The Way to Install Tile Wall Caps

Wall cap tiles serve a similar function as chair rail molding over a paneled wall; they complete the border instead of leaving the field tiles at an abrupt stop with no transition into the wallpapered or painted surface over it. Tile wall caps utilizes a number of supplies and the same tools since the remainder of the wall. If you did not use a saw to cut on the field tiles, then you will need one. Most wall caps’ irregular profile is almost impossible to cut directly with a dent cutter or nipper.

Lay a row of wall mounted cap tiles onto the ground with spacers between the tiles. Assess the wall in which the tiles measure and will go the row of tiles to ascertain whether a few tiles will require cuts. Cut tiles are often not, and at one or both ends of the row through the row.

Assess the row of tiles again. Apply that dimension to the wall over the field tiles, which are the tiles that cover the portion of the wall. Mark the beginning and end of the row of cap tiles on the wall with a pencil.

Mix thinset mortar in a bucket or bowl that is large according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Thinset on the rear of one cap tile with the border of a trowel. Press on the tile against the wall over the field tiles. Spreading thinset is called back-buttering, and it avoids smearing tiles.

Steak the backs of the rest of full tiles and press the tiles against the wall. Tile spacers to get alignment between the tiles.

Assess the space from the end of the row of tiles towards the end of the wall. Measure both spaces, if cut tiles will go at both ends of the row.

Measure across one cap tile into the width required to fill the space. Mark the dimension on the tile with a pencil. If you need two cut tiles, then mark and measure the other tile now.

Transfer the fence or shield on the saw that is wet to match the area. Move the weapon 1 inch away from the blade, if you marked the tile to cut 1 inch and lock the weapon.

Put on eye protection and turn on the saw.

Set the end of the tile against the fence and push the tile into the saw bade.

Switch off the saw and wash the water off the tile with a rag. In case you’ve got another tile to cut, then move the fence into the position and cut on the tile.

Spread thinset on the rear of the cut tile and put it place at the end of the row. When there are two tiles, repeat.

Let the thinset dry for about 24 hours, then pull the tile spacers.

Mix grout in a bucket or bowl according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Scoop up grout onto the edge of a kitchen sponge that is dense and spread it. Due to the irregular profile, cap tiles need more grout. Till they are packed full work grout into the lines with the sponge.

Wipe the excess grout off the tiles with the sponge.

Dampen a sponge that is and wash the cap tiles to remove residue. When there seems a haze on the cap tiles, buff it off with a rag.

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How to Apply for Foreclosure Assistance

Foreclosure proceedings can be initiated soon after you miss your first mortgage payment, however the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) describes several types of foreclosure assistance that are available to borrowers in default. The kind you may be eligible for depends upon where you’re in the foreclosure process. The more time you wait to take actions to prevent foreclosure, the more restricted your choices will be.

Get in touch with your lender, a housing counselor or both before or just after you miss a mortgage payment. HUD contends that the earlier you make the telephone the higher your chances of saving your home. If at all possible, make a payment to stop yourself from falling three full payments behind, after that point the foreclosure process will already be well underway. If you’re only 30 or 60 days late, the Federal Trade Commission claims you might still be able to work out a payment plan directly with your lender and prevent a stride in foreclosure proceedings.

Consult your lender that foreclosure aid programs they participate in. As the Building Home Affordable website states, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan servicers should take part in the government’s recently instituted mortgage modification plan, and other private lenders are encouraged to participate. Many significant banks provide government foreclosure aid programs as well as their own choices.

Document your case for claiming financial hardship. In case your cash problems are not temporary, a payment plan will likely not function for you. Instead, you probably ought to get into a less expensive mortgage to prevent foreclosure. A mortgage modification, wherever your lender adjusts the conditions of your loan to make a more manageable monthly payment, might work. To qualify for many alterations, including the federal government’s Home Affordable Modification Plan, however, you ought to be able to prove that you cannot make your payment moving forward.

Collect pay stubs or tax returns exceeding that your mortgage payment exceeds 31 percent of your monthly pre-tax income. Although this requirement is unique to the Home Affordable Modification Program, it’s also an affordability calculation employed by most lenders.

Consult your lender about more extreme choices to prevent foreclosure if you can’t be qualified for a repayment plan or mortgage modification. If you can’t keep your home due to unemployment or reduced income that prohibits you from making a reduced monthly payment, you may still stop foreclosure. Having a brief sale or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, you lose your home but prevent foreclosure. In a short sale, your lender lets you sell your home for less than the balance on your loan while forgiving the gap. Having a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, you voluntarily transfer your house’s deed to your lender in exchange for the cancellation of the remainder of your debt and wander away, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

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Should I Buy a HUD Home?

