Maria Bortugno
Family room - country family room idea

The End of the Ultra-Slim Wedding Suit For several years, men’s formalwear was dominated by narrow lapels, short jackets and trousers cut close to the leg. The style created a sharp outline, but it often left little room for sitting, dancing or eating comfortably. Current tailoring is moving towards a more balanced shape, with cleaner shoulders, a defined waist and trousers that follow the leg without gripping it.This change does not mean that wedding suits have become oversized. The newer approach sits between skinny and loose. It keeps the structure expected of formal clothing while allowing the cloth to hang properly. For grooms, that balance is useful during a day that may involve a ceremony, photographs, dinner and several hours on the dance floor. Look For Shape Rather Than Tightness A well-fitted suit should create a clear outline without relying on tension. Collections of Marc Darcy suits include tailored three-piece designs, checks and textured fabrics that suit the current preference for visible structure and considered proportions. The jacket should sit close enough to define the waist, but the front button should fasten without pulling the cloth into an X-shaped crease. At the shoulders, the seam should finish close to the natural shoulder point. Extra width can make the jacket look borrowed, while a shoulder that is too narrow may cause the upper sleeve to collapse. Fit should be assessed while moving as well as standing. Reach forward, sit down and raise both arms. A tailored jacket will never feel like casual sportswear, but it should allow the groom to carry out ordinary movements without sharp restriction across the back or chest. Give The Jacket Enough Length Very short suit jackets became common alongside skinny trousers, but they can disrupt the proportions of a three-piece outfit. If the jacket finishes too high, the waistcoat may appear longer than the outer layer and the trousers may look as though they begin too low. A more traditional jacket length usually covers most of the seat and divides the body more evenly. This can make the legs appear longer without shortening the jacket excessively. The correct length depends on height and body proportions, so two men wearing the same chest size may still need different jacket lengths. View the suit from the back and side rather than relying on a front-facing mirror. The vents should lie flat, and the hem should not lift away from the body. A side photograph can reveal an unbalanced jacket more clearly than the changing-room mirror. Choose Trousers That Fall Cleanly The move away from very tight tailoring is most noticeable in suit trousers. A modern tailored leg can still be neat at the ankle, but it should provide enough room through the seat and thigh for the fabric to fall without horizontal lines. Trouser pockets offer a useful fit check. If they pull open while standing, the waist or hips may be too tight. The fly should lie flat, and the waistband should remain in place without depending on an overtightened belt. Higher-rise trousers can work particularly well with a waistcoat because they reduce the chance of shirt fabric appearing between the two pieces. The hem should make gentle contact with the shoe rather than gathering heavily around it. A short hem can work with narrow trousers but taking it too far may make the suit look dated once the current cropped style moves on. A slight break is easier to wear with different formal shoes and tends to look balanced in full-length wedding photographs. Let The Waistcoat Support the Silhouette A waistcoat adds structure through the centre of the outfit, but only when it fits correctly. It should lie flat against the shirt and cover the trouser waistband. Tightening the back strap cannot correct a waistcoat that is the wrong size or too short. Current three-piece styling often places greater emphasis on the waistcoat. Double-breasted designs, contrasting fabrics and wider openings can distinguish the groom without requiring a brightly coloured jacket. When the groom removes the jacket later, the waistcoat keeps the outfit looking complete. Allow room for a full meal and several hours of wear. A waistcoat that feels acceptably close during a brief fitting may become uncomfortable at dinner. Sit down with every button fastened and check whether the lower edge presses into the waist or causes the front to bow. Use Stronger Lapels Carefully Wider notch and peak lapels are returning after years of extremely narrow designs. A broader lapel can frame the shirt and tie, balance the shoulders and give the jacket a more formal character. Peak lapels create a particularly strong line on double-breasted jackets and evening suits. The lapel width should still suit the wearer. A very broad lapel can overwhelm a smaller frame, while an extremely narrow one may look out of proportion on a broad chest. The shirt collar, tie width and lapel should relate to one another without matching exactly. A wider lapel also leaves less need for decorative extras. A simple buttonhole flower or plain pocket square may be enough. Large lapel pins can crowd the upper part of the jacket, especially when the cloth already contains a check. Avoid Buying According to the Size Label Alone The same labelled size can fit differently across designs because cut, fabric and construction affect the garment. Begin with accurate chest, waist, inside-leg and approximate jacket-length measurements. Compare those figures with the retailer’s size information rather than ordering the size worn in another brand without checking. If the jacket fits at the shoulders but needs slight shaping through the waist, a tailor can often make the adjustment. Sleeves and trouser hems are also commonly altered. Major changes to the shoulder line or jacket length are more difficult and may not be economical. Do not choose the smallest size that can be fastened. A suit that looks tight in the fitting room is unlikely to become more comfortable during a long wedding day. Cloth should skim the body and return to a clean position after movement. Balance a checked suit with simple styling Texture and checks remain popular in wedding tailoring, particularly for country houses, converted barns and traditional venues. These fabrics already add depth to the outfit, so the cut should remain controlled and the accessories relatively quiet. A plain white, pale blue or cream shirt gives a checked suit a clear foundation. Choose a tie from one of the secondary colours in the cloth rather than introducing another strong pattern. A white pocket square works when the suit contains several shades and does not need further decoration. Shoes should support the proportions of the trousers. A very slim shoe may appear too small beneath a fuller hem, while a heavy casual sole can pull attention away from the tailoring. Oxfords, Derbies and refined brogues usually provide enough visual weight without looking bulky. Coordinate the wedding party without forcing one fit Matching groomsmen suits can become difficult when every member of the party has a different build. Insisting on an identical close fit may leave some men comfortable and others visibly restricted. A better approach is to keep the cloth, colour and main design consistent while adjusting jacket and trouser sizes for each person. The groom can stand apart through a waistcoat, lapel shape or accessory rather than wearing a suit cut much tighter than everyone else. This creates a connection across the group without treating one silhouette as suitable for every body. Arrange fittings early enough to identify size and alteration issues. Group orders should be checked well before the wedding, particularly when trousers need hemming or jackets require sleeve adjustments. Each person should try the complete outfit with the intended shirt and shoes. Judge the suit by the whole day A wedding fitting often lasts less than half an hour, while the suit may be worn for twelve hours or more. Comfort should therefore be tested under realistic conditions. Sit for several minutes, walk upstairs and check the waistband after moving around. Pay attention to the parts that cannot be seen clearly in a mirror. The collar should remain close to the shirt at the back of the neck. Jacket vents should not pull apart, and the trouser seat should follow the body without sagging or strain. The current move towards balanced tailoring gives grooms more room to choose clothes that look formal without feeling restrictive. Clean shoulders, a shaped jacket and trousers with a natural fall will outlast extreme proportions. A suit that allows the groom to stand, sit and celebrate comfortably is also more likely to look composed in photographs taken throughout the day.

