how to build a straw bale house

How to Build a Straw Bale House.

Building a straw bale and plaster house is a low-cost and environmentally friendly way to create a home. This guide covers the materials and methods you might use to build a straw bale house, a house that can last hundreds of years, is energy efficient and is cheap to maintain. For simplicity, this article will not include instruction on the installation of services such as natural gas, electricity or water and sewer: It covers only the details about how to build the shell.



Steps.

1. Make a plan. How big? How many rooms? What services do you want? Where are the windows and doors going to go ?

Draw up the floor plan. On your diagram, you should roughly sketch the room layouts and locate the drain lines precisely (for concrete slab) where the shower, bathtub and toilet drain connections will be (wood floors with a crawl space allows easier changes of such locations).

Image titled Build a Straw Bale House Step 1Bullet1

Each section of the exterior wall should be a multiple of the standard bale length you plan to use. This will allow you to minimize the number of bales that you cut and will also minimize waste.

2. Decide what type of base you will use to support the floor of the first story. Typical choices are a concrete pad or a timber base consisting of a double outside band with center beam(s) supported by columns and connected by floor joists on 16" centers. If you opt for the traditional wood frame, check your local building code for the dimensions of each frame element.

3. Prepare the foundation footings to be below the frost line in cold climates, and floor to be level, on an attractive slope or level ground (easier). Check your local building codes for the size and composition of exterior wall foundation. Fresh water plumbing, electrical wiring and natural gas pipes will be added above the slab, under timber floors, in walls or above ceilings.

4. Build a frame of timber or metal. The frame transfers the load of the roof down on to the foundation and should be strong enough for this purpose. You can cut in 1X4 inch bracing "straps" (set in the thickness of the 1X4) into timber outer stud-walls (posts or pillars) diagonally from the corners near the floor into the top plate -- or 2X4 inch diagonal braces nailed or bolted between vertical elements -- to prevent lateral movement within the frame, and the base of each upright timber should be anchored well to the foundation. Cables may be stretched through the bales of the structure, if desired for stability, to share stresses of possible bulging or shifting of bales.

5. Stay dry during construction by putting the roof on before going any further. Put the roof on before adding the wall bales because you don't want your bales to get soaked with rain, snow or ice.

6. Make straw bale walls, not using hay, but using straw. Straw is from harvested grain stalks (never use bales of grass). These need to remain dry, less than 20% moisture content, and tightly bound to prevent moist air (including fog) getting in before plastering. Both factors are important to prevent the rotting of the bales after construction. To build the wall, you start by sharpening some staves (inch thick willow stems) and then securing them vertically in the wood or concrete base (you will need to drill a hole, or perhaps poke them in when the concrete is still wet). Bales should then be further reinforced with "U" shaped willow stems that must be bent while the stems are green (or use another kind of straight staves, and bendable pipe for U shape ones).

Make U shaped staves: Select a one meter willow stave and mark the stave at 33 centimeter (13 in) from each end, take a big hammer and bash the green stave on these marks until the fibers of the wood are mashed, split and softened. These bashed areas are then bendable; bend the stave into U shape and then get to work. Each layer (or course) of bales are stacked up and pinning them until you have reached your desired height, during this process staves of willow should be driven down through alternate bails to fix it to the bail below. The U staves are use to attach between lined up blocks. This is especially important on the top course. When the desired height has been reached some kind of strap can be placed around the entire wall (top to bottom) to add further stability and strength, but not stressed extremely tightly.

7. Plaster the walls. There are many types of soft plaster that can be used, some based on formulations of locally available materials. Choose the best one by balancing availability, cost and effectiveness for your climate. Apply with traditional plastering tools for a smooth finish or with your hands for a rustic finish. Make sure, though to cover every last bit of exposed straw: None should be showing, unplastered. Otherwise fire is more easily started, and dampness or vermin can get in.

8. Put in the windows and doors. You should have left holes for these, bridged with lintels (horizontal headers which support the weight above each opening for a window or door). Install the window and door casings, securing them to framing posts or to plastered walls outfitted with staves.

9. Apply breathable paints. Look for mineral silicate paint that is free of artificial resins, petroleum solvents and biocides (poisons) but is weather and UV resistant. Applying breathable paints is no different than applying conventional paints, although you need to follow manufacturer guidance as products do vary somewhat. To prepare for painting, make sure that the walls are sound, clean, dry, and free of oils.

The exterior should be painted with breathable paint so that moisture can escape the walls. Paints are rated in Sd values: Paints with high Sd values have are detrimental to the underlying surface, as they do not allow it to breathe and dry out. Most non breathable paints will not disclose an Sd value as they can be much higher than 3. Paints with an Sd value less than 0.1 offer adequate breathability for most straw bale/plaster applications.



Question : Will a straw house be warm enough for New Brunswick, Canada?

Answer : A good straw bale home is significantly warmer than conventional building methods, because a well-packed bale is rated at R30 - R35 minimum, or considerably more. Today, insulated homes usually have R-20 in the walls, and many old homes have R-14 for insulation or considerably less. The earliest mobile homes had R-8 or less.

Question : Is it safe for South African (Cape Town) weather?

Answer : Use the straw as a insulator. On the outside have either wood or brick, since the rain will cause the straw to rot.



Tips.

The popularity of straw bale construction is growing in the US. Search online, typing in "Appendix M Straw-Bale Structures" for some more detailed info, from US standards.

A 23-inch-thick straw-bale wall has an R-value of about R-33. And, since virtually all straw-bale walls are plastered on both sides, these walls are relatively airtight.

There are many articles online about designing straw bale building, construction, and techniques that you will enjoy and should find useful. You can sign up for a "Free Straw Bale E-Course". Watch "Introductory Straw Bale Video" and read FAQs. Visit various straw bale photo galleries.

Merrily throwing clay onto the bale walls seems like so much fun, you may want to build a starter house to vent your feelings about the housing market prices and collapse thing.

Warnings.

Make sure you follow health and safety guidelines and regulations to avoid hurting yourself, helpers or children, etc..

Always make sure to choose a location with the materials (where clay and willow stems are available) and where such building is legal.

This knowledge is not definitive, it is just here as guidance; always get a second opinion.

Always consult a structural engineer where building permits are required, before building anything. Hay bale construction is often permitted in rural areas, but not in the usual towns and cities.

Permits: Get the relevant planning and the required building permits.

