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CONTENTS
WINTER 2024
17 POOLS
How a curated solution to your outdoor pool and patio area can transform your home to reflect timeless luxury and create a real return on investment for your family home.
BITS ‘N’ BOBS
4 How to use a three-coat sealer system, and why DIY is fast becoming Mzansi’s favourite family pastime.
9 EASY CLEAN-UP
Spring gets all the credit when it comes to cleaning – think spring cleaning – but any time of year is an equally opportune time to get your home affairs in order. In fact, winter is when we typically spend more time indoors so taking the time to ensure everything is clean, cosy and uncluttered can go a long way in making the dark, cold days a bit brighter.
PROJECTS
13 PAINT TRENDS
From a dining nook in a kitchen to a meditation area in your living room and a workspace in a bedroom or passage, we share three clever ways of creating multifunctional spaces using paint colour combinations to transform and elevate various rooms in the home.
DIY 101
21 WINDOWS
Aluminium windows are modern window solutions and come in many different types and styles. If you’re revamping your home or sprucing your space up a little and want to install your own aluminium windows, we have a DIY guide just for you.
24 SMART HOME
For South Africans keen to take part in a collective push for a greener tomorrow, there are a host of sustainable solutions that can be retrofitted into your home. We share three tips to create your eco-friendly home.
DECOR TRENDS
27 HOME DECOR
Clever placement of mirrors throughout the home adds depth and dimension to your interiors and make rooms feel more inviting, interesting, bigger and brighter.
THE THREE-COAT SEALER SYSTEM
When using Woodoc Sealer, you need to adhere to some fundamental steps
When using Woodoc Sealer for maintenance and protection of your wooden furnishings, windows, floors and decks, and so forth, always apply three coats of the product.
The first coat of Woodoc Sealer penetrates, binds with the wood and nourishes it. The second coat penetrates, binds with the first and starts the surface finish. The third coat binds with the first two and completes the protection of the wood with the surface finish required, for example, matt/semi-gloss or gloss.
Three coats of correctly applied Woodoc Sealer become part of the wood and build
up on the surface to form a protective surface coating.
Calculate exactly how much Woodoc Sealer you will need for a project – the best way to do this is to divide the total square metres by 3.3. The answer equals the total number of litres of sealer you will need for three proper coats on that surface. More product will be used on the first penetrating coat than on the second and third coats, but always ensure you use the full quantity on the surface.
Woodoc Sealers are designed and formulated to work in specific environments and provide specific protective qualities. For example, exterior sealers will protect
exterior wood from the weather, such as the damaging effects of sunlight and rain. Interior sealers will protect interior wood from abrasion, scratches, chemicals, stains and foot traffic on a floor. In every instance, the coating needs to be thick enough to withstand the environment in which it is used. The application of the sealer should not be judged on whether it looks good enough (appearance) but on the film thickness to prevent premature failure. Three coats of correctly applied Woodoc Sealer will result in the appropriate film thickness, optimising the physical and protective properties of the sealer.
Problems with coating performance often occur when insufficient sealer is applied. To optimise the protective properties of a Woodoc Sealer, apply three coats.
While Woodoc Sealers are applied for their aesthetic appearance, the goal is often protection of the wood substrate. When three coats of the Woodoc Sealer are applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the correct dry-film thickness and optimal performance are achieved.
When proper coverage is not achieved in exterior conditions, it leaves the wood vulnerable to degradation by exposure to UV rays (sunlight) or other environmental effects. Maintenance will then have to be done sooner. If you try to stretch the coverage of the Woodoc Sealer by diluting the product, the result will be a film thickness that is below the acceptable threshold for performance. Apply three coats of undiluted Woodoc Sealer to achieve the correct dry-film thickness and ultimate performance.
How to use Woodoc
HO W TO
DIY COMES OUT ON TOP
From screen time to family time, a recent survey by Brights Hardware shows that families are opting to do DIY projects together as a favourite pastime rather than spending time in front of the TV
The survey, which coincided with National DIY Day and was conducted by Brights Hardware, a family-owned chain of hardware stores based in the Western Cape, shows that 71% of South African families love to do DIY together.
“Doing DIY together as a family offers multiple benefits, such as a chance to bond, collaborate and develop problem-solving skills,” says Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware.
