LIGHT IN 3-D

Ever since I saw the James Turrell show at the Guggenheim in New York last Fall, I’ve had lighting on the brain. Turrell’s masterful shaping of light has made me look at the possibilities of art and design in a whole new way. Wowed by his light installations, I started looking into alternative lighting for the home.

James Turrell reminds me that light can be 3-dimensional­, so I’ve found some amazing Turrell-inspired lighting below.

Thanks to updated designs, we no longer need to settle for generic Christmas lights. I previously posted about the Restoration Hardware fab-orific light garland in my Double Duty Holiday Décor Guide, but bulb string lights are also a fave of mine. I’m sure you’ve seen these pop up a lot lately, from restaurants to outdoor events to rooftop terraces, the bulb string lights add vintage romance instantly. It’s like Paris in a box (of lights).

PartyLights.com Bulb String Lights, $25-35

PartyLights.com Bulb String Lights, $25-35

 

The dioder LED light set from Ikea offers the most versatility when it comes to designing with light. Position these color-changing light strips virtually anywhere – under the bed, above cabinets, under a desk, behind a tv, for a futuristic look.

Dioder LED Light Set, $40

Dioder LED Light Set, $40

 

Designed by Peter Bristol, the Corner Light is the perfect embodiment of multi-dimensional lighting. Although a pricier alternative, it’s such a minimalist statement piece that you won’t need much else to complete a room.

Peter Bristol Corner Light, $550

Peter Bristol Corner Light, $550

 

Sconces are often overlooked when it comes to lighting, yet there are a boatload of sconce light designs just waiting to be noticed. I like this Caged Edison Sconce. Screw in a different light style whenever you feel like it for a whole new look.

Caged Edison Bulb, $90

Overstock Caged Edison Sconce, $90

 

Neon signs are the perfect choice for 3-dimensional décor, they provide a unique source of light while doubling as wall art. Search “neon sign” on ebay to see a hearty selection of affordable neon delights, or get one custom made.

eBay Neon Signs, from $20

eBay Neon Signs, from $20

 

For the commitment-phobe, fake it with this color changing dvd. Just hit play to transform your TV into a James Turrell light installation.

Color Light Changing DVD from designboom, $30

Color Light Changing DVD from designboom, $30

Happy Lighting!

originally posted on ibby.com

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5 Great tips to prepare your backyard for the next summer

When it comes to having fun, backyard will never disappoint you!

There is so much stuff you can do with it in terms of entertainment. Some solutions are rather cheap while others are costly. In the end it all depends on your preferences.

Here are some of the things that are currently popular and that will do wonders for your backyard next summer.

1. Poolside fun
Not everybody has the money to build an in-ground pool. However, if you are one of the lucky ones, you will definitely have something to look forward to.
Companies are really diversifying their offer when it comes to pool equipment. Besides standard slides and springboards, today you can even opt for something more extravagant such as grottos, sitting areas within the pool, hot tubs and other insanities.
Nevertheless, you should never forget your basic pool equipment and accessories such as the pool pump (check out these products) and cleaning products. Although pools are great fun, they are also a great responsibility. This is why you will have to prepare for the upcoming season in advance and check all the systems.

2. Backyard TV
As if we haven’t had enough of TV in our home, we also need to carry it outside. Anyway, if you already love watching TV and relaxing, it is definitely a much better option to get a backyard TV and spend time outside, breathing the fresh air and enjoying the sun.
Today, you can buy big screen TVs for such incredibly low prices. If you have a big family, you can even get an inflatable TV which is easy to move and set up.
If you have a bigger, covered patio, you can even install an immovable TV that will be stationary during the whole year. It is a small investment that will go a long way.

3. Covered patio
There is no real reason why you should stay home during the summer. Naturally, you still need to make sure to have a nice and cozy cover from the sun. So, the best solution is to cover your patio.
As previously mentioned, covered patios are great as they allow you to install a TV. However, there are some other benefits.
For example, you can even bring out a TV outside. If you have enough space, there is an option to set up a table and have lunch outside. Basically, every relaxing thing that you’ve done inside of the house can be taken out in your backyard.

4. Flower garden
Although flowers have more of a decoration purpose, they are a great option for all those who love to be surrounded by nice colors and pleasant smell.
Most people have a few flowers in their garden but only a few homeowners go overboard. Flower patches are great for relaxation and relieving stress. Colors have a positive impact on your brain and together with fresh air; this might be just the thing you need to relax.

5. Gaming area
Besides TV, video games should also be considered.
You can bring them out and have a blast with all your friends. There is no need to sweat on the couch given that you can go out and play while having a nice cold beer.
If you are not much into console games, you can always go for something more active such as playing Ping-Pong or backyard basketball.

Conclusion

If you’re not using some of these methods, you should definitely consider them.
Backyard is really fun and by investing minimal time and effort, you can create a peaceful haven for the next summer.

How to prevent puppy from biting people?

How to prevent puppy from biting people?

