SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
wall is not an option, there are still attractive ways to define your
space. For example, tall wooden shutters can be linked together
with hinges and painted any color to create a private area. Though
not soundproof, they can create an intimate atmosphere of
privacy when needed for oneself or seeing clients. Tall silk plants,
such as a series of ficus trees, can also be used to divide the space.
Don’t skimp on your office chair! It’s likely a place where
you will be sitting for several hours every single day. Make
sure it’s comfortable and provides plenty of lumbar support, in
addition to being an attractive addition to your office. Visit Spine-
Health.com for some helpful suggestions on choosing the right
chair that will work best for you.
BATHROOM BEAUTY
productivity among workers and a more positive attitude toward
the work itself. Lighting can have a profound effect on your
mood and can even influence your hormones. A good overview
of this subject is provided by Andrew Jensen, a business growth,
efficiency and marketing consultant, at AndrewJensen.net.
If placing your home office in an area with windows is not
possible, try the soft lighting of a lamp instead, and try to avoid
harsh fluorescents. Adding a silk plant or two, along with a
picture of the outdoors, will help transform a windowless area
into a more inviting space. Warm colors such as reds, yellows and
orange will also help warm up an otherwise dark office area such
as a basement.
Next, you’ll want to design your workspace with cabinetry
where office supplies and files can be tucked neatly out of sight.
Shelving that is custom-designed for the way you work can
transform even a tiny space into an efficient work area. Having
cabinets and shelves that are suited to
your exact purpose will eliminate a great
deal of frustration and overwhelming
feelings of disorganization. A designer
and expert carpenter can help you get the
most from your workspace.
Just because you don’t have an entire
room in your house to dedicate to your
home office doesn’t mean you can’t have
a dedicated workspace. Even a closet can
be transformed into a workspace with the
right planning, and the whole office can
be put away at day’s end by simply closing
the closet door.
If you have even less space to work
with, try a wall-mounted desk that can be
extended when in use and collapsed flush
with the wall when it’s not. Cubby holes
built into the interior wall area can also
provide places for storage in a tight space.
A creative builder can help you make the
most of your available space.
If your work area is not separated from
the rest of your home and building a
Though your bathroom may not spring to mind as the place to
hold your next cocktail party, with the right accoutrements your
bath can be a great place to hang out and enjoy life. And if you
live with family members, it may be the only place in your house
where you can truly be alone for a bit.
Besides just being a place to “get ready” to meet the day, it’s
also a relaxing space to recharge your batteries after a long week
at work. Hydrotherapy is one of the best ways to relieve stress
and help tired, overworked muscles. With tons of specialized
showerheads, you can have everything from the sprinkle of a
gentle rain to an invigorating massage to bring your body back
to center. And a nice relaxing bath in a soaker tub can make the
world go away for a while.
Does all of this sound like a fantasy? Maybe not. According to
designer Mary Laipple, Director of the Kitchen and Bath Design
Studio at 84 Lumber, you may be able to make updates to your
bath for less than you might expect.
“If a homeowner is just updating and not moving plumbing,
heating ducts and electricity, the makeover can start at around
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PENN HILLS
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SPRING 2019
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