Displaying posts labeled "Support"

New books that landed in my mailbox lately

Posted on Tue, 10 Sep 2024 by KiM

This scintillating volume takes readers on an exclusive journey through Paris, guided by Mathilde Favier—the charismatic public relations director at Dior Couture. Hailing from one of Paris’ most creative families, Mathilde Favier is renowned as a warm, welcoming hostess nurturing a network of friends who happen to be some of the city’s most esteemed figures in fashion, beauty, art, interior design, and gastronomy. Accompanied by a lively text and interviews by Frédérique Dedet, Favier—who personifies the soul and spirit of Paris—guides readers around the private spaces, shops, studios, residences, and kitchens of these extraordinary personalities. Their personal stories, expert perspectives, and shared secrets, together with Favier’s intimate understanding of the city and its best addresses, present a rarely seen view of Paris’ vibrant core.
I found Living Beautifully in Paris by Mathilde Favier with text by Frédérique Dedet and photographs by Pascal Chevallier (published by Rizzoli) to be quite…pretentious. It seemed to be simply about “look how famous I am and all my famous friends”. If you dream of life in Paris with and endless bank account then this book is for you. Or if you like pretty book covers.


Next is Great Inspiration: My Adventures in Decorating with Notable Interior Designers by Katherine Bryan publsihed by Rizzoli. The decorating evolution of Bryan—one of the great patrons of interior design—has gone from classic modernism to sumptuous traditionalism to romantic eclecticism and everything in between, with the collaboration of such renowned interior designers as Tom Britt, Mica Ertegun, Susan Gutfreund, Mark Hampton, and Studio Peregalli Sartori. Each residence and each room make up an aesthetic memoir that explores those collaborations, reveals insights into the various processes, and inspires others to look at their own spaces and consider a myriad of beautiful and appropriate options. Anecdotes divulge her astute guidance and the charming idiosyncrasies of some of the twentieth century’s greatest decorators.
Katherine has lived in several spectacular homes, and it was really interesting to see her style (with the help of designers) evolve over the years and depending on the architecture/style of each home. This was a fun one.


Then we have The Perfect Room: Timeless Designs for Intentional Living by Marie Flanigan and published by Rizzoli. Flanigan looks at the home on a room-by-room basis, identifying common design challenges, offering solutions on how to create rooms that are aesthetically pleasing and efficient. With examples chosen from her work, she shares seasoned wisdom and creative approaches to every decision ranging from building materials and architectural details to furnishings, color, textiles, accessories, and organization. While her first book The Beauty of Home spelled out her philosophy of design, this new tome provides illustrated examples of design ideas and applications for each room in the house, inspiring readers to create spaces that exceed expectations.
A great coffee table book filled with some really beautiful and thoughtful interiors. I wasn’t overly excited about it but a good read nonetheless.


Lastly we have Cullman & Kravis: Interiors by Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh and Sarah Ramsey and Alyssa Urban with photography from Eric Piasecki, another published by Rizzoli. Ceaseless in its pursuit to create “an alchemy of old and new,” the highly esteemed firm of Cullman & Kravis is renowned for its ability to fashion modern, cohesive, richly layered homes rooted in tradition and the respect for function and decoration. Utilizing their decades of experience, they build out rooms from the finest classical foundations, then infuse bold, stylish, and modish elements, mixing exquisite antiques with contemporary art to create truly dynamic spaces conceived to stand the test of time. The homes in this book (the majority exclusive to the volume) include sumptuous Manhattan apartments, a historic house overlooking the Long Island Sound, a contemporary beach house in the Hamptons, and a modern minimalist Palm Beach waterfront estate. 
This is more of a coffee table book than a source of inspiration for those who don’t have multi-million dollar homes. Some really fabulous homes featured and a good book if you have dreams of the mostly unattainable.

