September 12, 2007 Landscaping and Decorator

First, my landscaping requests were approved by the home owners architectural board. I contacted my landscaping company and they are working on scheduling me for the demo part to start. Yeah!

Next, my decorator called. She had updates on various things. Unfortunately, I have lost my voice, so we really couldn't talk. I will catch her next week.

September 10, 2007 Pesky Window/Door in Bedroom

I continue to research how to handle the ventilation problem I have in the child's bedroom. I was out visiting model homes this weekend. I found this great solution.

Of course, nothing is ever easy. This particular configuration is for a window which is 6'0". My opening is only 5'0". I am going to check with someone to see if there are some windows which are skinny enough to accommodate my opening.

September 9, 2007 Lighting

I am doing a little homework on the lighting factor. California passed requirements in 2005 called Title 24. It requires the use of energy efficient lighting throughout the home. For example, lighting in the kitchen must come from 50% CFL and this is measured in wattage, not number of units.

In looking online for information about these requirements, I found a fun site from GE called the "Virtual Lighting Designer." This page lets you compare two rooms side by side using various types of lighting (recessed, pendant, table lamp). You can also select various rooms to test the lighting in such as home office, hallway, family room.



These pictures compare (first picture) using a general table lamp with decorative lighting from a floor lamp, wall lamp (second picture).

September 7, 2007 Renaissance Windows

I am thinking about using this Renaissance French Door with operable sidelights in my son's bedroom. The room is a little unusual since the only ventilation is provided by a pair of French doors. You don't always want to have the French doors open with you want fresh air. This unit has operable casement windows on the side. The down side is that it is wood exterior which would need to by painted regularly. The good news is that the location is a protected patio area so the paint and wood would not get direct sun or rain.