More than two-thirds (77%) of the survey respondents stated that one of the biggest benefits of doing DIY as a family is the chance to spend quality time together while adding a personalised touch to their homes, followed by having fun while being creative.
BRUSHING UP ON FAMILY BONDING TIME
According to Luis, over 60% of those who participated in the survey have mentioned painting and room makeovers as their chosen family DIY projects. More than half of the respondents (51%) like undertaking family home maintenance and repairs together, followed by 44% spending time on garden projects.
DIY MAKEOVERS AND MEND ON TREND
Coincidentally, leading voices in the DIY and decor industry, including Architectural Digest and Martha Stewart, have dubbed 2024 as the year of the bedroom makeover. Interestingly,
this aligns perfectly with the feedback from the survey respondents. Almost half (46.7%) expressed a strong desire to tackle this project this year.
“Getting the family, most specifically the children, involved in their bedroom makeovers allows them to not only have a large say in the personalisation and customisation of their space, but also gives them a great sense of accomplishment when completed,” adds Luis. “Learning how to prepare a room, select their favourite colour and use a paintbrush is also a wonderful confidence booster.”
Survey results concur, with over 45% of people saying it’s important for children to not only have a say in the new decor scheme and room layout, but to be actively involved in creating it, too.
“DIY remains a growing trend in South Africa as backed up by our survey, which shows that over 90% of those who participated are actively involved in DIY of some type. It’s a trend that promises to keep developing as people embrace its creative outlets and save money in the process. For families who are already DIY gurus or those keen to start, Brights Hardware has on-site experts in all our stores to provide advice and guidance on products for your family DIY projects –whatever it may be,” concludes Luis.
SOME ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS FROM THE SURVEY
• Respondents cited the chance to boost confidence, learn new skills and abilities, save money and achieve a great sense of accomplishment as additional reasons they love to do DIY.
• Other benefits listed include keeping your home in good condition and getting children away from devices and screens.
• A favourite DIY project South African families like tackling is a garden makeover and creating outdoor spaces to spend quality time as a family.
• South African families like to read, as indicated by another favourite project mentioned – building bookshelves and creating reading corners in the home.
EASY HOME clean up
Spring gets all the credit when it comes to cleaning – think spring cleaning –but any time of year is an equally opportune time to get your home in order. In fact, winter is when we typically spend more time indoors so taking time to ensure everything is clean, cosy and uncluttered can go a long way in making the dark, cold days a bit brighter
Preparing your home for winter is typically associated with cleaning the gutters and checking the roof for leaks (if you’re in a winter rainfall area), which then overlooks the value of doing a metaphorical clean sweep indoors, too.
Not sure where to start? Not to worry – we asked SweepStars, the efficient domestic workers who, via the SweepSouth app, are booked to clean thousands of homes every week, for tips and advice.
CLEAR THE CLUTTER
Cleaning is always more of a hassle if you’re wading through clutter – a kitchen counter that literally holds everything (school bags, dishes, keys, laptops, pet toys) and the kitchen sink, or a living room strewn with things that should be in the garage or – worse – a bedroom that is more storage unit than sleep sanctuary, can make cleaning a far bigger chore than it needs to be.
Clutter has a nasty way of making a space look dishevelled and dirty when the real problem is simply that things are out of place.
Start by walking through your space and removing the clutter, either putting it in a discard or donate pile or returning it to its original place. Apart from the benefit of a more ordered home, decluttering also has numerous mental health benefits.
BRIGHT LIGHTS
DIVIDE AND CONQUER
The old adage suggests that the way to eat an elephant is “one bite at a time”, in other words, bit by bit. This is true of cleaning your home, too. Plan how you want to approach it and work from there. You may want to do the living spaces first, or perhaps you prefer the areas that typically take more strain, such as the kitchen and bathroom, first. It doesn’t matter where you start, but you must have an idea about the extent or depth to which you want to clean the space. Does the kitchen clean include the inside of the cupboards, or is a wipe-down of the outside sufficient? Similarly, do the wall tiles in the bathroom need to be washed down, or is it a case of bath-shower-toilet clean and go?