Keter’s small space outdoor furniture offers an affordable and space-saving style for outdoor entertaining and beyond

Small-space outdoor settings often don’t get the recognition they deserve. These patios, sundecks, condo/apartment balconies, and compact urban backyards can become desirable gathering spots. Optimal space design and creative furnishings are a key part of the equation.

Right-sized durable furniture, such as Keter’s versatile outdoor furniture pieces, adds value while respecting each space’s parameters. Together, the components create an inviting setting for outdoor refreshments, al fresco dinners, and spur-of-the-moment gatherings.

Finally, Keter’s outdoor furniture is sustainably built. Each piece contains a steadily increasing percentage of recycled materials. In addition, every Keter furniture item is 100 percent recyclable. Keter’s Chief Executive Officer (or CEO) Alejandro Pena is the driving force behind the company’s enduring sustainability focus.

Snapshot of Small-Space Outdoor Settings

Four small-space outdoor settings can take on maximum appeal. Patios, sundecks, condo/apartment balconies, and compact urban backyards can all become popular destinations. By thinking “outside the box,” homeowners and tenants can optimize their space while avoiding that “crowded” feel. Hosts are also invited to put their distinctive touches on each outdoor environment.

  • Paved or Concrete Patios

Patios sometimes aren’t utilized to their full potential. Often, they’re used for storing lawn and garden tools and outdoor gear. With good space design, right-sized furniture, and perhaps some lush green plants, even a smaller patio can become a favorite spot for relaxing after a hectic day.

  • Sunny Sundecks

A well-positioned sundeck makes an inviting tanning and relaxation platform. With attractive, durable outdoor furniture, this versatile deck can become a popular entertainment hub. Happy Hour gatherings and dinners under the stars will take on an entirely new look and feel.

  • Condo/Apartment Balconies

Condo owners and apartment tenants may regard their balconies as overflow storage areas. With a little ingenuity, these small outdoor spaces can become a pleasant setting to catch some sun or enjoy the evening breeze. With right-sized furniture in the mix, the stage is set for a pleasant gathering spot.

  • Compact Urban Backyards

A compact urban backyard can be transformed into an inviting outdoor venue. Think grill-outs, Happy Hours, and neighborhood potluck dinners. A grass or concrete surface can accommodate right-sized furniture and accessories. With creative outdoor lighting, this small-scale space can become a “must visit” destination.



3 Small-Space Design Solutions

Designing an appealing small outdoor space involves planning and creativity. Using right-sized furniture also helps ensure a sense of balance. Three general guidelines are applicable to multiple outdoor settings.

  • Expand the Indoor Living Space

When the outdoor area is adjacent to a home’s interior, residents might consider turning the outdoor space into an extra relaxation spot. Using the same general style (and color scheme) will help tie both spaces together.

  • Create Two Distinct Zones

If space allows, create well-defined areas for separate activities. For example, a spacious patio may be divided into gathering and dining areas. A plant-covered trellis or weather-hardy room divider can separate the two spaces.

  • Cultivate Good Traffic Flow

Small spaces will benefit from good traffic flow. Besides minimizing trip hazards, leaving empty space around furniture pieces makes it easier for hosts and guests to mingle. Hosts should always avoid placing objects in front of doorways or natural access points.



Keter’s Versatile Outdoor Furniture Enhances Small Spaces

Keter’s contemporary outdoor furniture blends easily into small-space settings. Every furniture piece features resin-based construction for outstanding durability. As a bonus, Keter outdoor furniture is well suited to “mix and match” furniture arrangements.

Keter’s well-rounded outdoor furniture collection continues to evolve. These additions largely result from CEO Alejandro Pena’s focus on product innovation and development. The company’s talented product team rises to the challenge, creating a steady stream of new products to satisfy consumers’ tastes.

  • 3-Piece Patio Ensembles

Keter’s 3-piece patio sets are ideal for small spaces. Each compact set includes two sloped-back chairs and a small side table. Multiple sets can be grouped together for a conversation hub. All patio sets are designed for use on hard surfaces and lawns.

