Original Article – https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/70160/easy-kitchen-updates-that-anyone-can-do

Walls and Floors

Looking for easy kitchen updates? You don’t have to spend a fortune on a complete refit to give your kitchen a makeover. Whether it’s a weekend decorating project or kitchen accessory refresh, these nifty and inspiring kitchen update ideas will transform the heart of your home without the hard work or huge costs.

Paint the ceiling

Dulux

Painting the 5th wall, AKA the ceiling, is a statement that is having a moment, so it would be a shame to leave the kitchen ceiling white! Not only can painting the kitchen roof a different colour add drama and character to the room, it can also increase the sense of space by drawing the eye up. 

Stock up on glass jars

Primark

Budget-friendly high street stores have cottoned on to clear storage jars being stylish, functional and desirable. So now it couldn’t be easier to store cereals, nuts, pulses or spices in a thrifty and satisfying display on kitchen shelves, complete with wooden tops and fancy labels.

Give greenery a go

Matalan

Bring the outside in by decorating your kitchen with an array of plants. You could opt for a small tree in a corner spot, low-maintenance cacti for shelves, potted herbs on the windowsill, or a bold orchid on your kitchen island. Mix in a few faux versions for any spots that don’t get much sunlight.

Paint cupboard doors

Rust-Oleum

It’s the makeover trend taking over our Instagram feeds; if replacing cabinetry is too costly, painting your units could be a more frugal alternative. A lick of paint will totally transform dated but well-made pine doors into a new Shaker-style kitchen. Why not go for an on-trend dark shade? If this project seems daunting, there are kitchen upgrade companies that can transform your units in no time.

Add texture with baskets

IKEA

Investing in basket storage will not only keep your kitchen organised but add an extra element of texture, colour and character to your kitchen scheme. With just one visit to IKEA or The Container Store you’ll have an easy refresh of the space.

Tidy your table

Matalan

A fresh table setting is a simple trick that can give a kitchen a new lease of life. An easy option is to buy a new tablecloth. A fun and colourful, waterproof version is practical and mess-free when little ones are about. Or, for something more sophisticated, lay a textured fabric table runner add a pretty centrepiece, then complement the look with homely bench cushions in matching tones.

Upgrade your window dressing

English Blinds

Whether you’ve got an amazing view to frame or not, carefully selected curtains or blinds will add an extra decorative element, as well as creating shade and privacy. If you have a neutral kitchen, a patterned textile could add a splash of personality, or if your kitchen is already full of colour, a neutral shade will look sleek.

Slot in a breakfast bar

Dunelm

A handy breakfast bar shelf can add extra workspace in a tiny dining area with relatively little effort. Make use of spots you might not otherwise consider, like this small but perfectly formed work surface added to what could be an existing larder. Hooks for mugs add orderly style and decanting dry foods creates an endearing cook’s atmosphere in the space. 

Install a kitchen island

Dunelm

A kitchen island is often at the top of a new kitchen wish list and it’s obvious why. Forgo the complete unit refit and simply purchase a freestanding island instead. A flat-pack model is affordable and makes great use of central space by creating an additional worktop, extra storage space and a small dining area. Plus, you can take it with you if you move too.

Choose chic small appliances

Dunelm

It’s amazing how different a simple white or grey kitchen can feel once you add a few well chosen small appliances. Toasters, kettles and coffee machines in cool designs and colours will add personality to an otherwise bland kitchen. Look out for limited edition pieces for added interest.

Lay down a rug

Cult Furniture

Don’t rule out rugs when revamping your kitchen. Adding soft furnishings to your space can really soften an industrial-style interior and create a cosy, homely aesthetic. Choose a colour that complements your cabinets and to avoid any accidents be sure to buy rug grips to prevent slipping.

Freshen up with metro tiles

Topps Tiles

If you’re looking for a timeless element, you can’t go wrong with a metro tile. Harriet Goodacre, Brand Communications Manager and Tile Consultant at Topps Tiles, explains why: “It’s a great choice for those looking for high style, but low cost. These versatile tiles can be used in a variety of laying patterns, from a classic brick bond to a bold double block herringbone, meaning you can truly stamp your creativity on your kitchen.”

Label storage jars

Hobbycraft

Dry goods decanted into clear storage jars look homely and stylish in equal measure. But, why not add order to your open-shelf display with easy homemade labels? A Cricut machine will give you a creative licence to design artistic versions that fit with your existing decor. Choose fonts and colours that complement your kitchen’s style.

