How to create the ultimate home spa

Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/galleryextended/73193/luxury-bathroom-ideas?page=1

Aquabella

Looking to make your bathroom a luxurious sanctuary? You don’t always need to spend a fortune to achieve that at-home spa experience. From changing up the paint colour to on-trend tile tricks, take a look at these luxurious bathroom ideas. And, if your budget is a little more flexible, then check out the latest tech and you’ll soon feel like you’re at a relaxing retreat without stepping a foot out the door!

Be at one with nature

Aquabella

Choose calming tones inspired by Mother Nature. Blow the budget on a curvaceous moon-shaped bath and then decorate with shades like pale stone, soft green and meadow yellow to create a soothing backdrop to relax. Textured materials such as jagged stone effect tiles, wooden flooring and bamboo accessories will complete the organic yet spa look.

Layer your lighting

Mereway

Put an end to your lacklustre bathroom with the right lighting solutions. Call in an electrician, and go for a layered approach: spotlights create a brightness for the whole room and can be controlled with dimmer switches for mood. Bathroom-safe sconces can highlight certain areas, such as the bath, and under-cabinet downlights create a relaxed mood when used alone.

Shine with a copper bath

BC Designs

A metal bath in an opulent copper or gold finish is an absolute showstopper and instant shortcut to luxury décor. Pare back on the accessories with something this lavish though, to avoid accidentally making it look cheap or tacky. Neutral and matt finishes make the copper tones of this vintage-style tub the star. 

Angle the bath

Aquabella

Many upmarket hotels steer clear of conventional bath positions, opting to install them at an angle instead. It looks expensive because it takes up valuable space and doesn’t feel like all the furniture in the room has been pushed to the edge. 

Create seamless style

English Blinds

Concealed plumbing and a trayless shower with frameless shower screen keeps things minimal, creating a bathroom retreat for pure relaxation. A wall-hung sink lifts the appearance and also makes after-shower cleaning a breeze. A large flat mirror increases the sense of space and keeps the look totally streamlined and luxurious. 

Create a feature wall with tiles

The Baked Tile Co.

A feature wall in any room makes a serious style statement but a tiled version in a bathroom will certainly turn heads. This beautiful fresh floral tiled mural in soft greens and peach creates a tropical oasis in this bathroom niche.

Marvel with marble

Walls and Floors

Marble creates a striking aesthetic. Some trends come and go, but marble looks like it’s here to stay, which is just as well as there is a reason the Romans loved it in their spas. As a natural material, each piece of stone has unique veining so you’ll never get the same look twice. Single pieces of marble are prohibitively expensive, but you can cheat the look with marble-effect ceramic tiles, with surprisingly effective results.

Grow a forest in your bathroom

Dobbies

Biophilic design is big news again this year, so why not turn your bathroom into a rainforest full of life with plenty of potted plants? A row of trailing and moisture-loving greenery will purify your room with oxygen and create an incredible visual impact.

Double up on showers

Aquabella

Designing from scratch? Walk-in showers with room for two are simply bliss. Or, if you have space in a wet room why not splurge out on a matching pair? Minimal fittings will enhance the sense of space and look ultra indulgent, especially if there is a statement bath on show too.

Choose coloured sinks

Aqualbella

Throw the bathroom rule book out the window and install mood-boosting coloured sinks. Manufacturers are catching on to this jazzy idea and it is becoming much easier to find pink, grey, blue or even black sinks in amongst the usual sea of white. This modern bathroom looks ultra-fresh and inspiring with a pair of coral pink, circular sinks surrounded by curved features and jazzy pattern.

Go luxe with accessories

Ella James

Little extras make a big difference. Expensive looking toiletry storage adds a glamorous touch and looks much nicer than mismatched bottles and tubs. These smart navy accessories have perfect powder room appeal and will look stunning in grey or white schemes.

Choose metallic fittings

Britton

Hardware, fixtures and furniture in opulent metallics such as brushed brass or rose gold instantly add an element of luxury. Brushed finishes conjures up a vintage twist or if it’s glamour your are after the shinier the better. 

Double up on sinks

Benjamin Moore UK

This bright and fresh bathroom will head off any morning arguments with dual sinks. Make practicalities a priority by choosing a twin sink vanity with plenty of allocated storage and install matching hooks above to hang plenty of towels for everyone. 

Add a small sauna

Nordic

Live like the Swedes and install your very own home sauna. It’s more feasible than you might think. Small one- or two-person saunas can be added to an area the size of the average shower and, if you’ve got room and budget, why not install a steam room too! It not only looks Scandi cool, but the health benefits are fantastic. 

Or try an infrared sauna

Dario Lo Presti / Shutterstock

A buzz feature to hit bathrooms is the infrared sauna. What’s the difference? These use infrared heaters instead of conventional hot stones. The red bars gently heat up, are not hot to touch, and a session inside is less sweaty. They are super effective at excreting toxins, boosting your immune system, aiding in weight control, as well as giving you the same benefits of beautiful sunshine all year round without the harmful UV rays. We’re sold! 

