9 Solar Powered Products

Almost every homeowner has at least considered adding solar panels to their home to take advantage of the energy savings they promise. But reducing energy consumption with solar does not stop at solar panels on the roof. Here are 9 great products that can help you cut energy costs while adding comfort and value to your lifestyle:

1. Solar Power Bank – Charge phones and tablets at home or on the go with a solar power bank.

2. Portable Power Station – Need to power larger devices? A power station can power more devices and is attached to a small frig or laptop, can keep you connected in a blackout.

3. Security Cameras – Save money and enhance your family’s safety by deterring burglars.

4. Outdoor Wireless Speakers – Enjoy music where you want it in your backyard by going cordless.

5. Camp Lantern – Whether actually camping or for emergency use during a blackout, a solar lantern is a great way to light up the dark.

6. Attic Fan – Keep your home cooler while harnessing the power of the sun with an attic fan.

7. Animal Deterrent – Save energy and your flowers by deterring pesky critters anywhere in the yard.

8. Solar Radio – In an emergency, a solar radio keeps you connected to information. Take camping or or to the beach to add fun tunes to your outdoor experience.

9. Portable Stove – A light solar-powered stove makes the old gas camp stoves obsolete. Safer and lighter, you can cook anywhere.

While whole house solar gets all the attention, smaller solar devices also offer strong benefits without the cost or hassle. As the demand for more electricity continues, offsetting it with solar for your most common items help you and your family do your part!

6 Kitchen Remodels That Waste Money

There are plenty of great ways to save money on your kitchen remodel and still end up with a stunning, welcoming space. Here are six features you can skip to save yourself some cash.

1. Expensive Backsplashes – You can find plenty of cost-effective materials that will look just as good as more pricey options like quartz, marble, or glass.

2. Designer Appliances – Stick to brands that focus on style and function over designer labels – you'll usually be able to find the same look for half the price.

3. Trendy Hardware – It's easy to get caught up in the latest kitchen trends, but resist the urge to go for broke on fixtures that will be out of style in a few years.

4. High-Tech Gadgets – Do you really need a fridge that can make a shopping list or an oven you can turn on from the beach? Most likely, all those bells and whistles will go to waste.

5. Moving Electrical/Plumbing – If at all possible, work within the current layout of your electrical and plumbing. Relocating these sources is both expensive and difficult.

6. Open Shelving – Displays of beautiful plates and glassware may be tempting, but just remember dust and the constant upkeep.

How To Choose The Right Light Fixture for the Space

How to Choose the Right Sized Light Fixture for Your Space

Lighting is one of the most important design elements in any room. Not only should it provide adequate brightness for the room, but it must fit the space and visual atmosphere. The right sized fixture is just as important as the look and construction of the light. Fortunately, even an amateur can choose the perfect fixture with some basic math.

Front Door

Outdoor fixtures are one part of creating the mood for the entire home. Not only should they provide proper lighting but must fit the scale of the door itself. To find the right sized light for the front entrance, it should be no more than one third of the size of the door or opening for a single light and not more than a quarter of the size for dual lights.

Chandelier

Dining rooms call out for a chandelier. Whether modern and sleek or an elegant crystal chandelier, the size is the same. Take the size of the room and add the feet together. For example, if the room is 10’ by 12’ the chandelier’s width should be 22”. Additionally, make sure the width is about 15” shorter than the dining room table.

For other rooms, the size is really more a matter of taste. The light should not create a visual barrier to the room or block design elements, but other than that, choose a light with provides good light and fits the style of the space.

Want a beautiful statement piece? Why not check out www.DouniaHome.com for local artisan lighting!

Latest Backsplash Kitchen Trends

Latest Kitchen Backsplash Trends

This year, kitchen design shows are filled with new materials, patterns and colors as enthusiasts look for the latest trends and styles.

As we leave the dark granite countertops behind, kitchens are getting lighter, brighter and more streamlined looks. These new backsplashes are design statement pieces in their own right, creating a uniquely modern feel to the space. With a focus on sleek surfaces and natural elements, here are the latest trends for kitchen backsplashes.

• Mixed materials – layers of stone mix with sleek metal trims or soft wood to create layer upon layer of design.

• Higher Profiles – the backsplash is no longer a 6” continuation of the countertop. Taller profiles and accent-wall styling are new trends.

• Bold Patterns – geometric tone-on-tone designs create visual interest.

• Subway Tiles – after so many of us removed the old white tile of our kitchens, designers are bringing them back in interesting shapes and patterns.

• Veins – larger granite, quartz or natural stone pieces are used as focal points, adding drama and depth.

• Backsplash Shelves – one of the latest design trends is to create a ledge or shelf along the top of a high-profile backsplash.

• Solid Wall – this last trend is eliminating a backsplash entirely and adding a stone “wall” in the kitchen, removing any visual distinction and creating a sleek, clean line.

2020 design trends are contemporary and exciting. After years of cozy kitchens and dark woods, these kitchens are light and bright; mixing soft natural stone and wood with hard, urban features for a modern, functional kitchen that suits any home style.

Maximizing Space in a Small Kitchen

Maximizing Space in a Small Kitchen

A small kitchen doesn’t have to mean dark or cramped, you can maximize a small kitchen by using these clever tips. From tricking the eye to great ways to get extra storage, these easy design ideas will help you love your small kitchen.

• Tone on Tone Colors Scheme – Trick the eye by using subtle variations of the same color palate.

• Strategic Shelving – Add a shelf above the backsplash to add room for spices or décor; place on a wall to display glasses or dishware and gain extra storage in the process.

• Design with an Island – If possible, open a closed off kitchen to the family or breakfast room, use an island as double duty by adding a breakfast bar on one side and sink, dishwasher and storage on the other.

• Tile a Whole Wall – Consider making a blank wall a focal point by tiling the space floor to ceiling. Glossy tile brings interest and light to the kitchen.

• Big Style Elements – There is no need to shy away from large fixtures simply because the space is smaller. Large retro pendant lights are a great way to not only light the space but add interest and a modern vibe to the kitchen.

• Seek Extra Storage – There is plenty of hidden storage opportunities in most kitchens. Pull out drawers are a great way to access the recessed areas of pantries and cabinets.

Small kitchens can be just as inviting as their spacious counterparts. With a little creativity and stagecraft, your kitchen can be the heart of the home, at any size.