TOP TIP
If you’re still not inspired or energised to do any of this, that’s fine, too because services, such as SweepSouth, specialise in exactly this – home cleaning when you need it. A SweepStar makes quick work of all the cleaning, and it’s super easy to book the service for a time that suits you best.
Winter can be very dim – the days are shorter, after all. But it could also feel that way because the light bulbs are dusty! A surprising amount of dust accumulates on bulbs, dimming their glow over time. Long-lasting LED bulbs may not be changed for years, which is a good thing for energy consumption but not great for cleanliness. SweepStars recommend simply switching off the lights and dusting with a soft, dry cloth. And there was light – unless there is load shedding! Letting natural light in during winter is important, and while you’re opening and closing curtains and blinds, you may notice just how much dust and dirt they have accumulated. Remedy this by vacuuming the curtain or even giving it a once-over with a steamer if you have one. Depending on the blind’s style and material, you may need to clean each slat individually with a damp cloth, but this is the kind of chore where the results make up for the effort.
Creating multifunctional spaces with SMART PAINT COLOUR CHOICES
Dulux get your dream home renovation makeover started
The hustle and bustle of modern living often requires maximising the intentional use of space in a home. One way to achieve this is by using durable paint colour to create functional, multipurpose rooms. Different paint colours, such as Dulux’s 2024 Colour of the Year, Sweet EmbraceTM, and its complementary palettes are becoming increasingly popular in rejuvenating home spaces to become more modern and elegant, allowing homeowners to add a calming, soothing and uplifting ambience into their living spaces.
“We all have that one room in our homes that we could turn into a multifunctional space, and using paint colours is one of the easiest ways to zone different areas for different tasks while adding depth, interest and drama at the same time. Different paint colour combinations can add a touch of elegance to your home by highlighting its most attractive features and thereby increasing its value,” says Steve Baron, renowned house flipper in Johannesburg and YouTube sensation.
Flipping Johannesburg with Steve Baron
HO W TO
Instagram.com/flippingjohannesburg
Facebook.com/flippingjohannesburg
Tiktok.com/@flippingjohannesburg
THREE WAYS TO USE COLOUR TO TRANSFORM ROOMS
From a dining nook in a kitchen to a meditation area in your living room and a workspace in a bedroom or passage, Baron has rounded up three clever ways of creating multifunctional spaces using paint colour combinations to transform and elevate different rooms in your home.
1. Carve out a space for creativity and rest
With hybrid working the new norm, people are investing in ergonomic furniture, soundproofing and stylish design to make their spaces more functional and inspiring but you don’t need a dedicated home office to carve out a space for focus and concentration. You can use paint colour to differentiate your working space from the rest of your room. Whether you are attending meetings or preparing for exams, you can paint any room to provide an area that will enable creativity and productivity while also providing a place for greater reflection and rest – it is all about the different paint colours you can use.
“One of the interior trends of 2024 is centred around embracing productivity. When it comes to creating a productive working space, choosing the right colours is essential. The best colours for a working space are those that promote focus, a sense of calm and creativity. If your work involves creativity and brainstorming, brighter and more vibrant colours like yellow can be a great choice. Yellow is often associated with creativity and can inspire innovative ideas and artistic expression by instilling an ambience full of fun, energy and joy, ensuring that you are always open to new ideas and solutions,” says Palesa Ramaisa, a Dulux colour expert.
2. Zone out – a space for exercise
A living room is usually somewhere you can unwind and decompress from a long day, but it can also be a space that can set the tone for your morning. It’s no wonder that when we think about switching up the look and feel of a home, the living room or lounge is often the most impactful and affordable place to start.
“In a lounge, you can create a zone-out area for exercising by painting your walls with dreamy tones of lilacs and yellows to create fun, upbeat and friendly scenery without overpowering your space and overwhelming the eye. Bold, vibrant colours, whimsical patterns and playful wall elements can be used for their energising and joyful qualities,” adds Ramaisa.
These vivacious shades will inject an unapologetic sense of fun and energy into your interiors, creating spaces that radiate positivity to tap into the human desire for health consciousness, energising you to improve exercise routines consistently.
3. Create a restaurant feel in your home
A kitchen is the true heart of every home; it is often the most used room in the house. A place where we gather to spend time with family and friends – a social hub for the whole family – that is why we would want to create an atmosphere as welcoming as possible. You can create a snuggly spot for family breakfasts and romantic dinners in your kitchen’s open-plan area by contrasting the walls with a natural warm paint colour palette.