Things You'll Need.

Enough straw bales.

Foundations materials, wooden floor (option).

Lumber timbers, interior wall boards.

Nails, screws, bolts.

Willow staves (or other stakes and bendable pipe).

Roofing materials.

Lime plaster, (clay "mud" optional where desired and permitted).

Mineral silicate paint (no artificial resins, no petroleum solvents, no biocides (poisons) but is weather and UV resistant).

Tools: digging tools for foundation footings, to sharpen the staves; a saw to cut timbers to length, a bow saw for trimming bails; a mallet and hammer, plastering tools

Februari 20, 2020

how to build an underground house

How to Build an Underground House.

Have you ever wanted to have a house completely hidden from the view of other people? Do you like caves or the deep smell of moist earth? Do you fear the imminent apocalypse? Well, you might want to build an underground house. It will take some time and effort, but if you’re wiling to commit to the project you could have your own underground shelter sooner rather than later.



Method 1 Preparing to Build Your Underground House.

1. Check your zoning laws. You can call your state to check the zoning laws of your property to see if you are allowed to put a new building on your property. You don’t want the state to ruin the fun by fining you for your newly created underground house. Even if you’re underground you're not safe from the law.

2. Get permission from the state to dig. More official business. You need to pre-mark the area on your property that you want to excavate with stakes and white paint. Then you call your state’s Dig Safe branch and describe the area that you plan to dig in. Hopefully they will grant you permission. You definitely have to do this to ensure that you’re not going to dig into a sewage system or something like that.

3. Hire a professional excavator or buy professional equipment. Hiring a professional to do it for you wouldn’t be the worst idea. Depending on the size of your house you probably are going to need to use heavy machinery, and if you have no experience with that hiring a professional is probably the way to go. Search for professional excavators on the internet or contact a local construction company. They should be able to quote you a cost and at the very least offer you some helpful tips. You may be able to negotiate a price to use their equipment if you can prove that you are trained to use it.

4. Find someone willing to help you. This isn’t a solo job even if you really want it to be. When you’re excavating or dealing with heavy materials you need someone to make sure that you are safe. You are going to be dealing with a lot of heavy materials and working in the earth and something could happen at any time. Make sure you have a partner.

5. Find a suitable location. Look for a spot that is outside of your area’s 100-year flood plain and isn't near any steep slopes that might trigger a landslide. A large open space is probably best suited for an underground house, because tree roots can also cause issues during excavation. The odds are that you will be trying to build this house on your own property, so you probably don't have to worry too much but just be aware.

Generally you want to stay away from any large objects like trees, boulders, or multi-story buildings.

You also shouldn't place your house near any concentrations of fuel or any hazardous materials.



Method 2 Designing Your Underground House.

1. Develop detailed structural plans. Work with an architect to design a scaled design and floor plan for your underground house. This plan should be complete with dimensions, details on the potential materials that will be used,

2. Design your house. As you design your house you should consider air and water filtration systems, potential light sources, and food storage space. [3] Draw a model of your house to scale using the structural plans that you already created. Now draw in where all the installed appliances will go first, then the furniture, then anything else you would like to include in your plan. Be aware of the following constraints as well.

If you are going to be underground for very long periods of time you will need to have your water set up to some sort of renewing water source and you will also need a ton of space to keep the food you have fresh. This means many refrigerators and a reliable power generator.

A reliable air circulation and filtration system is also crucial to avoid getting carbon dioxide poisoning or other airborne illnesses.

3. Include an entrance and exit in your design. This can be as simple as a ladder with a hatch on the top or even a tunnel leading up and to the outside. The easiest option is buying a staircase. You can buy a staircase online and have it delivered to your house, so it doesn’t even need to be part of the construction if you don’t want.

If you decide to use a ladder you may need to secure the ladder to the wall with metal supports. Buy U-shaped metal supports at a home improvement store and secure these into your wall over the steps of your ladder. This will keep it stable while you are climbing up and down. You can also buy airtight hatches to secure the top of your entrance. Once again it is important to make sure that your hatch is significantly wider and longer than the hole you wish to cover.



Method 3 Planning the Excavation.

1. Develop a strategy to dig your hole. Remember to dig based on the excavation area that you received permission to dig in. If you dig outside of that you risk digging into something like a sewer line or a fiber optic cable. Also know what kind of soil you'll be excavating. If you're digging into bedrock you won't get very far.

You also should check your soil records at the town office before you start digging to see what you are going to be digging into and what kind of equipment you will need. Ask the clerk at the town office about your property and they will have the records available for you to see most of the time. If they don't, you might have to have someone come and survey your land.

2. Investigate the conditions of your soil. It’s incredibly important to know what kind of soil you are working with, and this will also inform your digging strategy. Have a professional come and survey your soil.

3. Consider a cut and cover strategy. Cut and cover works if you are digging in relatively soft soil. The idea is that you dig out an area, build a concrete structure inside of it, and then cover the hole thing up with dirt again. Obviously you want to keep your hatch or staircase exposed so that you can enter into your structure. However, if your soil will allow for it this is a good way to build a large framework for your home.

4. Save the excess soil. This is especially important if you plan to create a berm house. A berm house is a house that is covered by soil but still has windows and doorways to the outside. Your house will sit in a deep foundation and once you have completed the construction of the building you can push the dirt up the sides and on top of the house to create the berm look. This will require a reinforced roof.



Method 4 Constructing Your Underground House.

1. Build a perimeter wood frame. You will pour concrete into this frame in order to create a footing. The footings will form the basis for your foundation. The boards should be built according to the specifications of your foundation in your designed plan.

2. Install footings to provide the base for your foundation. Remember to seal the footings to protect them from moisture. Use a high quality sealer. You can pour concrete either directly into trenches or into wood forms.

3. Create stem walls. Start with the corners of the foundation and then build a plum and level wall connecting the two corners. Having something to connect the wall to on either side makes the process easier. It’s much easier to spot if the wall is out of alignment. Remove the flaws using hand trowels.

4. Consider using reinforced concrete on the walls. You will want to use it on the ceiling too if you plan to cover your roof heavily with dirt and soil. Living underground will keep the temperatures relatively moderate, but the earth also puts a huge amount of pressure on the walls and ceiling of your house.  It’s also essential to hire a structural engineer to design earthquake resistant elements if you live in an earthquake prone area.

