Your children might have less stress than you, but they still need to have a healthy environment because this will affect their growth and development. By incorporating a kids playground on your property and installing right playground set, you can give your children that exact escape that they require. Playing outside is a best way to allow your children to get exercise and fresh air. Proper maintenance is also required to keep your backyard safe and enjoyable place for your kids as well as their friends to play and learn with each other.

The main aim of doing this is preventing or protecting the children from getting any injury or issue before it occurs. First step that needs to be done is to purchase a quality playset that does not have joints or attachments made of metal as these can rust or corrode easily. Wooden playground sets are considered to be the best option for personal backyard playgrounds. In your neighborhood playgrounds, you will see plastic play sets as vandals can easily damage wood play sets. When it is situated in your own backyard and this is not an issue, wood easily becomes the material of choice.

To prevent accidents, you should closely examine different aspects of a kids playground set on a regular basis. You should check and change the pieces of equipment that may not be in the greatest of shape anymore. Any protrusions or disconnected parts could scratch children or catch on clothing, making them a safety hazard. You should also maintain an even level of surfacing material under your backyard playground set because if the level is not balanced, your child may get hurt. Maintaining an even level is also very essential as uneven level of gravel, mulch, wood chips or any other material that is used can hurt the children or can also trip them.

In many playground sets, where less maintenance is required, you can do the repairing job yourself. For large breakages and other damage that is caused to the kids play sets, you would have to call a maintenance worker for doing the job. You will require less maintenance for your play set if it is manufactured using superior quality material and your children do not abuse the equipment. You will be benefited with numerous advantages after installing a superior quality play set in your own backyard or front yard.

Photo: jinkazamah

There are many kit homes in Victoria being built with the help of contractors and costing owners a lot less than building a conventional home. Kit homes are great to build yourself but you will find you will need to hire professionals for certain tasks, like doing the electrical wiring and the plumbing.

Builder
Kit homes are delivered to your property with all the necessary materials to build it, along with comprehensive instructions as to how to construct it. If following instructions is not your thing or you aren’t a handy man then there is nothing wrong with hiring a builder to build your home for you. The big advantage of having a kit home is that they cost less to build, especially if you build it yourself, but you will still save money even if you use a builder. You may find that you only need the help of a professional for certain tasks.

Electrician
You will need to hire the services of a fully qualified electrician when it comes to doing the electrical wiring of your home. Electricity can be dangerous, particularly if you don’t know what you are doing, and wiring a whole home is not a simple task. Do your research and find an electrician you can trust to do a good job. Ask around your friends and family as they may have used someone in the past that they were happy with.

Plumber
It is possible to handle the plumbing yourself but if you are unsure of what goes where don’t hesitate to hire a plumber. It is fairly important that you have your water connected properly and that the toilet is going to work the first time you use it. You could keep the cost down by doing some of the work yourself, such as digging the ditches for the pipes or even giving the plumber a hand. You might just learn a thing or do in the process.

Plasterer
You can do your own plastering without too much trouble at all, there is plenty of information available online and hardware stores will have some great tips and tricks for you. It does take a bit of skill to get a smooth even result so if you are feeling a little unsure of your abilities there are plenty of great tradesman out there who will do the job quickly, easily and leave you with smooth walls all ready to paint.

Painter
Painting is one of those tasks that are not difficult but it is just time consuming and usually one of the least favourite tasks. If you just can’t be bothered hire a painter. You will be decreasing your savings by doing so but if you have done most of the work already on your kit home then you can probably afford to avoid the tedious task of painting.

Photo: Pink Dispatcher

Savings on utility bills
You will find that you save a significant amount of money on your utilities as you use less electricity, gas and water. There are a number of ways you can do this. By having solar panels on your roof you can use the sun’s energy to power your home and heat your water. With the right water saving appliances, such as the dishwasher, you will save water, and you can also reduce your water usage by having the right shower head and a toilet that uses less water per flush.

Recycled, environmentally friendly and safe materials
An eco-friendly home should be constructed with recycled materials where possible. You can buy recycled bricks from houses that are being torn down and you can use recycled timber. You can also choose to build a home from materials such as mud brick or even a straw bale home. Eco-friendly homes are often constructed from materials that are considered safer and help protect your health, for example better paint and formaldehyde free building materials.