“Warm paint shades of natural stone, soil and clay can make your kitchen feel familiar and inviting. In addition, natural greens and blues can bring a tranquil and fluid feel to a space. They also work perfectly with natural materials, such as scatter cushions, eclectic artwork and modern chandeliers, to help make the kitchen space feel like a restaurant at home. Whether you are doing homework and feeding the kids or enjoying dinner and entertaining friends – these colour schemes can help you understand the treasures of nature that can bring beauty and authenticity to the home,” adds Ramaisa.
It is important to get high-quality paints, such as Dulux’s Acrylic PVA and Luxurious Silk, for better coverage, durability and colour-retention promise. The quality of the paint matters in terms of how well it adheres to the walls, how long it lasts without chipping or fading and how it resists stains and moisture. Nobody wants to repaint frequently, so choosing durable paint that maintains its appearance over time is always a wise decision.
“A fresh coat of high-quality paint can instantly enhance and transform the look of the spaces in your home, making your household feel fresh and inviting. With the right paint products, homeowners can go beyond cosmetic changes by future-proofing and extending the longevity of their home spaces,” concludes Baron.
Discover how Dulux’s high-quality paints, such as Acrylic PVA, Luxurious Silk, Sweet Embrace™, and the new Dulux Colour of the Year palettes could transform your home with the Visualizer App
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SLEEK, SOPHISTICATED AND SAFE
How the right tile selection can transform your outdoor pool area into a stylish, safe space. By Italtile Boksburg
When Donovan Souvaris popped in to browse tile selections to replace his ageing and damaged poolside tiles and coping, he spoke to Italtile Boksburg’s sales consultant Renaco Botha about his frustration with tiles that had not just lifted, cracked and faded over time, but had also lost their slip-resistance and were no longer safe. His other pain point was that the pool coping had faded and come loose.
THE ADVICE
Botha discussed Italtile’s exclusive 2cm Porcelain Paving Tile ranges – durable options that offer advanced slip-resistant technology and longevity, apart from their contemporary design and good looks.
This collection of hardy outdoor pavers has been curated from the very best on offer from top international manufacturers. Pavers offer an eco-chic outdoor aesthetic that is gaining traction for both commercial and residential properties. Traditional, thirsty lawns are losing popularity, making way for the development of more sustainable, low-maintenance ground coverings.
THE SOLUTION
Understanding that a top-quality outdoor renovation adds substantially to the resale price of a property, Botha encouraged Souvaris to choose a tile that offered the very best possible all-round value. Souvaris selected Italtile’s high-end 600 x 900mm Cemento Grey Matt Slip-Resistant 2cm Porcelain Paver Tile.
COPING
Souvaris was concerned about the performance of his existing pool copings, so Botha encouraged him to consider a more durable option: one that delivers a sophisticated update on a pool surround with a seamless, sleek look, custom created by bespoke waterjet tile cutting specialists Waterstone. Botha did a thorough site investigation to take exact measurements and ensure they handed over a set of precision layouts and designs. The Cemento Grey Pavers were then sent to the waterjet cutting factory for custom cutting – full bullnosing and half-bullnosing with mitred edges – and finally delivered for professional installation according to the layout plans. With oversight from Botha throughout the process, the renovation took three months to complete.
Offering a high resistance to breaking loads, Cemento Grey can handle heavy foot traffic and also withstand outdoor conditions without compromising its integrity in the long term. It’s a tile with impressive slip-resistant properties, making it a wise choice for an outdoor space.
“ I took sample paver tiles home to get an idea of the effect and was drawn to Cemento Grey’s undeniable urban sophistication,” Souvaris says.
2cm Tile Paver collection
CH
PERFECT PATIO AND POOLSIDE
Using the principles of biophilic design to create a seamless connection between the environment and home. By Italtile Cape Town
The Robinson family residing on a Cape Winelands estate invested in a top-tier reimagining of their patio and poolside to add value to their property. They found inspiration at the gallery in Italtile’s concept store, The Shed. This carefully curated collection of Italtile’s bijou home design products is overseen by Italtile’s Cape Town branch, where Etienne Jordaan is the commercial agent. Jordaan, with extensive experience in and knowledge of both commercial projects and home design, was able to offer the Robinson family qualified advice and guidance regarding their home decor choices.
