ESTATE PLANNING

TECH BATHROOMS

2009-08-16T03:40:00.000-07:00

Tech a SHOWER

Looking for a zone for pure and deliberate indulgence Go for a digital bathroom

Neha Dewan

ALWAYS wanted a luxurious bathroom Get a digital one now. Brands such as Grohe India, Kohler and Hindware are lining up glamourous products to meet your fancy expectations.
Grohe India, a leading provider of premium bath fittings and showers , has Grohe Ondus which combines digital technology and design aesthetics. The technology uses a remote control which makes the function a simple affair. Moreover, the technology makes it easy for every user to find their own personal settings for temperature, flow rate or spray pattern. Says Bijoy Mohan, V-P & MD of Grohe India, The bathroom, in the current day and age, must be capable of becoming whatever the consumer wants it to be from a purely functional space that enables a quick and easy preparation for the day, to a retreat for relaxation at the end of the day, to a zone for pure and deliberate indulgence . The ever-evolving technology is making this possible by packing more into less. The product is priced at Rs 40,000 onwards and can go up to a few lakhs, depending on ones customisation requirements .
Similarly, leading player in bath and kitchen designs, Kohler Co recently introduced DTV II or the Digital Thermostatic Valve II in India. Featuring sleek design and intuitive controls, DTV II wraps four elements water, sound, light and steam together in a plug-nplay system. Customers can also incorporate rejuvenating steam, music from their own play list and lights that move and change colours during a shower. Sharad Mathur, MD of Kohler India, says digital showers are becoming an important component of modern homes with growing disposable incomes. It isnt always possible or practical to jet off to a resort for pampering. An increasing number of people in India are now creating luxurious settings of their own at their homes. The
basic configuration of this customised and innovative product is priced at a princely Rs 7,05,000.
If you are looking more in terms of electronically-controlled functions in a lavish bathtub, leading player in sanitaryware, Hindware has got Italian brand Teucos HydroSpa to India. Besides offering electronically-controlled functions, it also offers a hot spa experience and aroma therapy, all in the luxury of your home. Priced at a steep Rs 35 lakh, the Teuco Hydrospa offers a lot of scope to personalise exactly the way you want it. A highlight is that you can massage every part of your body, together with a customised selection of air and water mix. There is an array of different massages and seats designed according to the principles of hydrotherapy . So choose what you desire the most.
Relax in luxury... all with the help of a remote. Its time to get rejuvenated in your home. neha.dewan@timesgroup .com

TECH BATHROOMS

2009-08-16T03:25:00.000-07:00

GREEN BUILDINGS

2009-08-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

How green is Green

Environmentalists and experts are now unanimous that the way forward is green architecture, which helps save energy and makes the whole growth story of mankind sustainable, says Krishna Kumar Mangalam