  • Outdoor Storage Benches

Multifunctional outdoor furniture is always a good choice. Keter’s sturdy outdoor storage bench provides extra seating on patios, sundecks, balconies, and small yards. Each bench also offers roomy storage, giving even a small space a “clutter-free” look.

  • Adirondack Chairs

Relaxing in a classic Adirondack chair can’t be beat. Available in several styles and neutral colors, these sturdy chairs fit nicely with a side table. Alternatively, hosts may wish to group several Adirondack chairs around the fire pit on a chilly evening.

  • Versatile Side Tables

Small side tables are a mainstay of outdoor lifestyles. Available in square and round styles, these neutrally colored tables easily hold drinks and snacks. Paired with Adirondack chairs and even sun loungers, these small tables lend themselves to multiple outdoor uses.

  • Outdoor Kitchen Carts

Keter’s outdoor kitchen carts add a new dimension to grill-outs and al fresco dinners. Each cart offers spacious sealed and open storage. The stainless steel top doubles as a food preparation and dining surface. The cart’s wheels enable easy transport from the kitchen to any hard surface or lawn.

  • Sun Loungers  

Relaxing on the patio, deck, or lawn is a satisfying way to spend a warm afternoon. Keter’s sleek-looking sun loungers offer adjustable backs, and the pieces’ rattan design provides added comfort. Along with their good looks, these sun loungers offer long-term durability.

  • Cool Bars

These compact cold beverage servers lend themselves to any small-space outdoor gathering. Cool bars are suitable for poolside get-togethers along with Happy Hours and grill-outs. Each cool bar features 7.5 gallons of storage and a convenient pop-up top that holds drinks and snacks.

Keter’s Continued Emphasis on Sustainability

Thanks to Keter CEO Alejandro Pena, the company’s longstanding sustainability emphasis continues in the 21st century. Pena is behind Keter’s commitment to drastically reduce virgin resources’ use in production operations. Toward this goal, Keter is gradually increasing the percentage of recycled materials in total production.

In addition, Keter’s manufacturing facilities are steadily progressing toward their respective “zero waste” goals. Finally, every Keter product is completely recyclable, further reducing the company’s environmental impact.

Keter’s sustainability focus is matched by its commitment to product innovation. By using bold vision and updated technologies, the company will continue to be a leader in the consumer lifestyle solutions marketplace.

Keter CEO Alejandro Pena summarized his view of the company’s growth. “Keter will continue to be the most innovative company in the industry. Keter will be the most sustainable company and a leader in our industry. And Keter will be an omnichannel-focused, product-centric company where we will serve our customers and consumers wherever they are, whenever they want, in every possible way that they want,” Alejandro Pena concluded.

Creating a productive and comfortable home office is essential for many South Florida residents, especially with the rise of remote work. However, transforming a space in your home into an efficient office can be challenging. Clutter, inadequate lighting, and lack of organization are common issues that hinder productivity. If you’re struggling with these problems, you’re not alone. This article will guide you through practical steps to achieve a successful home office makeover.


  1. Assessing Your Home Office Needs
    The first step in creating a successful home office is to assess your specific needs. Think about the type of work you do and the tools and equipment you require daily. If your job involves video conferencing, you’ll need a quiet space with a professional background. If you handle a lot of paperwork, ample desk space and storage solutions are vital. Understanding your work habits and requirements will help you create a space that supports your productivity and comfort.

  2. Making Space for Your New Office
    One of the biggest challenges in creating a home office is finding the space for it. In South Florida, where homes might not always have an abundance of extra rooms, this can be particularly tricky. However, with some creativity, you can find or make the space you need. Begin by clearing out a room or area that you can dedicate to your office. This might mean repurposing a guest room, a part of your living room, or even a large closet.
    To make the process easier, consider moving unnecessary items into a storage unit. This helps declutter your space and makes room for your office setup. Hiring a moving company can be a practical solution to handle the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on organizing your new office space efficiently. Look up the keyword local moving company South Florida on any search engine to find the right professionals for this task.
    Clearing out the clutter not only creates physical space but also contributes to a more organized and stress-free work environment.