Jordaan worked alongside Bergstreme Developers, specialists in contemporary
custom-built homes, to create an impeccably envisioned, one-of-a-kind outdoor living area that speaks of the lively, active Robinson family’s personality, underpinned with a sense of timeless luxury and eternal summer. Jordaan proposed a layering of sustainable, biophilic porcelain tiles to honour the home’s proximity to nature, using Italtile’s exclusive, Klif Silver by Italian tile masters Atlas Concorde as the “base canvas”. Klif is a full-bodied porcelain tile that reimagines a living stone look with deep detail and fascinating variances. Jordaan had oversight of the precision mitred edging around the pool. Mitred edges create a superb finish (incorporating two 45-degree angles that deliver a 90-degree angle when installed). Here, the end result is a seamless illusion of a horizontal tiled surface that appears to “spill over” onto the vertical surface and into the pool.
THE FEATURES
In the creation of an outdoor feature wall, the Robinsons wanted “something different”. Jordaan helped them realise the stand-out effect they were dreaming of, with the botanical fantasia of Jardin 01 from trendsetting Ceramica Sant’Agostino. This is a spectacular wallpaper print decor tile, exclusive to Italtile, featuring a lush profusion of sun-splashed island-style foliage.
Biophilic design is a macro trend that saw its roots strengthen during the pandemic. It’s a design movement that focuses on incorporating the natural world into the built environment to reduce stress and improve human productivity, creativity and wellbeing. With this in mind, the Robinson family can look forward to years of relaxed, inspired living on their eco-chic, Italtile-style patio, and, in due course, should they wish to sell ... an excellent return on their investment. The House Robinson project kicked off in November 2023 and was completed in December 2023. All tiles selected carry Italtile’s LiveGreen label.
Italtile’s commercial and residential agent services
DIY GUIDE: installing your
own
ALUMINIUM WINDOWS
The experts at BUCO share that aluminium windows are all the rage these days, and for good reason
Aluminium windows are modern window solutions and come in many different types and styles. If you’re revamping your home or sprucing your space up a little and want to install your aluminium windows yourself, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll learn more about aluminium windows and the importance of quality installation. Proper installation ensures the frames fit securely, are weather-tight and function correctly.
depends on a variety of factors. Small windows can add charm and character, while large windows maximise natural light, views and the sense of space. Consider your specific needs and aesthetics when deciding on window sizes
Expert tips on selecting and maintaining aluminium windows WHY CHOOSE MODERN ALUMINIUM WINDOWS?
They offer a range of benefits, including durability, strength, energy efficiency and aesthetic versatility. Their sleek and minimalist profiles complement contemporary architectural designs while providing functionality and long-lasting performance. Depending on the size and style of your home, the last question is, should you go for big or small aluminium windows? Choosing between small and large aluminium windows
R E AD
Aluminium window designs
R E AD
PREPARING FOR YOUR ALUMINIUM WINDOW INSTALLATION
When preparing for your aluminium window installation, you need to understand your needs and ultimately ask yourself, what type of aluminium windows are right for you? Well, here’s a quick comparison of modern windows, big and small, and how they can enhance your home.
• Modern aluminium windows: choose these for a sleek, minimalist look that suits contemporary designs. They offer durability, energy efficiency and versatility in customisation.
• Big aluminium windows: go for large windows if you want to maximise natural light, views and the sense of space in your home. They are ideal for rooms where a spacious feel is desired.
• Small aluminium windows: consider small windows to add charm and character to your home. They are suitable for spaces where a cosy and intimate atmosphere is preferred.
Once you’ve settled on the type of aluminium window you want and purchased it, you need to start the installation process. This involves gathering all the tools and materials to get the job done.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
1. Tape measure: for accurate measurements of the window opening and frame.
2. Level: to ensure the window is perfectly straight and level.
3. Screwdriver set: various screwdrivers, including Phillips and flathead, for attaching hardware and screws.
4. Caulking gun: to apply sealant or caulk around the window frame for weatherproofing.
5. Drill and drill bits: for drilling holes for screws, anchors or fasteners.
6. Screws, anchors or fasteners: depending on your installation method and the type of wall or frame, you’ll need appropriate fasteners.