What is a Green B u i l d i n g What makes it different from a conventional building Why are corporates going in for these green buildings How important is it for us to live in a green building How expensive are these green building technologies The list of questions around this buzzword Green Buildings is significantly huge and the answers are not only simple but also provoke us to take a pledge to Go Green .
A number of organizations have recently been set up to promote this concept. Dr P C Jain, chairman of India Green Building Council (IGBC), recently said at a seminar, Green building is a concept fast catching the fancy of people across the world, and India is no exception.
Although the concept has come in an entirely new avatar, it is not as novel as being considered by many. The biggest advantage of a green building is if it is designed well, this may accrue life-long benefits at small makeup costs. As socialists, our effort is to promote the concept of sustainable deve l o p m e n t that is in h a r m o ny with nature while keeping intact the t r a d i t i o n s and practices of ancient India.
IGBC estimates the demand for green building materials and equipment will reach $4 billion per annum by 2010. Industry experts feel that in tune with the global trend to protect environment, the number of green building projects in India may go up from the current 164 to over 2,000 by 2012. Green Building technology is a futuristic idea for the planet and is pro life. It is inspired from various elements of nature and innovatively designed to generate significant economic and health advantages to us. It takes us closer to nature by bringing nature closer to home. In fact, it makes the whole growth story of mankind sustainable. Some of the facets of green buildings are: heat reduction insulated roofs and walls that substantially reduce heat ingress (up to 60%) thereby resulting in lower AC loads; cross ventilation with fresh breeze; goodbye to high energy costs (up to 40%); solar lighting is safe for people as well as the planet; 100% natural light all across, thereby cutting down usage of artificial light by 50%.
Healthy indoors: One can enjoy healthy living with innovative solid waste management, waste segregation system and nature-friendly infrastructural facilities. Recycling to conserve nature: Owners can take pride in being a responsible citizen and make the most of 0% discharge building .
Vidur Bharadwaj, director of The 3C Company and chairman IGBC, Delhi Chapter, says, I found the quality of buildings in this part of the world was largely not respecting environment . There was a need to make people aware of sustainable development that will drive them to use green buildings and benefit from a better living environment .
Vidur is the only architect who has to his credit two Platinum Rated LEED certified Green Buildings PATNI Campus in Noida and WIPRO Campus in Gurgaon.
While voluntarily teaching at the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, Vidur shared with the future generation of architects the philosophy of green architecture:
Generally the cost difference while raising a green building is approximately between 5% and 8% more than a conventional building but the investor recovers costs within 3 years.
Not only do green buildings consume less energy to build but also reduce running costs of buildings up to 35-40 %.
In a study in Australia it was found that by working in green buildings, productivity of the people had gone up, sickness reduced by 20% making it a much healthier environment to work or live in.
Vidur also enumerated a few general practices that make for a green building like double glazing, AAC block with insulation on external peripheral brick wall, roof insulation, vertical and horizontal sun shading, orientation of building as per sun path diagram, high performance chillers, pre-cooling and free-cooling , among others. According to Vidur, a team of 350 professionals is working to add on another contribution towards their pledge to reduce the carbon footprint on earth. After working on two Platinum Rated LEED Certified Green Buildings in the NCR, this team is all set to now usher in Indias largest green residential project in Sector 100, Noida. Officials say The 3C Company has already set very high standards and created benchmarks in the concept of green construction and pledged to reduce the carbon footprint while developing such projects. They say these sustainable developments not only use far less natural resources and energy in the way they are built but are also more durable and require less maintenance.
Some reputed brands that have gone Green along with The 3C Company are Sapient, Accenture, Nokia Siemens Network, Pearson, etc. ITC Building in Gurgaon , Wipro Campus in Gurgaon, Patni Campus in Noida , Green Boulevard in Noida, Knowledge Boulevard at Noida are a few green buildings in the NCR.

Tap Talk

2009-07-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

Tap Talk
Dcor Speak

The original function of a tap has remained the same, but the form has changed drastically over time. There are now different taps for different functions, with special kind of materials and valves, let alone looks!
Metal taps are the most common types of taps used all over the house. Their advantages include durability and form. Whether used in baths, basins, showers or kitchens, metal taps are highly dependable. Plus, metal taps are lower maintenance and give a more solid and stylish distinction over other finishes.
The sophistication and elegance of metal set this material apart, the only downside is that it is more expensive than the ceramic or plastic varieties. Other disadvantages include the dangers of rust development in low-quality metal taps.
Plastic taps may not be as popular as metal taps, but many forms, designs and colours are available in the global market today . The benefits include the cheaper costs of the fixture, a better outdoor option, and a more colourful alternative.
It is definitely a more practical choice when it involves outdoor taps. It eliminates the worry over rusting conditions and it provides some durability when properly used. However, plastic taps do have shorter life spans, and because of the quality of the material, it can break under frequent use.

SOLAR PASSIVE ARCHITECTURE

2009-07-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

PERFECTLY GREEN

The ideal green office doesnt exist but heres one we built using eco-friendly features, like double glazed glass, terrace gardens, skylights etc from six buildings dotted around the country

Shobha John | TNN

First , it was outsourcing . Now, it is greening . The world can look at Indias green fingers with renewed respect after US secretary of state Hillary Clinton recently called the ITC Green Centre in Gurgaon a monument to the future. Clinton's comments came just weeks after a survey of 100 Indian companies found a marked increase in green consciousness.
The survey, by Johnson Controls, a consultant in energy efficiency management, found that 72% of Indian firms were green compared to just 39% in the US. So just how green is the Indian office And what makes a building green Energy saving, water conservation and reusing waste, says Zeenat Niazi, habitat programme director at Delhi NGO, Development Alternatives (DA). That's the theory, anyway. What of practice