  3. Choosing the Perfect Location
    Selecting the right location for your home office is crucial. Ideally, you want a spot that is quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions. If you have a spare room, that’s an excellent choice. However, if space is limited, look for a corner of a room that you can transform into a productive workspace. It’s important to choose an area that is away from high-traffic zones in your home to minimize interruptions.
    Consider factors like natural light and ventilation when choosing your office location. A well-lit, airy space can enhance your mood and productivity. If possible, select a spot with a window to let in natural light, as this can reduce eye strain and boost your overall well-being. Additionally, ensure that your chosen location has enough power outlets to accommodate your equipment.

  4. Investing in Quality Furniture for Comfort
    Once you’ve chosen the location for your home office, it’s time to invest in quality furniture. Ergonomic furniture is essential for comfort and health, especially if you’ll be spending long hours at your desk. Start with a good office chair that provides proper support for your back and encourages good posture. Your chair should be adjustable so that you can set it to the right height and angle for your desk.
    A spacious desk is also important. Make sure it has enough surface area to accommodate your computer, paperwork, and other essentials. If space is an issue, consider a wall-mounted desk or a compact desk that fits your room’s dimensions. Investing in quality furniture may require some upfront costs, but it will pay off in terms of comfort and productivity in the long run.

  5. Optimizing Lighting for Better Productivity
    Proper lighting is a key component of a productive home office. Natural light is ideal, so try to position your desk near a window. Natural light not only reduces eye strain but also helps regulate your sleep patterns and mood. However, if natural light is not an option, ensure your office is well-lit with a combination of overhead and task lighting.
    Consider using LED bulbs, which provide bright, clear light and are energy-efficient. A desk lamp with adjustable brightness can help you focus on specific tasks, while an overhead light can illuminate the entire room. Avoid harsh, direct light that can cause glare on your computer screen. Instead, aim for diffused, even lighting that creates a comfortable working environment. Proper lighting can significantly enhance your focus and productivity, making it a worthwhile investment.

  6. Organizing Your Workspace Effectively
    A well-organized workspace is essential for maintaining focus and efficiency. Start by decluttering your desk and organizing your supplies. Use shelves, cabinets, and desk organizers to keep everything in its place. Consider investing in drawer dividers and storage bins to compartmentalize your office supplies and paperwork. Labeling these compartments can further enhance organization and make it easier to find what you need quickly.
    Implement a filing system for your documents to avoid piles of paper accumulating on your desk. Digitalize as many documents as possible to reduce physical clutter. Use cable management solutions to keep cords and wires neatly arranged, preventing a tangled mess under your desk. By keeping your workspace tidy and organized, you create a more pleasant and productive environment.

  7. Incorporating Essential Technology
    Incorporating the right technology is crucial for a modern home office. Start with a reliable and fast internet connection to ensure smooth communication and efficient work processes. Depending on your job, you might need additional technology such as a high-quality printer, scanner, or external hard drives for data backup.
    Invest in a good-quality computer that meets your work requirements. If you frequently attend video conferences, consider getting a high-definition webcam and a quality microphone. Keep your technology organized with cable management solutions and docking stations. Ensure all your devices are up-to-date with the latest software to enhance performance and security. By equipping your office with the necessary technology, you can improve your productivity and work experience.

  8. Planning for Future Adjustments and Growth
    As your work evolves, your home office needs may change. It’s important to plan for future adjustments to accommodate new equipment, work habits, or even changes in your job role. Stay flexible and open to rearranging your space as needed. Consider modular furniture that can be easily reconfigured or expanded.
    Regularly assess your office setup to identify areas for improvement. Stay updated with new technology and organizational tools that can enhance your productivity. By planning for future adjustments, you ensure that your home office remains a dynamic and efficient space that grows with your needs.