Sink your tub

Bathroom Mountain

Create the feeling of stepping into a hot spring with the aid of a luxurious sunken bathtub. Here, that vibe has been achieved with a tiled frame that cocoons the tub. Minimalist furniture and accessories give the look a cool Japanese influence.

Go for a Crittall screen

C.P. Hart

Shower enclosures are making a splash in bathrooms right now and this Crittall-style version has to be a favourite. The industrial-meets-Art Deco style sits beautifully against exposed brickwork and a very unusual green trough sink. A circular mirror balances the gridded lines and a few different varieties of houseplants soften the whole look. 

Pack a punch with wallpaper

Feathr

Who says you can’t have fun in the bathroom? Wallpaper is less expensive and less permanent than bathroom walls tiles so it pays to be brave with a daring look. These big bold jungle prints dominate the space and look incredible teamed with rustic island-style bathroom furniture. 

Create a hammam-style sanctuary

johnlewis.com

You don’t necessarily need tiles in the bathroom to create a luxurious look. Smooth walls painted a warm plaster-pink hue can create an inviting spa-like atmosphere similar to steamy Moroccan spas. Finish with hammam towels, fluffy dressing gowns and leafy exotic plants. 

Make a statement with flooring

Flooring Superstore

A beautifully tiled floor can make a budget bathroom look stunning. Keeping the bathroom suite and wall tiles white and simple will keep the room balanced and will then let your chosen flooring sing out with pattern and colour. Your materials don’t have to cost a fortune to look luxury – these bold weave pattern tiles are actually vinyl!

Splash out on towels

George Home

Top-quality 100% cotton towels will feel great on your skin, plus they’ll last for much longer. What’s more, they can shape the look of your scheme by adding colour and pattern that can then be easily changed with the seasons. These moon crescent print bath towels add contemporary interest to neutral schemes. 

Stick with traditional furniture

Mereway

A timeless bathroom suite won’t date in a hurry so it’s wise to invest in good quality furniture. Pretty pale blue tones are on-trend but can always be updated with a new coat of paint later when tastes change. Neutral but patterned tiles on walls will complement the elegant scheme and suit any update that comes along.

Paint the ceiling a colour

C.P. Hart

Keeping up with the latest trends will make your bathroom feel cutting edge. Look up and paint your ceiling any colour but white! Using that fifth wall will give the room a touch of wow and originality that can be done in just a weekend. This pretty pink ceiling looks stunning set against black fixtures and fittings. 

Enjoy a whirlpool experience

Villeroy & Boch

Whirlpool baths were thought to be super cool back in the 70s and 80s. Thankfully they have become a lot more understated and soothing with quiet-jet technology and modern styles to choose from. If you’ve got the space, a bath sunk into an island gives you that dreamy spa-like experience at home. 

Incorporate pebbles and stones

Tile Mountain

Many spas use pebbles and stones to recreate the feeling of natural bathing in mountain springs. Get the same effect with sheets of pebble tiles that are much easier to install, smooth underfoot and can go across floors and up walls. Steal a trick from the professionals and create an illuminated recess within a shower to hold your essentials.

Install shutters

Shutterly Fabulous

The popularity of shutters means they are becoming much more affordable as manufacturers compete against one another for business. Streamlining the bathroom with stylish shutters as a window treatment will create a high-end finish and much-needed privacy. They look especially good in traditional period schemes. 

Heat up the radiators

Frontline Bathrooms

Make the radiator part of the decorating scheme by choosing a stylish version that echoes the colour and theme of the bathroom. This wall-mounted black lattice-style radiator sits perfectly against the framed Crittall-style windows and black statement bath. 

Set the mood

Victorian Plumbing

Shower time just got a whole lot more fun! LED thermostatic showers change colour with the temperature of the water. No more scolding or freezing temperatures when you step in the shower as the colour of the water will give you a clue. Turn off the bathroom lights for an invigorating disco shower, we dare you! 

Keep warm underfoot

Breadmaker / Shutterstock

Underfloor heating is efficient, space-saving and what could be better in winter than stepping out of the bath or shower onto a warm floor? Tiles made from natural materials such as stone and slate are an ideal flooring choice for combining with underfloor heating. Recreate the look with a high-quality vinyl, which can also be used with underfloor heating.

Install a smart shower

Triton

Join the digital revolution. A HOST wireless mixer shower has a digital control panel that does a whole lot of work. It can be programmed to a personal favourite temperature and flow for each member of the family. It also has a remote control to get the shower running before you leave the comfort of your bed. Genius! 

Use dark colours

Tapi Carpets

Create that dramatic, cocooning spa feel with dark walls and tub. A double-ended roll-top bath in a bold colour choice will transform your bathroom, and don’t be afraid to enhance the look with a dramatic wall colour. Add lightness with white painted wooden shutters to reflect light into the space, so it’s not overwhelmingly dark during the day.  