Embarking on a bathroom remodeling project is an exciting endeavor that can greatly enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and value of your home. However, finding a reliable and skilled contractor in a bustling city like Los Angeles can be a daunting task. To simplify the process and ensure a successful bathroom renovation, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to find a reputable bathroom remodeling contractor in Los Angeles, California. Start with Online Research: The first step in your quest for a reliable contractor is to conduct thorough online research. Utilize search engines like Google to find bathroom remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. Be sure to include specific keywords such as "bathroom remodeling," "contractor," and "Los Angeles" to refine your search results. Check Online Directories and Review Platforms: Explore online directories and review platforms like Yelp, Angie's List, and Houzz to find a curated list of bathroom remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. These platforms often provide detailed information about contractors, including customer reviews, ratings, project photos, and contact details. Assess the overall rating and read through multiple reviews to gauge the contractor's reputation and reliability. Seek Recommendations: Ask friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who have recently undergone a bathroom remodeling project in Los Angeles for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences that online research may not uncover. Inquire about the contractor's professionalism, craftsmanship, adherence to timelines, and overall satisfaction with the project. Verify Credentials and Licensing: Once you have shortlisted potential contractors, it is crucial to verify their credentials and licensing. Check if they are licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) in California. A valid license ensures that the contractor meets the state's requirements and regulations. Additionally, inquire about their insurance coverage to protect against any potential liabilities during the remodeling process. Evaluate Experience and Expertise: Assess the experience and expertise of the contractors on your list. Look for contractors who specialize in bathroom remodeling and have a proven track record of successful projects. Review their portfolios or ask for references to see examples of their previous work. A skilled contractor should be able to handle a variety of bathroom designs and styles, and provide creative solutions to meet your specific needs. Schedule In-Person Consultations: Arrange in-person consultations with the shortlisted contractors. Use this opportunity to discuss your remodeling goals, budget, timeline, and any specific requirements you may have. A reputable contractor will listen attentively, provide insights, and offer suggestions based on their expertise. Pay attention to their communication style, professionalism, and responsiveness, as these qualities are crucial for a smooth working relationship. Request Detailed Quotes and Contracts: Ask the contractors for detailed written quotes that outline the project's scope, materials, labor costs, and any additional expenses. A comprehensive quote will help you compare the estimates provided by different contractors effectively. Once you have selected a contractor, ensure that you have a detailed contract in place that covers all aspects of the project, including timelines, payment schedules, warranties, and dispute resolution processes. Seek Permits and Building Code Compliance: Bathroom remodeling projects often require permits and adherence to building codes. A reputable contractor will be familiar with the local building regulations in Los Angeles and should handle the permit application process on your behalf. Verify that the contractor will obtain the necessary permits and ensure that all work is compliant with local codes and regulations. Conclusion: Finding a bathroom remodeling contractor in Los Angeles, California, may seem overwhelming, but by following these guidelines, you can streamline the process and select a contractor who meets your expectations. Conduct thorough online research, seek recommendations, verify credentials, evaluate experience, and schedule in-person consultations to make an informed decision.