Conclusion
A successful home office makeover in South Florida involves thoughtful planning and execution. By assessing your needs, creating a dedicated workspace, investing in quality furniture, optimizing lighting, and staying organized, you can transform any space into a productive home office. Incorporating essential technology, adding personal touches, ensuring proper ventilation, and planning for future adjustments will further enhance your office environment. A well-designed home office not only boosts productivity but also improves your overall work experience. Start your makeover today and enjoy the benefits of an efficient and comfortable home office tailored to your needs.

As modern consumers increasingly seek solutions for enhanced sleep quality, addressing common issues like overheating has become a priority. This has given rise to scientifically engineered products designed to improve sleep health, such as the Novilla Bliss Memory Foam Mattress. Distinguished as “Amazon’s Best Buy” and acclaimed as “The Best Value Mattress,” the Novilla Bliss has garnered recognition from various critics, including a notable mention as the “NYTimes best mattress under $500.” This mattress excels in providing comfort and support while focusing specifically on alleviating the discomfort of nocturnal overheating. Its design integrates innovative technology with consumer-centric features, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a cooler and more restful night’s sleep.

The Novilla Bliss Memory Foam Mattress expertly combines affordability with luxury, offering top-tier comfort at a price that won’t strain your wallet. This mattress excels in cost-efficiency, functionality, and comfort. Featuring a unique four-layer all-foam system, it provides a restorative sleeping experience. The top layer of cooling foam provides a refreshing touch, crucial for warm nights, while the subsequent layers, including comfort foam and breathable wave foam, synergize to alleviate pressure points and improve air circulation, promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.



Stay Cool, Sleep Better

A key highlight of this mattress is its gel-infused memory foam layer, tailor-made for those who sleep hot. This innovative layer not only conforms to the body for maximum comfort but also promotes a cooling effect that lasts through the night. Enhanced with a soft, breathable bamboo rayon cover, the mattress ensures the sleep surface stays refreshingly cool and gentle to the touch. The importance of this cooling feature is supported by research suggesting that a cooler sleeping environment can help reduce heart rate and blood pressure, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.



Advanced Motion Isolation and Body Support

Partner movement can significantly disrupt sleep quality. The Novilla Bliss addresses this issue with its high-density foam base, which is specifically engineered to minimize motion transfer. Studies indicate that effective motion isolation can enhance sleep continuity by reducing the number of awakenings caused by partner movement during the night.

Additionally, the mattress features a top layer of memory foam that molds precisely to the contours of the body, providing customized support that promotes proper spinal alignment and alleviates pressure points. This precise contouring is supported by data suggesting that such ergonomic support can significantly reduce back pain and stiffness, thereby improving sleep quality.


Eco-Friendly and Certified Safe

The Novilla Bliss extends its focus beyond comfort and affordability to embrace environmental responsibility. Crafted exclusively with eco-friendly materials that have met stringent testing criteria, this mattress ensures a sleep environment that is both safe and tranquil. Featuring CertiPUR-US certified memory foam and OEKO-TEX certified fabrics, and with a membership in the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA), the Novilla Bliss sets a benchmark for sustainability within the mattress industry.


Shop Now in Amazon

In conclusion, the Novilla Bliss Memory Foam Mattress represents an ideal fusion of affordability, comfort, and thoughtful design. It stands out in the marketplace not only for its cost-effectiveness but also for its high-quality features that cater specifically to enhancing sleep health. This mattress not only meets but exceeds the expectations of consumers looking for quality and value in their sleep products.

Thus, the Novilla Bliss is not just a wise financial investment but also a commitment to long-term health and well-being, making it a top choice for anyone looking to improve their sleep experience.