Try a surround-sound experience

GROHE

If you have the budget, take it up a notch and with just one touch, you can transform your shower into your own personal spa with GROHE’s F-Digital Deluxe shower system. Stimulate your senses with the ambient coloured LED lighting to suit your mood, and use Bluetooth technology to connect your favourite music playlist to the in-shower speakers. For the ultimate spa at home experience, enjoy a complete detoxification with the use of steam – bliss!

Include a bespoke vanity

Scumble Goosie

Add a unique personality to your bathroom with a bespoke washstand. Forget run-of-the-mill styles, an upcycled sideboard or cupboard can be transformed into a stylish bathroom vanity by installing a sink on top. Leave the washstand unpainted for a natural, country house look or use chalk paint and finishing wax to link it into your bathroom scheme.

Display intriguing accessories

Kelly Hoppen

If new fixtures and fittings are beyond your budget, opt for stylish accessories to set the tone. If you don’t have the real deal, these white resin coral sculptures will add soothing texture and interest to all bathroom schemes. Group together at different heights for a true oceanic look or add in a few votive candles to up the ambience and atmosphere at bath time.  

Make your bath a modern icon

George Home

A statement standalone bath is perfect for contemporary tastes. Smooth curves and deep filled – what better way to end a tiring day? Team the bath with a chrome, floor-mounted mixer tap for extra wow factor, and use freestanding furniture to give you somewhere to place your cup of tea, glass of fizz or toiletries.

Include a chair

lauraashleyusa.com

When does a useful object become luxurious? Here it’s all about scale and a twist of the unexpected. A comfortable, upholstered chair blurs the lines between bathroom and dressing room, creating a look that’s straight out of a boutique country spa hotel.

Upscale your mirrors

lauraashleyusa.com

Lean an oversized statement mirror for an elegant touch. This window-style arch design looks fabulous in monochrome schemes and has an industrial twist. 

Supersize your shower head

Soak.com

An extra large rainfall shower head is a sought-after accessory in the world’s most stylish homes. It will not only make a bold and luxurious statement, but will be irresistibly inviting too. 

Glow-up your shower curtain

Anthropolgie

Throw away your grimy old plastic shower curtain and invest in a new quality linen version that looks the part. This beautiful vintage-style pattern looks more like actual luxury curtains draped around the roll-top bath and is in keeping with the bathroom scheme’s luxurious eclectic vibe.

Create a place to pamper

Aquabella

Give yourself room to get ready by creating a designer dressing table area for your bathroom. This awkward alcove has been given a glamorous purpose thanks to the navy blue feature wall and vanit-style dressing table with stool. Finish the minimalist but luxe look with a circular mirror and bath mat. 

Original Article – https://www.larchmontbuzz.com/featured-stories-larchmont-village/neighbors-started-summer-with-free-jenis-ice-cream/

Lots of neighbors celebrated the first official day of summer with free ice cream from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on Larchmont. Well, to be totally accurate, it wasn’t completely free, but it didn’t cost any money. The free scoops were a promotion for Jeni’s Splendid Rewards loyalty program. If you were willing to join the program, you got free ice cream last night. But it was easy to join and staffers were happy to scan a code at checkout. Buzz contributor Jade Ikeda also told us that Jeni’s staff announced the requirement well in advance, so everyone seemed to have the “scoop,” as it were.

There was a time when Jeni’s summer celebration scoops were completely free, but times have changed. Still it’s not a bad deal. For every dollar you spend, you get a point and you get a $5 reward for every 100 points. And if you’re like me and my family, that adds up fairly quickly. So you do get something for sharing your information and the money you already spent. (I also joined the loyalty program at La Brea Bakery and love getting a free loaf of bread every now and then!)

Jade said customers got to select up to two flavors in a waffle cone or cup with a waffle wafer.  She chose a cone of Wildberry Lavender and Pineapple Upside Down Cake, and her husband enjoyed a cone of  Sweet Cream Biscuits & Peach Jam and Powdered Jelly Donut. Sounds like a delicious way to start the summer!

The secret to a happy home? You heard it here first…

Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/134962/design-secrets-and-decorating-tricks-to-create-a-happy-home

Oliver BonasPost-pandemic, our happiness at home has become more important, whether it’s because we’re continuing to spend more time indoors, or simply because we’re looking to create a sense of calm. Either way, self-care and mindfulness have shot to the top of the agenda, and we’re enveloping ourselves in spaces that bust our stress and boost our mood. Here, Nicky Rampley-Clarke looks at the clever ways we’re incorporating joy into our interiors, from colour to décor and everything in between…

Be loud (and proud) with dopamine décor

Dulux

In their latest influential trend report, Pinterest Predicts declared that dopamine dressing would be makings strides this year with vibrant outfits and colourful palettes. It’s not hard to see how feel-good colours might extend into our homes, as suggested by Dulux in its round-up of interiors trends for 2022. Think electric blues, peacock purples and fuchsia pinks – used as cheery statements by themselves or combined to kaleidoscopic effect. 

