'Rhythm' by Jon Allen is a stunning hand-painted piece on aluminum. This highly reflective abstract metal wall art will complement any contemporary or modern, decor. Number of Pieces: 1 Dimensions: 48" x 24" x 1.5" off the wall Care & Cleaning: Clean with a soft cloth and plain soap & water Other Features: Hardware is pre-installed for simple hanging

The adorne Touch Dimmer is a modern and stylish way to dim the lighting in any room to your preference, and the adorne Custom Wall Plates allow for an uninterrupted flow Image credit: James Baigrie

The owner of this period cottage in the old market town of Tadcaster near Leeds, had what was once a beautiful Yorkshire stone floor in the kitchen. It has been a long time since it had been given a proper clean so over the years and with the Kitchen being a high traffic area the whole floor including the grout had darkened and he now wanted it refurbished in time for Christmas. I visited the property to assess what needed to be done and could see straight away that any protective sealer that was once on the floor had long since worn off. In fact, it was so consistently dirty with years of built-up grease and dirt I had to wonder if one had ever been applied. I explained what the floor needed was a really deep intensive clean and then a sealer applied to make it easy to keep clean. The problem with most tile and stone is its porosity and if left unprotected dirt easily becomes lodged into its pores making cleaning a struggle. To prove the difference that can be achieved and to allow me to work out a process on which I could base an accurate quote I ran a test clean on part of the kitchen floor. The test clean went very well, the difference was remarkable, and the cleaned section really stood out. Pleased with the potential of a clean floor they accepted my quote, and we pencilled a date in the diary. I returned on the appointed date and began by removing the kickboards from under the kitchen units to protect them from splashing. Next, I set about spaying the floor with a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean, this is a purpose made tile and grout cleaner that eats into the grease and dirt so it can be removed. This product works best if you leave it for ten minutes before scrubbing in using a heavy-duty machine fitted with a heavy-duty brush. The soil released from the floor was then extracted using a wet vacuum. The Pro-Clean did a good job on the grout however it was clear something stronger was required to really get the stone clean, so I stepped up a gear and applied Tile Doctor Remove and Go using the same process as before. This is a really good product for removing deeply ingrained grease and dirt. The final step of the cleaning process was to give the stone and acid wash using Tile Doctor Grout Clean-Up to remove old grout haze and other mineral deposits; additionally, being an acidic product, it counters the alkaline cleaning products used earlier neutralising the pH level of the floor and leaving it ready for sealing. Before sealing I like to discuss the different products available and the finishes they can provide. In this case my clients’ main concerns were that they wanted the stone to look natural and easy to maintain going forward. With this in mind, Tile Doctor Seal & Go Extra was chosen, it’s a modern acrylic-based sealer that brings out the natural colours in the stone and gives a very slight smooth finish. The protection it provides will prevent dirt becoming ingrained int the pores of the stone and ensure the floor is easier to maintain. Several coats were applied, until we achieved the required finish. The deep cleaning process and fresh sealer transformed the stone floor bringing out its original beauty and my customer couldn’t believe the difference in the floor and was highly delighted. For aftercare I gave the client a bottle of Tile Doctor Neutral Cleaner, this product is pH neutral so it will clean the floor but won’t damage the sealer. Often people use household cleaners for cleaning tiled floors, but due to the strong chemicals they contain, they can do more harm than good by slowly stripping away the protective sealer and taking the floor back to square one. Tile Doctor Neutral Tile Cleaner is reasonably priced, and the concentrated formula means a small amount goes a long way so it’s well worth using. This was a pleasurable job for me as it was good to see the floor transform from dull and lifeless to clean and showing the natural colour and beauty of the York stone, and always lovely to have another satisfied client. Simon Testa North East Yorkshire Tile Doctor

mel@media-bliss.com
Example of a small tuscan bathroom design with an undermount sink

