video with my mom and my cousin and asking them: ‘Are you guys really sure I should enter this?’ Entering the competition was completely out of my comfort zone. Even when I went to the first meeting, Derrick Frederick [the competition director] kept looking at me with so much concern and after the meeting he said ‘show up tomorrow!”

Anna-Lysa said she did not expect to win, and described the challenge as “intense, challenging, nerve-wracking and amazing all at the same time”. She said she grew as a designer and as an individual; she had to produce premium results while managing her 26

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time and budget. She offered these words of encouragement for anyone who is interested in competing: “Go for it! Step out your comfort zone and reach for the stars.

Those nerves that you are feeling are a good thing. Use them to your advantage. Never lose sight of your dream.”

During the final phase of competition, Anna-Lysa redesigned the bathroom and living room of Angela Hall’s home. Angela said her husband Nigel entered the competition in order to surprise her.

She said the big reveal was especially thrilling.

“We had two rooms [redecorated] — a living room that was an addition to our original structure. It was a blank slate. So anything was possible. The second room was the main bathroom that needed a few upgrades.

“The big reveal was overwhelming. It was a complete transformation. Everything blended beautifully. The room was simply stunning and sophisticated without being overdone.”

Angela said the challenge gave her much more than the room of her dreams; she said it was a privilege to interact with an aspiring designer and help them to make their mark in the industry. She had this advice for homeowners who want to enter the competition: “To a homeowner thinking of entering, I would tell them to keep an open mind, be welcoming and supportive of the team that’s doing the challenge and expect big things.”

Ole keeps garden spick and span

Gardening is a healthy exercise because it is relaxing (enhances mood) and gets the body moving.

From Garden to Gateway: Reaping a Fabulous Flower Garden

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by Leanne Tasher

nything worth having requires lots of effort, and this includes a stunning floral garden. But for plant lovers, creating one may not feel like hard work at all. It simply takes a bit of imagination, patience and research to realise this goal. Smart Homes interviewed gardeners and professionals to help you to cultivate a green thumb.

There’re countless reasons to fall in love with flower gardens. These plants not only beautify surroundings, but help decrease air pollution and soil erosion. Gardening is a healthy exercise because it is relaxing (enhances mood) and gets the body moving.

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As with any creative project, there are endless possibilities.

While developing a concept, consider location, soil type, wind, sun/shade, and use plants that are suitable for those growing conditions. To begin, Regine Exume-Juline of Seedburst Nurseries suggests that you figure out “what you’re going for”.

Regine, who has been gardening for over 25 years, shed some light on the topic.

Location Where you plant your garden helps to inform its purpose. Do you want to create a space where you can entertain guests? If so, you can set up a patio on an open area of the garden. Do you want a private area for relaxation? Then, you can personalise the space by, for example, adding a hammock or recliner chair.

You should be able to use the space practically: “The ideal location will need adequate drainage. A swampy site is good for water-loving plants, but most perennials like dry feet. Consider, too, how you will water the garden. Is a garden hose nearby, or will you need a watering can to water by hand? An irrigation system may make things easier, and this may affect your choice of plants.” (Homedepot.com) Gardens are beneficial to the individual and are also uplifting on a wider scale. According to Hunker.com, “planting flowers in shared spaces in a community makes environment more attractive and fosters a sense of pride and care in the community’s residents.”

Size Regine said that any size garden can be beautiful. So, no matter how restrictive an area might be, you always have enough space to grow plants.

“Your flower garden can be as small as a window box or a container on a patio. It could be a raised garden bed or a brand new flower bed. Whatever the size, know the sunlight in your chosen location. Spend time outside and note the light and shade in the chosen spot throughout the day.”

(Homedepot.com)

Prep the Land

Assess your soil and make necessary amendments to improve its quality. For instance, you can add organic matter (e.g. a two- to three-inch layer of compost, decayed leaves, dry grass clippings, or old manure) to the soil to give it a “boost” (Bhg.com).