HUD homes can save yourself a house buyer money, but need thorough research before purchase. The Department of Housing and Urban Development oversees the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA backs mortgage loans made by private lenders to eligible borrowers to encourage affordable home ownership in the U.S.

Function

HUD insures mortgages that are backed by the FHA against borrower default option to entice lenders to give mortgages to home buyers. Borrower default happens when the borrower ceases paying the mortgage loan. A house with a HUD-insured loan that’s foreclosed on can turn into a HUD house, as stated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD pays the lender the amount of the guaranteed loan that’s owed after the foreclosure. The creditor then deeds, or transfers the possession of the house, back to HUD. HUD sells the house to recover the money paid to the lender.

Outcomes

HUD homes can have an assortment of problems related to the factors that led to foreclosure. Homes that have been left for a time period can have pest issues and serious damage from weather elements or vandalism. Damage from major repairs that weren’t done can also be a problem, such as mold out of a leaky roof. The former owners of the HUD home may have imposed property damage before moving as a reaction to the foreclosure. A HUD house can lack major fixtures, such as pipes and bathrooms, due to removal from the owner.

Benefits

HUD will have the house appraised, or assessed by an expert to ascertain the worth, before putting the property on the market. HUD homes are sold at actual value, or what the appraiser deems the house is worth in the present condition, based on HUD. The assigned value of the HUD house will reflect the investment required by the buyer to make necessary repairs. HUD offers programs and incentives to buyers of HUD houses, such as the FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan, a distinctive mortgage that permits the borrower to put the cost of the house along with the estimated repair costs together in one loan. Buyers can ask HUD cover the final costs. Closing costs can climb over $1,000, and include filing fees for deeds and loan preparation fees.

Factors

HUD homes are sold”as-is,” with no warranty or guarantee about the house’s condition. HUD won’t make repairs or fix any potential problems, so a prospective buyer is invited to obtain a house inspection. The beginning of the selling period to get a HUD house is known as the offer period. Buyer must submit bids during the offer period. HUD homes that aren’t sold during the offer period are opened to all predictions, and HUD will accept the bid that makes it possible for the agency to recover the maximum money.

Misconceptions

HUD housing programs generally are geared toward individuals using low-to-moderate incomes, but HUD houses can range in cost and are readily available to any buyer who can obtain funding, irrespective of income. HUD does sell houses for $1 to housing agencies and nonprofit entities, but not to private individuals or businesses. Investors can purchase HUD homes. There is a priority period when a HUD home is available for buyers that will occupy the house, but after the period has passed, the residence is opened for investors, in accordance with HUD.

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How Can I Obtain My Property Taxes Reduced?

When requested by a new neighbor for advice about how best to pay lower property taxes, a longtime California homeowner quipped,”Buy the house 20 years ago.” The answer will help exemplify the protective effects of Proposition 13 of the California property code, which considerably restricts the amount taxes can grow yearly for homeowners. Low prices can jump when a home is sold and reassessed for current price.

Locate a current property tax bill or a stub left over from a prior payment. Write down the current taxes paid yearly on the home. Conduct an internet search of recent sold properties in your immediate area. Many property websites feature lists of homes sold.

Make a list of the earnings, including the size of these homes, the number of bathrooms, the date built and the lot size. Ask your real estate agent to provide you with a list when you have trouble finding the info.

Log on to the tax accountant site for the county in which the home is situated. The site address appears on paper tax statements. Type in the package identification number or assessor identification number that appears on the tax bill. Information concerning the particular package, including square footage, number of rooms and lot size seems on many county assessor websites. County assessor websites also can be sources of advice for comparable sold possessions, but the database tends to update gradually.

Click the tax link on the county tax assessor site. Most tax advice links show up on the site and alongside the database info for a particular property. Enter the package identification number again, if necessary.

Compare the current status of tax statements and obligations made with documents you keep. Any inaccurate information is the cornerstone of an appeal. Write down the information regarding the size of the subject home, its date of construction, and the number of rooms and baths. Write information about lot size down.

Scan the assessor site for the links into the tax abatement section. Read about any special disaster relief tax discount principles that could lower tax rates temporarily after major events such as wildfire. Check the Proposition 8 list advice, which details how tax assessments could be challenged and occasionally mechanically undergo a review when property markets drop drastically.

Make an appointment. Present the documents you have that back up the assertion that the home is overtaxed. Document an abatement request, or appeal a decision already reached by the tax assessor board, and await the notification of the result, usually sent by mail.