5. Decide what kind of ceiling you want. You can choose a material as simple as wood boards or something more complex, but sturdier, like brick or concrete. If you choose brick or concrete ensure that you building has strong structural supports.

6. Plan to have scaffolding or brick pillars secure your ceiling. You will have to lay the brick yourself by buying brick and mortar and building a thick pillar up to the ceiling. A six brick base should provide a decent support. If your room is very large you will want to build a few supports. Scaffolding is something that you can buy at a home improvement store, but is more likely to bend and break. Take this step very seriously or you risk potential cave-ins.

7. Use wood beams to outline the rooms in your house. Set up these rooms in accordance with your design plans. Make sure that you leave space in the walls for any potential wiring that you’ll need to do.

8. Consider insulation. Even though you’re living underground you may need insulation. This will keep your heating and cooling costs down and make your energy use much more efficient. Wait until after you have completed the wiring before you install the insulation.



Method 5 Buying a Premade Underground House.

1. Research the kind of underground shelter you would want. Believe it or not there are plenty of companies that specialize in underground shelters. You'll be able to find a number of companies on the internet that can sell you pre-made houses in a variety of different styles. You can go pretty crazy here if you’re willing to spend a lot of money.  Try to consider your price range and the amount of people that you plan to have living with you in this shelter.

2. Purchase your underground house. In most of these situations you have to buy the shelter outright, because generally the idea is that you’ll be holed up in the shelter once you have it. However, some of these companies offer financing.

3. Obtain approval to dig on your property. You first need to pre -mark your excavation area with white paint or stakes. Then call your state excavation number to describe the exact area where you plane to excavate. You will not be allowed to dig outside of this area. In Massachusetts this number is 8-1-1, but it varies state by state. This is important to ensure that you don't dig into a buried sewage system or fiber optic cable.

4. Have your underground house delivered and installed. This is included in the price. Make sure there is a path for their truck to deliver your new house. You can’t have your dig site all the way out in the middle of the woods if there is no road to get there.The installation may take several days, so be aware of that.



Question : How much money do I need to build an underground house?

Answer : It depends on how big the house is and what materials you use, but probably $10K or more.

Question : Is it possible to use this as a super secret lab? Do I need to buy all the super scientific stuff myself?

Answer : You could do that, or anything else your imagination suggests. And, yes, you would probably have to buy everything.

Question : How do you get underground? And put big objects down there without digging up the house?

Answer : Usually, underground houses are built by digging out space on the side of a hill. The house is constructed then the dirt is moved back on top of the structure. One side of the house is usually left exposed.

Question : What would happen if I built an underground house using wood instead of concrete and bricks in a rocky soil? Will it fall down on me?

Answer : While the type of soil would affect the distribution and absorption, all types will bring rain or surface water down to the building materials. Wood, when exposed to water, weakens and rots; it is an essential part of its natural breakdown process. So, yes, it would come apart and quickly, likely falling down on itself in the process.

Question : Instead of either ladder or stairway how about an elevator?

Answer : While elevators can go into basements, they have large foundational and protection requirements. They take a lot of material, space and need plenty of protection around them, such as a building. They are too big for most, and require so much building around them - for the above-ground entry - that it defies what most people picture for an underground house. Besides, they're expensive to build, run and maintain, too.

Question : Should I have a normal house on top?

Answer : There are pros and cons: a normal house distracts from an underground one, and gives you the advantages of both types. However, an above-ground house is not hidden, and may not fit into your plans (such as defense or a location not being found). It is about your preferences.



Tips.

When constructing any trench or hole angle the walls back slightly, so the top is larger than the floor. this lets gravity help you hold back the pressure of the dirt walls.

A phone in case of emergency may be useful.

Before adding the roof always brace the sides of the trench and hole to prevent cave ins.

Ventilation holes are a very good thing to build maybe behind a plant so your underground house will stay secret.

When you brace the walls, drive the stick or pole into the floor, pushing against the wall so that in order for you to push your finger behind the board, you would hurt yourself, or at least get really dirty fingernails.

Brace all walls and never dig deep without a friend near you and above ground.

Have your house inspected by a professional so that you know it won’t collapse.

Plan ahead. You don’t want to work on this during the winter or inclement weather.

Commit time to the project. If you really want an underground house it’s going to be a long process.

Do not try to build an underground home if you live below sea level. You probably will hit water.

Februari 20, 2020

how to make a windowless room appear light

How to Make a Windowless Room Appear Light.

A finished basement can add value to your home and contribute pleasant, functional living space for you and your family. Unfortunately, many basements are more, well, basement-like than pleasant, especially those without windows. Is your lower level looking like a dungeon? Try these tips to bring a sense of light to your basement or any dark room.



Steps.

1. Use light and lively colors liberally. Large surfaces in the basement should be light in color to brighten things up. Walls, for example, should be painted white or warm shades such as yellows, light reds and oranges. Select light or brightly-colored rugs or tiles, as well. Even large pieces of furniture can make a difference in how bright the room appears, so go for warm, vibrant patterns on sofas and chairs.

2. Build contrast. Select some darker pieces of furniture (end tables, for example) or dark wall hangings to contrast with the light colors of the large surfaces. Select dark moldings for walls and ceilings. These measures bring out the brightness of the lighter colors and impart a more natural-feeling shadow effect.

3. Explore your lighting options. Lighting that hangs down from the ceiling is fine for other rooms, but in a basement it poses two problems. First, many basements have low ceilings, so hanging lights can make it difficult to get around. Second, hanging lights take up space and make the room look smaller. To remedy this, select recessed lighting in the ceiling, and complement that with wall sconces, table lamps and floor lamps--the indirect lighting will light up the ceiling and help get rid of that cave-like atmosphere.

4. Choose the right light bulbs. First, those old fluorescent bulbs are out. Soft white incandescent bulbs will make the lighting seem more natural. An even better option is to use full-spectrum bulbs, which cost a bit more than regular incandescent bulbs, but which mimic the sun's natural light.

5. Make your basement look more like the rest of your house. If your basement has exposed concrete walls or wood paneling, install drywall and paint it to give the room a more finished appearance. If you have suspended ceilings and exposed boards cover them up with drywall and paint, as well. Keep in mind that drywall is only usable if your basement is completely dry, year round. If your basement is damp or wet, drywall is a poor choice because it tends to soak up water and support mold growth. You should look for waterproof, mold proof basement wall and ceiling systems that will not absorb moisture and rot overtime. You may not be able to cover all exposed pipes and duct work, but you can paint such fixtures to match the rest of the room, or creatively hide them with furniture, plants or wall hangings.

