At Home

Sexual transmitted diseases – this is what first comes up to your mind when you’re going to have sex with a new partner. You can be more than sure that, however you partner wants you just as much as you want him/her, he/she is thinking the same way – are you “all right”? Is it safe to have sex with you? Everybody is concerned and even worried about that when it comes to this level of intimacy. So, why don’t we reveal the great secret of a wonderful sex life without worries and problems?

Adult sex toys are the best alternative way of getting sexual pleasure without putting yourself at risk of getting a STD and keep you away from other sexual transmitted troubles. Believe it or not but, actually, sex toys can offer you much more pleasure than a human partner, as sex toys can do what people cannot. Thus, for example, dildo toys can replace a real man’s penis, whereas vibrators will surely surprise you with their “sweet vibes”.

If what you’re seeking for is “real sensations” than dildo toys is what you need. They are made from different types of materials that provide a dildo with a realistic look and make it feel real at touch. Read the rest of this entry »

A small bathroom is a common problem, but is easily solved with the correct bathroom suite. The last thing you want is your bathroom to be as cramped as a store cupboard. After all, you spend a lot of time there don’t you?

A major problem in a small bathroom is storage space. Everybody needs some where to keep their belongings, but sometimes space is very limited. Try to utilise the space you have, not letting any area be unused. A great example of this is the area under your sink. Why not buy a Roya Rubi Sink which comes with storage underneath, then you will never struggle to find somewhere to put your shampoo. The great thing about this unit is that it is only 34cm in depth, meaning that not too much of your floor is used up.

Another amazing storage solution is using the space behind your mirror. A lovely example of this is the Chiltenhurst Single Mirrored Wall Cabinet. At 40cm wide and 62.5cm high it is big enough to hide items that you don’t want on display. With its contempory and sleek design it can transform any bathroom into a showroom. It comes with the colour choice of high gloss white or wenge, which highlights the mirror in the centre. Read the rest of this entry »

Buying a home is the largest investment most people will ever make, so it’s no surprise that such a big decision may seem daunting. There are, however, some simple guidelines that can help you find a home that you will be happy with for a very long time.

A recent study conducted by Merillat, a leading manufacturer of cabinetry, examined what consumers think about when they’re purchasing a home. The study found that the kitchen sways more minds than any other room, followed by the great room and the master bedroom third.

“The kitchen is the gathering place for special occasions, family functions and day-to-day activities, which is why it is so important for prospective buyers to ensure their new kitchen will meet the needs of their family from a design and functionality prospective,” said Paul Radoy, manager of design services for Merillat.

Try creating a checklist to help you decide whether a kitchen is right for you. Ask yourself these questions: Read the rest of this entry »

No wall space for a mural? How about accent tiles placed every foot or so of your favorite cooking herbs in an 1800’s style, right out of the Farmer’s Almanac? Or an easy-to-clean backsplash behind the kitchen sink of fruits connected by flowering vines all in a lively color scheme?

The best part about tile is you only have to do it once. You choose timeless and tireless motifs and place them where you need something durable. Side-by-side with gold, ceramic is the most durable substance we know. What else has told us the history of human culture as accurately? Nothing the manufacturers have come up with can surpass ceramic tile for lasting beauty. Nothing.

Working with an artist as opposed to a factory has many benefits. The artist has sentimental memories too, and usually does the work she does for other reasons than moving out volumes of product for profit, so she is more than happy to fill your space with warm homey decoration. We all have a favorite old pattern or print, maybe Grandma’s stitching or an old tapestry. Everything eventually wears out and must be discarded. Except ceramic. Have it painted on tile and installed for all time. Read the rest of this entry »

Listed buildings

Compiled by the Department of Culture, Media & Sport, with the help of English Heritage, the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest includes castles, cathedrals, private houses, milestones and drinking fountains.

Grade I - these buildings are considered to be of exceptional interest
Grade II- - these are particularly important buildings of more than special interest
Grade II - these are buildings of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them

There are 370,000 or so list entries currently protected by listing, and of those by far the majority - over 92% - are Grade II. Grade I and II- buildings may be eligible for English Heritage grants for urgent major repairs. Find out more at the English Heritage website.