Paint up a butler table

Olive Barr

If you don’t have the time or patience to re-paint a whole kitchen, choose one element for an easy update. Bar stools, a set of wooden kitchen steps or a chunky butler table will add a pop of contrasting or complementary colour to your kitchen scheme in a flash. 

Stencil over an existing floor

Nicolette Tabram Stencils

Floor stencilling is a hot trend hitting social media home feeds right now. It’s a budget-friendly and easy move that can transform your kitchen floor in just a weekend. Interior influencers and floor stencil addicts such as @Iamhayleystuart and @Carlaelliman recommend using minimal paint while stencilling and always cleaning your stencil as you work.

Install and paint panelling

Aura Kitchens

Wall panels can make a rustic alternative to tiled splashbacks and look the part in farmhouse-style kitchens. EASipanel Tongue & Groove Wall panelling is water-resistant primed and can be easily cut down to size, minimising joins. The cladding can look stunning as a kitchen island feature too. 

Pimp up the extractor hood

@girl&grey / Instagram

We are so in love with this easy kitchen update created by Girl&Grey! An otherwise unappealing kitchen extractor hood has been wrapped in organic-style sheets of slatted wood. The feature lends itself perfectly to the ‘mountain cabin style’ that owner Courtney was trying to achieve. 

Grow a herb garden

IKEA

Fancy growing your own? Introduce some greenery into your kitchen with an indoor herb garden. Not only will you have fresh herbs on hand to spruce up your dishes, but they’ll fragrance your kitchen with their heavenly aromas too. If you don’t have green fingers, fear not, some high-tech containers are even self watering.

Install LED lights

Second Nature

Installing LED strip lights under kitchen cabinets or plinths is an easy DIY method to illuminate your kitchen without having to enlist the services of an expensive and time-consuming electrician. The little strips of light-emitting diodes can be cut to size or connect for a seamless fit. 

Freshen up the tile grout

Walls and Floors

Give tired kitchen tiling a new lease of life by going for a grout makeover. If you are a dab hand at DIY, you can remove the old grout and replace it and there are plenty of tools to help with the labour-intensive task of removing the old filler. However, if that sounds like too much hard work, a grout pen can whiten existing grout and enliven the current tiles. Or, why not choose different colours for a completely new look?

Replace a door

JELD-WEN

Whether it leads to a pantry, utility room or garden, transforming an old door with new look will give a kitchen a fresh twist. If you have room either-side, a sliding barn-door is rustic and fun. Or, why not jazz up a plain uPVC door with a lick of specialist paint in a bold colour? 

Switch cupboard handles

IKEA

Changing your kitchen cabinet handles, knobs, or pulls can be a simple way of refreshing dated kitchen cabinets. However, before you commit to a whole new set of hardware, remove one handle first and take note of the holes left behind. Any new handles will need to fit this gap or cover it up. Alternatively, you can use wood filler, but this will lengthen the project.

Highlight the kitchen island

Harvey Jones

If you don’t have the time or budget to repaint a whole kitchen go for an area that can be transformed into a focal point. This kitchen island creates a statement when painted a sugary pink. Tie the new hero piece into the kitchen scheme by adding a few choice accessories, in this case a vase of pink roses. 

Swap out bar stools

Dunelm

Want to keep your standard kitchen on trend? Choose affordable yet stylish furniture that can be easily switched as fashions or your tastes change. These wicker and metal bar stools inject an up-to-date natural tone and stylish texture but can easily be dressed up or down with soft furnishings in on-trend colours.

Add a paint effect

Africa Studio / Shutterstock

Creating a colourful paint feature on your walls can really elevate your existing kitchen. Opt for a tonal stripe just above the worktops to disguise any nuisance marks, or go big and bold with a geometric pattern. Use painter’s tape to mark out your design to keep lines clean when you paint. 

Replace cupboard doors

HUSK

You don’t need to rip out a whole kitchen to transform your space. If you’re still content with the existing layout, leave the kitchen carcasses as they are and install shiny new cupboard doors. You’ll get the look of a brand new refit at a fraction of the cost. Do some research to find the correct fit — you could enlist the original kitchen fitters or go with a door replacement specialist like HUSK which transform IKEA or Howdens kitchens.

Install shutters

Dunelm

The correct window dressings can really make a room. Shutters are smart and practical in the kitchen and are an excellent choice as they take up less room than blinds, keeping windowsills clear. What’s more, if food or water spills onto them they can be easily cleaned to look like new.

Fake a splashback

Crown Paints

An alternative to tiling a splashback, a coat of hardwearing paint can protect vulnerable areas. Paint a band of contrasting colour above worktops to create a splashback effect that can be scrubbed and wiped regularly. Here, a refreshing lemon tone brightens the look of this classic grey kitchen.