Select Plants

Choose flowers and foliage based on the concept you have in mind. Factor in the purpose, size, shape and location of the garden. Do you want a tall garden? Is it going to be in the front yard or backyard?

Flowers placed in front of the home usually add visual appeal (e.g. hibiscus, bougainvillea, allamanda), privacy (e.g. ficus plants, pittosporum/cheesewood) and create structure (e.g. palms). They are also better able to take sunlight, and

A view of Julie’s trendy garden flowers usually complement the colour of the house.

Similar considerations are made for the backyard garden.

You can, for example, use hedging to ensure privacy. As it is usually less visible to outsiders, the backyard is a great space to personalise. You can add trees for shade (e.g. almond tree, golden apple tree), be creative with structure, and play with colours and shapes by adding a mixture of bedding plants/low plants (e.g. ferns).

Chat with Gardeners

Enthusiastic gardener Ole Dam-Mikkelsen gave Smart Homes a tour of his sprawling, three-acre garden in St Peter. He explained that his interest in gardening was inspired by his upbringing: “I’m from Europe. I can’t have a home where it looks like a dump around the house. I prefer to maintain plants. I’m a farmer, so I like plants. Some people don’t seem to care, but it matters to me.”

Ole noted that his land was once an abandoned cane field.

Now the garden, which he started in 1984, features plants from all over the world (some of which the well-travelled farmer collected during trips to about 70 countries). Because most of the plants were grown from seedlings/cuttings, achieving the garden took time and patience. He also owns and tends to a one-acre garden in Denmark.

Describing the upkeep, Ole noted that it takes two people to maintain the garden, which has eight sprinklers that spout rain water. He said that years ago African snails, which used to eat the hibiscus flowers mainly, posed a challenge. In recent times, however, he hasn’t had any problems with pests.

At every corner of the garden, there were groups of vibrant flowers and trees that, together, formed interesting shapes.

Although each area of the garden was different, he said that he INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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As a tip, Julie said: “You must enjoy plants and gardening.

Create your own style and be open to learning and getting advice. It is a lot of hard work, but the end results are truly satisfying.”

Getting Started: Assess the Landscape

So, how can you begin creating a fabulous garden? This question and answer interview with landscape architects Andre Kelshall and Caroline Tomlin, who work with Design Landscape Architects Ltd, gives insight.

A pop of colour in Julie’s garden does not have a favourite plant: “They are all beautiful.”

The plants in Ole’s garden include: palms, fancy pansy, schefflera arboricola, almond tree, burning love (which bloom in January and February, then die off), octopus tree, beaucarnea recurvata (elephant’s foot, ponytail palm), ficus benjamina (commonly known as weeping fig), bougainvillea, croton plants (codiaeum variegatum), viper’s bowstring hemp (mother-inlaw’s tongue), roystonea regia (commonly known as the Cuban royal palm), euphorbia milii (the crown of thorns, Christ plant/ Christ thorn), cannonball tree (couroupita guianensis), and African tulip tree.

Ole’s eyes lit up as he spoke about his garden. He said having a garden is very fulfilling: “It’s a beauty for you to see and it’s an interest. If you have an interest in plants, then you’ll take good care of it… If you don’t maintain it, it’s better not to have it.”

Gardening for Relaxation

Smart Homes also interviewed long-time gardener Julie Landis. Julie’s love for gardening began in her late teens when she started collecting houseplants. Later, she got married and moved to England, where she grew her first garden and developed her skills. In order for her plants to flourish, she had to learn about planting in different seasons and soil types.

When she returned to Barbados, however, she was able to garden all year round, and became more creative. Although she adores her garden as it is, she does not limit herself.

“My garden remains an on-going project; I am always adding to and changing it. I am now creating a vegetable and herb garden,” she noted.

As a main goal, Julie said she wanted to create a space where she and her family could sit, relax and enjoy the greenery and wildlife. She enjoys being outdoors, creating new areas in the garden, seeing the plants grow and flourish, and eating what she grows.

Julie takes pride in her garden care routine. She said that, depending on the weather, she waters the potted plants once a day. She noted that maintenance also involves pruning, mulching, weeding, raking fallen leaves and treating plants for pests. Her inspiration comes from reading gardening books, touring gardens and watching garden shows: “I would get a great idea and then do my own style.”

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SMART HOMES MAY 2018

Q. Before creating a garden, what are a few things persons should consider?

A. The most important consideration is to understand the connection between the internal spaces and the outdoors.

Outdoor spaces should look and feel like an extension of your internal space. There should be a visual connection and, more importantly, a physical connection (in terms of compatible architectural design). This is where landscape architects come in— the provision of architectural site plans, floor plans and elevation of the main facades of the structure provide a holistic understanding of the project.

You should also consider what you want out of your outdoor space; think about whether you would be interested in, for example, a pool, food production, vehicular circulation, passive or active recreation, or simply new plant compositions that create a new, soft landscape.

Q. How is a landscape architect’s expertise utilised when creating a garden?

A. Landscape architects are unique as they have a background in both architecture and horticulture. This allows them to approach design with an understanding of spatial dimensions and forms, while bearing how the natural elements will respond in mind. We have a passion for the creative process that extends beyond mere plants and lawns, but rather how the space is used, how it feels, and its functionality.

Q. Why is it beneficial to have the area surveyed first?

A. It is beneficial because it helps to reduce discrepancies and potential errors that can occur during design and, more importantly, construction. Surveys provide accurate locations of the existing built elements as well as any existing trees, palms, garden features and even site contours. As with most things, the more information that can be provided, the more accurate your designers can be regarding details and costs.

Q. What are some current garden trends?

A. One of the trends surfacing is exploring the concept of living outdoors.

Homeowners are looking to transform their landscape spaces into multifunctional, recreational spaces to be enjoyed by multi-generational users. These spaces include outdoor

kitchens, fire pits, outdoor furniture and fabrics, pools, spas, water features, and landscape lighting.

Combining these elements within the landscape can create living spaces where family and friends can gather to enjoy each other’s company and make lasting memories.

A Look at the Design Process The typical design process consists of three phases.

Phase one: Schematic Design

• Schematic landscape lighting plans • Schematic irrigation drawings These documents and drawings are then issued to landscape contractors for pricing.

Phase three: Construction Administration

During the construction phase, the landscape architect will perform site inspections of works throughout the project, identify defects, sign-off on the project, and assist the client with installation (as needed).

This phase involves: - developing a checklist with the client to determine desired goals, function and aesthetics for the project.

- reviewing the existing site conditions, noting site constraints and site benefits.

With this information a concept design is developed. This concept design is then presented to the client for review.

Phase two: Construction Drawings

Based on the approved concept design, construction drawings are produced that may include: • Layout plans • Tree preservation and removal plans, • Hardscape details • Pool details, • Detailed planting plans

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INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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From One “Gardener” To Another

By Natalia Nunes

In between the allamanda and the Angel’s Trumpet, I have spade leaf frangipani trees with their stunningly white blooms, a pony tail plant which is so unusual

O

k, so technically I’m not really a gardener, but I have a beautiful little garden – well, at least, I think so. Small, manageable, colourful and full of snails at the moment! I could harvest them and make a dinner of garlic butter escargot. JOKE; yuck!!

Years ago I had a burst of inspiration which led to much perspiration toiling in the sun. Yes, I had to do it in one day. No, not really. I did think about it quite carefully. I drew on a piece of paper how I wanted it to look. Construction had just been completed on house renovations and the lawn was bare. Truthfully, there was no lawn at all; it was just dirt. It’s a relatively small space and there was one lonely tree. Everything was very open and exposed. I didn’t want to crowd the entire space, but I did want privacy, so that meant going along the fence, but not in a straight line.

