Details below of a restorative clean and seal that I recently completed on a Quarry tiled hallway at a house in the small village of Riseley, North Bedfordshire. The floor was a mix of fantastic black and red tiles; however, it had lost its character after a long period without professional maintenance. My client commissioned me to strip off the old sealer from the floor and replace it, but not before providing a thorough clean, including tackling some adhesive staining and inherent grout haze. The first task involved mixing our high alkaline cleaner, known as Tile Doctor Pro-Clean, with water to form a strong solution. The solution was applied to the tiled floor and left to dwell for a short period. This dwelling time allows for the Pro-Clean to seep into the stone to get underneath the ingrained dirt and lift it out. Pro-Clean also contains stripping properties, and thus helped to break down the old (and now ineffectual) sealer. After completing this initial clean I rinsed the floor using a standard mop and bucket method. With the old sealer removed, it became evident that there was also plaster residue marking the tiles, as well as inherent grout haze on the surface of the tile probably from the original installation. To tack these problems I used Tile Doctor Grout Clean-Up, which is an acid-based cleaner that dissolves the adhesive and the grout. Being an acid you have to be careful and ensure the floor is rinsed thoroughly after use and if you’re considering using this product yourself read the label and make sure you use the right protective equipment. After the floor was thoroughly rinsed with water it was dried as much as possible using a wet vacuum which literally sucks the water off the floor. The floor was then left to dry for four days, with the help of several air movers. By the time I returned to the house, the floor was completely dry and ready to take the seal. I opted to use a combination of sealers, including one coat of our colour enhancing, impregnating sealer, known as Colour Grow, followed by three coats of Tile Doctor Seal & Go to provide a truly robust and aesthetically pleasing surface seal. The photographs demonstrate the finished results better than words can and I think you will agree the floor is quite transformed. Andrew Evans Bedfordshire Tile Doctor

One of the most popular hardwood floor finishing which offers Tom & Peter Flooring is provided by WOCA. If you’ve decided that you want a natural looking wooden floor that is lacquer-free, then the likelihood is that you’ve chosen oil as your way of protecting your wood and making your floor look great at the same time. WOCA for wood flooring comes in various forms and is a great way of making sure that your wood is protected, but at the same time looks natural. A highly popular as well as effective way of treating wood floors, oils effectively penetrate into the wood and in some cases harden into the surface of the floor to stop damage and to maintain the wood in its optimum condition. WOCA Oil finish hardwood flooring has taken the United States market by in 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down in 2016 and now. Here are some of the most common questions we have regarding this type of finish which we will I’m to answer in today’s my blog: Is oil finish as durable as traditional factory urethane finishes with aluminum oxide? When it comes to durability, oil finish flooring tackles the issue with a completely different method. The penetrating oil serves as protection from moisture and wear while allowing the user to feel the wood grains in their bare feet. If compared directly to factory finished aluminum oxide finish, the oil finish flooring will not perform as well to abrasion and impact. However, the beauty of this finish is the fact that it will camouflage any scratches which will inevitably accumulate over time. Will this finish evaporate over time and will this be harmful for indoor air quality? Another concern for oil finished floors its effect on indoor air quality. For on-site applications, some varieties suggest several coats which typically require the residents to be out of the home due to mild odors. However, there are factory finished UV-cured or single coat applications which lessen the downtime. Despite the odors produced during the drying process, oil finish floors rank amongst the lowest for VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. Certain brands even boast true zero VOC. This fact alone makes oil finished floors one of the best options for green building solutions. “WOCA products are certified by independent laboratories, the German Institute for Biological Building Materials, and are in accordance with DIN–Norm 53–160. WOCA WoodCare Denmark products meet or exceed the most stringent U.S. standards for volatile organic compounds.” –WOCA Oil Finish Manufacture Does this type of finish require additional maintenance which I am not familiar with? For weekly cleaning, oiled floors use a special cleaner which contains an oil and soap mixture. After a period of 12-18 months some oil may evaporate causing the wood grains to appear dry. An additional layer of oil can be reapplied to keep the floor looking fresh. Although oil finished floors require more involvement in periodic maintenance in high traffic areas, this maintenance can be done much easier than the equivalent of an onsite sand and refinish. WOCA Master Color Oil contains pigment, which provides a single-step hardwood floor staining process. Laying down the stain and the finish in one step. This product comes 14 different colors, from Black to Extra White, and you can mix them freely to create various color palettes that will meet the demands of any job. Below are some pictures of the finished job…