Create a tiled feature wall

Original Style

Wall tiles can make a striking statement, especially if you opt for bold designs. And even classic metro tiles can look unique if you use a different tile pattern such as a herringbone layout. Luckily there’s a tile for every budget. Here, three-dimensional tiles add geometric depth to this modern kitchen scheme.

Revamp with stickers

Pixers

For another easy way to revamp tired kitchen cupboards, opt for patterned self-adhesive vinyl or stickers. In this plain white kitchen, pink terrazzo adhesives impart bags of personality in a playful pastel print. For a final flourish, carry the pattern across to your dining area with a matching wall canvas.

Update your fixtures

Norsu Interiors

If your chrome kitchen tap has seen better days, inject a touch of bling into your kitchen by replacing it with an ultra-modern gold mixer. Or for an edgier scheme, try a chic matt black tap instead. Whatever your choice, a simple fixtures update can make all the difference.

Go for opulent extras

Dunelm

Rejuvenate the look of a neutral kitchen with a few luxurious additions. Highlight a kitchen island with a trio of chrome pendant lights that reflect light and finish the deluxe vibe with plush button cushioned seating. 

Mount a peg rail

Printer + Tailor

A sturdy wooden peg rail will make a timeless and practical addition to any kitchen, whether traditional or contemporary. Hang utensils, cookware and storage baskets to instantly boost your kitchen’s storage capacity and free up valuable worktop space.

Put your wine on display

Next

Instead of piling up bottles or cases of wine in the corner, put them out on display in a wine rack. Whether it’s wood, metal or even a crafty upcycle project, a statement storage solution will add interest to your kitchen, as well as making worktops more orderly.

Pick a standout feature

Harvey Jones

If you’re not a fan of overly bright or colourful kitchens, keep it simple but add one standout feature to grab all the attention. A vibrant dresser, architectural lamp or enormous plant converts a previously traditional space into an interesting one in a flash. We love this unit painted in a zesty orange.

Switch up the splashback

Wren Kitchens

To transform the look of your kitchen, you don’t even have to touch the units. Installing a colourful splashback can add a fresh pop of colour and texture without overwhelming your existing design. From block colours to bold patterns and even opulent metallic finishes, there’s no end of choices.

Keep storage cohesive

Garden Trading

Give a busy kitchen streamlined order with coordinated savvy storage units. Tidy cleaning bottles and brushes into a caddy and keep a row of matching seagrass baskets on the worktop for any stray bits and bobs. Bigger versions will look smart above kitchen cupboards to keep larger objects out of sight.

Revamp an old dresser

Burbidge Kitchens

A good quality kitchen dresser is the perfect kitchen storage solution and it needn’t cost a fortune. Upcycle a worn-out model with a fresh coat of paint and new handles. If your dresser is fitted with glass doors, make sure you put your best crockery on show.

Add a statement clock

Dunelm

Bring some interest to a plain wall with an oversized statement clock that matches the style of your kitchen. It’ll create a cool focal point and keeping track of time might prove useful when it comes to the cooking too…

Replace your worktops

Magnet Kitchens

It might sound pricey, but replacing your kitchen worktops could be less expensive than you think. Opt for a new laminate, faux marble or wood finish and you’ll be surprised by how much it updates the space.

Install a statement cooker hood

Angel Appliances

Update your cooker hood for a fast makeover. From sleek metallic models to stylish sculptural shapes, there’s a whole array of quirky designs out there to choose from. Opt for something with real architectural impact, it’ll instantly lift your existing units.

Have a reshuffle

Harvey Norman

If you usually keep books, spices or mugs on open shelves, consider moving things around to give your kitchen a fresh look. Start by decluttering — it’s amazing how freeing up space can create the illusion of a bigger kitchen.

Show off elegant accessories

united photo studio / Shutterstock

Minimalism may be on trend, but displaying your prized kitchenware never goes out of style. Leave out some well-selected, beautiful accessories in complementary tones for a sophisticated vibe. Copper pots, pans and mugs mounted on a wall rail will work well when paired with tea towels and plant pots in darker shades.

Add an upstand

Wren Kitchens

If you’re working with a tight budget and don’t have the funds to splurge on an expensive splashback or lots of tiles, an upstand, an extension of the kitchen worktop which goes a short way up the wall behind the worksurface, will protect walls and give a polished finish at a fraction of the price.

Paint dining chairs

Garden Trading

We do love a quick furniture revamp. For an easy DIY idea, consider transforming existing kitchen dining chairs with a coat of furniture paint, it’ll make the world of difference. For an on-trend look, embrace black, or for a softer feel try a two-tone finish in blush pink and white.