Re-sale
Probably not something you would be considering doing in the immediate future, but one day you may decide to sell, and having an eco-friendly home puts you in a good position within the market. Today people are becoming more aware of climate change and of the benefits that the environment and their hip pocket experience when owning an energy efficient home. You will find that you will be able to ask a higher price than a standard home of a similar size.

Preserve your surroundings
An eco-friendly home will have been built with as little damage to the surrounding natural area as possible. The trees around your home should be well established and will save you having to spend a lot of money at the nursery on sizeable plants to create shade in your garden. The natural shade will also help keep your house cooler in summer, reducing your need to switch on your air conditioner. With the outdoors preserved as much as possible it will mean that any native birds and animals may still visit and live in your property.

Healthy lifestyle
By living in an eco-friendly home you will be undertaking a much healthier lifestyle, as well as reducing your impact on the environment. Your home will be constructed from materials that are non toxic and you will be breathing in cleaner air, due to a limitation of these toxins as well as having an established garden. As well as the house you can start to change your lifestyle habits by eating healthier, using green products and updating your appliances to more energy efficient ones.

• Door Locking Systems. Burglars may pose pizza delivery or other people pretending to do a job for you. Having prior opportunity to inspect your security doors, locks and latching devices will be to their advantage. Many of them have worked in the field and be very familiar with what they are presented with. You need to keep an eye on anyone at the entrance of your home or office. If they are paying more attention than is required to your door or lock, you should be alarmed. The most complicated systems will deter the most. It doesn’t mean they do not have a solution for it.
• Windows. Security screens are an absolute must. Only military grade glass can protect some of the options professional burglars will use. Acid and other chemicals that can melt glass are easily bought.
• Power. It is obvious you need a power back-up for your alarm system, but there are few more questions you should be asking yourself. How long will my backup last? Is there potential for security breach during switch-over from one power source to another? The best systems will have extended backup power supply options that are hidden out of site.
• Keys and Components. How easily can your keys be duplicated? This is an issue of real concern. The best keys and locks will be registered only allowing those with authority to duplicate them. Even your closest friends and colleagues may be planning something in advance. You can never be too careful. With strict measures in place you will never need to get paranoid.
• Roof. Roofs are often the weakest point of any home. You must make sure you have taken the appropriate measures. Old fashioned tiles are particularly easy for burglars. If you want that tiled look, it is worth installing a second roof under your tiles.
• Walls. If you are serious about securing your home and office, measures such as steel reinforcing will make a wall a lot harder to penetrate. Walls are often used as a final resort by determined thieves. They can plan noise distractions in advance.
• Chimneys. A standard chimney is a highly preferred choice of burglars. Your chimney should not allow access to even the smallest child. Yes, they are known to employ them in their illegal activities.
• Ventilation. Another access point that we often neglect. Air conditioning and exhaust fans could mean that your tangible defenses are actually wide open. Measures need to be taken to prevent unwanted entry.

Make sure you know your home, office or apartment is secure. And most of all, don’t broadcast your activities to anyone. Does the world need to know your every movement on Facebook? After you have made the structural changes to your security, work on your behavior and communication. Another common mistake made by many people.

Photo: Jeremy Levine Design

Have a look at faux fur comforters for the bed and matching scatter cushions, or how about the ultimate decadence of an animal skin rug – fake or otherwise depending on your tastes and budget. If you are not feeling so bold then consider smaller touches of animal print fabric against solid background colours: maybe a zebra print lampshade for the bedside table or even a covered frame for a featured wall mirror.

Don’t be tempted to cover your room wall-to-wall with a whole array of animal prints as the effect will be confused and overpowering. Break up the scheme with plain colours which contrast – creams and browns are ideal. Bamboo, wooden, leather or iron furniture will work well too. Following the above animal print decorating guide in your living room can also work but in a main room downstairs, it might not be to all your guests tastes.

Animal print designs can be fun in a children’s bedroom as well. Follow the jungle theme through with wall art of trees, flora and fauna and use stuffed toys to decorate. Your little ones will love dressing up in an explorer outfit and pretending to look for lions through their binoculars! I’ve even seen fake fur teddy bear skin rugs which whilst slightly odd if you think about it too much actually look really cute – and are lots of fun for pretending teddy is nibbling your toes! Huge soft toy snakes winding around the legs of bunk beds look great and a colourful parrot mobile will complete the look – just use your imagination and go wild!