Pick a pet project

Casa.Curated

It’s been proven that people with pets are generally happier and healthier. That’s because interacting with animals is thought to decrease stress levels and reduce blood pressure. So why not repay your four-legged friend by making their sleeping (or eating) area a stylish part of your home? Dedicated boot rooms for mucky hounds are on the rise here in the UK, but even small zoned areas such as this by interiors influencer Casa.Curated can make our furry companions feel right at home. 

Power-up with plants

Patch Plants

Biophilic design – an approach that prioritises our human need to connect with nature – is big news. Not only do plants soften a space, bringing texture and colour, but they offer health benefits: absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Patch Plants has been making it easy with gorgeous greenery delivered to your door. Its ‘plant doctor’, Richard Cheshire, explains: “Studies have shown that being around nature makes us feel more relaxed. Our brain finds green soothing, so bringing plants into a room can make it a nicer place to be.”

Make space for ‘you-time’

Snug Sofa

From working up a sweat to chilling out with mediation, ‘you-time’ is different for everyone. Luckily, you don’t need a dedicated home gym or yoga studio to practise self-care at home. Simply zone your space with paint: a designated spot for crunches and weights next to your desk; a marked-out area for stretches and mindfulness beside your bed; or a colourful corner for simply curling up with a good book. 

Nip the niggles in the bud

Task Rabbit

There’s always something that will annoy you about your house. A creaky step or a dripping tap, perhaps? Separately, these are insignificant, but collectively they contribute to stress. So, if you’re not happy with the niggles, change them – or pay someone to sort them for you. Begüm Zarmann, managing director at TaskRabbit Europe, says: “One in 10 couples has broken up due to a DIY-related dispute, so outsource to a skilled handy person to maintain a happy home!”

Style up a ‘spa-throom’

Soho Home

A spa experience massages away all the stresses and strains of everyday life. So why not recreate the style and splendour of a five-star facility from the comfort of your own bathroom? Spa bathrooms (‘spa-throoms’) are a hot bathroom trend this year, equipped with everything from hot tubs to saunas and power-showers – plus scented candles and mood lighting to boot. It’s the ultimate escapism for destressing more regularly without leaving home. 

Tap into textures

Cult Furniture

Enjoy the feeling of clean sheets as you slip into bed or a freshly-vacuumed carpet underfoot? You’re not alone. Harnessing the same principles of ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response – a tingling sensation triggered by placid sights, sounds and sensations), textures can offer a simple yet undeniable pleasure. Create spaces brimming with tactility for sensory enjoyment in everyday living: soft furnishings in boucle, velvet and brushed cotton; textured surfaces in marble, granite and sandstone. It’s a small way to add joy to every day…

Optimise your bedroom for sleep

DFS

Make your bedroom a place conducive to quality slumber: decorating the space in colours such as relaxed lavenders, soothing blues and serene greens is a good start, while investing in a brilliant bed topped with the right mattress and decent sheets will certainly help. Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of lighting to set the scene: curtains and blinds with blackout lining and dimmers, table lights and sconces. 

Declutter your décor

Furniture and Choice

Unless you’ve been living under a pile of clutter, you’ll know that tidying has become a major trend (Marie Kondo, The Home Edit). Interiors stylist Sam Griggs explains: “Everything in your home should be there because you love it or it is useful! To declutter, think about your style and colours: if you’re drawn to muted shades, don’t hold onto the bright orange cushion you bought years ago! Our tastes evolve as we get older, so we shouldn’t be held hostage by anything that no longer suits.”

Personalise your space

Oliver Bonas

Sure, a stylish home makes for good Instagram fodder, but perfect pictures aren’t getting traction. That’s because people tend to resonate more with real homes that are full of personality. Add photos of loved ones to celebrate relationships; and personal treasures collected from travels to recall memories. Sam Griggs, interiors stylist, says: “Don’t be distracted by trends. See yourself as a collector when filling your home. [Create] a space that feels personal to you and reflects your tastes. It’s your nest, after all!”

Lean into ‘broken-plan’ living

www.johnlewis.com

While open-plan living was big in the 90s and 00s, 2022 sees us moving towards ‘broken-plan’ living. The concept is a kind of halfway-house, separating out spaces more while keeping a sense of flow, as using our homes for both work and play during Covid has us seeking a compromise. Try zoning with colour, adding dividing screens, experimenting with different levels, transitioning through flooring and positioning furniture cleverly. 

Create a space that soothes

DuluxEvery home should have a space to fully relax and shut out the rest of the world. Using calm colours like lavender or a powdery blue, make it soft and comfortable with fluffy rugs, cushions and soft drapes and try to keep it clutter-free. Bring in home scents that calm like lavender and geranium, and use it for doing things that bring you joy whether that’s reading, crosswords, crafting, watching your favourite shows or just taking a nap.