WHO SAVES ENERGY LIKE THERE'S NO TOMORROW

Real estate company K Raheja Corp has designed its buildings to allow sunlight in and keep the heat out. This includes using glass of high ultraviolet value and having ACs with chillers, leading to high output, which in turn lowers costs.
Raheja vice-president Shabbir Kanchwala says these measures have reduced our monthly energy bill by anything between 20 and 30%. Thats a huge saving for a company that has built 50 lakh square feet of malls, hotels and homes.
Raheja is not the only one. Other Indian companies are now increasingly using lowe (low emission) coating, double-glazed windows in their offices. These allow sunlight in, while keeping heat out and can reduce energy consumptions by 8-10 %, says Pradeep Kumar, senior fellow at the Delhi-based Tata Energy Research Institute (TERI).

WHO HAS A LOW WATER FOOTPRINT

Cadbury India has constructed a check dam (this dams up a small river/nallah during monsoons) in its Bangalore factory to store rain water. It has resulted in a 20% reduction in water consumption and even attracted migratory birds, says the companys associate VP, corporate affairs, Ransom D - Souza. Use of low-flow toilet fixtures, which consume less water while maintaining pressure , tap sensors that automatically turn themselves off and waterless urinals are measures being implemented in ITC-Welcomgroup Hotels, says Alwyn Noronha, executive VP, Projects, ITC Ltd.

WHO KNOWS HOW TO DISPOSE OFF WASTE

The Delhi secretariat has linked itself to a paper recycling plant. Making offices paper-free and using certain plants like Canna which take up nutrients from sewage, leaving the water clear, says Niazi, are further options. This is done in Pondicherry, she adds.

WHO BUILDS WITH RECYCLED MATERIAL

DAs headquarters in Delhi. The office was built with compressed earth blocks that used mud salvaged from the NGO's old office. It has used industrial waste, such as fly ash, for the outer walls and ferro-cement channels with stone slabs instead of concrete blocks. These are extremely low energy materials . This reduced the cost of materials by almost 40%, says DAs Niazi.

WHO ELSE IS THINKING ABOUT GREEN PROCESSES

Cement company ACC has disposed of waste (plastics, sewage, etc) and biomass in cement kilns to reduce CO2 emissions , introduced high efficiency burners and seals, used wind energy for cement manufacturing and solar energy for water heating. In 2008, it processed about 12,900 tonnes of industrial waste and 12,750 tonnes of biomass.We are also exploring if energy can be generated through waste heat from the kiln circuit, says K N Rao, head of the company's environment and energy conservation cell.
Kumar says green offices can save companies as much as 60% over time and halve water-use . He says Indian companies started thinking green four years ago when a draft Energy Conservation Building Code was published, specifying energy norms for commercial buildings. Today, a green building can be certified either by the globally recognised LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) or GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment ), a voluntary rating appropriate for Indian conditions . India currently has 34 LEED-rated buildings and 26 awaiting a GRIHA rating.

A BLUEPRINT FOR OFFICES

A green office saves energy, re-uses water, disposes of waste and uses debris effectively

EXTERIORS

Use double glazed windows, which can reduce energy consumptions by 8-10 % Insulate roofs paint them white, make terrace gardens, use thermal barriers Benefits of retrofitting accrue in 6-10 years

LIGHTING

Replace T12 fluorescent lights with energy-efficient T5 ones Automate lighting controls, use occupancy sensors

FURNITURE

Have low partitions More open spaces Have skylights

OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Use computers with LCD monitors or laptops, which consume five times less electricity than desktop PCs

THERMAL COMFORT

Have a centralized AC system, automatically set to 26 degrees Clean AC condenser coils, which reduces energy bill by 20%

PLANK OF EXCELLENCE

Pradeep Sachdeva, a green architect who built ecofriendly buildings such as Dilli Haat cites Gandhi Ashram in Wardha as an example of a perfect building. Like the father of the nation, this building is minimalist and as natural as it can get, be it sunlight, ventilation or materials (bamboo, mud plaster, timber, mud floors), all of which have been procured from nearby places. Other buildings which he says deserve mention include ITCs Green Centre and the soon to be opened Royal Gardenia, Bengaluru

espoke furniture

2009-07-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

Fit To Size

Bespoke furniture is the latest trend, for its a perfect combination of function, style & finish