Whichever way you take your decorating ideas just remember that a little leopard goes a long way and don’t over do it.

Architectural fashion being what it is, it’s fascinating to watch the design concepts as they deal with one of the oldest of all architectural forms. Typically, the design concepts of any era are a jumble of ideas glued together with references to other architectural forms, it’s truly remarkable to see how one basic idea can turn into so many different designs.

The veranda and its relatives

The origin of word veranda or verandah is a bit confused. The development of the word is like a communications workshop exercise, trying to keep a message straight. Some sources say it’s an Indian word meaning “balcony”, or an adaption of the Spanish version of an Indian word. In fact, verandas are a feature of practically all forms of architecture around the world in some form. If you’re interested in etymology, it’s worth noting that the balcony resembles a veranda more than a veranda resembles a balcony.

Another family member is the patio. The patio is basically an upmarket, stylized veranda, in European culture derived from the Spanish, who in turn got the basic architectural idea from the Moors during their occupation of Spain. The patio is a true cultural icon in its own right, freely adapted in architecture for hundreds of years.

The last but perhaps best known suburbanite member of the family is the porch. This is a fixture in many American home designs, dating back to old wooden front porches and rocking chairs. The old porch designs were basically verandas. The modern forms are true, solid architectural features built in to the house designs. Interestingly, the American porch is believed to have first been introduced in its original form in the “shotgun house” designs of the African slaves!

Veranda and their relations in history

The practical history of the veranda was just that- Practical, and very functional. Early verandas were exceptionally useful, providing extra floor space outside to stack logs and put stores, freeing up space inside. The veranda also doubled as a covered working space, particularly useful in areas where being able to work close to home also meant not dragging heavy tools around outdoors in all sorts of weather. Today, it’s an extension of the home, used in countless different ways.

The patio became a symbol of luxury, the “executive veranda”, but in fairness it also produced some great architectural designs in all cultures, from the incredible Mogul designs to European palaces and upmarket modern architecture straight out of the CAD designer’s minds.

Verandas and their relatives are true parts of any home. The suburban porch has become almost folk art. Almost ignored in the market, and often described as “quaint”, “retro” and “picturesque” by the typically verbose design magazines, it’s here to stay, like its relatives. Try finding anyone who’s ever had a favorite home porch, patio or veranda who’d want to live without one.

Photo: scazza_

• Natural Pavers. Natural pavers will be longer lasting than kiln-burnt items. It may sound strange, but they are actually ‘softer’ because they have been in the ground before they were produced. Sandstone pavers are an excellent example of long lasting pavers for all types of weather. They provide grip and are much softer for feet. An excellent option with children and their tender skin.
• Outdoor Carpets. Outdoor carpets are very effective if you are looking for a surface that is soft and you need some grip. These types of carpets will withstand prolonged exposure to the elements and can be cleaned easily. You can find these carpets in a range of styles. Some even mimic grass very well. Different colors can also be used to show children where they should play, and where they should not.
• Imitation Grass. This is very similar to outdoor carpets. However, it is specifically designed to imitate the look and feel of grass. They are also available in a range of colors and ‘blade’ thickness.
• Rubber Mulch. You will see this in many children’s play areas. It is very inexpensive and produced from recycled rubber. This can only be used in specific areas, such as around swings and play equipment. It is very effective for stopping children hurting themselves after falls.
• Anti-Slip Coatings. Concrete is not a very good surface if you have children. If you already have concrete and don’t want to rip it up, you should consider anti-slip coatings that will also provide some softness underfoot. These are applied in multiple layers depending on the amount of softness you wish to have.
• Poured Rubber. Poured rubber is installed much like concrete except it is poured in two distinct layers. The first layer poured is the firmest. The second layer, which is softer, can be poured at varying levels of thickness. The second layer can also vary in color and have varying degrees of anti-slip properties.
• Rubber Mats. Rubber mats are effective if you want a portable solution. Again you should choose mats that are large enough and lock together well. These mats should not slide around, or they will become more dangerous than the original floor surface.

Photo: Prowpatareeya

All children need a safe place to play. If your home is surrounded by hard bricks, kiln-fired pavers or plain concrete, you can expect to have children who will get hurt. Consider these options to make your home safer for everyone depending on your need and budget.