Understand colour psychology

Wren Kitchens

Colour is one of the simplest ways to lift your mood at home. Whether it’s a piece of furniture you’ve upcycled with a pop of leftover paint, or a corner you’ve got creative with using colour saturation, bright and beautiful shades can raise your spirits. Dulux Heritage advises mellow yellow in the breakfast room for putting a spring in your step; natural green in a living room to invigorate; and deep blue in a bedroom for lulling you to sleep. Makes sense, right?

Consider slick storage solutions

Orthex Group

From larder units that hide away mismatched jars and tins (see Khloe Kardashian’s take on the trend), to laundry cupboards that conceal baskets of dirty clothing, clever organisation systems don’t only look chic, but also make finding things quicker and easier – resulting in an efficient and happy household. There are lots of clever tricks to help you get organised, but creating a place for everything is the only real way to declutter your home for good.

Look to ambient lighting

Pooky

Soft, warm lighting isn’t just flattering, but it’s calming, too. Create a mood at home with adjustable dimmer switches and lots of lamps to control the level of lighting in different rooms. Jo Plant, head of design at Pooky, adds: “Incorporate localised lamps and accent wall lighting. It’s the perfect way to introduce a layered lighting scheme into your home that can create ambient and atmospheric levels of light to suit the occasion.”

Create a statement loo

Divine Savages

The downstairs bathroom provides a blank canvas for creativity, so why not go a little wild? First, choose a busy or colourful wall covering. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, says: “Guests will usually see your loo, so it’s your chance to have a bit of fun!” Next, layer with an eclectic gallery wall of artworks. Finally, finish with a cheeky touch, such as a novelty loo-roll holder or anything that makes you smile when you see it.

Let there be (natural) light

247 Blinds

Like plants, we need natural light to grow and flourish, so ensure it’s maximised everywhere at home to banish the blues. Lots of homes lack natural light – blame the weather, or simply the way they’re built – so position furniture near windows (or beneath skylights), hang mirrors opposite them and choose dressings that don’t conceal essential rays by day. Small changes, big impact. If you have old fashioned leaded windows, replacing them with clear glass will make a huge difference.

Style up an outdoor sanctuary

Dobbies Garden Centres

From the vibrancy of a Moroccan souk to the calm of a Caribbean beach, it’s not hard to see how recreating your favourite holiday destination at home can cheer you up. This year, we’re not only going big on décor inspired by far-flung places – think rattan and wicker; tropical prints and palm motifs – but we’re also turning our gardens into resort-style oases complete with garden bars and hot tubs. It’s all the happiness of a holiday, but no passport required… 

Spring-clean your space

Walton and Co

Arguably, it was Mrs Hinch – with 4.3-million followers – who sparked our obsession with cleaning. Her best-selling book sings its praises for the positive impact it can have on your mental health. For many, it’s nigh-on impossible to relax knowing there’s a sink full of dishes, or a pile of laundry stacking up. Tackling these daily tasks not only feels satisfying, but it creates a real sense of achievement, especially when they’re things you’ve been putting off for a while. But also make the most of a new season with a spring clean to give your home a reset. Clean the windows, change winter bedding for summer, swap up cosy throws for lighter soft furnishings. Clean yourself cheery!

Make sustainable choices

Dunelm

Sustainable choices can start at home, whether it’s eco-friendly paint or ethical furniture brands. When it comes to materials, think along the lines of wood, stone or wicker, both natural and trendy. And come up with a stylish system that easily separates out rubbish from recycling. While these solutions are small in the grand scheme of things, surrounding yourself with sustainable style certainly helps you sleep at night, and creates a chic home with a conscience. 

Original Article – https://ktla.com/news/california/what-1m-gets-in-5-california-real-estate-markets/

California is known for many things: the beaches, theme parks and famous landmarks. And, one less popular aspect: the price.

House hunters may find properties in the $1 million range in Bakersfield, Fresno and even San Diego. But in San Francisco or Los Angeles, you may find less than what you bargained for.

Here’s a look at what you might get for $1 million in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles.

Bakersfield 

Bakersfield is considered one of the most affordable of the bunch. One million dollars encompasses many of the city’s top-tier homes. There are only a few houses on the market in the $1 million price range. 

Generally, you can get over 3,000 square feet with four bedrooms. As of early June, there were only about four homes listed in that price range.

For example, there is a 3,587-square-foot house with four bedrooms and three bathrooms located in the gated community Masterpiece Estates, according to the Zillow website. 

Aside from the few $1 million houses, there are also empty lots available to build new homes on.

Fresno 

Fresno is very much the same. Generally, that price tag can get you over 3,000 square feet with four bedrooms as well as empty lots for new construction.

For example, there is a 3,695-square-foot house with four bedrooms and four bathrooms near the Golden State Highway, according to Zillow. 