Dare to design... the fireplace of your dreams, while being environmentally friendly! Frontenac is not only the name of a grand hotel located in the heart of Quebec City, Canada. It is also the largest fireplace of the Valcourt brand. Majestic and imposing, this bravery symbol of the Count of Frontenac, who has fiercely defended the French colony, is quite appropriate to represent the enormous challenge overtaken when designing and manufacturing this fireplace. Exceptionally large, the FP11 Frontenac uses advanced technology to reduce air pollution and is already qualifies for Phase II of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) voluntary program for manufacturers of decorative wood burning fireplaces. With particulate emissions below 5.1 g/kg (which is approximately 70 percent cleaner than unqualified models), this model will surely give you elegance without compromising the quality of air. Just like the FP7-LM Antoinette, the FP11 Frontenac has a guillotine door that disappears in the hearth, allowing you to easily load wood on the fire and have an unrivaled view of the flames. The fire screen is also equipped with a guillotine mechanism. You will thus enjoy an open fire in safety when the ceramic glass door is open. Finally, the bare front allows significant flexibility and creativity in the design of your interior decor.

A powerful 4-in-1 cleaning wizard. Detachable 4-in-1 wet and dry vacuum cleaner effortlessly cleans all sorts of carpets, furniture, and surfaces. Edge-to-edge cleaning extends the brush to hug walls and clean corners. Advanced Mess Detection systems intelligently adjust settings according to your cleanup needs. No mold, mildew, or nasty odors thanks to dual-rotation self-cleaning, and quick hot air drying.

Inspiration for a garage remodel in Vancouver

Transitional bathroom photo in Louisville

Inspiration for a contemporary closet remodel in Miami

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This Chicago client was tired of living with her outdated and not-so-functional kitchen and came in for an update. The goals were to update the look of the space, enclose the washer/dryer, upgrade the appliances and the cabinets. The space is located in turn-of-the-century brownstone, so we tried to stay in keeping with that era but provide an updated and functional space. One of the primary challenges of this project was a chimney that jutted into the space. The old configuration meandered around the chimney creating some strange configurations and odd depths for the countertop. We finally decided that just flushing out the wall along the chimney instead would create a cleaner look and in the end a better functioning space. It also created the opportunity to access those new pockets of space behind the wall with appliance garages to create a unique and functional feature. The new galley kitchen has the sink on one side and the range opposite with the refrigerator on the end of the run. This very functional layout also provides large runs of counter space and plenty of storage. The washer/dryer were relocated to the opposite side of the kitchen per the client's request, and hide behind a large custom bi-fold door when not in use. A wine fridge and microwave are tucked under the counter so that the primary visual is the custom mullioned doors with antique glass and custom marble backsplash design. White cabinetry, Carrera countertops and an apron sink complete the vintage feel of the space, and polished nickel hardware and light fixtures add a little bit of bling. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Example of a bathroom design in Minneapolis

2x4 In-Wall Humidifall, Blue Green Anime Textured Art Glass, Brushed Stainless Steel Frame
Example of a trendy kitchen design in Santa Barbara

SWI Home Pros WA Location: Lake Stevens, WA, USA Simplicity’s the name of the game out where the water’s clean and the air even cleaner: crisp black railing, decking that feels one with the landscape–and not a splinter in sight.

