The proper lighting in any Irvine home can make all the difference in the world. Lighting can brighten an entire room, draw attention to a particular architectural piece, or just alter the appearance of a room. When putting in new lights, there are several details to consider. It is important to use a consistent style. A period crystal chandelier will look better in an older home than radiant tract lighting will. Different things are often achieved through different kinds of lighting. By adding lights under cabinets, you will highlight a granite countertop.
Be sure you take a look at every room at night, without any natural light, to get a feel for the kind of lighting that you will need. A sconce is a wonderful way to add a romantic, elegant, touch to any wall. Always cover the bulb, there's nothing more unsightly than an exposed bulb. Each light has got to have an individual switch and don't forget a dimmer. By keeping these tips in mind, your Irvine home is going to be exquisitely lit. More ...
Posted on Monday, August 18, 2008
Irvine real estate is seeing a new trend. Young singles, especially women, account for the majority of new homeowners. In fact, from 2001 and 2005 there was a 6 percent jump in female buyers.
Most young singles are looking for a safe neighborhood, close proximity to entertainment, and affordability. Even more of the buying market consists of recent immigrants and minorities. Some are buying condos to build equity so that they can buy a larger home down the line. Finally, retirees and empty-nesters are downsizing and moving to like-minded communities. They are through with huge houses and prefer to live in smaller homes, close to friends and entertainment. More ...
Posted on Monday, August 18, 2008
Does your Irvine home need an additional bedroom? You may want to think about outside sleeping quarters. Outdoor "rooms," from bars to daybeds to nightstands, are being purchased by so many homeowners Aluminum platforms, mosquito nets, nylon, and woven PVC make sure water and mildew keep out of your bed.
These beds range from expensive models by Armini/Casa's Oceano, to the more affordable styles available at Home Depot or Lowe's, and arrive ready made. A canopied daybed on the terrace will usually be a nice place to kick back and take a nap, although so many areas do not allow sleeping outdoors. More ...
Posted on Sunday, August 17, 2008
Interior decorating has gone from light to dark. So many Irvine homeowners opt for shades of black, brown, and grey rather than pale woods. Darker hues are found everywhere, from cabinets to faucets. To many, these darker colors balance the stresses of daily life and create a soothing ambiance.
The downside to dark decorating is that like any trend, it will pass. The forest greens of the 80s and formica of the 50s definitely date a room. Although, if done correctly, your Irvine home can be transformed from ordinary to warm and cozy. More ...
Posted on Friday, August 15, 2008
Several people are putting a new spin on the white picket fence enclosing their Irvine home . A gated fence increases privacy along with security. A remote controlled gate can be installed at the end of a driveway or added onto an existing wall or fence. A computer program, hand-held instrument, or even a BlackBerry or Treo will be able to trigger the gate.
These kinds of systems are not cheap. A Do-it-yourself model can be bought for around $1,200 and a professional, more sophisticated system can run anywhere from $18,000 to 130,000. Some feel that these gates are a signal of the boost in fear and apprehension in Americans. Others think that they are merely the best form of privacy. Either way, business is booming, stated those marketing fences. More ...