6. Open it up. If you have unnecessary columns, pillars or walls in your basement, consider tearing them out(Consult a structural engineer if uncertain of load-bearing). The more open the floor plan, the brighter the space will appear.

7. Get some plants. Plants can make any room healthier by removing toxins and adding oxygen. They can also give the room a brighter mood. Of course, not all plants can survive in a basement. Visit the related wikiHow on choosing an office plant for some tips.



Question : Is light brown a nice colour to paint a basement?

Answer : If it is a very light brown, yes.



Tips.

Full-spectrum lighting may brighten not only your basement, but also your mood: it has been shown to ameliorate the symptoms of depression associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Use mirrors to make it brighter and more open looking.

Equip your primary basement lighting with a dimmer so that you can easily vary the amount of light you want at any given time.

Warnings.

Basements are notorious for flooding, and carpet doesn't handle flooding well, so consider tile and other flooring options.

Because basements are usually damp or prone to water problems from condensation, leakages or flooding, avoid using materials made with organic compounds. That includes hardwood, cork, bamboo, many hardware store brands of laminates, drywall, wooden subfloors, fabrics, latex, leather and paper. Mold thrives in humid environments and feeds on organic matter. Don't turn your basement into a mold farm.

Exercise caution and forethought when removing walls or columns. You do not want to remove any necessary structural supports. If in doubt, check with a professional contractor.

Before doing any work to your home's electrical system (i.e. installing lights), make sure you know what you're doing. If you don't, hire a qualified contractor.

Februari 17, 2020

how to decorate your treehouse

How to Decorate Your Treehouse.

Treehouses are cool little places to hang out. There's no point in having a treehouse with nothing in it, so that you have to sit on the floor. With stuff in the treehouse, everything is possible. Read this wikiHow article to get loads of ideas about decorating your treehouse.It is great!



Steps.

1. Decide how you will decorate the walls. Will you paint them or leave them wooden? Wood gives a real natural feel, while paint will make you feel like you are in an actual house. Different kinds of paint have different feels. Black will feel like this is your little dark hut and bright colors will feel like you are in a house full of sunshine.

2. Choose a type of flooring. Do you want to leave it wooden, or use carpet? Fluffy or flat? Carpet gives the room a cosy feel and a wooden floor is like a little den. Tiles aren't very popular, though. They would be used for a kitchen or a bathroom.

3. Make windows. Windows can be wide, narrow, tall, or short. They can also be square, heart, circle or star shaped. It's your choice. If you want sunlight to shine into your room and make it warm, you have to have windows. Or, if you like, no windows at all. Add curtains, too.

4. Create signs.You can create a wooden sign on the door of your treehouse.It could say, No Girls, No Boys, Keep Out, No Trespassing or anything else. If you want a spiritual feel, add an idol or two, like a fairy or animal. It would also be cool to have a wind chime.

5. Furnish your treehouse. You can use couches, little tables, beanbags, paintings, a computer and a desk, lights, or anything else. You can choose a cosy feel, dark feel, sunny feel, etc. The list goes on.

6. Add some entertainment. This can be a television, Nintendo, radio, or even calculators; anything that you can use to entertain yourself when you are bored. For Nintendo try to use it as a laptop and camera if you have the DSi. You can hook up internet to that, which would allow Youtube in replacement for Radio. Try keeping a bookcase in there to hold everything on.

7. Find a way to keep rain from wetting your tree house. Rain will soak through wood and we don't want it to wet your furniture or electronics! Try to cover it with moss, tree bark, waterproof blankets, or anything else to keep it out!

8. If you have a way to keep the inside from getting wet, see if you can find a way to get power for lamps, chargers, and maybe even a TV if you have an extra!



Question : How much money is it?

 Answer : If you would like to spend less money, you can find furniture and decor at thrift and second hand stores, or even garage sales. You can buy all new things if you wish, and maybe even grab more things that will still be able to withstand an outdoor environment, but this will cost more. Set a budget first, and then decide on your options.

 Question : Will this work for any tree?

 Answer : Make sure you're building a treehouse on a tree with enough support for a platform to start with, and has multiple branches, or enough room to place support beams around the house.

 Question : Can I put curtains in my treehouse?

 Answer : Yes! It's your treehouse. You can put whatever you want inside.

 Question : What can I put in a simple, small treehouse?

 Answer : Maybe some pillows or fold out chairs, a portable cooler for drinks, and a small box you can keep games or books in that will also double as a table. Put up posters for decoration.

 Question : What if the ceiling is pretty low and it's a small space?

 Answer : Keep furniture to a minimum and use pillows for seating. Put up fairy lights to add some sparkle. Make use of vertical space with shelving.

 Question : How can I decorate a very small tree house?

 Answer : Use shelves for vertical storage, and use small storage ottomans to double as seats and storage units. Try to use nooks and crannies to your advantage.

 Question : How can I get electricity into the treehouse?

 Answer : The easiest way to do this would be to run an extension cord from your house (exterior if you have an outlet outside) into the treehouse.

 Question : Would I be able to make it two floors?

 Answer : Yes, you can potentially make it two floors.

 Question : What if my tree house does not have a roof and it has cracks in the wall?

 Answer : Repair it, then add a roof, and then decorate it.

 Question : How can I add floors if there are too many branches?

 Answer : Ask an adult to trim some of the branches for you, or choose a different tree for your treehouse.



Tips.

If you are painting or putting down flooring, be creative and make up patterns. For example, if you want your treehouse to seem like a field at night, get some kind of green fluffy carpet, like grass, and paint the walls black, and add glow in the dark stars. Or, get bright! Blue floor blue walls, and paint fluffy white clouds for a real feeling that you are on air. Instead of wooden floor or fluffy carpet, how about a wooden floor with lots of little rugs and cushions?

Put posters and artwork up just make sure they don't get wet!

For the curtains, you can just get old material and make curtains out of them.

Instead of just lights on the ceiling, you could have a punchbag or a disco ball, or get things to hang from your ceiling like little fluffy bats, or fluffy love hearts.

Sometimes, you could cut a window in the door of the treehouse.

You could add glow-in-the-dark stars onto the walls and ceiling.