7. Hammer: for tapping shims and adjusting during installation.
8. Shims: to ensure the window is level and plumb, use shims to adjust as needed.
9. Safety gear: includes gloves, safety glasses and hearing protection for personal safety during installation.
10. Sealant and caulk: to seal gaps and joints for waterproofing and insulation.
TOP TIP
By carefully planning your installation, taking precise measurements and following safety precautions, you can ensure a successful and safe installation of your aluminium window. If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation, consider consulting a professional installer.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
1. Removing old windows
• Wear appropriate safety gear and enlist assistance if needed for heavy windows.
• Remove any locks, handles or hinges from the old window.
• If applicable, detach the window sashes from the frame.
• Carefully remove the old window frame from the opening.
2. Installing small and large aluminium windows
Before you start the installation process, measure the window opening accurately, ensuring it’s square and level. It would also be best to clean the opening, removing debris and old sealant – make sure that it’s dry and smooth.
To install, apply a layer of sealant or caulk to the inside edges of the opening. Carefully position the aluminium window into the opening –ensure it is level and square. Fasten the window in place using screws, anchors or appropriate fasteners.
Useful tips to use to avoid making common mistakes.
• Ensure the window is level for proper operation.
• Use shims to adjust if the window isn’t fitting perfectly.
• Seal gaps around the frame with caulk for waterproofing.
MODERN ALUMINIUM WINDOWS
INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
If you’re choosing to install a modern aluminium window, take note of the following installation techniques.
• Modern aluminium windows often come with custom-sizing options to fit your space perfectly. Precisely measure the window opening, accounting for the frame’s specific design and dimensions.
• Take extra care in weatherproofing the installation. Apply a high-quality sealant or caulk to seal any gaps around the frame. Use foam insulation tape or backer rod to insulate around the window for maximum thermal performance.
• Use appropriate screws, anchors or fasteners to secure the modern aluminium window in place.
• After securing the window, double-check for any gaps or openings around the frame.
• Remove any excess sealant, caulk or debris from the window and surrounding area to leave a clean and polished appearance.
FINISHING TOUCHES
Once the installation process is complete, it’s important to conduct the finishing touches by sealing and insulating the window. Do this by sealing gaps and joints with high-quality sealant or caulk and insulating around the frame with foam insulation tape or backer rods. Installing aluminium windows involves careful planning, accurate measurements, safety precautions and following manufacturer guidelines. Whether you’re installing small, large, or modern aluminium windows, paying attention to details, sealing and insulation is key to a successful installation.
FAQs
Q: Can I install big aluminium windows by myself?
A: Installing big aluminium windows can be a challenging task due to their size and weight. While it is possible to install them yourself with the right tools and skills, it’s often recommended to seek professional assistance, especially for larger windows, to ensure safety, proper fitting and alignment.
Q: How do I maintain my aluminium windows?
A: We recommend you clean your aluminium windows regularly and do regular inspections. By following routine maintenance steps, you can keep your aluminium windows looking their best, functioning smoothly, and prolong their lifespan.
Q: Where can I find quality products for my installation?
A: You can find quality products for your installation at BUCO! We have a wide range of high-quality products both in-store and online.
BUCO’s range of aluminium windows
BUY HERE
THREE top tips to make your home MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
For South Africans keen to take part in a collective push for a greener tomorrow, there are a host of Orlando Luis E
1HAVE A LIGHT BULB MOMENT
Switching from incandescent light bulbs to LED ones can help save energy and ultimately the environment. By changing the light bulbs in your home, you can reduce your carbon footprint and lower your electricity bills. Compared with incandescent light bulbs, LED bulbs consume up to 90% less power. Another key benefit of LED lighting is that the bulbs can last 10 to 20 times as long. This means there is less waste going to landfills – think
of all the billions of light bulbs that end up in refuse dumps. Another environmental benefit of LED light bulbs is that they are free from toxic chemicals – most conventional bulbs contain numerous materials that are bad for the environment, such as mercury. By switching from incandescent to LED bulbs, you are helping reduce carbon emissions, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, reduce toxic chemicals, reduce waste to landfills, and save money. Taking all these benefits into account it is easy to see why LED lights are the way to go.