Lay fresh flooring

Tile Mountain

A new floor can spruce up a room no end. Herringbone designs are a stylish way to add refinement and elegance to your space. If you’re not lucky enough to have original parquet floors, cheat the effect with lookalike tiles or laminate copies which can easily be laid.

Decorate with art

deVOL

Artwork isn’t just for bedrooms and living rooms, so liven up your kitchen with paintings or prints. Whether you go for black and white photography or perhaps a food-related print in an interesting frame, it’ll add a beautiful bohemian feel to your cooking space. Here, vintage pieces add to the heritage feel of this forest green kitchen by deVOL.

Replace doors with fabric

Laura Ashley

Fabric skirts have been used in place of kitchen doors for many years and seem to be making something of a comeback. Whether you choose just one skirt under a butler sink or go for a whole run of material, it can be an affordable way to introduce colour and texture into your kitchen. Plus, if you use fusible webbing, it’s an ideal no-sew project.

Add a chalkboard wall

IKEA

Give your kitchen an instant modern update with a chalkboard painted wall. This fun feature will make organisation a breeze. You could scribble to-do lists, motivational quotes or simple notes to other members of the family or housemates.

Roll in storage space

IKEA

If you’re after extra storage space, buy a kitchen trolley that will fit seamlessly into your scheme. It can even double up as a serving unit for food and drinks, as well as providing an extra workspace for when you’re cooking up a storm.

Display chopping boards

Dulux

Bring natural textures into your kitchen by displaying simple wooden chopping boards and serving platters. Hang an assortment of grains and sizes from a peg rail for a rustic flourish that keeps the worktops clean and uncluttered.

Complement with colour

Crown Paints

If you can’t repaint your kitchen, find accessories that will accentuate its existing colour. With a neutral or monochrome colour scheme, add in some bright accessories. You could be extra daring and opt for a canary yellow fridge, or go for gentle splashes of colour across storage jars and artwork. If your kitchen is already bright, accessorise with items in a complementary or contrasting colour combo.

Create whimsy with wallpaper

Laura Ashley

Wow-factor wallpaper might not seem like the natural choice for a kitchen but hear us out. It’s a great way to add personality to a room, plus there are lots of hardworking wipeable versions if you’re worried about splashes and stains. It can define an open-plan area or be the starting point for a theme, like this whimsical blue coastal motif which is carried throughout the room with nautical accessories and a fisherman-style pendant light. 

Update kitchen linen

Next

A fresh set of tea towels, cloths and perhaps oven gloves is probably the easiest and most budget-friendly way to add a touch of newness to a kitchen. Choose shades and patterns that work with the seasons for instance, these aqua tones are suitably uplifting for summer. 

Showcase your tea towels

Helen Russell Creations

Whether you’re a budding chef or struggle to make toast, bring the gourmet feeling into your kitchen by hanging up bright aprons and tea towels. If you have space, a wooden ladder propped against a wall can act as an apron holder, but otherwise a few hooks will do the job just as well.

Make a feature of your cookbooks

Roundhouse

No kitchen would be complete without a great cookbook collection. Arrange them on a picture rail to display each cover individually, stack them on top of each other on the worktop or, as in this example, place them vertically on open shelves. Don’t forget to bookmark your favourite recipes.

Layer open shelving

Harvey Norman

There’s no need to hide all your fabulous kitchenware behind cupboard doors. Keeping everything in the open allows for easy access to your things and makes your homeware work double-time as décor too. Layer up your shelving to create a cool feature wall with plenty of storage spaces.

Make crockery a feature

Next

For a coherent and stylish look, display your best plates, dishes and jugs on open shelving or inside glass cupboards. This works best if your crockery is in complementary colours and patterns. Add some big books, candlesticks or plants to create a focal point with a rustic vibe.

Install pendant lights

Alex Jane

Brighten up your kitchen in more ways than one with well-placed lighting. Opt for three pendant fixtures in metal or glass to give the room a cool industrial feel, as well as introducing balance and extra light into the space.

Free up the work surface

IKEA

Keep worktops clutter free by hanging rails from wall units to hold utensils and condiments, thus keeping them within easy reach. Chrome looks chic in an all white kitchen while a matching plant pot with lush green herbs will add a touch of colour.

Remove wall cupboards

Tile Giant

Extracting existing wall cupboards will not only give your kitchen a whole new look it will also make the room appear much bigger and brighter. Replace the bulky storage with a single run of open shelving set against country-style wood cladding for a minimalist yet homely look. 

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.

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