For walls and flooring, choose colors you like or with colors that match. You could have a blue carpet with green walls, for example, but don't have brown walls with purple floor.

Make it cozy - add blankets and pillows!

If you are sharing a treehouse with your sibling or other person, just make one big treehouse and use curtains instead of doors. This way you can open them up or close them and get some alone time. Just make sure that the curtains will stand the weather.

If you like to create art, buy or find a bin and pile up some art supplies in your treehouse. You can buy paint, carpeting and wall paper to make your house pop out.

Warnings.

Do not leave anything valuable in there when you are not there.

Make sure you are allowed to do this if you are young; ask your parents.

Don't spend too much money; try to make your own decorations.

Be careful with scissors, hot glue,etc.

Februari 12, 2020

how to decorate a bathroom

How to Decorate a Bathroom.

The bathroom is often one of the most overlooked and neglected rooms when it comes to decorating. Fortunately, there are some quick and easy ways to give your bathroom a fresh look. It can be as simple as change out the towels and adding a plant, to as fancy as adding wallpaper or painting the wall behind a set of shelves.



Method 1 Changing the Patterns and Colors.

1. Choose a theme and color scheme for your bathroom. Most people prefer refreshing themes and colors, such as cool blues, Zen, pale green, or nautical. You can choose something more unique, however, such as vintage, romantic, or ornate.

Pastel colors are great for a vintage look, while deep reds and golds are perfect for an ornate look.

You can also use neutral colors, such as white and black, or white and silver.

Your theme can be specific, such as rustic farmhouse, or general, such as traditional or classic.

2. Repaint your bathroom or bathroom furniture. You can repaint the entire bathroom, or you can paint just 1 wall an accent color. For example, if your bathroom’s walls are all white, consider painting 1 wall a different color, like light blue or pale gray.

Make sure that you use a paint suitable for humid, bathroom environments.

The best paint finish for a bathroom will be satin or semi-gloss.

3. Add some wallpaper as an alternative. You can apply the wallpaper over all of the bathroom’s walls, or you can choose just 1 accent wall. You can also use a narrow strip of wallpaper trim along the top or middle of the wall instead.

Make sure that the wallpaper matches the color and theme of your bathroom.

4. Apply a wall treatment for an upscale design. Great options for your bathroom include tile, faux shiplap, stone, or glass. Although they're a more expensive decorative option, wall treatments last a long time and elevate your design.

Make sure the wall treatment you pick is appropriate for a bathroom, since it will get humid. When in doubt, talk to a product representative.

5. Use wall decals or framed artwork as a temporary option. If you live in a rental unit, you may not be able to repaint the walls or use wall paper. You can still use removable wall decals. You can also hang some framed artwork above the toilet or towel rack instead.

Simple silhouettes work the best when it comes to wall decals. Try scrolls or filigree for a fancy look, or trees and greenery for a serene look.

If your bathroom doesn't have good ventilation, the frames must contain glass.

If you're wanting a temporary upscale look, you can install peel-and-stick tiles behind your sink to create a backsplash. You can find these at home improvement stores or online.

6. Paint the back walls inside open shelving units. If you have shelves in your bathroom, consider painting the walls behind them a different color. This works best on shelves without cabinet doors, but you can do this on cabinets too.

For example, if your bathroom has white walls, paint the walls behind the shelves a light gray for a subtle pop of color.

If you want to add a designer touch to your shelves, you can install wallpaper or contact paper along the back wall instead of paint. As another option, you could apply the contact paper just on the shelves.



Method 2 Adding Textiles and Furniture.

1. Add a small, decorative stand or side table. Choose a small stand or a side table that is 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm) across and tuck it into a niche or corner. Not only will this look cute, but it can double-up as extra storage.

For example, you could keep candles or bowls filled with pretty soaps on top of the table.

If your table has shelves, roll up your towels and place them inside the shelves. Not only is this a great decorative touch, it's also practical!

Consider placing a nice tray atop the table for your toiletries or perfumes.

2. Consider an upholstered bench for comfort and luxury. Choose a bench that matches the style and colors of your bathroom, then set it against the wall. If you have a small bathroom but still want a hint of luxury, consider an upholstered stool instead.

Don't be afraid to take a bench apart and re-paint or re-upholster it. If you decide to re-upholster the bench, make sure you choose a water-resistant fabric. This is especially important if you plan to sit on the bench while wet or place wet items on the bench. Otherwise, it may develop mold or mildew.

3. Get a shelving unit if you have space for it. Not only can this add a decorative element to your bathroom, but it will also allow you to store other items, such as towels, toilet paper, and so forth.

Make the shelf more decorative by adding a plant or a vessel filled with pretty soaps or bath bombs.

If you have a small bathroom, consider adding a single, narrow shelf just above the bathroom vanity. Store your perfumes, cosmetics, and toothbrushes on it.

If you have a small bathroom, consider getting a mini metal shelving unit that you can place on your bathroom counter or hang above the toilet.

Another option for shelving is floating shelves, which are great if you don't have the space for a unit. You can hang your floating shelves over your toilet or, if there's no shower, above the bathtub. Use your shelves for extra towels, rolls of toilet paper, personal care items, or decorations.

4. Brighten up a dull bathroom with colorful towels or a bathmat. One of the quickest ways to change the look of your bathroom is by swapping out the towels and bathmat for something new.

Consider the season. Warm colors work well for fall, while cool colors work better for winter. Pastels are great for spring, and bright colors are ideal for summer.

Play around with different shades and layering. For example, try a light green hand towel over a dark green bath towel.

Bathmats don’t always have to be made from towel material. You can get wooden or bamboo ones too!

5. Change out the shower curtain for something more exciting. If you have a plain white or frosted shower curtain, consider switching it out for a different one. Pick out a bright color that matches your towels. If solid colors aren't your thing, try a pattern instead.

If you are going with a pattern, make sure that it matches the other colors in your bathroom.

If you have a window in your bathroom, consider getting some mini curtains or blinds for it. Keep them open so that you have lots of daylight.

If you have any curtains you aren't using, you can hang these over your plastic shower curtain to create a fancy look.



Method 3 Updating Fixtures and Lighting.

1. Take advantage of natural lighting if your bathroom has it. Some bathrooms have windows in them. These are great of bringing in natural daylight and giving your bathroom a fresher look. Clear the area in front of the window, wipe the window clean, and repaint the sill, if needed.