Neha dewan

DONT like any of the designs that you see in glitzy furniture showrooms You neednt worry. Customised furniture can be the answer to all your worries. Though a bit expensive , it can work best to suit your decor, just the way you want it.
So now not only can you have the exact design that you desire for your living room, you can also make your abode show an unconventional appeal. Home solution brands such as House of Raro, The Great Eastern Home and Living In Style offer an array of choices to please the enthusiastic home shopper.
Mumbai-based decor firm Living In Style offers an exhaustive selection of imported branded furniture for office and home with an option of customisation according to the customers needs. Afzal Chandiwala , director, Living in Style, says
this trend is
catching on fast, especially where space is a constraint. Since the size of apartments and rooms vary significantly in Indian cities, some of the consumers have started preferring customised imported furniture over ready-made . At most furniture outlets one is stuck with the sizes that they have available, whether it fits your space or not. Customers want a perfect combination of function , style, finish, storage and something that fits in their home space. Thats where customisation works well, he says. The brand has customised sofas made of floral jacquard, velvets, tiny sparkling sequins and metallic threads. Imported from Europe, its named Lorrenzo and priced at Rs 1,25,000. Then there is a sofa called Hollywood. Made of Furry Velvet, it is available for Rs 75,000. And if its easy chairs that you are looking for, the simple geometric designs of these will make for an easy fit into any type of interior space! If Victorian is your fancy, designs from Mumbai-based interior firm The Great Eastern Home would be ideal. Hand-crafted with top quality wood and rattan with a high gloss polish , the firm also houses hand-painted furniture depicting various themes and cultures of different parts of the world. The design team at The Great Eastern Home meets with its customers on a one-on-one basis, understands the personality of the buyers and helps them choose the kind of furniture that best suits them. The furniture is then customised for them. All furniture is made in limited editions, sometimes even just for a discerning client and never repeated again! Priced at Rs 35,000 onwards, these furniture options will lend to your home a unique charm. Says Anurag Kanoria, director and chief designer of the Great Eastern Home, Bespoke furniture is clearly the trend of the times as it has always been the world over. More and more people who can afford luxury are going in for customised furniture in real and solid high quality wood.
Even Delhi-based luxury interior brand House of Raro has customised furniture pieces, starting at Rs 35,000. Their Lido Arm Chair, a customised piece, is upholstered in rich, antique Ecru Scottish leather with a solid teak frame. The Czar Juliette Settee is no less enchanting with its rich texture and resonance of the grand Russian Imperial era. Rolly Gupta, director, House of Raro, says that individuals like furniture pieces with a personal touch and customisation offers just that. People look for clean line furniture and are moving away from modern elaborate furniture. Customisation works ideal to suit whats on their mind.
So if bespoke furniture is on your mind, you know where to go hunting!

Partition Talk

2009-07-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Partition Talk
Dcor Speak

Ahome is always being used for different jobs at different times. Temporary or permanent partitions can help in demarcation of separate spaces, proper utilization of areas within the home and maintaining privacy.
The materials that can be used range from wood and board to glass, plastic and even just a curtain. Purely aesthetic partitions made from materials like beads and shells are also popular . The actual partition can be variously hung from the ceiling or anchored to the floor.
Wood or board is the most commonly used as it is easy to install, cheap and long lasting. Do not use it in areas that have a high moisture density as wood can rot. Polymer partitions are highly resistant to stains, common acids and cleaning agents as well as to moisture. It never needs painting and will not easily dent or chip, it comes in a wide variety of contemporary colors.
The elegance of stainless steel complements any design scheme. This material is easily maintained, though scratches need to be buffed out. Steel gives high-tech quality at an economical price.
A powder coat or finish on galvanized steel is highly resistant to corrosion, grease, acids, caustics, mars and stains. This can also be had in a broad range of contemporary colours to complement any interior.