Some churches are graded A, B and C, which is roughly comparable to the grades of non-secular buildings. Your local library will hold a copy of the list. A listing will identify the building or structure and some of its special features.

Listed building consent

If a building is on the list, any building work will require ‘listed building consent’, according to the Planning Act 1990. This is obtained through the local planning authority. Even minor works, such as painting or simple repair work in some circumstances, falls under the scope of this act. Read the rest of this entry »

If you’re planning to renovate or do some serious building work, ensure you’re on top of the requirements of building and planning regulations, advises property expert, Nigel Leck.

The regulations

Building control protects you and the general public by ensuring that buildings are safe and healthy places for people to be in. The regulations apply only in connection with a building; freestanding garden walls, fences, paths or drives aren’t covered.

This department is also responsible for checking that any building work is energy-efficient. Comprehensive regulations are laid down concerning materials and methods of construction, assessment of plans and mandatory site inspections confirm that the building work you undertake conforms to current requirements.

Planning and building

Major building work will always require a plan and the services of a building surveyor, building technician or architect, all of whom should be aware of the current regulations, the required inspections and how they apply to the work you’re undertaking. These regulations are updated annually and mean that any builder must conform to certain standards of construction and workmanship. Read the rest of this entry »

Have a plan

Even an eclectic style needs careful planning to avoid looking busy or messy. When designing your room, know which items you need and where they will go. And when combining old and new, stick to one era from the past such as Art Deco, Edwardian or Victorian.

The secret to mixing old and new successfully is getting the balance right. For example, an antique sink will look odd if the rest of the suite is ultra-modern. However, a roll-top bath can often work well in a modern setting. Read the rest of this entry »

If you are making structural changes with the purpose of adding value, you should first find out the current market price of your property, as well as its potential value once the changes have been made. Otherwise, your hard work and cash may not reap rewards.

Additionally, think about less radical changes that can be made - partitioning walls can be knocked down or put up, and bigger windows can make a house appear more spacious. However, in order to really boost what you have, an extension may be the best option.

Extensions

If you’re feeling adventurous…
Rising property prices with a premium being put on space can make extensions a wise investment. However, this is a major project and shouldn’t be undertaken lightly: Read the rest of this entry »

If you’re looking for a good builder but don’t know where to start, the Federation of Master Builders suggests you follow these guidelines to make sure you get the right person for the job - reports BBC Homes.

Recommendation

- Ask for references and names of previous clients. Speak to them and look at their previous work, if possible.

Deal with an established firm

- Make sure they have an office address, telephone number and use headed notepaper.
- Check they are a member of a reputable trade association, and if VAT is being charged, make sure there is a VAT number shown. Read the rest of this entry »

Does your living room need updating but you don’t know where to start? Let Britain’s doyenne of interior design Nina Campbell make it easy for you with her guide to using fabrics to pull a room together.

“You want to work hard at getting it right but the result has to look as though it’s been thrown together in five minutes.”
Step 1
“Start with a fabric you love and then worry about what to do with it.”

High street department stores, specialist haberdasheries or even markets are great places to find a good selection of materials. Or you may find an accessory, such as a rug, throw or cushion that catches your eye.

Whatever you choose, this will form the basis of your colour palette for the room and gives you something to build on.
Nina Campbell choosing fabrics Read the rest of this entry »

Do your research

Check how long the property has been up for sale. A property that’s been on the market for more than a few months suggests there isn’t a great deal of profit to be made. Find out about choosing a location in our Buying a property guide.

What should I look out for?

Ensure you’re not buying a money pit. In an older property you should be prepared for anything, right down to half the wall staying on the wallpaper when stripping or great holes behind the panelling. Don’t be afraid to make umpteen visits with every type of tradesman in order to know what you’re letting yourself in for!

Ask the experts

Roofers, timber and damp specialists and electricians will charge nothing or very little to engage their services for estimates and will be more beneficial to you than a surveyor in the initial stages.

How much work is involved?

This depends on the property, but don’t bite off more than you can chew. For a good first experience of renovating, try doing up a dated property rather than a wreck. A new kitchen, bathroom, central heating, carpets and re-decoration will miraculously transform something dark and decrepit into a ‘des res’. Read the rest of this entry »