Decorate your window with opened curtains or plants, but keep it minimal so that the light can pass through.

On the other hand, if your bathroom has a grand, luxurious theme, hanging heavy curtains in front of the window may work better.

2. Trade out the light bulbs for something new. If you have lights above your bathroom mirror, consider switching them out for different ones. This can be as simple as changing the old, bright bulbs for frosted ones. It can be as fancy as getting actual lights with fancy covers or fixtures around them.

If your lights have fixtures or covers, make sure that they match the other metallic elements in your bathroom.

If you like to do makeup in your bathroom, choose lights with a bright, white glow. Avoid lights that give you a hazy, golden glow; it’s not good lighting for makeup.

If your bathroom is too dark, high-efficiency LED lights can give your bathroom a bright, white glow.

3. Switch out the towel racks for something new. Make sure that the new towel racks match the other metal fixtures in your bathroom, however. For example, if you have gold faucets, you should get gold towel racks--not silver ones.

Towel racks don’t always have to look like horizontal rods or bars. You can get ones shaped like hooks or loops instead.

If you can't afford to replace your towel racks, you can paint them instead! Simply take them off the wall and bring them outside. Use a metal spray paint to coat them in a new color. You could choose something metallic or mix it up with a fun shade that matches your bathroom, like a blue.

4. Change your mirror, or put a frame around it. If your mirror looks plain, see if you can find a fancier mirror. Oval mirrors or mirrors with beveled edges are a great option. If you can't change your mirror, consider framing it instead. You can use an actual frame, or you can use glass mosaic tiles instead.

If you are framing the mirror, use colors that match the other colors in your bathroom.

5/ Change the fixtures in your bathroom for a more adventurous project. This can be difficult for someone who has not done it before, so if the task is too intimidating for you, hire a handyman. Make sure that the colors go well with the overall theme of your bathroom.

For example, if your bathroom is ornate with lots of burgundy and gold, consider gold fixtures.

If your bathroom has a modern or Zen theme, try matte silver fixtures instead.



Method 4 Adding Accessories and Storage.

1. Bring some character with candles or decorative items. Things like pillar candles, figurines, and vases all make great bathroom accents. Find some items that match the color and theme of your bathroom, then display them in an out-of-the-way area, such as a side table, a shelf, or the corner of the counter.

If you are getting pillar candles, consider getting 3 candles that are the same color, but different heights and thicknesses. This will create some interesting variation.

Make sure that the items you choose can withstand humid conditions.

Avoid using breakable items, such as glass, if you have curious children or pets.

2. Bring in some greenery with a plant or 2. Choose a plant that requires low levels of sunlight. Even if your bathroom has a window in it, it likely won't provide enough sunlight for your plant.

Match the pots to your bathroom's tiles, towels, mat, or shower curtain.

Every so often, move your plant into a bright window for a day or 2 so that it can absorb sunlight.

Air plants are a great option for your bathroom! They'll thrive in the humid bathroom environment and require little care.

Hang some fake, green floral garlands along the ceiling. Ivy is a classic choice, but you can also try ferns or wisteria.

3. Store extra towels and toilet paper in baskets. Instead of keeping towels and toilet paper stacks on a shelf, put them into decorative storage baskets instead. Measure the depth of your shelf or cabinet first, then purchase some square or rectangular baskets that match those dimensions.

You can also use wire or canvas baskets. Container stores, fabric stores, and craft stores generally have a vast selection.

If you have space next to your sink or toilet, you can keep the baskets there as well.

You are not just limited to towels and toilet paper; you can store other items that you want to keep out of sight too, such as hair styling tools.

4. Keep cotton balls, Q-tips, and other toiletries in glass jars or vessels. Instead of leaving these items in the cabinet, transfer them into glass or clear acrylic containers, then keep the containers on your bathroom counter. Use 1 container for each type of item.

For example, keep your cotton balls in a tall jar and your Q-tips in a squat container.

Consider a vase or apothecary-style jar for extra bath bombs, mini lotion bottles, or hand soaps.

Tiered cupcake stands and cake stands make cute displays for perfumes, nail polish, and other cosmetics.

Old Mason jars are a great, low cost option for storing your items! If you don't like the look of them plain, add a ribbon or piece of fabric to make them match your decor. As another option, you could paint the jars, though you wouldn't be able to see into them anymore.

5. Make use of soap dispensers and toothbrush holders. Instead of keeping your liquid hand soap in the plastic bottle it came in, pour it into a glass or ceramic soap dispenser. If you prefer to use solid soap, keep it in a little dish or tray instead.

Keep your toothbrushes in a toothbrush holder. Make sure that it matches your soap dish or soap dispenser.

If you like to use mouthwash, consider pouring it into a glass vessel or bottle instead. Have some paper cups nearby, so that you have something to pour the mouthwash into.



Question : How can I decorate a small bathroom for cheap?

Answer : You can get a new shower curtain, add artwork (original or print free art from online), add a few plants, and your bathroom will look refreshed. Painting can also nicely update it if that is in your budget.

Question : How can I make my bathroom look brighter?

Answer : If you have a window, open the blinds (when it's okay to do so), add brighter LED bulbs to your light fixture, and paint your walls a bright or lighter color that will reflect light.

Question : What pictures should I put in my bathroom?

Answer : You can put up some rules to be followed inside the bathroom, and you can decorate the paper containing the rules.



Tips.

Don't be afraid to change your decorations with the seasons. Warm colors are great for cold weather, while cool colors are better for warm weather.

If you don't know how to do something, or aren't comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional, such as a painter or plumber.

Find inspiration online if you are stuck. There are lots of websites, such as Pinterest and Polyvore, that allow people to share ideas for projects.

Don't feel like you have to change out everything at once. You can update your style a little at a time.

Things You'll Need : Towels, Bathmat, Shower curtain, Storage baskets, Jars and vases.

Februari 12, 2020

how to decorate a bar

How to Decorate a Bar.

Having your own bar is a fun and exciting way to entertain guests. Decorating your bar can actually be a lot of fun and really easy. A great way to get started is to decide on a theme for your bar. That will help you choose the appliances, glassware, and storage that accents the theme of your bar. Then, it’s just a matter of adding decor that matches your theme and you’ll be drinking comfortably at your own bar in no time!



Method 1 Customizing the Bar Countertop.