It's known as the PISA/TIMSS voyaging convoy. Every time worldwide tests results are discharged with association tables indicating champs and failures a gaggle of scientists, scholastics and grouped kindred explorers plummet on the most astounding performing nation or instruction framework to break down and write about "world's best practice". The objective continues evolving One issue with thusly of deduction is that nobody framework reliably beats the rest. In light of the 1995 and 1999 TIMSS (Trends in International Math and Science Study) results, Asian instruction frameworks in Singapore, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan overwhelmed. Accordingly, the emphasis was immovably on recognizing the reasons the Asian tigers were performing so well. In the PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) 2000 results, Finland positioned first in education, fourth in arithmetic and third in science. Finland became the overwhelming focus and specialists and scholastics ran to Helsinki to find the reasons Finnish understudies performed at or close to the highest point of the table. By 2012, at the end of the day, an alternate training framework turned into the focal point of consideration. Finland descended the PISA rankings as another champ, Shanghai, rose as first in arithmetic, science and perusing. Apples aren't being contrasted with apples A second issue when making correlations is that the spots we've recognized as examples of overcoming adversity are distinctive to Australia. City-states like Singapore and instruction frameworks in profoundly performing spots like Hong Kong and Shanghai have remarkable qualities that separate them from nations like Australia, England and the USA. Contrasts in topography, the quantities of understudies and schools, the understudy cosmetics (as far as dialect, society and financial profile) and how schools, including educational modules and appraisal, are organized and oversaw significantly affect results. Singapore, when contrasted with Australia, is little topographically, more homogenous as far as dialect and culture and utilizes instructive practices that have long been out of support in Australia. These incorporate gushing kids in view of their abilities, and high-chance, focused tests and examinations. As noted in a paper titled How not to prevail upon PISA information: an unexpected examination, there are additionally social components clarifying solid execution that are troublesome, if not unimaginable, to exchange starting with one instruction framework then onto the next. Evident cases incorporate the effect of Confucian qualities and morals that stretch appreciation for power (particularly instructors), the conviction that achievement is conceivable with inspiration, fixation and diligent work, and the thought that training is focal if one is to accomplish a superior life. Confounding circumstances and end results Befuddling what has driven these nations to achievement speaks to the third trouble in expecting that what seems to prompt accomplishment in one nation can without much of a stretch be exchanged to another. To expect that everything we need to do in Australia to enhance test outcomes is to lessen the impact of the Australian Education Union, while being appealing to some, is both undemocratic and blameworthy of accepting circumstances and end results. There are a few advantages of abroad correlations PISA and TIMSS tests have been held for a long time. Thus, there is a decent arrangement of examination recognizing the attributes of more grounded performing instruction frameworks from which states and domains can learn. The early ethnographic work recording Japanese and American classes nitty gritty in Harvard distribution The Teaching Gap uncovers how the lessons in Asian classrooms are more unequivocal, obviously organized and sound and there is a desire that all understudies, with the essential offer and applications, some assistance with canning succeed. A later distribution by the Grattan Institute, Catching up: gaining from the best educational systems in East Asia, likewise distinguishes imperative lessons from fruitful Asian instruction frameworks. Positive variables incorporate giving instructors more opportunity to work cooperatively and to tutor each other, guaranteeing that educator training, course readings and the educational modules are commonly steady and concentrate on enhancing classroom rehearse. It ought to additionally be noticed that while Australian understudies don't perform in the top level in PISA and TIMSS tests, there is some reason for festivity. Understudies in the Australian Capital Territory perform well over the Australian normal and frequently coordinate the execution of top-performing abroad instruction frameworks. As far as lifting the execution of understudies from distraught foundations it is additionally critical to take note of that Catholic schools, in light of an investigation of the 2009 PISA results completed by the Australian Council for Educational Research, accomplish a value rating surpassing that of Finland. About the Author: Amy Parker writes too many academic papers for people who have troubles with it. She always gives needed advices, shows the examples of the papers and helps with writing at http://papersnetwork.net

