“Home is where the hearth is.” What this saying basically comes down to is that a dwelling is not a home without a kitchen. Since prehistoric times, dwellings were literally built around the hearth–the cooking and heating center of the home.

Nowadays, the kitchen is where meals are prepared, snacks are sneaked, families come together, and homework and other projects are tackled. The “hearth” is still the “heart” of the home

Now it is easier than ever to incorporate indoor water fountains into your special living places, adding that special touch you can’t seem to create any other way. Sit back and let the troubles of the day melt away as you watch the water gently wash over a smooth slab of slate as it disappears into the smooth rocks at the base of the feature. You can create a well deserved retreat from the stresses of life in a corner or room of your home with an interior fountain.

Indoor fountains are ideal for those who want to add a home decor accessory that will not only create a stunning effect, but also bring a sense of peace and tranquility into their home. There is little debate that the soothing sounds and visual effect that trickling water creates are equally relaxing. The subtle sights and sounds of an indoor fountain or waterfall are extensively used in luxury spas to create an atmosphere that helps the user escape the pressures of daily life. Until recent years these features were not accessible to the general public, but that has changed. Now, the average person can create a peaceful atmosphere using moving water within their home, with minimal expense.

There are three distinct indoor fountain models, but regardless of the model or style, each shares the same basic design and mechanics. The water within the feature is simply circulated by a small water pump. The pump moves the water from the basin or collection chamber to the ‘head’ of the feature. The head of the fountain is the place in the fountain where the water comes into view. Despite the basic nature of these fountains the effect that is created through this simple process can be stunning.

The name of each model is very self explanatory, but they do have some unique distinctions.

Table Top Fountains

These units are the smallest and most common indoor water features. They can discretely sit on a table, desk or end table and, despite their size, they bring the sights and sounds of moving water to the room or office. These features are the most diverse of all fountains. A tabletop fountain can incorporate almost any material that can fit within any decor. The cost of these units can vary drastically, based on quality, design and the materials incorporated into the fountain.

Wall Waterfall Fountains

These water features are typically large in nature (minimum 3 feet by 2 feet). These fountains are mounted on the wall as the name suggests. These are usually the most expensive models and are the most involved to assemble and mount on the wall. These units are up to 5 inches deep and rest on the wall like a large piece of art. They can easily become a stunning and classy focal point to any room. It is best to have the electrical outlet behind the unit so the unit conceals the power cord and electrical plug.

Floor Mounted Fountains

These fountains are similar to the table top units, however they generally are larger in size and stand on the floor. Because they are designed to sit on the floor they are usually larger vertically then horizontally and the cord is easy to hide because the unit is sitting on the ground. They can easily fill a corner or add dimension to any floor space.

Regardless of the type of fountain, an indoor fountain can essentially redefine and draw out new aspects and features within a room. What was once reserved for the luxury spas and hotels is now available and accessible for the public. With the many options available both in design, style and cost there is a fountain that will help transform your living space into a place of tranquility and calmness through the gentle and soothing sights and sounds of moving water.

Are you feeling uninspired by your boudoir? Is your bedroom more reminiscent of grandma’s abode than the romantic getaway you envisioned? Then it’s time to turn up the heat by introducing some spicy décor elements into your nest.

Firstly, an evaluation of your furniture and décor are in order. If your furniture and accessories are hand-me-downs, or look as if they’re ready to be read their last rites, then it’s time to cast them away to your local charitable organization and go shopping for some newer and more attractive counterparts. When selecting new furniture ensure these pieces are reflective of your aesthetic style, are well-built, provide ample storage, and suit the scale of your room. Always purchase the best quality that you can afford.
The most notable focal point in any bedroom is, and should be, the bed. So consider painting the wall behind the bed a tint or tone of red as a dramatic counterpoint. Red is the colour of love and energy and so its use in a couple’s bedroom is perfect, provided that it is used judiciously (a little goes a long way). The rest of the walls should be painted in softer hues, such as sandy brown, mushroom grey or butter cream.

Selecting a bed must reflect your style, budget and suit the scale of your room (no king size beds in a small room). For a contemporary look consider a padded headboard in a luxurious fabric. It will offer you comfort, style and texture. Imperative for any bed is purchasing the best quality mattress and box spring that your budget can allow. Pillow top mattresses are wonderfully comfortable and can make your bedtimes truly ethereal. Of course buying the best quality linens you can afford is essential.

Egyptian cotton sheets in thread counts upwards of 350 are fit for a king and queen and of course as this is your palatial suite, spoil yourselves, you’ll be thankful you did. Also, buy the best quality feather pillows in either natural feathers or synthetic (if one is sensitive to allergens). They will make your bedtime experience that much more enjoyable. And finally, no bed is complete without a beautiful duvet and coordinating shams in the best quality cotton. Incorporate some cushions in silk, and voila! A beautiful bed that will beckon you to stay the night!

Overhead lighting should always be controlled by a dimmer switch. This allows you to set the mood and feel of the room. Task lighting is equally important; these would be the lamps that flank your bed on the night tables. Consider purchasing tri-lights, as they too, allow more flexibility with the quantity of light. And lastly, nothing is more romantic than the addition of candle light. The flicker of candle flames casts a glow that is warm and inviting, but do make sure that these are contained within glass lanterns. An unexpected fire is not the kind of excitement one desires in any room.

The rest is in the details. The right accessories will transform your space into a truly beautiful and inviting room. Incorporate elements that appeal to all the senses. We’ve already spoken of the addition of candles, and luxurious linens. Next add some wonderful artwork to your walls, a crystal vase for sparkle, and fill it with some beautiful fuchsia roses and tiger lilies for romance and fragrance. Add some mirrored objects for interest and lastly turn on some music and treat yourselves to a box of champagne truffles. Enjoy!

Beyond the sink, toilet, bathtub, shower, and other basic fixtures of a bathroom, accessories can add to a bathroom’s functionality and style.

A great vanity light can offer just the right light for makeup and grooming. Coordinated towel bars, towel rings, and wall fixtures can lift a bathroom with both form and function. Heated towel racks, in-shower caddies, storage shelves, and the like can create an element of luxury. And even toilet paper holders, soap dispensers, integrated trashcans, and clothes hampers can get the job done with style.