The environmentalists or other people will join this year to win their dream home. Moreover, the home also received an Energy Star certification which acknowledges its energy efficiency. The HGTV Green Home of 2011 looks to the future with a modern grassland and does not try to duplicate the former times. The HGTV Green Home Giveaway complements the network’s annual HGTV Dream Home Giveaway.

By the way, the winner of the HGTV Green Home 2011 grand prize package will win a 2011 GMC Terrain, $100,000 in cash, plus every single item in the home. The HGTV Green Home Giveaway 2011 is sponsored by several national advertisers you should be known. Find out more information just follow to
HGTV Green Home Giveaway 2011 Kicks Off.

Photo: Bryn Pinzgauer

This quaint home didn’t overlook a spacious piece of property with large expansive walls of glass, or sport any of the “typical” window features we are all familiar with. Interestingly this charming two-bedroom home was anchored by two small courtyards – one situated at the front entry and the other located in the rear of the home each accessible by French doors and windows.

So what made the interior of this home so bright and inviting?

Skylights – strategically positioned in the kitchen, living room, bathrooms and master bedroom all in an effort to maximize the daylight. And it worked! What could have felt like a dark and dingy home (due to a long/narrow site), was a bright, lively and incredibly inviting home.

So here is some food for thought when incorporating skylights into your next home renovation project.

Design Tips:

- Skylights can be fixed or operable depending on your needs.
- Skylights create an open/airy ambiance to any room. – If compared with traditional windows of the same size, skylights allow in almost five times more natural light into your space.
- Natural lighting floods the space and immediately enhances the room and your mood as well.
- Consider its size and placement and the attic space above. A shallow well will wash more light throughout the space. I like splaying (angling it outward from the rough opening) the well to distribute more light.

Energy Efficiency:

- The right quality skylight (wood, vinyl or fiberglass frames) when positioned strategically could potentially increase the energy efficiency in your home and keep your heating costs down.
- If installed with a southern exposure, over the winter months it will provide you with passive solar heating – which could reduce your heating costs. If possible install it in a shaded area under a deciduous tree to avoid some of the summer heat.
- When positioned on an east-facing roof – you’ll get a maximum amount of natural light and heat in the morning hours.
- Research the options and specify a low e coating for better insulation value. It reduces the loss of heat in the winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. – Saves on electricity as it maximizes natural lighting reducing the need to turn lights on during the day.

Photo: e-dogg

So consider implementing a skylight or two into your next home renovation project. Not only will they add architectural style, detail and natural light to your space – they are also an excellent way to increase the value of your home.

About the Author
Lori Gilder is an Award winning Interior Designer specializing in high-end residential renovations & additions. Lori is the CEO & Founder of Interior Makeovers Inc. She is dedicated to providing accessible design expertise & guidance, tailored to fit each individual homeowner’s lifestyle. Receive a FREE copy of “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes” http://www.lorigilder.com

Photo: skrobotic

The assessments are carried on both small and large building which includes residential buildings, commercial buildings and many vast complexes. These checking are carried out in small fees of about $800. This is mainly done in order to develop an ecological environment without causing much pollution.

Green house effects are causing lot of problem with natural situations. There is a strong requirement to reduce the green house effects. This is done mainly to have a good control on the usage of water, gas thereby reducing the waste products and effective dumping of waste materials. BEAC is making use of NABERS rating methodologies in order to rate the condition of buildings. This works by educating the building owners and managers regarding the emission of green house effects followed by effective usage of water, power, and various indoor activities that influence the environment.

In order to gain NABERS logo for the building, it should acquire an accredited rating from an accredited assessor. In order to achieve this rating, the building should follow set of rules very strictly without making any compromise to any protocols. This is another method in order to make sure that all the buildings and hotels in Australia are accessed fairly. The performance checking is done either on the entire building or depending on each portion of the complex. There are also situations where assessments are carried for each tenants separately.

This is very valuable if you are planning to sell the building or home or even if you want to give the complex for lease. Short term lease doesnt have any affect on any of these factors. The assessment is done for every building. If it is a new building, then first 12 months will be exempted from checking in order to collect all the relevant data. Indeed this is a good mechanism which helps in creating nature friendly buildings by preserving the serene effects.

About the Author
The NABERS rating tool awards from one star (high greenhouse impact) to five stars (low greenhouse impact) depending on the energy efficiency and greenhouse performance of the rated space. Are you in search of NABERS Tenancy and NABERS Assessors. Please visit us online.