Summer will soon be knocking at your door, begging you to come outside and spend time in its warm sunshine. The nicer weather means hosting family barbecues and parties, kicking back in the shade with a good book or floating around in the pool, allowing the stresses of everyday life to slowly drift away. Outdoor Seating - Sectional Is your back yard ready for all of the summertime fun? More specifically, take a good look at your patio furniture. Perhaps certain pieces should be spruced up or repurposed, while others may need to be replaced altogether. Whether you’re dealing with a big or small project, don’t let the details intimidate you. With the right preparation and planning, you can transform your outdoor living space into an oasis where everyone can relax and enjoy themselves. Choose Your Aesthetic Before you dive into an outdoor renovation and end up feeling like you’re drowning in all of the possibilities and decisions, take some time to think about how you envision your new space. How will you be using it? Do you spend more time entertaining or relaxing? What kind of seating do you need? Does it need to be kid- and/or pet-friendly? Do you prefer clean, modern lines or playful, colorful textures? Do you like harder surfaces, such as wood, or softer ones, like cushions? Addressing these questions should help you narrow down the outdoor seating options that work best for your family. Get Trendy Once you’ve honed in on your desired aesthetic, start putting your ideas into action. Looking at this year’s trends can help. For instance, the biggest trend of 2017 is bringing the indoor look outdoors. This theme incorporates plush sofas made from durable fabrics, side tables, ottomans, vibrant-colored throw pillows and outdoor rugs. To protect their outdoor living room, many homeowners also opt for a patio cover, which can be either a hard cover or soft awning. Outdoor Seating - Benches This year’s outdoor furniture also blends wood-grain finishes with worn surface textures and pairs neutral colors with pastels for a washed-out effect. When it comes to dining tables and chairs, classic wrought-iron tea garden furniture is always in style. Go Green Adding a new chair or replacing an entire outdoor living room can be a great opportunity to bring in materials that look great and are also good for the environment. You can make your own (try these ideas from WooHome) or purchase eco-friendly furniture from shops such as Breezesta and Viesso, which offer “green” seating options in a variety of styles and colors. Create A Warm Front While you’ll probably focus on furnishing your back yard, don’t forget to pay some attention to the front of your house, too. Curb appeal counts – it’s the first thing your friends and neighbors see, so making a good impression is a must. Be sure to keep the area clean. As for décor, don’t over-decorate. A simple rocking chair or swing can generate a warm, welcoming feeling for all. Stay On Budget Outdoor Seating - Wicker Whether money is no object or you follow a strict budget, options are available for every wallet. High-end luxury furniture sites such as Frontgate, offer posh designer couches, mosaic dining tables, cushioned hammocks and even a hanging daybed. However, affordable, luxurious-looking options are available, too — especially if you’re not afraid to roll up your sleeves and do some of the work yourself. Pinterest provides countless design inspirations for do-it-yourselfers, such as repurposing an old tire into a cushioned seat and building a lawn chair using wood pallets, among others. Plus, check out money-saving suggestions from Better Homes and Gardens’ Budget-Friendly Ideas for Outdoor Rooms, DIY Network’s 10 Outdoor Rooms on a Budget and HGTV’s 25 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Small Outdoor Spaces. Remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Concentrate on small areas and budget your time and money for the items that will best fit each space. Have you recently redone your outdoor living space? We’d love to see photos! Post them in the comments below.

A new boutique condominium building with only 29 residences in one of the most charming residential enclaves in Manhattan: 40 East End Avenue. In this dynamic collaboration with Gerner Kronick & Valcarel Architects and Deborah Berke Partners, Lightstone Group transcends the condominium status quo with the curated creation of nuanced individual residences designed to be true homes. The custom high-gloss lacquer painted Italian kitchen cabinetry, by Pedini, is complemented with hand-selected Italian Arabescato Cervaiole marble slabs. Upper cabinet doors feature a unique woven metal mesh panel and bevelled trim, adding a refined pattern to the kitchen composition. The state-of-the-art appliances by Gaggenau and the substantial kitchen island are as vital to cooking as they are to entertaining. The master bathroom, featuring a 6 foot soaking tub, walk-in shower and private water closet, is clad in Arabescato Cervaiole marble in a high-honed finish, complemented by fluted mirrored glass panels, Pedini custom Italian vanity and Waterworks Henry fixtures in polished nickel.