There are lots of stuff that a little puppy has to learn during its life.
One of the most important lessons is how not to bite other people and dogs. While this is a normal, animal behavior, often done in a playful manner, it can be really troublesome. As puppy’s teeth start to grow, bite becomes stronger and stronger until the dog ultimately starts hurting those around him.
Even though dog doesn’t have a bad intention, it is crucial to teach him how to stop with such behavior. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you do just that.

Training basics

When it comes to dog training, most of them are similar in their core.
First and foremost, we need to mention consistency. No matter what you’re trying to teach a dog, you have to start on time. There are no shortcuts and you need to make sure that a puppy gets what you’re trying to tell him. This is why every training needs to start from the earliest age. If you have several dogs in the house, you shouldn’t have a preferential treatment; they all have to behave in the same way.
Second, you need to avoid violence and punishment of any kind. Dog should never be hit as this can cause a gap between the two of you. Every lesson can be taught easily and calmly without ever raising your hand. Repetitiveness is the key.
These simply tricks work with every type of a training. Keep in mind that dog training is also important for developing discipline. Well-trained dog will behave appropriately and every following lesson you try to instill will be easier.

Showing emotions

So, what is the main problem with biting?
Well, it hurts a lot. But worst yet, puppy will not be aware of its jaw strength. It will not be aware that you’re getting hurt which is first and foremost barrier.
While dogs are unable to understand human tongue, they are more than capable of picking up your emotions and sensations. If you start crying or yelling or showing any type of a discomfort, puppy will likely pick up on that.
When a dog bites you, make sure to be vocal. If possible, even startle him. Go a bit overboard so it gets the message. But don’t think that this will always have a positive result.

What if dog continues biting?

Your second best bet is to remove stimuli. In other words, stop playing with it.
Dogs often bite as they get excited and become playful. You were probably caressing him beforehand or had some other physical contact. If you simply stop doing it, dog will be less inclined to bite or do anything else.
Simply ignore your puppy if it starts biting.
Later on, try playing once again. If a dog again starts biting, stop it again. It needs to learn that such behavior is intolerable and will result in you stopping the playtime.

Extreme cases

There are some extreme cases where dog will continue biting no matter what.
Even if you remove yourself from equation or show emotions, it still might continue biting. In these situations, you have to put a dog away. Find a secluded part of the room where you will put it to cool off. This way, puppy will understand it did something wrong and due to sheer isolation, it will be dissatisfied.
This is the harshest measure but sometimes it has to be enforced. Keep in mind that you still shouldn’t inflict any physical or verbal punishment; just do your best to ignore the dog and place it “outside of the pack”.

Conclusion

Biting is crucial not only for you but for other people in your vicinity as well as other dogs. If you allow your puppy to continue behaving this way, it will get burned sooner than later. Other dog might attack it or people will simply stop ignoring it.
While biting may seem important in the animal world, dog needs to understand there are limits to its behavior. You are the one that has to impose them and no matter how hard it may seem at first, you need to remain consistent in your efforts.

How To Avoid Student Loans

The average college graduate is currently saddled with at least $30,000 in student loan debts and this is often accepted as unavoidable reality for many students. However, this does not mean that you need to resign yourself to this fate in your own life. The best way to avoid crushing student loans is to live frugally and save whenever you can, for instance by using coupons from Discountrue. Thanks to those you will be able to pay less at such popular stores as Kohl’s and Neiman Marcus, but not only.

Make sure to check the offer and you will be certain to find something suitable for you. Other than that, what else can a person do to avoid student loans? Read on to learn more!

1. Pick A School You Can Afford

A college degree is no longer a guarantee of immediate prosperity. So, while a college with a high tuition may seem like a great idea, picking a less expensive one will leave you with far less student loan debt over the long haul and if you really want to learn something you should be to do that no matter where you are. Before applying to a college, be sure to research how much it will cost to obtain a degree. It’s good if parents can remain involved during this part of the process to provide their child with assistance in selecting a school that works for their budget and spiritual support.

2. Develop a Four Year Plan

College expenses should be viewed as a four year plan, as opposed to assessing them annually. The plan that is developed will depend on how much you have saved. While it may make sense to split your accrued monies over all four years, this can lead to a major cost gap during the latter years of college. These gaps often cause families to turn to much pricier private loan options, which lead to much higher student loans.

3. Start With Community College

If you are willing to study at community college for your first two years of school, this can cut down on student loan costs dramatically. Research the community colleges you are considering and make sure that your credits will be able to be transfered once you have obtained an associate’s degree. However, less financial aid is available to transfer students in many instances, so this is a strategy that requires a great deal of planning.

4. Ask About Financial Aid

Students who need help paying for college should do everything in their power to find as much financial aid as possible. We’re talking about money that will not have to be paid back and these grants are a lifesaver when it comes to diminishing student loan debt. Financial aid offers are typically negotiable and additional help can also be available after enrollment has been set. Outside scholarships can provide assistance, but make sure that they won’t cut into your aid offers.