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Tenancy in Common Pros & Cons

The way by which a few or a group of people takes title to a house can influence their future as much as what type of mortgage they select or what kind of insurance coverage that they choose. Tenancy in common is one of the least restrictive alternatives available. California property laws provide for an assortment of protections for homebuyers and a few rules benefit specific sorts of buyers more than others.

Millionaire Indicator

People do not need to be wed to be tenants in common. They do not even need to occupy the residence. A couple of investors might choose property in common when investing in rental property. One advantage of property in common is that the ownership doesn’t need to be equally divided. A guy who leads 60 percent of the cash up front might choose, together with his partner, to specify a 60 to 40 ratio–reflecting each individual’s individual investment in the house.

Interest and Flexibility

A person might have a minority interest as specified in the tenancy in common deed, but he still has the right to make use of the whole property. The equal usage of unequal interest in a house could be advantageous to some, while a troubling proposal for others. Investors who have no interest in actually residing in a space might find the arrangement comfy. One advantage of property in common is that each individual has the right to deed his own portion, or mortgage it without obtaining the approval from the other tenants in common. The flexibility can be useful for those seeking to get out of an investment, but disadvantageous for everybody seeking stability.

Inheritance

One disadvantage of tenancy in common is that there is no right of survival. Each owner must define the heir for the portion they have. Even when one person decides to create another tenant in common the heir, the house will need to go through probate for assessment and administration. The probate process can take months, and can cost tens of thousands of dollars. The advantage of the arrangement is that each tenant in common can ascertain the respective heirs without the approval of the other parties. When a change in ownership becomes a problem, a single tenant could induce a sale after applying for a”partition action.”

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Smart Shopper: How to Choose a Sofa Bed

Anyone who has spent a restless night on a buddy’s fold-out sofa will appreciate the significance of a fantastic sleep couch. Yes, you will find comfy models available on the market — you only have to know what to look for when you shop. Here’s a rundown of some of the most important facts to take into account.

Cindy Ray Interiors, Inc..

Do you need a sleep couch? If you have never needed a sleep couch before but are thinking about purchasing one “just in case,” you may wish to believe again. A sofa bed is more expensive than a conventional couch, so unless you’re likely to use it for sleeping, you’re better off purchasing a conventional sofa and stashing an air mattress in the cupboard. As a result of their construction, sleep sofas have seats that are firmer than couches. While seniors frequently like the extra support (it is a lot easier to get up), others might find sleepers less comfy.

What size? Quantify the place where you want to set the sofa mattress, and figure out the ideal couch width for this space. Sleepers come in four standard widths:

Chair: 51 to 58 inches
Twin: 56 to 65 inches
Complete: 68 to 92 inches
Queen: 79 to 101 inches

Can it fit through the doorway? Measure the height of this room’s ceiling and also the width of the doorway (and any preceding doorways, stairs or lifts). Bring those amounts to the store, so you will know if you are able to find the piece into the room. Legs can usually be unscrewed.

Grace Blu Designs, Inc..

Most mattress frames will be the same. Most sleep couch mechanisms are created the same way (and from the same manufacturer), so there is very little difference from one brand to another: You’ll find a metal frame with coils around the edges holding canvas decking. (Although couch beds still possess that pub underneath the mattress, it today stinks from the body, preventing debilitating surprises in the morning.)

One notable exception is the lineup of sleep sofas created by American Leather/American Upholstery. These feature a solid wood base underneath the whole mattress. This system allows the enterprise to utilize conventional-size mattresses (most couch bed mattresses are shorter), yet its sleepers take up less floor space whenever they’re open.

Pick your own mattress. The mattress is the thing that distinguishes one sleep couch from another. Because it folds, it won’t be as solid as a conventional mattress. There are 3 basic types:
Innerspring mattresses have coils indoors; the more coils, the better. The typical is 345 coils; 644 is very good. Memory foam mattresses are better. They’ve no coils indoors; the foam conforms to the consumer’s body. Air-coil mattresses are really on a level with memory foam and feature an innerspring mattress having an air mattress built on top.

Design Within Reach

Test it all out. Shoppers are often shy about testing out a couch bed in the store, but considering how big this investment you’re making, it is well worth a few minutes of embarrassment.

Lie back on the mattress and mimic various sleeping positions (within the realm of good taste, naturally).

Retract the mattress so that you may feel the weight and ease of this mechanism, then sit on the couch with the mattress folded up so that you can judge how it seems to sit (which is, after all, how you will be using it most of time).

Don’t wait till the final minute. If you begin searching for a couch bed the week before Aunt Minerva’s visit, your selection of colors and fabrics will be limited to what is available on the sales floor. For best results do your purchasing at least two months in advance, so the store has time to custom order the piece in exactly the colour and fabric you desire.