L'histoire Le parc McKellar d'Ottawa, développé dans les années 50, a émergé en tant que banlieue proche très recherchée avec des arbres matures, des espaces verts et un mélange plaisant mais éclectique de maisons à 2 étages principalement. Le mandat pour la résidence de la rue Wavell était de remplacer quelques maisons de longue date, mais problématiques structurellement, par une nouvelle conception reflétant l'individualité des maisons du voisinage sans toutefois y provoquer un choc majeur. Cohérente avec l'approche de Linebox, la nouvelle maison se concentre moins sur le fait d'être un objet architectural unique que de respecter son contexte; répondant pleinement aux besoins et désirs de vie de ses habitants. Les clients, habitant des "nids vides", avec un goût pour la conception cool et une vive perception de l'espace, appréciaient l'importance de l'ouverture et de la lumière naturelle. De plus, étant donné les fréquents dîners ou soupers, le coeur de la résidence doit donc être la cuisine. Par conséquent, une série intégrée de volumes animés entoure un intérieur qui est sculpté à la fois verticalement et horizontalement. En dehors d'un couloir d'entrée et d'un vestibule très fonctionnels nichés le long du mur sud et allant de l'entrée à la porte arrière, le 1er étage reste complètement ouvert. Cette ouverture assure un plein engagement entre le chef au travail et les invités, avec comme seul intermédiaire une grande île recouverte de béton avec des planches à découper en bois intégrées. Cette cuisine très bien équipée se tient sous un généreux bureau-mezzanine ouvert juste au-dessus alors que le volumineux salon de 2 étages est surmonté d'un puits de lumière. L'architecture, a déclaré le grand concepteur suisse Le Corbusier, est " un assemblage de formes dans la lumière" et, à la résidence Wavell, la lumière naturelle joue un rôle vital. Une grande fenêtre du côté est de la rue accueille à la fois le soleil du matin et assure que la maison présente une ouverture à la communauté. Le jour passant, les hautes fenêtres sur le mur nord de 2 étages permettent l'intimité tout en taquinant dans la lumière fraiche du nord agrémentée de la lumière naturelle du puits de lumière. Une grande fenêtre côté ouest donnant sur le jardin prend la responsabilité d'attraper la lumière tardive de l'après-midi et celle du soir. Par temps chaud, une terrasse sur le toit, accessible par un escalier fermé séparant la chambre principale du loft, est le refuge parfait pour se détendre lorsque le crépuscule tombe. Il y a une fantaisie décontractée à la fois dans l'intérieur fluide et baigné de lumière de Wavell et son approche robuste de la rue. Vu de cette dernière, la hauteur et la largeur de la maison s'insèrent respectueusement dans le voisinage. En revanche, une toiture plate et un mélange espiègle de lignes verticales et horizontales de volumes de cèdre teint et non teint établit clairement sa propre identité moderniste.

Custom Surface Solutions (www.css-tile.com) - Owner Craig Thompson (512) 430-1215. This project shows the remodel of a small 1950's vintage home master bathroom. 8"" x 18" Calcutta gold marble tile was used on the shower walls and floor wall base and ceramic gray penny tile on the floor. Shower includes curbless pan / floor, dual shower boxes, frameless glass slider, trough duel fixture sink and chrome fixtures.

Example of a large classic u-shaped dark wood floor eat-in kitchen design in Minneapolis with a double-bowl sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

Lisbon Cork Co. Ltd. Fine Cork Flooring combines the beauty of a natural material with the comfort of a cushioned surface. It is durable, acoustical, and a great insulator. The bark of the cork tree is peeled without destroying the tree and it grows back within nine years, ready to be harvested again. Warm to the touch and resilient, cork floors are a joy to live with. Cork is considered a green product because the same tree can be harvested numerous times.

Photo by Jay Sifford

Nicholas Gingold Photography

A large 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in New York City’s High Line area exhibits artisanal, custom furnishings throughout, creating a Mid-Century Modern look to the space. Also inspired by nature, we incorporated warm sunset hues of orange, burgundy, and red throughout the living area and tranquil blue, navy, and gray in the bedrooms. Stunning woodwork, unique artwork, and exquisite lighting can be found throughout this home, making every detail in this home add a special and customized look. The bathrooms showcase gorgeous marble walls which contrast with the dark chevron floor tiles, gold finishes, and espresso woods.