Use of retaining walls allow for a perfect location to plant herbs, vegetables and edible plants near the outdoor kitchen.
Inspiration for a mid-sized partial sun backyard mulch vegetable garden landscape in Denver for spring.

Jill Buckner Photography Seeking a comfortable and casual weekend home for their family, our clients ask for the design team to create a system sophisticated yet "unbuttoned” space to complement their Harbor Country lakeside retreat. Every detail of the space – from the custom cabinetry and millwork to the exaggerated curved legs of the oversized island – was redesigned to add a touch of style and character. The repurposed barn wood throughout incorporates a rustic element, paying homage to the home's natural surroundings. The final redesign pulls together layers of natural elements to blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. For more than 40 years, Fredman Design Group has been in the business of Interior Design. Throughout the years, we’ve built long-lasting relationships with our clients through our client-centric approach. When creating designs, our decisions depend on the personality of our clients—their dreams and their aspirations. We manifest their lifestyle by incorporating elements of design with those of our clients to create a unique environment, down to the details of the upholstery and accessories. We love it when a home feels finished and lived in, with various layers and textures. While each of our clients and their stories has varied over the years, they’ve come to trust us with their projects—whether it’s a single room to the larger complete renovation, addition, or new construction. They value the collaborative team that is behind each project, embracing the diversity that each designer is able to bring to their project through their love of art, travel, fashion, nature, history, architecture or film—ultimately falling in love with the nurturing environments we create for them. We are grateful for the opportunity to tell each of clients’ stories through design. What story can we help you tell? Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation - 312-587-9184

Victorian tiles are very hard-wearing and historically a popular choice for heavy traffic areas such as hallways. Still popular today they are nonetheless like most tiles and can become ingrained with dirt over time. This particular floor, located in a property in the old market town of Tewkesbury is a good example of a floor that was in good physical condition, but heavily ingrained with dirt due to a lack of regular maintenance. At a loss for how to remedy the situation by themselves, the property owner asked me to pay a visit to restore the tiles back to their best possible condition. In this particular scenario, I opted to mix and apply a solution of different cleaning products from our professional range, each serving a different purpose. These products were Tile Doctor Pro Clean, Tile Doctor Remove and Go, and Tile Doctor NanoTech HBU. Remove and Go serves the purpose of stripping away any old sealer on the tiles, while Pro Clean is an alkaline cleaner that reliably removes dirt and staining. NanoTech HBU is a particularly powerful cleaner which utilises nano-sized particles to penetrate deep into the pores of the stone, get underneath difficult stains and lift them out. I spread this potent solution across the length and width of the tiled hallway and left it to soak for approximately 10 minutes, before using a black scrubbing pad fitted to my buffing machine to give the tiles a deep scrub. Next, I rinsed the soiled solution away and neutralised the chemicals with plain water, before extracting any residue using a wet vacuum. I repeated the cleaning process several times to achieve the best results possible, and I also employed the aid of a steam cleaner to spot clean any particularly stubborn marks. Cleaning the floor took two days in total. At the end of the second day, I gave the floor a thorough and final rinse before leaving it to dry completely overnight. The next day, I returned to the property to seal the floor after checking the floor was dry. Ensuring before sealing that the floor is completely dry is crucial – even the smallest quantity of moisture remaining can potentially cloud the sealer and damage its performance. My choice of sealer was Tile Doctor Colour Grow, an impregnating sealer that penetrates and fills the pores of the tile to prevent trapped dirt and makes regular cleaning much easier. Colour Grow is a great choice of sealer for Victorian tiles because it really enhances the colourful patterns which are characteristic of this type of tile. My customer was very impressed with the service and remarked on the huge improvement to the appearance of the floor. You can see this for yourself – just take a look at the before and after photos! Malcolm Crowther Gloucester Tile Doctor