Kenny & Laura set out to refresh their kitchen with a focus on better storage, and thoughtful design. They wanted to maintain the existing layout while introducing upgraded finishes and efficient cabinetry throughout the space. Waypoint 530S Maple Rye cabinets were chosen for all base, upper, and tall storage units. To achieve a sleek appearance, Blum push-to-open hardware was added to all doors and drawers. Cabinet interiors were enhanced with deep pantry roll-out trays, a wastebasket pull-out, a spice drawer, and inserts for cutlery, knives, and utensils. This tailored storage approach supports both organization and ease of access. MSI’s Calacatta Elysio quartz was installed for a flush-mount cooktop. Countertops were extended into the window frame, above the stovetop, and beneath the floating shelves to add visual continuity and extra functionality. Matching quartz backsplash was installed from countertop to upper cabinets and along open areas under shelving. The sink area received a Blanco Diamond single basin in white, paired with a Delta Trinsic pull-down faucet and a Delta Contemporary beverage faucet, both in matte black. A matching air switch was included for the garbage disposal. They now enjoy a space that looks cleaner, functions better, and feels more inviting. Every detail from appliance panels to custom drawer inserts was selected to support a seamless and comfortable kitchen experience.

A handsome look for an industrial feel. Clear cylinders of glass extend along with a rectangluar wall plate. Mount these versatile fixtures horizontally or vertically for the ideal look. Add this wall light to your trendy bath, hallway, or any other walls in your home. Features This sconces wall lighting has a modern and vintage industrial design style, elegant and beautiful. Long glass tube shades allow the lights to diffuse farther and brighter. It can be installed in both vertical and horizontal directions. Perfect for bathroom, mirror, powder room, hallway, kitchen, living room, laundry rooms... Coloration is manufactured from blown glass Exceptional mouthblown glass may also screen the artisan's touch within the form of small air bubbles or a slightly asymmetrical shape. These are ordinary of a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted work of art. Rated for two 40W max. E26-base bulbs Hangs vertically or horizontally One hundred ten-120V synthetic to US requirements for US and Canadian markets suitable for use interior, inclusive of toilets, wherein it's far subject to moisture Calls for installation through an authorized electrician. RH delivery provider does not include set up. Wipe with a tender, dry cloth; keep away from using all cleaners and abrasives, as they may harm the finish Hardwired. The bathroom sconces just need to connect the wire, then place the glass shade and bulbs. No on/off switch. No plug. Suitable US standard junction box. Can be mounted in both vertical and horizon direction

Kenny & Laura set out to refresh their kitchen with a focus on better storage, and thoughtful design. They wanted to maintain the existing layout while introducing upgraded finishes and efficient cabinetry throughout the space. Waypoint 530S Maple Rye cabinets were chosen for all base, upper, and tall storage units. To achieve a sleek appearance, Blum push-to-open hardware was added to all doors and drawers. Cabinet interiors were enhanced with deep pantry roll-out trays, a wastebasket pull-out, a spice drawer, and inserts for cutlery, knives, and utensils. This tailored storage approach supports both organization and ease of access. MSI’s Calacatta Elysio quartz was installed for a flush-mount cooktop. Countertops were extended into the window frame, above the stovetop, and beneath the floating shelves to add visual continuity and extra functionality. Matching quartz backsplash was installed from countertop to upper cabinets and along open areas under shelving. The sink area received a Blanco Diamond single basin in white, paired with a Delta Trinsic pull-down faucet and a Delta Contemporary beverage faucet, both in matte black. A matching air switch was included for the garbage disposal. They now enjoy a space that looks cleaner, functions better, and feels more inviting. Every detail from appliance panels to custom drawer inserts was selected to support a seamless and comfortable kitchen experience.