I needed plants and smallish trees that wouldn’t go crazy spreading like a forest, and I needed hardy foliage, nothing that requires me talking it through dry spells or heavy rain, persuading it to stay alive. No patience with plant therapy. Enter allamanda - miniature and large. They’re fantastic! No fuss, look gorgeous and they just keep on blooming. They come in a range of colours, but the yellow ones are the least work, plus, they get really full so you can have a thick body of it or thin it out if you prefer.

One day I drove past someone’s home and right there creeping all over the sidewalk was a beautiful vine with huge yellow, wine glass-like flowers with fluted stems to boot. It’s simply stunning, with deep purple stripes inside, almost like the remnants of a red 32

SMART HOMES MAY 2018

wine. Naturally, I stopped and asked the lady of the house if she would be kind enough to let me have a piece of it. How lucky was I when she graciously cut me a sizeable foot which has mushroomed into a much talked about creeper along one side of our fence!

In between the allamanda and the Angel’s Trumpet, I have spade leaf frangipani trees with their stunningly white blooms, a pony tail plant which is so unusual, ram goat roses in purple, pink and white and a variety of shrubs, some that bloom, others that remain green, but with such variations that they help to form a kaleidoscope of beauty, only God could create the likes of.

Naturally, I love sitting in my garden so I have an iron bench and a wooden table to hold my drink, hot or cold, depending on my desire, a book and or whatever else I need to keep me company.

Dotted in strategic places, I have small garden lights energised by the sunlight to softly glow in the night time. Now although I love being in my garden, I absolutely, 100 per cent do not like lizards, bugs, centipedes or snails. For all you lovers of the same, feel free to enjoy and love them for me.

In order to preserve my little haven, creepy crawlies have gotta go! Back to the snails which are, at the moment, my pet peeve.

I’ve Googled how to be rid of them and here’s a totally great way – leave a container of beer and the suckers will “race” towards it!

Not unlike many humans, snails love beer!! Who knew?!! Here’s the Jekyll and Hyde side of me – the snails climb in, get drunk and drown! I’m heading to the supermarket just now for a six-pack!

Bravo Banks!

INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

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Marvel Guests with Charming Outdoor DĂŠcor

by Camille Alleyne

There is nothing like the outdoors – the fresh air, cool breeze and the openness it affords. Add delightful elements such as these and you will be sure to charm your guests as you entertain under the sky.

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T

here are some things that make you go, “Ah!” when it comes to outdoor entertainment. Whether day or night, entertainment can be memorable with some simple and creative ideas like outdoor rooms, elegant layouts, table top décor, design accents and lighting, to name a few.

Outdoor Rooms and Elegant Garden Layouts

Establish outdoor rooms by utilising existing garden features like gazebos and pergolas in which to place seating areas. You can also enhance the ponds and swimming pools so that guests enjoy the outdoors.

If your home does not have these garden accents, try taking furniture outdoors and create your own outdoor rooms. For instance, take your dining table and chairs outside and make them elegant and welcoming. You may need to establish a temporary hard surface if the ground is too soft.

Tree trunks may be used for additional seating, even at the dining table. Mahogany is beautiful and should be easy to access, since it is grown right here in Barbados. Even hammocks could be placed in trees to make really cool and comfortable lounges.

If food and drink are stationed in different areas of the garden, this will encourage guests to roam and mingle. Use bar carts on wheels to stock the food and drink essentials. This way you can take trips to the kitchen to replenish.

Table Décor

It is best to eliminate the table cloth when entertaining outdoors due to the wind factor, and it would be wise to use weighty crockery and cutlery (as opposed to disposables which could blow away).

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Candles and flowers may be placed in transparent glass bowls, which are versatile as table top pieces. Float them to give a fairy-tale effect.

Bowls of fish would be quite epic, and a fitting theme for island entertaining.

Colour

Grey is the in-thing this year; some call it the new black. It gives a clean, somewhat industrial feel to the dĂŠcor. Whether you choose grey or some other neutral theme, the monochromatic effect gives a polished look.