Chris Golden
Inspiration for a transitional carpeted living room remodel in Phoenix with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

I recently visited a customer living in the village of Ravensthorpe, just outside Northampton to rejuvenate a 15-year-old multi coloured Chinese riven slate floor that needed a deep professional clean. Slate is a hard-wearing tile used for flooring high traffic areas but does need sealing to bring out its best features. In this case the sealer had long since worn off and dirt had become ingrained in the stone making it difficult to clean effectively. We discussed the client’s requirements and the cleaning process I planned to follow to rejuvenate the floor. I had to check on availability, so I e-mailed over a quote and some dates later that day. They were happy with my proposal and agreed for the work to be done whilst the customers were on holiday. My first task was to test a small area to determine which products would give the best results. In this case, I decided to start with a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Remove and Go which is a strong alkaline cleaner/coatings remover that’s safe to use on Tile and Stone. I spread this solution across a section of the floor and left it to seep into the pores of the stone and lift out the ingrained dirt. After allowing the solution adequate time to dwell, I scrubbed the slate with a carbon brush fitted to a rotary machine to gradually reveal the fantastic natural colours of the Slate hidden beneath the dirt. Happy with my choice of cleaning product I repeated this process in sections until it had been carried out throughout the entire area. Following this, I rinsed the entire floor several times with clean water, before soaking up the resulting soiled residue with a wet vacuum. The next part of the cleaning process entailed paying attention to the grout lines which were scrubbed using Tile Doctor Grout Clean-Up. The resulting residue was promptly extracted with the wet vacuum and I finished by giving the whole floor a rinse with Tile Doctor pH Neutral Tile Cleaner. This is a day to day tile cleaning product which is recommended for stone floors, many supermarket tile cleaning products are only suitable for ceramic tiles due to their acidic formula and can damage a floor over years of use so you should always read the label. However, I always leave my clients with a complimentary bottle of a suitable Tile Doctor product to maintain their floors. The floor was left to dry off overnight and I returned on the second day to seal the floor. Before starting I checked the floor was dry using a damp meter which confirmed the Slate was dry and ready to seal. The floor must be completely dry before sealing as any excess moisture has the potential to the damage the performance of the sealer. Since my client had specifically requested a silk finish, I opted to use Tile Doctor Seal and Go which dries to leave a lovely subtle sheen that really enhances the look of the stone. Five coats were applied to ensure a good hard-wearing protection. My client was very pleased with the results, particularly as they hadn’t realised how much colour it had lost over the years and left the following feedback on our website. ”I despaired of having a clean-looking floor again. Phil Vissian assured me that intensive deep cleaning and resealing could restore our fifteen year old, subtly coloured, Chinese riven slate kitchen floor. He has done a fantastic job. Looks like new, and I shall book Phil for an annual professional clean, so that it never gets as bad again.” Sally M, Northampton Phil Vissian Northamptonshire Tile Doctor