Newly built properties are not without their problems and often take a while to resolve all the snagging which occasionally extends to resolving problems with newly laid tiled floors. At this new property in the village of Malvern, and overlooked by the Malvern hills, the builders had left the Terracotta tiled kitchen floor covered in grout smears (also known as Grout Haze) following installation. They had also neglected to seal the tiles, which was actually quite fortunate in this case as they would have sealed in the grout haze, making it more difficult to remove. Naturally, the property owner wanted the problem to be resolved as soon as possible, and for me to make the tiles easy to keep clean in future, which can be achieved by sealing the tile. Before starting work, I made sure to fully protect any exposed woodwork with a plastic sheet covering to protect them from potential damage. I then proceeded to give the floor a thorough clean, using Tile Doctor Remove and Go to clean the floor and eradicate some stains that had been left behind as a result of the building work. Next, I paid special attention to the grout, where the very visible problem of grout haze had arisen. To neutralise these smears I used Tile Doctor Grout Clean Up, a concentrated phosphoric acid cleaner that can also remove alkaline mineral deposits and efflorescence. Grout Clean Up is only to be used on acid resistant stone, as sensitive stone can suffer from irreparable etching if it comes into contact with the product. Once completely clean and free of grout smears the floor was thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any trace of product and then dried as much as possible with a wet vacuum, afterwards an air mover was installed to speed up the drying process. Later that afternoon the floor was dry and I was able to apply a sealer. To do this I opted to use several coats of Tile Doctor Seal and Go Extra, a topical, fully breathable sealer that works really well on Terracotta. The sealer builds up a layer of protection on the surface of the tiles, protecting against ingrained dirt and stains. Seal and Go Extra also provides a high quality sheen finish which really did well to enhance the look of the Terracotta. The property owner was exceptionally pleased with the results, and to have this problem dealt with quickly and efficiently, additionally the sealer will ensure the Kitchen floor is easy to keep clean in the future.

If there is a room in our home that deserves luxury it is the Master bathroom. This secluded space was the perfect spot for a forward-thinking design style with clean lines, flowing curves and hard edges. Framless doors encase the spacious walk in shower. Hansgrohe Raindance Air Shower Head and Delta In2ition handheld and stationary shower head integrates dual functionality without sacrificing warmth. Bold turquoises waterfall shower tiles compliment the solid color and surface of the durable quarts shower bench. Herringbone pattern laid throughout the flooring creates depth and texture to the space. A oversize acrylic soaking tub is adorn with deck mounted faucet. The ambidextrous sitting style with center drain allows the user to face whichever direction they choose. This tub is a dream for the most statuesque person.

Kenny & Laura set out to refresh their kitchen with a focus on better storage, and thoughtful design. They wanted to maintain the existing layout while introducing upgraded finishes and efficient cabinetry throughout the space. Waypoint 530S Maple Rye cabinets were chosen for all base, upper, and tall storage units. To achieve a sleek appearance, Blum push-to-open hardware was added to all doors and drawers. Cabinet interiors were enhanced with deep pantry roll-out trays, a wastebasket pull-out, a spice drawer, and inserts for cutlery, knives, and utensils. This tailored storage approach supports both organization and ease of access. MSI’s Calacatta Elysio quartz was installed for a flush-mount cooktop. Countertops were extended into the window frame, above the stovetop, and beneath the floating shelves to add visual continuity and extra functionality. Matching quartz backsplash was installed from countertop to upper cabinets and along open areas under shelving. The sink area received a Blanco Diamond single basin in white, paired with a Delta Trinsic pull-down faucet and a Delta Contemporary beverage faucet, both in matte black. A matching air switch was included for the garbage disposal. They now enjoy a space that looks cleaner, functions better, and feels more inviting. Every detail from appliance panels to custom drawer inserts was selected to support a seamless and comfortable kitchen experience.

If there is a room in our home that deserves luxury it is the Master bathroom. This secluded space was the perfect spot for a forward-thinking design style with clean lines, flowing curves and hard edges. Framless doors encase the spacious walk in shower. Hansgrohe Raindance Air Shower Head and Delta In2ition handheld and stationary shower head integrates dual functionality without sacrificing warmth. Bold turquoises waterfall shower tiles compliment the solid color and surface of the durable quarts shower bench. Herringbone pattern laid throughout the flooring creates depth and texture to the space. A oversize acrylic soaking tub is adorn with deck mounted faucet. The ambidextrous sitting style with center drain allows the user to face whichever direction they choose. This tub is a dream for the most statuesque person.