BATHROOMS

2009-07-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

Small but spacious

With scaled down fixtures and a mixture of wall colour , ventilator position and mirrors , a small bathroom can be made to look more spacious , cozy and sophisticated , says Anjali Tiwari

If a small bathroom is designed carefully keeping each and every aspect of utility in mind, it can prove more efficient than any unplanned big bathroom . There are just a few vital things that one needs to follow to make a small bathroom safe as well as functional . A lot of study and research has gone into the making of a small bathroom , which would fulfil all needs , space constraints notwithstanding .
There should be at least 28 x46 inches or 30x48 inches of clear floor space in front of the lavatory , out of which 17-19 inches (out of 46-48 inches ) can extend under the seat for knee space . There must be at least 24 inches of clear floor space in front of the toilet or bidet .
To give higher look to your bathrooms ceiling , you can put tiles extending to the ceiling . You can add height to your bath space by painting its wall in vertical designs like vertical stripes etc , or by putting wallpaper with similar patterns .
By correctly using lights and mirrors you can add width , length and depth to a small bathroom , but an overdose of mirrors can spoil the effect . Use one mirror , which reflects the light throughout the room . Construct windows and ventilators carefully to make the best possible use of natural light . Place windows , preferably near the ceiling , as by doing this you can avoid constructing ventilators .
Instead of using opaque shower screens use clear or frameless shower screen as it adds space in a small bathroom . To make small bathroom look larger install shelves high on the walls and close to the ceiling , and place lights underneath .
Be careful in deciding upon a colour scheme for your small bathroom ; as too much use of colours makes the bathroom look small as well as cluttered . So , instead of using bright and dark shades use whites , neutrals , light shades for bathroom walls , floors , and decors to make it look larger . Use white colour on ceilings as it makes a small bathroom look higher . But if you do not want to restrict yourself to white colour , paint the ceiling white and the rest of the bathroom with any pastel colour .
Choose the bathroom accessories (preferably in the light shade ) in coordination with the bathroom colour . Sleek and angular accessories look beautiful in smaller bathrooms .
A vanity unity should never be used in a small bathroom as it takes a lot of precious floor space . Instead of vanity unity you can choose exposed shelves , floating cabinets and a wall-mounted basins . To fulfil your storage requirement you can choose basins with a bench . By choosing this type of storage you can avoid clutter in your limited bath space . In a small bathroom , place the toilet in an alcove . Use the wall space above the toilet to install shelves . Thick glass shelves go well with any other kind of colour scheme and quite economic too . To add more space , use sliding doors instead of normal doors . The negative aspect of a normal hinged door is that it takes space while closing and opening. But if you do not want to replace it , use its back as a towel holder to keep neat towels , which you can use just after the bath . In a small bathroom , scaled down fixtures can be a blessing . You can use a tub (slightly smaller than the average size ), sink or WC. This idea proves good in the rented apartment where a person cannot make additions and also cannot break a wall to free more space for the bath . There are lots of showrooms in the market , which have small fixtures designed especially for a small bathroom . They are available in several colours , shapes and patterns . Various designs of sinks can be had from the market - like small bathroom sink , pedestal sink , wall-hung sink , corner sinks , and so on. But before choosing the sinks , the location and size of the faucet is very important . Positioning the faucet in the corner is the best way to utilize space for a small sink . Make sure that the sink that you are going to choose should be big enough to allow you to wash your hand comfortably in it . A corner sink can well accommodate a countertop faucet . Another good choice is a wall-hung sink that is again great for small bathrooms . The bathtub should be at least 60 inches long and 30 inches wide . Small and deep bathtubs can be used for a small bathroom . The next crucial point is the design of the toilets tank . Instead of choosing a two-piece low toilet tank , one can choose a one-piece low toilet tank with approximately 12 inches rounded front seat . This combination takes less space while the elongated front seat takes little much space .So , by employing the above ideas a small bathroom can be made to look larger . These small bathroom decor are definitely not going to increase the bathroom area , but they certainly lend a cozy , sophisticated and spacious feeling.

Office Feng Shui

2009-07-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

Office Feng Shui

Feng Shui is the study of arranging your environment to enhance your life. Every minute of every day your environment is either supporting you or draining you. Feng Shui teaches you to join forces with your environment to make living your best life effortless.
The flow of energy in your home and workplace determines the overall quality of your life and its outcome. Because we spend so much time in our workplaces, these spaces have a huge influence in our lives. These Feng Shui enhancements will help you succeed at work.

CLEAR THE CLUTTER:

Clutter is an emotional constipation it bogs you down. Filing cabinets need to be regularly purged and desktops kept clutter free.