More
How to Buy a Sofa
How to Buy a Sectional
How to Buy a Mattress

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Guest Picks: Small Houses

There is no place like home! I’ve selected some of my favorite tiny houses (es?) To talk with you. From hard items like cutting boards, blocks and bookends to soft cushions, garlands and phones, I believe each piece conveys the cozy atmosphere of home. — Elaina from Fun Finds For Mother

Cloudberry Living

Isak Landsby Cups – GBP 28

This collection of 2 Isak Landsby Cups from Sweden comes with oak lids that can also be used as coasters. They are perfect for cozying up with a cup of coffee. These are a great hostess gift if you are going to visit a coffee lover!

Collected By Tas-ka

Coat Rack City – EUR 45

Pegs in town! I love the idea of lining up two of these beechwood coat racks beside each other to create a pretty little cityscape on the wall.

Etsy

Felt Nursery Mobile, Pastel Houses From Pretty Plush – $95

These hand-stitched and filled felt houses are a sweet addition to a nursery or child’s room.

2Modern

Cutting Board 3 From Ferm Living – $75

In their simplicity, these timber cutting boards by Ferm Living evoke a feeling of home.

Etsy

Decorative House Pillow From Pink Nounou – EUR 19

This glowing pillow is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 accredited (no nasty chemicals in the textiles) and are a fun addition to a child’s mattress.

Etsy

Tiny House Itty Bitty Dish From The Brick Kiln – $10

This tiny dish is only 3 inches in diameter. It is perfect for a bedside table to hold earrings, rings or other small treasures.

Etsy

Set Of Three Gray Mini Felt House Luminaries From Hunky Dorky – $15

Click through to find out how beautiful these little houses look when lit from within with a battery-operated flameless tea light. It is like a tiny village at night time. Magical.

Etsy

Little House Pillow Big Smoke By One Me – $15

These soft houses are hand-stuffed with wool from the artist’s own flock of sheep in New Zealand. How cool is that? Rachel, the girl who makes these, states that they look great in groups and would be delighted to make you a whole city!

Chigo

House Block – $59.16

I’d love a set of these vibrant little house blocks in my desk. Now I simply have to ask my sister who lives in Japan to help translate the website, or bring some house on her next trip!

Etsy

Smoke Houses Original Painting By Valeriya Volkova – $35

Hello, small neighborhood! This acrylic-on-ink mini-painting is simply 5 by 4 inches. I like the look of mixing framed photographs with artwork on a colorful wall. This bit would be a great addition to this screen.

Etsy

Cosmetic Dentistry From Kids Collection My small House From LHIdea – $35

If you love linen, have a look at this Etsy shop. After you read the poem about houses relating to the product’s page, you will really want to decorate with tiny houses.

SUCH Designs

Wonky Small Homes Pillow Pattern – $12.95

This one is for you sewers out there! It is the Wonky Little Homes quilted pillowcase pattern from SUCH Designs. My friend Carrie designed this (that’s her in the photo). I’ve found it in person, and it is stunning.

Etsy

Concrete Home Decor From Raine Design – $16

This is Mini Town, an eensy weensy city made of cast concrete. I can think of a few architect friends who’d like a set of these small houses. Keep them away from small ones, since they’re around 1-inch tall!

The Land of Nod

Children’s Bird And Birdhouse Wall Pegs – $14.95

This small white-painted wood birdhouse hook is a sweet addition to a child’s room. I could do a whole ideabook on birdhouses!

www.etsy.com

Felt, tiny houses and garlands are three of my favorite things. This handmade garland would include a fun, vibrant touch to a nursery or playroom.

Urban Outfitters UK

Suck UK Book Rush Lamp – GBP 40

I don’t appear to get a bookmark when I finish narrative time and tuck the kids in bed. With this exceptional nightlight, you simply set the book on top to make a roof. How smart!

2Modern

Studio 1 Oak From Ferm Living – $125.25

Ferm living has several great little houses in their collection. These oak homes come in five distinct sizes and can be mounted on the wall or displayed on a table or shelf.

Papier Labo

Bookvilla Bookends – $59.48

I love the simplicity of these wood bookends.

Ladies & Gentlemen Studio

Homestead Candle Holders – $58

This homey little pair of wood and copper candlesticks are handmade by Ladies & Gentlemen Studio in Seattle. I’d like some in my mantel.

Etsy

Set Of Six Illustrations By Stefania Manzi – EUR 15

The color scheme of these six illustrations is soothing.