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and legendary artist Snoop Dogg on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit series CELEBRITY IOU. In the Snoop Dogg’s Winning Gift episode, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, the 50 year old hip hop icon, songwriter, and media personality aka Snoop Dogg, trades in his mic for a sledgehammer and helps transform his close friend and business partner Commish’s old detached garage into a personalized luxury retreat meets home office where he can work, have a space for league meetings or just take time out to relax with his family and friends . Khalil ‘Commish’ Wadood has spent more than 17 years humbly serving the Compton Community as the commissioner of Snoop Dogg’s Youth Football League. Snoop credits Commish for brining his vision to life. His dedication to the leagues is what helped the program succeed. “He’s graced so many kids and families and serves as a family figure to many,” praised Snoop Dogg. “It’s time he gets what he deserves. This is something I wanted to do for him to just let him know I love him and I care about him. He never dreamed of it or wanted it, but it still is a dream come true.” All Weather SERIES 7000 Swing Doors with sidelites welcomes friends and family to this life-changing, multi purpose retreat renovation that features a cutting edge kitchen that is outfitted with the latest technology. From built-in microwave oven and mini bar to an induction cooktop to the 60-inch TV what rises out of the countertop. To keep the party going on the outside, an outside counter was built for easy access to the kitchen along with an outdoor grill and island with bar seating. To pay homage to the Commish’s favorite NFL team, the Raiders, The Property Brothers chose modern black and white design elements for the living space, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor patio with high end style and high tech finishes. Check out the stylish PROJECT PHOTOS here Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

Bath mats are vital elements in bathroom decor, beautifully blending style and functionality. These bath rugs offer essential moisture protection, ensuring your floors remain dry while providing slip prevention for safety. When choosing a bath mat, prioritize quality; look for options that are absorbent, comfortable, and add warmth to your space. Consider the size and proportion of the bath mat in relation to your tub and vanity. If you have a double vanity, you can select individual rugs for each sink or opt for a long runner rug for a cohesive appearance. Always measure your bathroom area to ensure a perfect fit, allowing enough space for doors to open freely. Durability is another crucial factor. Since bath mats frequently encounter water and foot traffic, choose rugs with a nonslip surface and rubber backing to enhance safety on wet floors. Many options are crafted from high-quality cotton, providing a soft texture and easy maintenance, as most are machine washable. However, some may require professional cleaning, so checking care instructions is advisable. The choice of bath mat size largely depends on the area you want to cover and the dimensions of your bathroom. Look for a shower mat that is appropriately sized for your tub and vanity, ensuring it provides adequate coverage. If your bathroom features a double vanity, you can opt for either individual rugs for each sink or a long runner rug for a cohesive appearance. Before shopping, take measurements of the spaces to ensure a perfect fit. In smaller bathrooms, remember to leave enough space for the door to swing open without obstructing the rug. Durability should be a top consideration when selecting a bath mat. Since shower mats are frequently exposed to water and heavy foot traffic, it’s important to prioritize quality. Look for options with a nonslip surface and rubber backing to reduce the risk of slipping when the floor or mat is wet. Additionally, pay attention to the cleaning instructions. Most mats are crafted from cotton or chenille and can be machine washed, but some may require professional cleaning, so it’s best to verify before making a purchase. moisture and helping prevent slips. When choosing a bath mat, quality is just as essential as aesthetics; you'll want one that not only looks appealing and is absorbent but also feels comfortable underfoot. As you search for the ideal bath rug, consider these helpful tips to guide your decision. The choice of bath mat size largely depends on the area you want to cover and the dimensions of your bathroom. Look for a shower mat that is appropriately sized for your tub and vanity, ensuring it provides adequate coverage. If your bathroom features a double vanity, you can opt for either individual rugs for each sink or a long runner rug for a cohesive appearance. Before shopping, take measurements of the spaces to ensure a perfect fit. In smaller bathrooms, remember to leave enough space for the door to swing open without obstructing the rug. Durability should be a top consideration when selecting a bath mat. Since shower mats are frequently exposed to water and heavy foot traffic, it’s important to prioritize quality. Look for options with a nonslip surface and rubber backing to reduce the risk of slipping when the floor or mat is wet. Additionally, pay attention to the cleaning instructions. Most mats are crafted from cotton or chenille and can be machine washed, but some may require professional cleaning, so it’s best to verify before making a purchase. Having a bubbly pink color, this polyester footmat from Turkey ensures that it gets noticed by one and all. Its oriental patterns follow a definite sense of standard geometry. Buy it for your house and it will become an inseparable part of it for sure.