THE POWER POSITION:

The ideal placement for your computer and desk is one that allows you to see the door. If this is not possible , you can restore good Feng Shui by keeping a mirror that gives you a view of the door.

ENHANCE YOUR PROSPERITY CORNER:

As you enter the door of your office, the far left hand corner is your Wealth and Prosperity corner. Keep a small tabletop fountain, a valuable item or wealth symbol here.

CREATE A NOURISHING VIEW:

If you see a brick wall, you will feel stuck! Paint the wall a colour you love, hang a favourite painting.

CLEAN YOUR WINDOWS:

Regularly cleaning your office, and emptying garbage bins daily will keep the energy fresh.

BUY A PLANT:

A plant will bring life into your workspace and will also absorb toxins in the air.

Pre-engineered structures

2009-07-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Pre-engineered structures

Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEB) is an area in the field of infrastructural development which has lately gained momentum in India with a substantial increase in demand for ready-to-install buildings

Sandeep Rai

PEB is a cost effective construction solution that provides not only design flexibility but condenses the construction time to comfortably meet the deadlines. Typically a PEB is a metal building that consists of components like main framing or vertical columns, sheeting and insulation panels, purlins (secondary members for supporting the roof panels and wall shell), brick and cement board walls and flooring. It is a relatively flexible structure versus conventional steel framed building. The concept is intended to provide a complete building system which is optimum in weight, energy efficient, air tight, cost effective and above all, designed to fit user requirement . These pre-engineered steel buildings can be fitted with different readymade accessories including interior partitions, canopies, floors, fascias, etc. The building is made water-tight by use of special beads, filler strips and trims. This is a multipurpose building system and can be conclude internally to fulfill any requirement and customized externally to achieve attractive and distinctive architectural mode. The main component steel is favorite substance for construction because of its strength and flexibility. Once it is extensively used in India, the concept has the potential of expediting the biggest focus in India in the current times - infrastructural development. Thus, the critical shortage of educational , housing, health and industrial buildings can be met in an efficient and cost effective manner. The PEB system can have a lot of scope in India. Currently the industry is worth Rs. 2,000 crores, growing at 10% per annum.

IN BRIEF

MARC Enterprises Pvt Ltd.

MARC Enterprises Pvt Ltd, engaged in the manufacturing of water heaters and electric fans came into inception in 1981. The company has been manufacturing world-class products for over fifteen years to satisfy the needs of its customers from diverse locations . Strategically located corporate office at Delhi and manufacturing units in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, the company is primarily focuses on customer centric approach, international manufacturing standards and the goodwill of millions of satisfied customers. The company set up its own manufacturing plant in 1992 and since then it markets its products under the brand name "MARC" . Currently the company offers a whole range of water heaters from 6 litres to 100 litres capacity. Similarly, in context of electric fans MARC offers a wide range of ceiling fans, portable fans, domestic exhaust and heavy duty industrial fans.

Everest Industries Limited

Today, building design and the methods and materials of construction need to be more efficient, highly durable and quick to execute. Therefore , it is essential to do away with the hassles of hiring a contractor, ensuring a steady supply of raw material, managing logistical and on-site issues like weather conditions and manpower.
On the other hand, in the wake of global warming , governments and environmental activists are forcing industries to go green. It necessarily dictates that building construction goes in the same direction . Hence, green, clean, fast, durable, flexible building solutions are the need of the hour.
Everest Industries Limited, established in the year 1934, a complete building solutions company, has forayed into Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings (PEB). A wonder of modern technology, PEB have revolutionized the very concept of industrial, commercial and residential buildings.
Everest Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings are the fastest systems of industrial construction today. These buildings are 100% custom-built as per the exact specifications using computer-aided design, and with the optimum use of steel.
Everest can construct your building in only 33% of the time that it takes to construct a conventional building. This means 200% faster construction! To provide end-to-end PEB solutions, Everest has set-up an ultra-modern manufacturing unit in Bhagwanpur, built with an investment of Rs 90 crore. This plant can manufacture up to 60,000 MT of steel buildings per annum. The capacity can be further expanded to 100,000 MT. The buildings that Everest make, range from a simple warehouse to a huge industrial plant. Today, the company's product portfolio comprises steel buildings, ceilings, walls, floors, cladding, doors and roofing solutions. The company has manufacturing facilities in Kymore (Madhya Pradesh), Kolkata (West Bengal), Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Nashik (Maharashtra) and Bhagwanpur (Uttaranchal ). The company has a state-of-the-art R&D centre in Nashik, which constantly works on product up-gradation and development of new products.