On the other hand, we do live in a tropical country, and lively colours are a part of life in the sun. Create drama by adding strong highlights to the monochrome. Punches of colour like blood red, tangerine, indigo and magenta make strong statements.

Shelter

If your property supports trees, large white sheets may be tied to them at each corner in order to create additional shade to seating areas while adding a touch of elegance.

Colour coded umbrellas, dotted across an expansive garden, can be striking! (Mix and match colours such as peach and olive green, blue and orange, neon green and neon pink, and even red and purple.)

Lighting

At night, lighting is essential for visibility. As commonplace as they are, strands of lights always add sparkle to night time entertaining. Use LED lights in order to give a purer light effect.

Chinese paper lanterns with dark outdoor electrical cords, which camouflage, look great at night. Cluster them in areas to give a unique look.

Paper bag lanterns are also fantastic. Put along pathways, and use solar-powered lights that are safe and hassle free.

Place battery-operated candles on tables, but if you wish to use real candles opt for deep, heavy and sturdy vessels for safety.

Use electrical lamps outdoors when weather permits. Woven or textured shades are beautiful.

It would be nice if when establishing your garden, permanent lighting be placed within or alongside the steps of the garden for safe traversing.

Permanent lights also work well in trees, and behind waterfalls of fountains. They are dramatic 36

SMART HOMES MAY 2018

and a good investment if you frequently entertain after dusk. Positioning spotlights at the bases of trees, statues and other features gives a theatrical effect.

Man-made moonlight is quite wonderful on a moonless night. Simply use a low voltage light (pond lights with glare guards and frosted lenses work well), attach them onto the second or third tier of branches and angle the light through large trees.

Technology

If you want to incorporate high tech features, here are some ideas. Install security systems and lights that can actually be operational from your phone and tablet. That way these features may be turned on and off, and otherwise be regulated at your command. Even some awnings are electronic, and are able to extend for shade and shelter, and then retract automatically, when necessary.

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37

Clutter Be Gone!

Easy Tidying Up Tips

by Maria Collymore

P

eople constantly

ask me ‘How do I get started in addressing clutter

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SMART HOMES MAY 2017 2018 2016

’

Start by just sitting still in the space, quiet your mind and then ask yourself: Where can I start to get the greatest headway into this clutter with the time I have?

Then breathe deeply and listen. Warning!

Sometimes it’ll be another room because the things that make this room so untidy or confused belong elsewhere. Obey your inner voice - ultimately you know best and that mega computer you live in can fix all your problems.

Remove Emotions Emotions cause some of our biggest problems - bigger than the job or the clutter. I try to approach every job from a point of view of “it’s just got to be done”.

No likes or dislikes in the equation. We tend to have many beliefs about what we can and cannot do, but our past is not our future. Clarity of what you want to achieve and drawing on your strengths is what you’ll need. No comparing yourself to others; acknowledge your inhibitions and then still plow into the job. My skill comes from

lack of limitation when I take on the task.

Again I ask myself: How can I get this task completed efficiently and quickly with the least amount of stress, and with the best long-term solution, despite my limitations?

Understanding the Process All jobs have a process - a beginning, a middle and an end. To begin, you will need your tools (e.g. mop, broom, duster), your props (e.g. box, organisers, trays, dividers) and a clear vision of what finished look would be like. My ending even entails returning all my tools back to their home.

Distractions Minimise any reason to get up from the task (moving away, going down memory lane with an item, looking at your phone ever so often). Create an “I’ll get back to you” pile to look at during a nostalgic break. Focusing on outcome must be your greater goal. I always recommend a spare box to hold anything that belongs to another room - deliver it there later. I also rarely carry my phone with me unless I am timing my task.

Classification and Placement I did biology. I understand classification and subdivision well. Start creating plans of things based off of how you see them linked together within each pile - it can probably be subdivided into smaller groups. Using stationery as an example, my original stationery pile will start with books, papers, paints, tape, staples, paper clips, and crayons. When I subdivide, each of those may also become their own individual group. Once this classification is complete, it’s about putting each item in its designated home. Everything needs a home for easy retrieval. My version of what is systematic may not apply to you - this is your own personal classification. But let it be so clear that if I ask you in three months you’d say the same place.