Next: Over-the-Top Modern Dollhouses

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Elegant Updates for a Dallas House

Ross and Megan Brown’s World War II-era home in South Dallas owned great bones along with a graceful vibe, but the 1950s-style kitchen and bathrooms have been in need of some style adore. “It was not the cool retro ’50s; it had been an ugly, outdated ’50s,” says Megan, who had been drawn to the old home for its own quirks and personality. With the support of custom home builder Andria Lai, the Browns renovated the kitchen and two bathrooms in six weeks, filling out the rest of their home with family hand-me-downs and DIY projects using a few of the home’s original fixtures.

in a Glance
Who lives here: Ross and Megan Brown
Size: 2,200 square feet; 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms
Location: Oak Cliff area of Dallas

Sarah Greenman

The two sets of double black doors on both sides of the hearth were inserted in the 1950s when the porch has been enclosed and converted to what is now the home workplace.

A white slipcover sofa makes for simple cleaning. “I grew up with brothers, therefore I was initially hesitant of white,” Ross says. “However, it seems terrific.”

Paint: Repose Gray, Sherwin Williams; mirror: Sunburst on the Scene, Wisteria; coffee table: French Industrial, Wisteria

Sarah Greenman

The couple recently made a built-in shelving unit in the front end of the home office to arrange their shared workspace. This project was different from their overall renovation. “Before we had the shelves, the clutter was somewhat out of hand,” Megan says.

Area rug: One King’s Lane; desk: Ava Wood, Pottery Barn

Sarah Greenman

Megan’s aunt gave her the camelback sofa upholstered in lemon-striped fabric. Megan added chevron print throw pillows from One King’s Lane for a quick update.

Paint: Graystone, Benjamin Moore; coffee table: Foxed Mirror, West Elm

Sarah Greenman

Megan purchased the cowhide rug at First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas, as a birthday present for Ross until they were married. “After I gave it to him, my mom reminded me that if we got married, I’d need to live with the hide in my home,” Megan says. “I hadn’t thought of that. However, I believe we found a fantastic place for it at the workplace.”

Sarah Greenman

A painted black hutch, yet another blessed Canton Trade Days buy, oversees the dining space. “It’s one of my favourite pieces in the home,” says Megan.

First hardwood floors throughout the home were a massive selling point for the bunch. “We’re so pleased to see that the wood floors were undamaged,” says Ross. “We all needed to do was clean them up and re-stain them.”

Sarah Greenman

Megan likes to host dinner parties and entertain in your home. She states that the dining room “known for a round table,” therefore the couple splurged with this tasteful set from Restoration Hardware. “I like to keep things simple and clean looking with a calming vibe,” she states.

Artwork: Jennifer Moreman, One King’s Lane; chandelier: Lamps Plus; table: French Urn Pedestal, Restoration Hardware; chairs: Vintage French Round, Restoration Hardware

Sarah Greenman

The couple renovated the kitchen from top to bottom. Megan, a health coach and author of Megg Salad, a nutritious recipe website, does a lot of cooking from home. “We put so much work to getting it right, transforming the distance and maximizing storage,” she states. “We adore that when folks come over they want to be at the kitchen. The distance just feels great.”

Countertops: absolute black granite, brushed end; pendant lights: Clear Glass Cloche, Restoration Hardware

Sarah Greenman

The Browns say that their biggest design issue was the rear wall of the kitchen. “Working around the current window was a toughie, and also our original plans did not work out,” she states. “Looking back, I am so glad we weren’t afraid to scrap it and begin over. The final piece really completes the kitchen adds a lot of storage and makes it feel so much larger.”

Sarah Greenman

Megan says she shares a similar aesthetic together with her husband, which made picking materials and furnishings easier. “Sometimes I have to sell him onto a bit, but usually we are thinking the same way,” she states. “Other instances Ross points out a detail that I haven’t considered yet, like measurements.” The latter came together in this very small breakfast nook, which will be just large enough for two.

Chandelier: Clarissa Glass Drop, Pottery Barn; table, Tripod, West Elm; chairs: Scoop-back, West Elm

Sarah Greenman

The former homeowners had already renovated the main bathroom in Carrera white marble tile plus a freestanding soaking bathtub, each of the Browns kept undamaged. “I am so glad the master bathroom has been done because we’d not have been able to reestablish with this kind of nice features,” Megan says.

Sarah Greenman

Two bright guest rooms occupy the top floor and overlook the garden. In one, a gorgeous brass bed — yet another hand-me-down from Megan’s aunt — takes center stage on a bright wool area rug.