5. Accelerated Degrees

If you’re willing to put in the extra work, you can actually finish your degree ahead of schedule. While a student must take at least 12 credit hours a semester to be considered full time, the majority of colleges allow their students to take up to 18 credit hours while paying the same amount of tuition.

KAUFMANN MERCANTILE

One needn’t spend very long on the Kaufmann Mercantile site to see that they’re serious about their product assortment. Everything is high quality, aesthetically pleasing and has a story—one that typically involves handcrafting or generational know-how. No made in China here.

 

Kaufmann

 

Not only are the product summaries exceptionally thoughtful and informative, but the site’s Field Notes library is a treasure trove of succinct articles on everything from designer Arne Jacobsen to copper care to the history of salt. There’s even a fascinating look into the world of giant pumpkins! Yes, I’m a fan.

Here are some of my favorite KM items of the moment:

This collapsible cot is perfect for overnight guests. Line it with a few sheepskins, throw a sleeping bag over and voile—a cozy guest bed that can go anywhere you have an extra 28” x 77” worth of floor space.

Canvas & Aluminum Collapsible Cot

Canvas & Aluminum Collapsible Cot, $159

 

Made in Italy, this Green Giant of staplers would command serious respect at the office.

Metal Plier Office Stapler

Metal Plier Office Stapler, $34.90

 

These 3-piece nesting bowl sets are made right in Ohio. Their milky green shade is so much more alluring than clear glass or steel, as far as mixing bowls go.

Set of Hand-Pressed Glass Bowls (Jadeite)

Set of Hand-Pressed Glass Bowls (Jadeite), $64.90

 

Handcrafted in Japan, this crackle finish teapot is an amazing steal at just $34.95. A great gift idea for Mother’s Day or your next housewarming party invite.

Japanese Ceramic Crackle Glaze Teapot

Japanese Ceramic Crackle Glaze Teapot, $34.90

 

Wooden bath mats are an easy way to add spa charm to your bath—especially when made of fragrant cyprus wood like this one. Also made in Japan.

Japanese Cypress Wood Bath Mat

Japanese Cypress Wood Bath Mat, $29

 

Long before humorous tote bags were a thing, French net bags were the ultimate reusable market bag.  Keep simple tradition alive, in classic natural or sleek black.

French Cotton Net Bag (Black)

French Cotton Net Bag (Black), $10.95

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SCULPTUREIFFIC

Furnishing a space is always first priority, but choosing what artwork to display is equally important. Switching out your art is also one of the easiest ways to change the feel of a room. Sculpture takes that one step further, a bonus design element that adds another dimension to any space.

I must admit I thought I had enough with the taxidermy trend, but then I discovered the White Faux Taxidermy shop on Etsy. I could spend hours looking through their whimsical (and reasonably priced) designs. Unconventional animals in an endless array of colors make for the ultimate wall sculpture.

Hang this jackalope in white and gold over an entryway.

Gold Glitter Antlers

Jackalope with Gold Glitter Antlers, $65

 

Go nuts with this hot pink unicorn.

Magical Pink Unicorn Head

Magical Pink Unicorn Head, $100

 

Or go with the black resin faux bison head for a totally cool look.

Black Resin Buffalo/Bison Skull Head, $60

Black Resin Buffalo/Bison Skull Head, $60

 

Your lonely desk is begging for this pair of sleek black onyx obelisk sculptures. They remind me of the object in Led Zeppelin’s Presence, if you’re into that sorta thing.

Handcrafted Onyx 'Black Towers' Obelisk Sculptures

Handcrafted Onyx ‘Black Towers’ Obelisk Sculptures, $50

 

Some sculptures can also be hung from the ceiling, adding another layer to an often overlooked area. The Guggenheim museum shop carries a nice selection of mobiles, which remind me of Alexander Calder’s kinetic sculptures.

I’m partial to the Futura Mobile, designed by Ole Flenstead in 1970 to “resemble sick black planets in harmony with their smaller, orbiting red moons.”

Futura Mobile by Flensted

Futura Mobile by Flensted @ GuggenheimStore, $75

 

The kid at heart will love the LED Prey Model construction toy. With 16 buildable bug models in one kit, have a blast rebuilding your light up sculpture whenever you feel like it. This thing looks like fun for all ages, but displays like a piece of art suitable for grownups.

LED Prey Model Kit, $40

LED Prey Model Kit, $40

 

If you have a sculpture you’re especially proud of, maybe it deserves its own pedestal. I like this Reflection Pedestal from ZGallerie (they also happen to have a nice selection of sculptural pieces). Place it in an empty corner for instant pizazz and an interior design-y feel.

Reflection Pedestal, $130

Reflection Pedestal, $130

 

No matter your taste or style, there is a sculpture out there for you.  Get creative, don’t be afraid to get a little weird, and most of all, have fun!

(and send me a pic when you hang your new Tiffany blue moose head)…

originally posted on ibby.com

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