Be Kind to You Even if you still find it hard to meet your deadline, or if there is too much nostalgia to fight against. Organisers like myself are still here to get you on track.

INSPIRATION & INNOVATION

39

Store with D

id you know that long, long ago the kitchen was hidden away out of sight in every home?

There was no attention given to eye-pleasing cabinetry, fancy storage or even the colour on the wall, if any at all.

Today it is considered “the heart of the home” and with the introduction of “open concept plan”, the kitchen has raised in status, sharing space and equality with the sitting room, dining room and other congregating spaces. In fact, the kitchen now takes precedence over them all, in that the style and colour of the cabinetry and countertop will affect the design of the

PICTURE COMPLIMENTS CORNERSTONE

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SMART HOMES MAY 2018

other surrounding spaces.

However, with its new-found status, the kitchen has had to raise its standard.

Can you imagine sitting down to dine at a beautifully set table in view of a mountain of dirty pots, pans and clutter all over the countertops? There’s an old rule “a place for everything and everything in its place” and this is imperative for today’s kitchen.

Fortunately, there are some wonderful storage accessories available that not only add great function, but are quite stylish and impressive.

Here are a few to mention: Blind corner cabinets can be a

nightmare having to literally crawl to the back to get at whatever was lost for however long. If that is your nightmare, make sure your new kitchen is outfitted with corner pull-out units. To highlight a few, there is the “Magic Corner Pull-out” and the “Lemans Corner Swing-out “.

Either of these work really well at utilising valuable corner space that would otherwise be considered dead.

Tall Pantry cabinets are great for keeping all your food items in one place, but tumbling through to find a particular item can be an issue. The Tandem Basket Pantry carries baskets instead of shelves and in

PICTURE COMPLIMENTS CORNERSTONE

addition, it utilises the inside of the door. When you open the door, the mechanism moves the baskets forward so you can easily find what you’re looking for, and then when you close the door they move back into position. On the inside of the door are shallow racks, great for storing smaller items that might become hidden.

Spice pullouts next to the cooker are a really convenient solution. While cooking, your spices and condiments are right at hand to use and replace without cluttering the countertop. They’re also a great way to store medicines and health supplements.

These are designed for both upper or base cabinets according to your preference, and in either case the pullout, which is attached to the cabinet door, glides out for access and then back into the closed position.

Stacking plates has become safer with plate organiser drawers.

If you have deep drawers, the organiser is attached to the drawer front and is sectioned to store plates vertically, making it easier to take out and to store. Perfect for an island with an eating bar.

Let’s not forget about cutlery trays. With all the stainless steel going on in the kitchen, those yucky plastic cutlery trays just won’t “cut it”. The new stainless steel drawer dividers not only look classy, but will not stain or scuff over time. Some are adjustable to fit the drawer space.

Mouldy dish draining racks are not really eye-pleasing, even the most expensive stainless steel models still cannot outshine the mountain of utensils, especially if you are an on-the-go person with little time to wash, dry and put away immediately after every item. A great solution is the “in cabinet draining rack” which is placed inside the upper cabinet, normally over the sink, and as you wash, just slide your item into the rack which carries a removable tray to collect the drips. Later you can remove and drain the tray.

My kitchen is the heart of my home, and I enjoy spending time there with family and friends around. Having a well organised kitchen is important to the flow of every occasion and you don’t have to worry about unexpected friends popping by and being embarrassed.

So, whether you are planning a new kitchen or maybe you just want to spruce up your old one, remember that old rule “a place for everything and everything in its place”.

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My father demolished the old kitchen in his apartment that I will be moving into, so I chose to go with a modern design, and I also wanted to incorporate industrial elements into the space.