As a cat lover, you cherish your furry friends, but let’s be honest: dealing with floating cat hair can be a hassle, especially when it triggers allergies in your family. If you’re tired of constantly vacuuming and worrying about your children’s allergic reactions, it’s time to meet the Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier – the ultimate solution for managing cat hair in your home.

The Cat Air Purifier Designed with You and Your Cats in Mind

Think of the Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier as cats Meow Buddy, perfect for households with cats, especially those with long-haired breeds or multiple feline friends. This innovative air purifier effectively captures floating cat hair and other allergens, ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for both you and your beloved pets. 

The high-quality air purifier is perfect for:

  • Cat People and Families with Cats: Designed to handle the unique challenges that come with multiple cats and long-haired breeds.
  • People with Allergies (Especially Children): Ideal for families with members who are allergic to cat hair, ensuring a safer, allergen-free home.
  • Apartment Dwellers: Compact and efficient, making it suitable for smaller living spaces.
  • Those Struggling with Cat Hair Problems: Efficiently captures and manages floating cat hair, reducing the need for constant cleaning.
  • Cost-Conscious Shoppers: Offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
  • Innovative Thinkers: Perfect for those willing to try new technologies to enhance their home environment.

Key Features and Benefits

The Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier boasts a 360° visual large grille inlet, specifically designed to capture floating cat hair. Unlike other air purifiers, its Roman column-shaped large grid allows you to see the condition of the filter, ensuring that no hair goes unnoticed. The powerful suction prevents hair from sticking to the surface or falling onto the ground, keeping your home spotless.

This air purifier comes with a cost-effective, high-suction filter tailored for cat hair. The multi-gradient electrostatic filtration material efficiently captures airborne hair, making it disposable and easy to use. Each machine includes 10 free filters, giving you peace of mind and a hair-free environment without the need for costly replacements.

The WiseHEPA™ filtration system, a 2-in-1 combo filter with an H13 HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter, captures 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.1 microns. This includes cat dander, odours, and other allergens. The high-efficiency activated carbon filters also absorb smoke, pet odours, and cooking smells, ensuring your home smells fresh and clean.

The W-cat Air Purifier goes beyond just filtering air. It features UVC three-dimensional sterilisation technology that kills 99.9% of germs, including feline calicivirus and salmonella, enhancing your cat’s well-being and ensuring a healthier environment.

Safety is paramount with the W-cat Air Purifier. The power cord is designed to be anti-bite, with a 24V low voltage that is safe even if bitten off. The scientifically tailored 7.5mm gap prevents kittens’ paws from getting stuck, and the machine automatically powers off if tipped over, ensuring your cats are safe at all times.

Cats love to climb and explore. The W-cat Air Purifier caters to this natural behavior with its concave top design, which is scratch and wear-resistant, anti-urine, and anti-leakage. This makes it an ideal perch for your cats, providing them a comfortable spot to sit while the purifier works its magic.

To prevent startling your cats, the W-cat Air Purifier features a quiet mode and a stress-proof fixed speed mode, cancelling the unpredictable fluctuations of ordinary air purifiers. The physical buttons on the side, combined with a child lock feature, ensure double protection against accidental touches by curious cats.

More than just an air purifier, it also takes care of your cat’s fur. The gentle breeze of over five million anions helps make your cat’s hair smoother and less prone to tangling. This dual functionality ensures that your cats look and feel their best while enjoying a clean, allergen-free home.

W-cat: All for Cats

The Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier is an investment in your family’s health and your cat’s comfort. The first 200 buyers will receive free filters, making it an even more cost-effective solution. This innovative, high-quality air purifier is perfect for families with multiple cats, those living in apartments, and anyone struggling with cat hair problems. Priced at $359.00, You can purchase your  Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier here on Amazon.

Embrace a cleaner, healthier home with the Wisesky W-cat Air Purifier. Cherish your cat’s health and safeguard your own with this innovative solution designed to tackle the challenges of cat hair and allergens. Say goodbye to worries about allergies and enjoy a harmonious life with your furry friends.