Office Workstations and Cubicles: The Unsung Heroes of Efficient Team Environments In today's fast-paced business world, the hum of productivity is the sweetest sound an office can produce. But what fuels this symphony of efficiency? While leadership and strategy are crucial, the physical environment in which a team operates plays a role that is just as vital. The debate between open-plan offices and traditional cubicles has raged for years, yet the truth is that a well-designed space incorporating both office workstations cubicles can be the key to unlocking a team's full potential. This isn't just about furniture; it's about creating a habitat for success. The Evolution of the Workspace: Beyond the Beige Box Gone are the days of monotonous rows of identical, soul-crushing cubicles. Modern office design has embraced a more nuanced understanding of worker needs. The contemporary workstation is a far cry from its predecessors, offering flexibility, ergonomic support, and a nod to aesthetic appeal. This evolution recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles creativity and productivity. Fostering Focus in a Sea of Collaboration While collaboration is a cornerstone of modern business, the need for individual, focused work remains paramount. This is where the modern cubicle shines. It provides a sanctuary from the constant distractions of a completely open office, allowing employees to delve deep into tasks that require concentration. This dedicated space minimizes interruptions, leading to higher quality work and reduced stress levels. The Power of Personalization and Ownership Giving employees a degree of control over their immediate environment can have a profound impact on morale and engagement. Modern workstations and cubicles that allow for personalization be it through adjustable shelving, pinboards for personal items, or even the choice of chair foster a sense of ownership. This small act of empowerment can translate into a greater sense of belonging and commitment to the organization. Ergonomics: The Foundation of Employee Well-being and Productivity A comfortable employee is a productive employee. Ergonomics is not a luxury; it's a fundamental necessity in any office environment. Poorly designed workstations can lead to a host of musculoskeletal issues, from back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting in increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency. Investing in ergonomic chairs, adjustable-height desks, and properly positioned monitors is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your team. Designing for Synergy: The Strategic office layout design The arrangement of workstations and cubicles is as important as the furniture itself. A strategic office layout design can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration while still providing pockets of privacy for focused work. This involves creating "neighborhoods" for different teams, placing collaborative zones in central, easily accessible areas, and ensuring that high-traffic pathways don't cut through quiet work zones. Breaking Down Barriers with Hybrid Designs The most effective office environments often feature a hybrid approach. This might involve clusters of cubicles for focused work, interspersed with open, collaborative "huddle spaces" equipped with whiteboards and comfortable seating. This variety allows employees to choose the environment that best suits the task at hand, offering the best of both worlds. The Role of Acoustics in a Thriving Workplace Noise is one of the biggest complaints in open-plan offices. Well-designed cubicles with sound-dampening panels can significantly mitigate this issue. Furthermore, incorporating acoustic solutions throughout the office, such as sound-absorbing materials on walls and ceilings, can create a more pleasant and productive auditory environment for everyone. Integrating Technology for a Seamless Workflow In the digital age, technology is the lifeblood of any business. Modern office workstations are designed with this in mind, featuring integrated power and data ports, cable management systems, and ample space for multiple monitors. This seamless integration of technology ensures that employees have the tools they need to work efficiently and without frustration. Choosing the Right Partner for Your Office Environment The task of outfitting an office can be daunting. Partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable Meet&Co commercial furniture supplier is crucial to creating an environment that is both functional and inspiring. A good supplier will not only offer a wide range of high-quality products but will also provide expert advice on space planning and ergonomic best practices, ensuring that your investment yields the best possible return. The Future of the Office: Flexibility and Adaptability The world of work is constantly evolving, and office design must evolve with it. The future lies in creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of a business. Modular furniture and movable partitions are key components of this future-proof approach, allowing organizations to scale and adapt without the need for costly and disruptive renovations. Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in Your Greatest Asset Ultimately, the design of your office is a direct reflection of your company's culture and values. By investing in high-quality, ergonomic, and well-designed office workstations and cubicles, you are sending a clear message to your employees: their well-being and productivity matter. This strategic investment in your physical workspace is, in fact, an investment in your most valuable asset your people. The result is a more engaged, efficient, and innovative team, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Small farmhouse kids' white tile and porcelain tile marble floor and white floor alcove shower photo in Oklahoma City with shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door and white countertops

Colonial White, 3 cm natural granite Price Level Medium Country of origin: China Overall white stone, with pearl sparkles and spots of cranberry

Inspiration for a transitional galley brown floor kitchen remodel in Houston with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, beige backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops