How do you add warmth and character to a new modern kitchen? Add a touch of vintage to the mix via the art of salvaged artifacts. The perfect focal point was created using this ceiling tin as a backsplash. It offers a trash to treasure or “tossed and found” solution. What an unexpected and refreshing option to predictable tile.

Exterior painting and decorating work to the doors are not easy - unseen damage are hard to predict... The repair is not easy but with right knowledge, tools, and specialist product the door and frame will last at least 20 more years. For any enquire regarding exterior work please visit . https://midecor.co.uk/door-painting-services-in-putney/

This bathroom went with engineered quartz on the vanity. to match the shower walls which gives the whole room one consistent look instead of switching materials halfway up. Quartz is manufactured, so slab to slab the pattern stays predictable. We used an eased edge on the vanity top. It's a simple, soft break on the corners instead of a sharp square or a heavy bullnose. Nothing fancy about it, but that's the point. It doesn't fight with the rest of the room, it doesn't collect grime in a tight profile line, and it wears well over the years without chipping the way a sharp square or some of the more expensive routed edges can. Day to day, this is a low-maintenance room. Quartz resists staining from soap, shampoo, and the usual bathroom products, and it cleans up with basically anything you've already got under the sink. The vanity top holds up fine against everyday use, hairspray, makeup, whatever gets set down on it. It's the kind of surface you install once and don't think about again. We do this kind of work across the Midlands, and a bathroom like this is a good example of why quartz gets specified so often in these spaces. It gives homeowners a durable, consistent, easy-care surface on both the vertical and horizontal parts of the room, and it's ready to use as soon as we're out the door.

Norfolk is one of the UK's most charming destinations, known for its peaceful coastlines, historic towns, and beautiful countryside. Every year, thousands of visitors choose to stay in travel lodges across the region — and it's easy to understand why. These accommodations offer convenience, comfort, and value, making them a favourite among solo travellers, couples, and families exploring Eastern England. In this article, we look at the main reasons travellers love staying in travel lodges in Norfolk, and what makes the region such a welcoming place for a relaxing break.
1. Prime Locations Close to Popular Attractions
Travel lodges in Norfolk are often located near the region's top sights, making it easy for visitors to explore without long travel times. Some of the most popular spots nearby include:

• The Norfolk Broads National Park
• Great Yarmouth's sandy beaches
• Norwich Cathedral and historic streets
• Cromer and Sheringham coastal towns
• Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea

Being close to these attractions means travellers save time and enjoy more of their holiday without worrying about complicated transport.
2. Comfortable Rooms at Affordable Prices
One of the biggest reasons travellers love travel lodges is the balance of comfort and affordability. The rooms are clean, modern, and designed for a relaxing stay without the high cost of luxury hotels. This makes them ideal for:

• Weekend trips
• Family holidays
• Road trips
• Business stays

Visitors know they will get a good night's sleep without overspending, which is especially helpful for longer stays when exploring Norfolk's many villages and landmarks. 3. Perfect for Road Trips Around Norfolk Norfolk is a great destination for road trips thanks to its open landscapes and scenic coastal routes. Travel lodges often have:

• Free or affordable parking
• Easy access to major roads
• Nearby restaurants and services

For travellers driving across the region, staying in a lodge makes the journey simple and stress-free. 4. Family-Friendly and Flexible for All Types of Guests Many travel lodges in Norfolk are designed to welcome families and groups. They offer:

• Spacious family rooms
• Extra beds when needed
• Nearby food outlets and supermarkets
• Quiet environments for restful nights

This flexibility is one of the reasons parents choose travel lodges — they are comfortable, predictable, and suitable for all ages. 5. Consistent Quality Across Locations Whether a traveller stays in Norwich, King's Lynn, Great Yarmouth, or the Norfolk Broads area, the experience is usually consistent. People appreciate knowing what to expect:

• Clean rooms
• Reliable service
• Comfortable bedding
• Practical amenities

This consistency builds trust and encourages repeat stays, both within Norfolk and across the UK. 6. Great Base for Exploring Nature and the Coast Many travellers come to Norfolk for nature. From bird-watching at Cley Marshes to long walks along the coast, the region offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Travel lodges make the perfect base for:

• Wildlife trips
• Coastal hikes
• Boat rides on the Broads
• Countryside cycling routes

Visitors can enjoy full days out in nature and return to a comfortable, quiet room. 7. Modern Amenities Without Extra Hassle Travel lodges typically include practical amenities that travellers appreciate, such as:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Comfortable workspaces
• Hot showers
• Tea and coffee facilities

These small but important details make short stays more convenient and enjoyable. Conclusion Travellers love travel lodges in Norfolk because they offer everything people need for an enjoyable stay: excellent locations, affordable comfort, family-friendly features, and easy access to the region's beautiful landscapes. Whether someone is exploring historic Norwich, relaxing on the coast, or discovering the Norfolk Broads, travel lodges provide a simple and reliable

When night falls, however, the visual reading predictably inverts. Exploring this quality, the architect was intrigued with the extent to which the house could become transparent and open when lit from within. Rion Rizzo Photographer

Exterior painting and decorating work to the doors are not easy - unseen damage are hard to predict... The repair is not easy but with right knowledge, tools, and specialist product the door and frame will last at least 20 more years. For any enquire regarding exterior work please visit . https://midecor.co.uk/door-painting-services-in-putney/

This design captures the spirit of eclectic modernity—boldly combining texture, form, and soulful detail. It embraces both clean contemporary lines and layered, curated elements, resulting in a space that feels thoughtfully collected, not predictable. Textural richness is at the forefront—soft upholstery pairs with sleek surfaces, and mixed finishes (polished metals, matte woods, and plush textiles) create a tactile and visual dialogue. The contrast between refined and cozy elements builds warmth and sophistication. The layout balances openness with intimacy. Thoughtfully placed furniture and visual rhythms guide movement through the space, allowing each area to feel both connected and distinct. Lighting is composed with subtlety and intention—ambient fixtures and layered lighting gently sculpt the environment. Shadows and highlights enhance the ambiance without overpowering the architectural interplay. This space tells a story of modern living infused with personality. It’s dynamic yet grounded—inviting curiosity, conversation, and comfort in equal measure.

Large 1950s gray two-story mixed siding house exterior idea in Austin with a hip roof, a metal roof and a gray roof

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

Exterior painting and decorating work to the doors are not easy - unseen damage are hard to predict... The repair is not easy but with right knowledge, tools, and specialist product the door and frame will last at least 20 more years. For any enquire regarding exterior work please visit . https://midecor.co.uk/door-painting-services-in-putney/

The only popcorn left in this place is "Fishers Popcorn"! The first order of business - eliminate the caked on popcorn walls and ceiling, no easy task! Second - design a functional eat-in kitchen with what little wall space was available. Third - Lighting! It was important to have more cabinet storage, trash can pull out, an actual silverware drawer and of course a coffee bar. To keep it budget friendly I kept the existing refrigerator and dishwasher and replaced the bulky range and micro hood with a peninsula configuration. I decided to use copper lighting and accents as opposed to the predictable silver or gold. I think it really pops off the harbor blue cabinets and gives a subtle, feminine, mermaid feel. To top this kitchen off right, a scale tile backsplash and Quartz Borghini countertops with waterfalls were installed. Backsplash/Counters: American Granite, Bishopville, MD Photography: Ricky Johnson, Fenwick Island, DE Dining Set/Sleeper Sofa: Casual Designs Furniture, Heidi Rae Ocean City, MD

Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman l-shaped dark wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Milwaukee with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Michael Moran/OTTO photography We took a predictable suburban spec house and transformed it into a unique home of enduring value and family-centered design. The existing footprint was expanded where it needed it most: in the family and kitchen area, creating a large square room with open views to a protected nature preserve abutting the property. An unexpected glass canopy and teak entry door are clues that what lies beyond is hardly commonplace. The design challenge was to infuse modern-day functionality and architectural quality into a spec house. Working in partnership with Gary Cruz Studio, we designed the pared down, art-filled interiors with the goal of creating comfortable, purposeful living environments. We also sought to integrate the existing pool and rear deck into the overall building design, extending the usable space outside as a screened-in porch, a dining terrace, and a seating area around a stone fire pit.

Sandra Costa approaches every property as a one-of-a-kind design experience—never repeated, never predictable. Each project is treated as a standalone vision, carefully shaped around the client's individuality, the architecture, and the lifestyle it is meant to elevate. Her work is not driven by trends, but by an instinctive ability to translate personality into environments that feel both effortless and extraordinary. Over the years, Sandra Costa has built a reputation for delivering highly customized designs with precision and integrity—consistently completing projects on time and often under budget. This rare combination of creativity and discipline gives clients exceptional design and confidence throughout the process. The result is more than a finished space—it is a signature environment that reflects a level of thought, care, and originality that cannot be replicated.A great room featuring LED lighting and remote control recliner seating. The floors are imported Italian porcelain tile with radiant heated areas.

This retired couple loves collecting art on their worldwide travels and didn't want to settle for a predictable look for their new kitchen. We began with the black and gold honed granite they fell in love with, and added the glass tile mosaic back splash and custom mixed metal hood. The result is truly a work of art! Collaboration with Sterling Renovations Matt Ross-photos

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

It appears the boy was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Or was he? His face explodes with enthusiasm; as if he’s having the time of his life. In Kansas tornadoes are a yearly event, it’s as predictable as clouds, you are just going to have them. Perhaps the boy saw the tornado and conceived the idea on the spot. Instead of running for cover, he embraced the challenge! He is going to have fun, always; not mater the circumstances.

This retired couple loves collecting art on their worldwide travels and didn't want to settle for a predictable look for their new kitchen. We began with the black and gold honed granite they fell in love with, and added the glass tile mosaic back splash and custom mixed metal hood. The result is truly a work of art! Collaboration with Sterling Renovations Matt Ross-photos

September 21st is the first day of Fall. I know we don’t want to think about it yet, but it is good to prepare and get the chimney swept early. Why? According to the Farmer’s Almanac, they are predicting a colder and snowier Winter. But you say, “eh, I got a gas fireplace.” Better yet, “I don’t use my fireplace, so why should I sweep it, and clean it early?” Let’s discuss why all types of chimneys and fireplaces need to be swept. Why Do All Types of Chimney’s and Fireplaces Need to Be Swept? When we think of the fireplace, we picture the real wood burning fireplace with the sounds of crackling wood. With regular use of the wood-burning fireplaces, a byproduct called creosote forms and over time, lines the side of the chimney flue. This needs to be swept at least once per year as creosote is flammable. However, all chimney’s, regardless of whether it burns wood or utilizes gas, needs to be professionally inspected and swept annually. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a gas or unused chimney is immune to problems since it doesn't produce a byproduct. However, these chimney systems face their own unique dangers. Gas fireplaces, especially those that are high-efficiency, can lead to the buildup of corrosive deposits. Over time, these deposits can degrade your chimney liner. Getting it inspected by a certified chimney technician will control this issue so it doesn’t turn into a problem. 4 Key Reasons to Prioritize Your Annual Chimney Inspection The annual chimney inspection is more than just a sweep; it’s a comprehensive health check for your entire chimney system. We call it the 14 Point Inspection. A certified chimney technician will look for: 1. Fire Hazards: Again, for wood-burning chimneys, the removal of creosote is important to prevent a chimney fire. Gas fireplaces release corrosive deposits. If you don’t use the fireplace, you never know what debris may have settled in. If you want to use the fireplace, please be sure to have it professionally inspected and swept before use. 2. Obstructions: There’s a whole world outside of your home, and especially in the Fall, our little friends are searching for a warm place to stay. Your chimney looks pretty good. And, let’s not forget how the wind in the Chicagoland are does a great job of moving debris around that can get up and under the chimney cap or directly into the chimney if you don’t have a cap. These blockages need to be cleared for you and your home’s protection. 3. Structural Damage: A chimney technician will be able to spot cracks, water damage, or deterioration of the chimney and chimney liner that could compromise the system's safety. 4. Ventilation Issues: Ventilation is key for your home to breathe. The certified chimney technician will ensure proper draft and airflow, which is the best way to get rid of toxic gases. NFPA Remember, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection for all chimney types. This simple, proactive maintenance can save you from costly repairs. Don't wait for a problem to become obvious. Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349 to schedule a 14-Point Chimney inspection to ensure your home and family are protected.