2
REDUCE YOUR WATER USE
The average household flushes hundreds of litres of reusable greywater down the drain daily. Installing a simple greywater system can divert the water from the shower, bath, basin and washing machine and reuse it for garden irrigation. Greywater
systems are relatively easy and costeffective to install, and your water costs will decrease, as you are recycling water to use in the garden.
The easiest way to utilise greywater in your garden is to reroute the pipes that usually carry the water from the bath, shower or washing machine into the sewer
system into a greywater storage tank, which connects to a pump and irrigation system and directs water into the garden. There are a range of DIY options available, depending on your needs and budget.
Another way to reduce the amount of water your household consumes is to harvest rainwater to use for garden irrigation, washing laundry, flushing the toilet, filling up the pool, washing cars and as a general off-grid/alternative water supply.
Installing a rainwater harvesting system is relatively simple. You can start with some plastic barrels placed at the end of your gutter downpipes to catch the roof runoff. A bigger solution is to install a rainwater tank – or several – and reroute your gutter system to channel the rainwater into these tanks. Tanks come in a wide range of colours, styles and capacities to suit all budgets, spaces and needs. Another easy environmentally friendly water-wise solution that can be quickly installed is a water-saving showerhead.
HARNESS THE POWER OF THE SUN
Going solar has been a hot trend in South Africa for a while due to ongoing load shedding, but the other major benefit of installing and using solar power is that it is also good for the environment.
For those who have the budget, installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the roof of your home is a great solution to keep the power on without using as much electricity from the grid. Another great idea to reduce electricity use is to switch to a solar-heated geyser.
In addition to this, there are a wide range of solar-powered lighting options
on the market today. These vary from solar-powered spotlights and security lights to solar garden lighting, pool lights and portable solar lanterns. Solar-powered lighting is a great solution in a sun-rich country such as ours – there is no cost to recharge them, and many are practically “set and forget” and will come on automatically after sunset. These are just a few of the solutions available to enable people to reduce the energy consumption and footprint of their homes and do their part in celebrating Earth Day every day of the year. There are a host of other
innovations available these days to make homes more environmentally friendly and sustainable, from plumbing, electrical and lighting to heating and cooling, interiors and paint solutions – to name only a few –and all our stores have expert staff to offer advice and tips on these and more.
Brights Hardware stores are located in Boston, Blackheath, Langebaan, Mitchells Plain, Richmond Park, Plattekloof, Stonewood, Brackengate and Sunningdale. An online store shopping experience is available at www.brights.co.za, offering delivery to anywhere in South Africa. Brights also offers same-day delivery in the Western Cape for products purchased online.
How to decorate WITH MIRRORS
Shereen Lurie shares a selection of showstopping mirrors to add interest to your home
One of the most effective ways to illuminate your home is by incorporating mirrors into your interior spaces. Mirrors not only reflect light, but also infuse a sense of depth and dimension into your living spaces. Their placement maximises the interplay of light, making rooms feel brighter, larger and more inviting.
Integrating mirrors into your home decor scheme can elevate the overall aesthetic and create a spacious feel. Strategically place mirrors to reflect natural light and highlight key design elements. Choose frames that complement your style – modern, vintage or eclectic – and integrate functionality with aesthetics. www.bespokehome.co.za
Integrate mirrors into your home decor by strategically placing them to enhance natural light and create the illusion of space. Use mirrors as focal points or decorative elements on walls and furniture or even as part of functional pieces. Experiment with different shapes and sizes to complement your overall design scheme, adding style and depth to your living spaces. www.blockandchisel.co.za
Mirrors play a significant role in interiors, contributing to a room’s aesthetics, functionality and spatial perception. When placing a mirror, consider its reflections – ensure they reflect a stream of natural light – and avoid unpleasing views that might disrupt the harmony of the space’s design and ambience. www.kare-johannesburg.co.za
Enhance the natural light and create a spacious feel in your home by integrating mirrors into your decor. Use mirrors as statement pieces or in groupings for added impact. Consider shapes that complement your style, and position mirrors opposite windows for optimal reflection. https://cremadesign.co.za