“When we first saw the home, we were amazed that the rooms were so large, particularly given the era in which the house had been built,” Ross says. “And the closets are huge, too.”

Area rug: One King’s Lane

Sarah Greenman

The second guest room features an all-white palette and wood accents.

Bedding: Bed Bath & Beyond

Sarah Greenman

The couple fully renovated the guest bathroom but decided to maintain the sconces, which have been initially brass. Megan spray them silver to accent the toilet’s cool palette. “There have been so many little decisions to be made,” Megan says. “I recall there was one night once I went to three different Lowe’s after work to find a mirror for your bathroom. That is when I realized I’d completely lost my mind.”

Paint: Woodlawn Blue, Benjamin Moore; countertops: Kashmir white granite

Sarah Greenman

Ross assembled this grill fence and table display, which hides the home’s air conditioning unit. The Big Green Egg grill floats at the center of the table with open work space on each side. The table is ipe decking using a Cedar framework.

Sarah Greenman

Large windows, the majority of which are original to the home, bring in plenty of natural lighting. Stone pavers make a circular patio area for outside entertaining and dining. The couple is slowly tiled the garden, but Ross’s latest signature is a tree swing.

Sarah Greenman

The Browns’ front lawn enjoys adult trees and hills (a rarity in Dallas).

Sarah Greenman

The Browns, who will celebrate their third wedding anniversary this autumn, stand facing their custom high-gloss red painted doorway. Megan was the paint custom matched to your color in the Kate Spade box in Elliott’s Hardware.

Paint: Sherwin Williams Color Matching Services; door knocker: Etsy

Browse more homes by design:
Little Homes | Colorful Homes| Eclectic Homes | Modern Homes | Contemporary Homes
Midcentury Homes | Ranch Homes | Conventional Homes | Barn Homes
Townhouses | Apartments | Lofts | Vacation Homes

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A Prefab Modern Farmhouse Rises at Vermont

Burn, baby, burn. That is exactly what this Boston family and volunteer firefighters stated to a classic Vermont home.

The house had extensive work, but rather than face a major renovation, the owners chose to tear it down and install a prefabricated modern farmhouse as a weekend retreat. The couple’s Realtor, Michael Brodeur, a volunteer fireman, asked whether he and his department can do a controlled burn as a training practice. Up in flames it moved.

The new house was designed and constructed in sections offsite, then constructed in place. Architectural designer Kim Brown worked with the family on what he describes The Space Puzzle. “The challenge was to give them the home they wanted, yet bring it into the design and technology criteria ordered for prefab homes,” Brown states. The homeowners were appealed to by the timeline that was shortened, too. Within a year of purchasing the property, they’d designed, constructed, constructed and began enjoying the new residence.

in a Glance
Who lives here: The proprietor of studio M | layout, a partner in a Boston hospitality firm, and their two sons
Location: Warren, Vermont
Size: 5,700 square feet, including the finished basement; 4 bedrooms, 41/2 bathrooms
Price: $160 per square foot fully fixtured on the above-ground Part of the Home

The original house had much effort, the couple was happy to oblige the request of their local Warren Volunteer Fire Department to use it to get a live training practice.

Mary Prince Photography

The new house’s style feels normal on its 5 acres of rural Vermont landscape — 3 of which are open meadow. “Its twin gabled wings connected by a straight segment and farmer’s porch across the centre give it a little uniqueness,” states Brown.

Preferred Building Systems of Claremont, New Hampshire, constructed, delivered and constructed the structure to the foundation.

Mary Prince Photography

“They liked the idea of a house that borrowed from the minimalist ease of barns and farmhouses offering a lot of the taste of the Vermont countryside,” Brown states. “No Greek-revival trimming schemes”

Door paint color: Agave, Benjamin Moore

Mary Prince Photography

Comfort and ruggedness were two major design goals. The house had to be prepared to manage two busy boys and their friends coming and going during summer time and springtime mud season; 18-by-18-inch black slate tile and wide-plank walnut flooring in the typical regions met that task head-on.

Flooring: Dark Slate, Barre Tile, South Barre, Vermont;

Mary Prince Photography

“The homeowners came with sketches which had captured the taste of this projected house both inside and outside,” states Brown. “The battle was that there are certain methods by which modular homes will need to be put together so they can be delivered and constructed efficiently and efficiently. How can I blend their layout with the modular world?”

“3-D modeling helped boost visual understanding for all of us during each step of the plan process,” Brown states. “The earliest drawings came about following review of their owners’ thoughts and input from the modular builder Preferred Building Systems about certain restrictions we’d face.”