Something Old Something New!

by Faheema Patel

M

From A Larder To An Island

akeovers are often expensive, but they don’t always have to be. If you were to go looking, you could find some old pieces that family or friends may no longer want or have space for, and sometimes you can find a great bargain at auctions or garage sales for used and slightly damaged items.

Hopefully, the way in which I revamped my larder will inspire you to turn something old into something new.

Don’t overlook a piece just because it may not look so great, it may still be in pretty good condition and could have potential to be a great refurbished piece that just needs a little bit of love and time to bring it back to life. Refurbishing furniture and used items can save you money; it just takes a bit of creativity, time and getting your hands dirty, which is all in the fun as it can become your personal project! Pinterest is a great place for sourcing inspiration for ideas on how to go about refurbishing and identifying what type of items may have great potential to attractively redesign your space.

My father demolished the old kitchen in his apartment that I will be moving into, so I chose to go with a modern design, and I also wanted to incorporate a bit of industrial elements into the space.

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SMART HOMES MAY 2018

In the old kitchen, there was a larder that was placed in the corner and didn’t fit within the construction of the kitchen cupboards. I also didn’t see how it would fit within the cupboard design for the modern kitchen; it stuck out like a sore thumb. An idea just sparked in my head. I thought, “this could make a unique looking island.”

We didn’t have one for the kitchen since it wasn’t spacious enough for a standard sized one. The larder was still in good condition and the storage space was a bonus that I didn’t want to part with. This old larder came with mesh doors, which I thought was a perfect place to store potatoes. When you have a small space, storage should always be a priority, as it helps to minimise clutter and keep your space organised. The larder just needed to be repainted; the size and height were perfect because I wanted to add a new countertop and wheels which would bring it relatively close to the countertop height within the space.

I wanted a mobile island just in case I may need to move it around, so I chose to add five two-inch wheels, including one for the centre for extra support and three of these could be locked.

We used a plywood sheet that was left over for the counter top. I wanted a bit of an overhang along the sides and a few extra inches

Before

to the back to serve as a seating area. The sides were trimmed with pine, which gave the impression that the counter was much thicker than it appeared. I love wood grain texture and I thought it would be a great way to incorporate the industrial style. I wanted to keep the natural look so I stained it in Ipswich Pine, which was the closest to natural wood that I could achieve, because I didn’t like how the clear varnish made the plywood appear yellow. I did, however, varnish the stained wood for a protective coating. The back side of the larder was trimmed similarly to the cupboard doors for consistency and to hide the unevenness.

I chose Blue Stone in satin finish as the paint colour. I wanted the island to be colourful and to balance in harmony with the patterned tile backsplash, as the kitchen cupboards and tiles were mainly white.

We updated the knobs to the very trendy semi-circle handles, which made quite a difference and left the mesh doors white for contrast. I was very happy with how it turned out. I got my modern kitchen with a touch of industrial, and the best parts about the project were the wood-stained countertop, and that, overall, the project was under $200.

After

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Flashy and Functional Kitchen Gadgets

By Cara Briggs

W

hile the saying: “home is where the heart is,” may be true, the heart of the home is definitely the kitchen. A lot has changed through the years from the first small, simple kitchens of old to the modern-day designs equipped with the latest appliances, created with the most beautiful wood or marble finishing and installed with show-stopping lighting. Many people are revamping the looks of their kitchens worldwide these days because they know how important it is.

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let’s look at some of the items we can add to our kitchen gadgets that make preparing meals in our kitchens even more enjoyable

The kitchen is the place that is central to everyone in the family. Everyone’s day starts with the kitchen by having breakfast and ends at night with dinner or even midnight snacks. It is the go-to place for everything. It is where delicious meals are prepared, people go to rummage in the fridge to curb their hunger, have lunch/dinner parties and so much more. No matter what, everyone is bound to go to the kitchen a few times a day for some reason or other, and it’s the most used room in the house.

With this in mind, let’s look at some of the items we can add to our kitchen gadgets that make preparing meals in our kitchens even more enjoyable.