1. Make custom napkins with your initials or a logo to place on your bar. Creating your own bar napkins is an easy way to add a personal touch to your bar. You can print napkins in any color that have your initials, your favorite team’s logo, your wedding anniversary, or even a photograph of your family on them.

Go online to search for customized napkins.

2. Use decorative coasters on your bar top. Coasters are both decorative and practical because they’ll help preserve your bar top and are a great way to accent your bar by using an interesting design. Famous quotes, a sports team logo, iconic landmarks, or humorous quotes can all add to the decor of your bar top.

For an even more personal decoration, try your hand at making ink stamped coasters or felt coasters.

You can find all kinds of coaster designs online. You can even make your own and have them shipped to you.

Many craft stores have the materials you need to make your own coasters.

3. Keep an assortment of straws on your bar. The straws you choose to serve with your drinks can affect the vibe or style of your bar. Using wacky and colorful straws would have a different effect than plain and purely functional straws. Put out straws on your bar for people to use that reflect the style or theme of your bar.

For example, a Caribbean or tiki-themed bar could use ornate straws that have Easter Island heads on them.

4. Add plants to your bar top to add some color or greenery. A potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers can really alter the look and feel of your bar. Unless your bar has a window that allows lots of light in, you’ll need to choose an indoor plant that does well in low light.

A decorative vase to hold your flowers can be a great decoration as well.

Use fake flowers for an easy-to-maintain option.

Tip: Use herbs in pots to decorate your bar and use in drinks. For example, you could keep mint and rosemary in small pots on your bar.

5. Install a countertop that creates the look that you want. The centerpiece of your bar should be the bar itself: the countertop where people will sit and enjoy food and drinks. Depending on the look you’re going for and your budget, you have several options to choose from for your bar countertop.

Granite and marble countertops are expensive, but they last forever and create a very elegant, stylish appearance.

Dark, well-grained wood fits into a traditional pub motif and will give your bar a warmer look and feel.

Stainless steel or glass bar countertops will give your bar a modern, experimental vibe.

Tile countertops are a less expensive but attractive option.

Avoid surfaces that will warp, chip, crack, or scratch easily like vinyl or wood paneling.

6. Add a backsplash beneath the bar to accent the countertop. Utilize the space beneath the countertop to complement or contrast with the design of your countertop. The space doesn’t need to just be a place for people to rest their feet!

For example, if you had a white marble countertop, you could use a black coral pattern backsplash as a contrast.



Method 2 Decorating the Walls.

1. Install decorative lighting fixtures to accent your bar. The lighting you choose for your bar should add a decorative accent but also be functional and provide adequate lighting for your bar.

A classic light fixture for many bars is the pendant lighting fixture.

Use lower wattage or softer light bulbs if you want to create a pub-like atmosphere.

Add small LED lights beneath the cabinets and on your shelves to draw light toward your decor, glassware, and supplies.

Change the color of the lights to suit the theme of your bar.

2. Hang a neon sign to make your bar look like an authentic bar. Depending on the theme of your bar, hanging a neon sign as decoration can make it feel like you’re sitting in a real bar, especially for a sports bar or a pub-style theme.

A wine or modern-themed bar wouldn’t be served by hanging a neon sign.

You can find neon signs for purchase online.

3. Use memorabilia to add a personal touch to your bar. It’s your bar, so you should add your own touch to it! You can hang photographs, images, or even flags to decorate your bar that makes it your own.

For a sports bar theme hang a jersey from your favorite team or flags with the team logo.

Tip: Hang pictures of your friends and family to make your bar feel like home.

4. Add a mirror to give depth to your bar. Many bars use mirrors to make the room feel larger and add a decorative accent to the bar. Mirrors visually expand the space and can be an effective design element that adds to the decor of your bar.

Make sure you choose a place on your wall that can support the weight of the mirror.



Method 3 Arranging the Bar.

1. Use an interesting shelf system for your bar. The shelves behind your bar can be used for more than just storing your glasses, supplies, mixers, and liquor. They can also be a part of your bar’s decor. The color, design, and arrangement of your shelves can all add to the look of your bar.

For example, you could use dark stained wood to store your beer mugs.

If you like to serve cocktails, you could use glass or stainless steel shelves for a more modern look.

2. Display your glassware in a visible spot behind the bar. You can use your glassware as decoration when you’re not using it to serve drinks! Keep glassware that is appropriate for the types of drinks that you can serve and look good sitting the shelves of your bar. Organize and arrange the glassware in a fun and cute way so people can see it.

Show off your cocktail equipment by arranging your martini glasses and shakers on a shelf behind your bar.

Use a decorative glass rack for your stemware like wine glasses and champagne flutes.

If you have themed cups or glasses, place them on shelves behind your bar as part of your decoration.

3. Arrange your alcohol, mixers, and supplies in an interesting way. The manner in which you display your liquor and your supplies add to the overall look of your bar. For example, you could arrange everything you have in a neat row or you could only display your more expensive and fancy drinks for a more professional look.

Your more expensive liquors should be placed on a higher shelf

Keep cheaper liquor beneath the bar so you can access it but it isn’t visible.

4. Put out fun shot glasses for people to use. You more than likely will be pouring shots at some time or another at your bar. Keep fun shot glasses out for people to use whenever the occasion arises.

Keep shot glasses with your favorite team’s logo to use after they score in a game!

Use frozen shot glasses to kick it up a notch.

5. Select barstools that complement your bar. Barstools are also both practical and decorative elements of your bar. Choose barstools that add to the look of your bar, but are also comfortable for people to sit in. Your barstools also need to be tall enough to accommodate most people so everyone can enjoy sitting at your bar.

For example, a pub theme would have barstools that are made of dark wood, while a modernist cocktail bar theme would be sleek and a monochromatic color.

A typical bar countertop stands at about 41–43 inches (100–110 cm) tall, and your bar stools should stand between 29–32 inches (74–81 cm) from the floor to the seat to accommodate most people.

6. Install custom tap handles to decorate your bar. Decorative tap handles will make your bar feel more authentic and personal at the same time.You can go online to purchase customized tap handles or you could order tap handles of your favorite brew or even your favorite sports team to decorate your tap handles with.

Use chalkboard tap handles so you can change what’s written or drawn on them.

7. Consider following a theme to help choose the decor for your bar. You could choose a theme for your bar to help decide what decorations you use. If you do decide to follow a theme, it should be manageable and fit the space of your bar, but it can be anything you want!