Bonus: This house features six attached garage spaces, according to Zillow. 

San Diego 

In San Diego, buyers can generally find homes in the 2,000-square-foot range for $1 million.

For example, there is a 2,121-square-foot house with five bedrooms and three bathrooms located near the San Carlos area, according to Zillow. 

This home features a fireplace and stainless steel appliances, according to the Zillow website.

In San Diego, the lots go for around $1.1 million and are mainly marketed for multi-family construction, according to the Zillow website.

Los Angeles

In the busy City of Angels, house hunters can find slightly smaller houses and condos in the $1 million price range. 

From an 868-square-foot home with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a one-car garage deep in the Hollywood Hills to a 1,144-square-foot condo with two bedrooms and two bathrooms near South Park, buyers will find the square footage in Los Angeles a bit pricier than the Central Valley, according to Zillow.

The condo also features a view of the city and has shared building amenities including a hot tub, pool, movie room and a fitness center, according to Zillow. 

Similar to San Diego, the empty lots range from $1 to $1.2 million and are marketed for multi-family construction, according to the Zillow website.

San Francisco 

San Francisco is considered one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. There, buyers can generally find homes and condos in the 1,000-square-foot range and below depending on location.

Starting with a 876-square-foot condo in the East Cut part of San Francisco, featuring one bedroom and one bathroom. The condo also comes with an in-unit washer, dryer and dishwasher, according to Zillow. 

Buyers can find a house near Bernal Heights for slightly above $1 million. For example, a 1,221-square-foot house with two bedrooms and one bathroom near a BART station and San Francisco Muni is listed or $1.1 million, but it is “a fixer in need of major repair,” according to the Zillow listing. 

So, the real question is: What would you rather spend $1 million on, space or location?

Original Article – https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2022/06/08/tips-choosing-raised-beds-gardening/

One of the first lessons I learned as a gardener is that if you don’t have high-quality soil, the greenest thumb in the world isn’t going to save your plants. When we moved into our home half a dozen years ago, I soon realized that the dirt in our backyard was not viable for growing. Thick with clay, it was intersected by so many roots that it was impossible to push the shovel into the earth without hitting one.

I needed raised beds to fill with garden-level soil before I could sow my first season’s plantings. I purchased a few kits made with untreated wood — they were cheap and easy to assemble — and packed them with a combination of bagged soil and composted kitchen scraps.

It only took me a couple of years to regret my choice. The side planks buckled, and those resting on the ground rotted away. The rich loam inside began spilling out onto the white pebble pathways around the beds, an eyesore and a waste. This spring, I ripped them out and replaced them with a trio of new raised beds and an herb garden on wheels, but first I spoke with three gardening experts and spent a lot of time researching my options.

Here are the five factors they say you should consider when choosing raised-bed kits.

Materials. Kevin Espiritu, founder of Epic Gardening, generally recommends buying metal raised beds over those made of wood. “When you do the calculation on longevity of metal versus wood, metal beats out wood,” he says. “And during the pandemic, the cost for wood has skyrocketed, so sometimes wood is even more expensive than metal.” He notes that good metal beds will last more than a decade with proper care, which includes ensuring the bed doesn’t flood often or consistently sit in moisture. And line it with geotextile fabric or landscape fabric if you’re growing crops requiring acidic soil, which will corrode the metal.

Size. Beds should be at least a foot tall, says Josh Singer, a community garden specialist with the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation. “Bigger crops, such as tomatoes and squash, need at least that much room for their roots to grow,” he says, adding that you can even dig up another foot of ground below the bed to give plants space to expand. To ensure that you can easily reach across the entire bed — and that it won’t be so long that the sides bow out — he advises keeping beds two to four feet wide and four to eight feet long.

Beauty. “In urban and suburban areas, you probably only have a patio or small yard, so you’re probably going to want to like what you’re looking at out there,” says Tim Williams, operations manager of Greenstreet Gardens, a landscaping and design company. “But if pretty isn’t a factor for you, don’t worry about it. No one is going to judge you.”

Assembly. “It’s smart to have gloves on hand,” Espiritu says. “I always assemble kits using a drill with a screwdriver bit on it — set to a low torque, so you’re not over-screwing the bolt or stripping it out — because it’s faster. And have someone with you to help with the build. It’ll just be easier.” Don’t forget to ensure that your bed is on even ground, because a raised bed on a slope will get unbalanced moisture distribution and may leak soil. (Have a level handy if you don’t feel comfortable eyeballing it.)

Cost. Last, but never least, consider your budget. A metal raised-bed kit can cost several hundred dollars, plus shipping fees if it’s not available locally. The good news, though, is that by this time of year, many kits will be on sale or on clearance in the D.C. area. “But don’t wait too long, because they will become unavailable, and it will be too late to plant most things,” Williams says.

Here are four raised-bed kits the experts recommend.