The results include an open floor plan, 9-foot ceilings, extra-large sliding doors to get greater views and lots of fresh air, ample storage and private interior spaces for privacy and relaxation.

Sliding windows and doors: Anderson

Mary Prince Photography

A small principal staircase contributes to the second floor. Simple furnishings maintain the emphasis on the perspectives.

Eiffel style dining chairs; walnut dining table: Mohr and McPherson, Boston; chandelier: Pottery Barn Edison lighting; painting: South End Open Studios, Boston

Mary Prince Photography

The few hired Vermont Pinnacle Homes to install their handpicked finishes, fixtures, cabinets, appliances, windows, doors, lighting and baseboards. Peter Carr of Boston Cabinets made the kitchen.

Oven and stovetop: Bosch; refrigerator: JennAir; kitchen cabinets: Kraftmaid, Venezia; wall mounted mirrors: Cooper Classic Ellenton; countertops: Hawaiian green granite, Barre Tile; backsplash and wall: Italian linen appearance tile, Tile Showcase, Boston; faucet: Kohler; black leather barstools: Crate & Barrel

Mary Prince Photography

Sink: Elkay, Avado; countertops: Hawaiian green granite, Barre Tile, Barre, Vermont; pink artwork over table: purchased at South Boston Open Studios; chrome console: Gary, Pangea

Mary Prince Photography

The mudroom is a significant space in almost any Vermont home. Brown made this one to be oversized with a wall of cabinets for keeping four seasons of equipment. The snow scooter signal is classic, along with the reddish strips under rag weave chairs arrange boots, sneakers and water shoes.

Benches and paper tree: Anthropologie; stars: Brimfield Antique Show; floor mirror: Mongstad, Ikea

Mary Prince Photography

“Inside, the target was open spaces in public places — living, diningroom, kitchen — and ample but private sleeping and ‘escape’ places,” states Brown. The modular firm, Preferred Building Systems, was very helpful with this within their ‘box’ scheme,” states Brown.

Green wall art: studio M | layout; white pillows: Ikea; striped pillows: Crate & Barrel

Mary Prince Photography

Blocks of color, a fireplace visible throughout the first-floor typical areas, a lucite media rack and vintage coffee table decorate the living area.

Coffee table: Drexel Declaration Ovoid Table; floor lamps: West Elm; carpet: Surya; lucite networking cart: CB2; painting: Jack Morefield

Mary Prince Photography

A tiny room off the living area, with sliding pocket doors, serves as a private reading area, game room and office.

Sofa: Ralph Lauren Sleeper; lamps: Weave, Adesso; midcentury coffee table and end tables: Lane, from a collector on Craigslist

Mary Prince Photography

Neutral letters and numbers salvaged from old signage decorate a wall at the office.

Wall art: Reside, Cambridge, MA; desk chair: Kartel; dining table: CB2; rug: Larsen Blaire; dining table lamps: Adesso

Mary Prince Photography

A home theater in the basement chairs 10 and features a 110-inch display, surround sound plus a 1080 HD projector. The rest of the basement stays a bare recreation room and residence to a ping pong table, floor dining place, ski sharpening/gear space plus a full bathroom.

Sofa: Tilary, West Elm; black glass and chrome tables: Ikea; lamps and ottoman balls: CB2; paint: Coastline Blue, Benjamin Moore; Giraffe texture carpet

Mary Prince Photography

The white color scheme in the first-floor guest bedroom suite creates a tranquil refuge with a focus on the perspectives. “When you’re in your house, you’re never far from your pure landscape out,” states Brown. “Deer can be seen in the meadows from virtually any room.”

Vintage mahogany painted bedside tables: Upstairs Downstairs Antiques in Boston; dining table lamps: Design Craft Collette; green pillows: Luxories, Provincetown, Massachusetts; blinds: Durawood Blinds, Smith and Noble

Mary Prince Photography

The adjoining guest bathroom features a spacious open shower.

Paint: November Rain, Benjamin Moore; fixtures: Kohler; wool rug: Jill Rosenwald; black walnut wall ladder: Mohr and McPherson, Boston; Glass vase: Simon Pearce

Mary Prince Photography

The uncluttered principal suite has magnificent views of the hills along with the neighboring 25-acre property and horse stables. A blackened steel gas fireplace warms the area.

Lounge chair and ottoman: Kivik, Ikea; Silver drum side table: Home Goods; Bedskirt: Anthropologie; Pillows: Anichini and West Elm; paint: Cotton Balls, Benjamin Moore

Mary Prince Photography

Paint: Benjamin Moore Stone; Lamps: Mohr and McPherson, Boston; Bedside tables: Bernhardt

Mary Prince Photography

The main bath features a large tiled steam shower with a marble penny tile floor.