Personal home of John Colaneri, TV Host and Homebuilder.
Inspiration for a contemporary medium tone wood floor and brown floor living room remodel

A growing trend in today’s home interiors is that of luxurious bathrooms. Homeowners think about investing in an elegant and cosy bathroom due to various reasons. Some of them see the bathroom as their temple of solace, where they do all their special self-care activities. Others want their bathrooms to be the space where they can enjoy the time with themselves. People also see the bathroom as an extension of their taste and personality. There are ways, however, to achieve a luxurious ambiance in your bathroom. If you check out the best interior design in Singapore recommendations, here are some of the most valuable tips and tricks that you may do: 1. Invest in cove lighting. Cove lights are trending these days because of the way they change the environmental settings of any room. They are not as bright as general lighting, but they can illuminate the space just right. They are also very versatile and can be installed in bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and most notably, bathrooms. Instead of using a central light in your bathroom, it would be posher to use cove lights. The light source is not blinding but is enough to illuminate the area evenly. The lights, due to their skewed diffusion, do not overlap each other, so you can enjoy an intimate ambiance while doing your self-care tasks. 2. Have a bathtub in place. One of the most important aspects of a luxurious bathroom is the bathtub. It not only symbolises that you have the money to spend on one, but more importantly, you can afford the space for it. You also have the time to relax and enjoy a long bath with the tub in your bathroom. While it is more common to have a built-in tub in most bathrooms (as a way to utilise space), you may opt for the standalone kind. This tub is not fastened onto the wall but instead held stable on the floor (similar to those in Victorian-era mansions). You may also have your water system customised to accommodate the tub. 3. Declutter. Achieving a luxurious bathroom doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot on it. The best interior designs in Singapore feature bathrooms that are minimalist in terms of décor and style. You can start by removing all the unnecessary items in your bathroom, cleaning up all corners down to the last speck of dust. You may then have it repainted with a colour scheme that speaks of cleanliness, relaxation, and peace. These shades include white, grey, blue, and green, as they are relaxing to the eyes and easy to clean. You may also want to invest in an organiser, where you can place all your toiletries in one place and not have them occupy your bathroom surfaces. This way, it will be easier for you to add decorations and other accents to create a cosy vibe. It also pays to have an indoor plant as an accent in your bathroom. Not only does it speak of freshness (which today’s luxe homes embrace), but it also offers a pop of colour that breaks the monotony of your bathroom colour scheme.

Earlier this summer I was called out to this job in the garden of a house in the city of Ely to inspect a freshly laid porcelain tiled patio with grout haze issues. The builder who had installed the patio hadn’t removed all the grout from the textured surface of the tile before it had dried. This was probably due to the hot weather which reduces drying times and has caught many tilers out. Multiple repeat visits by the builder trying followed who spent countless hours trying to remove the grout haze, unfortunately due to the textured surface of the tile he was unable to remove it and the patio was left looking awful. Like the builder we are increasingly finding modern grouts, which although more durable, are very difficult to remove. Fortunately belonging to the Tile Doctor network, I had already been made aware of this problem and was able to offer a solution. I arranged to pay the property a visit to demonstrate a potential solution and quote for resolving the issues. Even though the grout haze was indeed difficult to remove it wasn’t impossible if you know how. The demonstration came out well and relieved that they had finally found a solution to the problem booked me in to get the work carried out. On my return I started with the application of a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Grout Clean-Up. This product is ideal for removing grout haze or smears as they often referred to; however, being acidic we don’t recommend it for use on every surface so if your using it yourself do check the label first. I left it to soak in for ten minutes before being agitated with a black scrubbing pad fitted to a rotary buffer The weather was good, so it wasn’t a problem working outside and once all the grout smears were removed, I finished off by giving the whole patio a high-pressure rinse. I use a van mounted rinse/extraction system for this that applies warm water at high pressure onto the patio to dislodge dirt and then extracts the waste into a separate tank in the vehicle. It was an expensive investment but makes light work of jobs like this. It took around four to five cleans to complete the job, by the late afternoon the grout haze was gone, and the porcelain patio looked completely transformed. It was quite a warm day, so the patio soon dried allowing my client to use it later that day. I should mention that this variety of Porcelain tiles were not the micro porous type and therefore did not need to be sealed. Relieved the problem was finally resolved and happy with the result my client left the following feedback: Amazing service, they were able to provide us with a quote and demo before we agreed to work. We are so happy with the results we have as our patio slabs looked ruined to the eye but the Tile Doctor managed to get them looking brand new. Tom Conlon Cambridge Tile Doctor