Vego Garden’s 17-inch six-in-one modular metal raised bed. If you’ve been browsing raised-bed options on Instagram, you’ve probably seen these eye-catching beds with rounded corners. Williams is a fan. “It’s fantastic how much surface area you can get and the large soil volume for deep root systems,” he says. The 10-piece kit with 17-inch-tall sides can be built into six configurations, both square and rectangular, including 2 by 2 feet and 5 by 3½ feet. It takes about 35 minutes to put together. When attaching the panels in this kit and the others, check that the tops and bottoms are aligned; simply flip the panel if not.

Birdies’ tall modular raised bed. The OG of corrugated raised beds, Australia-based Birdies has been producing them for more than 13 years. Made of galvanized steel with an Aluzinc coating, the bed can be built into nine setups, rectangular and square, such as 40 by 24 inches and 66 by 40 inches. It’s 29 inches tall, so you don’t have to bend over to reach your plants, Espiritu says, “which is great for gardeners who are elderly or who have accessibility issues.” Set aside about 45 minutes to build and install it.

Olle’s 17-inch 12-in-1 galvanized raised bed. The panels are made of galvanized steel and coated with Aluzinc, designed to reflect the sun and maintain a consistent soil temperature. The 12-piece kit of 17-inch-tall panels can be transformed into a dozen configurations, both rectangular and square, including 80 by 40 inches and 44 by 24 inches; it should take about 35 minutes to assemble. Singer likes this kit because of its durability and height. When it comes to filling it, he recommends a blend of 90 percent topsoil and 10 percent compost; the latter will decompose over the year. “Dump a couple of bags of compost into the bed at the start of each year to refresh the organic matter,” he says. “And since the soil compacts, you really have to till it well every year.”

Forever raised beds. “If you want a bed that isn’t wood but will last a long time and looks like wood, this is the way to go,” Espiritu says. Designed to look like they’re built with cedar planks, these beds are made from a composite of recycled wood and plastic. They are available in configurations of 3 by 3 feet or 3 by 6 feet, making them great for smaller backyard gardens. Expect it to take about 15 to 20 minutes to assemble.

Martell is a writer based in Silver Spring, Md. His website is nevinmartell.com. Find him on Twitter and Instagram: @nevinmartell.

Original Article – https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/la-animal-services-issues-plea-for-dog-and-cat-adoptions-from-crowded-shelters/2904315/

L.A. Animal Services is asking Angelenos to open their hearts, and their homes, to dogs and cats in need of adoption — offering reduced fees at the agency’s six locations Saturday and Sunday. 

“Our shelters are full and need YOU to help dogs find homes,” according to an agency statement issued Friday. 

As National Pet Month comes to a close, L.A. Animal Services officials said adoption fees for all dogs will be $51, not including license, and $75 for puppies on Saturday and Sunday. 

Adoption fees for cats and kittens will be waived entirely thanks to a grant from the ASPCA. 

L.A. Animal Services also urged people who might not be able to adopt to consider fostering a pet “to give them a temporary break from kennel life.”

A list of adoptable pets can be found at laanimalservices.com/adopt/.

Dogs and cats adopted from the agency join their new families already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, licensed and microchipped, according to the agency.

Local

Original Article – https://www.bankrate.com/homeownership/hidden-home-remodeling-costs/

If you’re thinking about remodeling your home, you’re not alone. Annual homeowner spending on improvements and renovations has clocked double-digit growth since the pandemic, and could reach $430 billion by the second half of 2022, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. Even as the coronavirus crisis eases, part-time and hybrid work schedules are keeping many closer to home — making them decide to spruce up their residences.

Whatever project you have in mind, be advised: Its price tag isn’t limited to the materials you’ll need or the contractors you’ll hire. Home remodeling jobs tend to carry hidden costs. As you look ahead to cooking in that new state-of-the-art kitchen or turning that spare bedroom into an office, be sure to budget for these six often-overlooked expenses.

1. Securing permits

Many remodeling projects require a work permit from city or county authorities before the job commences. According to Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi, these generally range from $424 to $2,291, with the national average being $1,330. It depends on the municipality and the nature of the work.

“Most renovations call for permits, especially if you’re updating electrical or plumbing [systems],” Hicks says. “In big cities, permits can cost up to $7,500, while in small towns they may be as low as $100.”

It may seem at times like the permitting process is an unnecessary impediment to your progress but don’t even consider skipping this step — or letting your contractor skip it (contractors are generally in charge of obtaining permits). Additional costs and fees in the form of penalties and fines will be imposed and you risk a work stoppage and invalidating insurance coverage if you don’t obtain the necessary permissions from your municipality.

Speaking of sign-offs: Many construction jobs also require post-project inspections by a municipal authority, and there could be a fee for that too, in addition to the original permit’s.