Look online or flip through design magazines for theme ideas or for decorations that fit your theme.

Bar Theme Ideas.

Sports Bar: If you’re a sports fan, you can use your favorite teams and sports to help choose color patterns and decorations.

Tiki bar: A tiki bar theme is fun and playful and would include lots of bamboo and wicker elements to give a South Pacific flair to your bar.

Wine bar: If wine is your interest, you can focus your decorations to highlight your passion using things like corks, wine racks, and an assortment of glassware.

British pub: A British pub theme would utilize dark wood accents, empire-themed decor with the Union Flag, and proper pint glasses.

Februari 12, 2020

how to decorate an apartment

How to Decorate an Apartment.

Decorating an apartment, especially if it’s your first, can be overwhelming. Following a few simple decorating principles, however, will help you quickly transform an empty space with blank, white walls into a cozy living area that exudes your personality.



Method 1 Upgrading Your Walls.

1. Add pictures and art to your walls to create a homey environment. Select frames that harmonize with the color of your walls and the overall feel you’re trying to create for the room. A customized art piece or family photographs hung in your living room can add a dash of personality to the space.

Look for a frame that matches both the art and other key decorating pieces in the room.

2. Hang a mirror to make your space look larger. If you want to make your room seem larger and make it brighter during the day, position the mirror on the wall opposite to your window. Hang it so that your eyes are at the same height as the mirror’s middle.

Choose a distressed wood frame for your mirror if you’re going for a rustic look in your room.

A simple, black frame, on the other hand, will complement a sleek and modern decorating scheme.

3. Bring color and texture to a room by hanging a tapestry. You can hang a tapestry over the sofa in your living room, above your bed’s headboard, or on any other section of a wall that you think could benefit from a dash of color or the addition different texture. To hang a weaving or vintage fabric, you can use pushpins or small nails or hook-and-loop fasteners. Alternatively, you could stretch it over a frame you’ve hung on your wall.

Self-adhesive hook-and-loop fasteners work especially well on curved walls and have the added benefit of not leaving behind any holes in the wall.

If you want to hang a heavier tapestry, you may want to consider draping it over a rod.

4. Choose curtains that complement your room’s style. Choose curtains that match the color of your sofa and/or walls for a seamless look. Go with solid-colored curtains if you want to enhance the color scheme of your room, or patterned curtains if you want to draw visitors’ eyes toward the room’s window.

You can make your windows seem taller if you install your curtain rods high above the top of the window frame and wider if you extend rod beyond the window’s frame.

If you want to make your ceilings seem higher than they are, go with curtains with vertical stripes.

If you anticipate that you’ll be moving in the near future, don’t spend too much money on your curtains, since they may not fit the windows in your future apartment.

5. Paint your walls to give the room some character. Keeping the walls of your apartment white or beige is fine, but painting them another color can add a dash of personality to the room and complement its overall design scheme. Choose a light color if you want to make a small room feel roomier or a darker color if you want to give the room a more intimate feel.

Before painting the walls of a rental apartment, check with your landlord to make sure that it’s okay to do so.



Method 2 Adding Accessories.

1. Green up your living space with plants. Plants not only make a room seem more inviting and relaxing, but can also freshen the air in your apartment. You can use potted plants as centerpieces on a coffee or dining table, place a small tree in the corner of a room, or mount a hanging plant on a wall.

If you don’t want the hassle of watering indoor plants, artificial plants are a great alternative.

If a lack of floor space is an issue, you can place smaller plants on tables and other surfaces or use hanging plants.

2. Enhance your room’s décor with toss pillows. Adding throw pillows to a couch, chair, or love seat is a simple way to enhance or even alter the entire look of a room. When looking for throw pillows, find colors, textures, patterns, and sizes that either harmonize well with the room’s aesthetic or strike an intriguing contrast.

If the walls and furniture in a room are white or a light beige, brightly-colored throw pillows with bold patterns can add a burst of energy.

Selecting throw pillows of the same color but with different textures or patterns is another way to liven up a space.

3. Cover bland and ugly floors with rugs. A large sisal or jute rug can add color and texture to your apartment’s living room. You can also use small rugs to add color and texture to hallways and other small areas that many apartment decorators overlook.

You can find rugs of a variety of sizes, patterns, textures, and colors at furniture stores.

To find cheaper rugs, check out a local thrift store.

4. Choose table and floor lamps to brighten a room’s aesthetic. Lamps are an important part of any room’s décor. The light they provide can draw the eye to certain design elements, while lampshades, lamp bases, and sconces can serve as attractive decorative accents.

Lamp bases that are metallic, or are made of another reflective material, can make your room brighter by reflecting light.



Method 3 Choosing Furniture.

1. Buy furniture pieces that come with added storage. If space in your apartment is limited, you may find it difficult to find places to store all the stuff you own. Buying pieces of furniture with storage spaces can help keep your living space from becoming cluttered, which will help maintain the original look of your decorated room.

A coffee table with shelves underneath can provide you with a convenient place to keep books, magazines, and other odds and ends.

If you need a place to store extra blankets and throw pillows, consider getting an ottoman with a hollow inside and detachable top.

A bed with drawers below the mattress can be a great space-saving alternative to a bulky dresser.

2. Select scaled-down furniture that will fit in smaller spaces. If you’re looking to buy furniture for your apartment, scaled-down furniture will help make your living space seem larger than it is. Select couches and chairs with narrower widths, and light and airy tables and coffee tables, instead of heavy and bulky ones.

A see-through acrylic coffee table can serve the same function as a solid-wood one, while appearing to take up less room.

If you’re decorating a small space, floating shelves are a great, functional alternative to bulkier pieces of furniture, such as chests and bookcases.

3. Find multi-functional pieces of furniture. If your apartment is small, multi-functional pieces are a terrific option. If you buy a small bench, for example, you can use it as a seat when you have guests over, or a small table where you can stack books.

Getting a sofa that folds into a futon will give your guests a place to sleep when they visit.

Furniture with wheels will give you the freedom to easily rearrange your décor for different occasions.

4. Arrange furniture to create distinct living spaces. If your apartment is relatively small in area, you can position your sofa or book cases so that they act as dividers. This technique is especially helpful when decorating a studio apartment or an apartment with a wide-open floor plan.

By placing a sofa in the middle of a studio apartment, for example, you can create a distinct living room and a bedroom.

Februari 12, 2020