Shower walls: Relvinha limestone; fixtures: Kohler; ottoman: Urban Outfitters

Mary Prince Photography

Even the bubble massage bathtub has a wonderful green opinion. The tub and sink backsplashes are both quilted aubergine marble.

Tub: BubbleMassage, Kohler; fixtures: Kohler; bathtub deck: Relvinha limestone

Mary Prince Photography

Both of the boy bedrooms/guest bedrooms have twin beds with a dark accent wall.

Bedding: Ikea; Crate & Barrel

Mary Prince Photography

A duo of cabinets leave space for a desk cubby between. The vinyl 45 records above the closet doors are out of SOWA Vintage Market in Boston.

Chair: Kartell; ottoman: HomeGoods

Mary Prince Photography

The sons share a bathroom with two sinks reverse each other using a doorway to the shower to get privacy. The backsplash is a shameful limestone penny tile.

Mirrors and wall mounted lighting: Ikea; countertops: honed black granite; Deadlyaucets: Moen

It took the owners to find a property with the ideal view. They succeeded with among those Green Mountains as well as the Sugarbush Ski Resort. This really is a family of skiers, with terrain park fans and downhill, cross country. The family enjoys the region’s swimming holes, mountain biking, cycling, hiking and golf.

Mary Prince Photography

Outdoor areas have natural stone walkways, a terrace with a fire pit, and perennials given to the family from neighbors.

Prefab firm: Preferred Building Systems, Claremont, New Hampshire; General builder: Vermont Pinnacle Homes, Stowe, Vermont; Architectural Designer: Kim Brown; Kitchen Designer: Peter Carr of Boston Cabinets

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Weave Raffia Into Your Own Interiors for Natural Appeal

The majority of us consider raffia as a ribbon to use in crafts — but this versatile fiber was used in interiors for centuries. Made out of fibers from dried palm, durable and flexible raffia may be used for much more than wrapping gifts. This substance’s soft but pliable texture has made it a favorite textile for upholstery, wallpaper fabric and accessories.

Discover raffia’s pros and cons and see how you may use this natural material around the house.

Kate Thornley-Hall

The basics. Raffia is a natural fiber harvested from a certain type of palm tree found in Africa, South America and parts of the Philippines. The membrane on the back of each leaf is torn off to create a long and lean fiber. The fibers that are light are dried and then used for craft products or dyed and woven into textiles.

Tip: Handwoven raffia from Africa or the Philippines that was yarn dyed prior to weaving gets the most consistent color.

Lucy Interior Design

Ancient uses. As early as the 14th century, textiles (including raffia fabric) were used as money throughout Africa. The size, quality and color of the textile determined its value. Large pieces were used as payment and were given at weddings and funerals.

Hint: For only some raffia interest in a lower price than fabric, dress up your ottomans or furniture using raffia fringe.

Biondi Decor

Kuba clothis a traditional patterned textile made from the raffia tree by the Kuba people in Congo. They dye the raffia leaves using mud or liquid from the camwood tree, then rub on the cloths by hand so that they’re soft and easier to weave.

The Kuba embroider the fabric by pulling raffia fibers through it — an extremely time-consuming and delicate craft. The patterns symbolize special communities, and each design may have numerous meanings.

Thibaut

Durability. Quality raffia upholstery fabric must score at least 40,000 on the Martindale Rub Test, which predicts wearability; fabric samples are rubbed using worsted wool fabric in a figure-8 movement. The rating indicates the amount of rubs that the fabric can take before it wears and changes in look from holes, pilling etc..

Hint: Raffia background that’s been bonded to a fabric backing and treated with a stain repellent is a lot easier to install and care for.

Michael Fullen Design Group

Authentic raffia fabric isn’t the best bet in moist areas. If water sits on it for lengthy periods of time, it will mold. If you’d like to use raffia on your bathroom or kitchen, then install it into a place that sees little water — like on cabinet fronts or upper chimney.

Alida Coury Interiors

Modern uses. Dyed raffia is frequently used in contemporary home accessories. Woven placemats, baskets and trays all benefit in the material’s durability and transitional style.

Hint: If having the accurate, natural product is important to you, check your raffia tags to make sure it is not made from other substances. Faux raffia is often created from cellulose pulp.

SLC Interiors

If you want to shade your windows but do not want to eliminate all of your normal lighting, attempt raffia dividers; they add immediate warmth and character to any room, creating a gentle, weatherproof lighting impact.

Hint: In a more traditional setting, frame your raffia blinds with drapes in a contrasting color to soften the appearance.

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