2. Installing appliances

A lot of major home appliances aren’t simply plug-in-and-go. You have to get them up and running — and that often costs money. This particularly pertains to “appliances that require complex wiring or plumbing labor, such as dishwashers” or washing machines, Hicks says. Even if you’re an advanced DIY-er, it’s often advisable to have a licensed electrician or plumber do the work. If the retailer you’re buying from offers an installation package, springing for it is not the worst idea in the world; just be sure to factor it into your final bill.

Bear in mind that the store installation only applies to the appliance. So before the appliance arrives, make sure your current HVAC, power and plumbing systems can handle it; if not, you’ll have to call in your own pro to upgrade them in advance.

“Switching a gas stove over to electric, or vice versa, bumps up appliance installation cost. Running a new gas line, adding a new circuit and breaker and refrigerators with ice makers, which need a water hookup, can all raise the cost of your renovation,” Hicks says.

3. Being dispossessed

Consider how the work might impact your routine, and for how long. If your home is enveloped in a cloud of dust during the demo or construction phases of the project, for instance, you’re not going to be able to prepare meals there, or potentially even be able to sleep there. A few weeks of eating at restaurants, or renting a space to live in, can add up quickly.

4. Encountering complications

Tearing up your home can also reveal some issues you didn’t know existed, Hicks notes, which will undoubtedly increase your costs as you pay to remedy them.

“Damage to areas not visible until the project begins; plumbing or wiring that needs to be updated to meet current building codes; termites, lead, mold, radon and other circumstances can easily move a home remodeling project beyond budget,” Hicks says. “Many contractors recommend adding an additional 10 percent to 20 percent buffer to your project’s overall cost to be prepared to deal with these types of issues.”

There may be ways to protect yourself from covering all of these “surprise” costs yourself. Construction contingency clauses  in contracts can be negotiated to hold the contractor at least partially responsible for the added expense to remedy a complication, especially if it’s one that could have been avoided or anticipated.

5. Cleaning up

“Construction leaves a lot of dust and debris, so you’ll want the job to be thorough,” Hicks says. “It includes everything from ridding the walls of scuff marks and smudges to waxing floors and scrubbing windows.”

Some of these costs can also be anticipated upfront and you should make the effort to have your contractor provide a fixed price for initial demolition and debris removal costs — or at least, a price estimate for these services; you can also request a later adjustment if actual costs are less.

Finally, consider spending a bit more to have the impacted area of your home swept, vacuumed, washed and polished by a professional after all work is completed, to make it “broom clean” and fully habitable. A good housekeeping or maid service can do the job quicker and more thoroughly than you can, probably, and their price will typically not exceed a few hundred dollars — between $275 and $650., according to Hicks.

6. Expanding your homeowners insurance coverage

Your dream remodel is finished, but now, it’s time to make sure it’s protected. Since a renovation can increase the worth of your home, you might find you need to pay more in premiums to bring your coverage up to an appropriate level. Some common home improvements that can affect your homeowners insurance, both in terms of replacement values and liability, include room additions and swimming pools.

Final word on hidden costs of home remodels

It’s easy to overlook certain costs when renovating a home. And since some prices can still surprise you, even after you plan ahead, it’s always best to budget a bit extra for any home improvement project. That way, the final bill won’t destroy any joy you have in your remodeled room or spiffy new space.

Now is the time of year when lawns come out of dormancy – a time many gardeners eagerly await. This is also the time of year that we trade large heating bills for sometimes equally large water bills. As you consider your gardening plan this spring, why not resolve to use less water? 

We use a lot of water
The US Environmental Protection Agency claims that, across the country, watering our landscaping accounts for nearly one-third of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day. In addition, some experts estimate that as much as 50 percent of water used for irrigation is wasted due to evaporation, wind, or runoff caused by inefficient irrigation methods and systems. 

Start with the lawn
Sure, a lush, green lawn can increase a home’s curb appeal, but if you plan to stay put for a while, you can consider reducing your lawn’s size by replacing some areas with mulch or hardscaping. To maintain size, but reduce water usage, you can replant with a less thirsty variety of turfgrass and/or not cut your grass so short. Longer grass promotes deeper root growth, resulting in a more drought-resistant lawn, reduced evaporation, and fewer weeds. 

Water more efficiently
Water your lawn before 10 a.m. for max efficiency. ThisOldHouse.comrecommends watering between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. “At this cool time of day, it’s less likely the moisture will evaporate before your grassroots can absorb it from the soil,” they explain. 

Plant early
Planting new plants in spring (vs. summer) gives them numerous advantages. Milder conditions are less harsh on the young leaves and buds, and lower temperatures require less water for the plants to get established. 

Go native
Choosing plants native to your area is another way to save effort and water. Native, drought-resistant plants require less maintenance and less water once established and have the added benefit of providing habitats to beneficial pollinators and soil organisms. 

Conserving water doesn’t mean you have to convert your yard into a rock quarry. Making some minor changes can reduce landscape water use but still leave your property looking beautiful and alive.