A Multi-use Stand Mixer

You don’t have to be an aspiring pastry chef to appreciate and put a versatile standing mixer to use. Modern standing mixers not only have the ability to whip and combine ingredients for batters, but with a range of attachments they can also juice fruits and vegetables via mastication; churn out freshly made

pasta in a variety of shapes; grind coffee beans and grains; churn out velvety-smooth ice cream; spiralise vegetables; grind meat and herbs to create homemade burgers, sausages and; slice, shred and grate whatever fruits and vegetables you can throw at it.

A Smart Kettle

Tea connoisseurs and coffee bean addicts, prepare for some seriously smart brewing.

Most smart kettles come equipped with a base that houses several impressive buttons, usually to let you select the exact temperature you wish to boil the water to and several other features including a “Keep Warm” option – the modern-day answer to having to reheat water after getting distracted once it’s finished boiling.

A Self-sharpening Knife Set A quality knife set can last a lifetime once properly cared for. One aspect of maintaining household knives, which is often overlooked, is regular honing and

annual sharpening of each knife used.

A self-sharpening knife set erases the hassle of constant knife maintenance, by lining the space in the knife block where the knife is inserted and removed with abrasive material. This allows the knife edges to be honed every time they are removed and inserted from the knife block, keeping your knives in tip-top shape and your kitchen prep stress-free.

An Artisanal Coffee Maker

If your day isn’t complete without a dose of caffeine, a modern-day coffee machine may be one of your best investments.

Modern coffee makers have really upped the ante when it comes to design and function of coffee-making machines. A modern, automatic drip coffee maker elevates your coffee experience. The extraction method creates a more complex, less oily flavoured coffee, plus with features like auto-shut off, temperature adjustment, and the ability to set your machine to begin brewing at a set time, you can literally wake up and smell the coffee.

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Protecting Your Home Against Termites

by David Hinkson

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In Barbados, since many homes are at risk for termite attacks, annual inspections are essential.

ermites, or as we call them locally, “wood ants�, are barely visible to the naked eye and can live as far as 1500 feet underground, but once they surface, they can be highly destructive to your property. Here are a few tips on how to protect your home from these critters during construction, and how to prevent a re-infestation.

Now, there are several different methods used for termite control. Normally, you will see pest control companies drill holes around the foundation of a house while it is under construction or just after completion.

They then place the pesticide used to eliminate the termites into these holes, which the worker termites consume; they then take it back to the nest and share with the other colony members, eventually 46

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eliminating the colony. Bait stations can also be placed inside the home to serve the same purpose, and the bait inside these stations is non-toxic for pets and children.

During the construction phase, you can use a chemical termite barrier on the soil, either under concrete flooring or around the entire perimeter of the building. Physical termite barriers are recommended either when building a new home or adding an extension to the property. This is a layer of protective material that can be laid before your concrete is poured, or as a partial barrier to the perimeter of the structure and pipe penetrations to stop termites from entering your home.

A reticulation system is a network of

Remove stored timber and debris from around and under the house. underground pipes designed to distribute a termite-control chemical evenly through the building’s foundation and around its perimeter. This system allows reapplication of the chemical barrier by giving continuous long-term protection against these pests.

Now, once these treatments are applied correctly, liquid treatments can last for up to five years. Soil treatments can go away in a few days or last for years, while bait treatments will endure once bait remains in the stations.

In Barbados, since many homes are at risk for termite attacks, annual inspections are essential. However, if you just got rid of a termite nest, you should have it done more frequently, like every three months, but you can return to annual inspections if the property has been termite-free for at least a year.

In the meantime, to avoid the risk, here are some measures you can take.

Repair any leaking taps and pipes, as the moisture these generate can attract termites.

Use only termite-treated lumber in garden beds, retaining walls and fence posts.

Remove any dead trees or stumps around the property, since these are usually termite breeding grounds.

Ensure that any termite prevention methods you might have used remain in good shape, and remember to reapply termite treatments if you make any modifications to your home.

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