Intellotech clamps

Clamps are the most important construction accessory and perhaps the most neglected one. Earlier, the component was not given the due importance in construction activity resulting in lose fastening, untidy look and unreliable clamping. Now realizing their past mistakes contractors, architects, builders, etc., prefer to use standardized clamps. The component imparts stability, the basic requirement of any good construction. With the introduction of new generation Intellotech clamps, things have become quite easy. They are precise, accurate in size, shape and thickness. This mean that be it vertical or horizontal supports, the person installing a pipe or cable system can assure himself that the support would be uniform, firm and that the load would be evenly distributed through out the length of the system, which will avoid many future problems .

ELECTRICAL WIRING

2009-07-12T20:56:00.000-07:00

Wire talk
Dcor Speak

Electrical wire refers to conductors which route electricity from a power source to lights, appliances, and other electrical devices. Copper is the most commonly used material for electrical conductors used in home wiring; aluminum is occasionally used, too.
Although copper is the best and most commonly used metal for conductors, aluminum and copperclad aluminum are also sometimes used. Because aluminum is not as efficient a conductor as copper, an aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wire must be larger than a copper wire in order to conduct the same amount of electricity.
Wires have an outer sheath of insulation to prevent against the unwanted transfer of electricity with either a combination of single conductors (individual wires) or a multiconductor cable, which is more convenient to use.
Cable typically combines a neutral wire, one or two "hot" wires, and a grounding wire inside a plastic or metal covering.
The individual wires in a cable are insulated from one another by a color-coded thermoplastic material that doesn't carry current.
It is very important to choose the right type of wires for the job. The wires used to carry electricity or other pulses through the home can be instrumental in safety and can even control costs.

furniture with unusual design patterns

2009-07-10T06:57:00.000-07:00

Global trends

A popular trend these days is incorporating furniture with unusual design patterns

Furniture trends this year reflect a certain shift. While individuality reigns supreme, it acquires a bold expression in decor and design. With people achieving a level of wealth and exposure that allows them to purchase and live with the finest of luxurious furniture, artwork, or furnishing, established brands and manufacturers with custom capabilities are working to enhance their collections. They're not only functional, but also decorative.
While some people are only happy if they are able to buy the most expensive home furniture and furnishings with the most prestigious label attached , there are ways that you can bring the look and feel of luxury into your home at a more digestible price tag, which is the current market trend reflected internationally. The overriding style statement in furniture trends can be summarised in one word - global. Taking international influences from every continent - Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, America - furniture trends these days speak an international language. Even though there are influences from all over the world, these trends are more flexible and also much simpler.
Trends in furniture support the mixed media expression. Wood is mixed with fabric, metal, or even glass. But mixed expression transcends the classical . Every sort of exotic material - stone, coconut shells, crushed bamboo, and even fossil stones - can be used. The trends are subtle, but unique in style and fashion. The past few months have seen a resurgence in opulent living and a heightened interest in Baroque fixtures, bold design, and an element of shine and sparkle in almost all product design. Grandeur is definitely fashionable and so is a return to luxury in living. Chandeliers, crystalware , and other high-end luxury products are finding their way into every home.
Increasingly, designers are bidding adieu to minimalism. They are going for a modern home with accessories that heighten the glamour quotient - big lamps, mirrors, layers, bright colours, offbeat and unexpected colour combinations - are welcomed. Combinations should be unpredictable and rather unusual. For instance, a soft and elegant chair with a rough textured wood on a coffee table and a bold patterned headboard in a bedroom would heighten this kind of look. Contemporary isn't out of the game and continues to be a popular style for upholstered furniture, where transitional elements help to lend a dramatic look. Rooms and designs built on specific themes are not preferred anymore.
The metallic colours will definitely replace traditional black and white at least this season. Tones like putty, stone, and granite are expected to be popular. These tones are really deep and versatile. Since formal style interiors are decorated to attract attention, highly polished woods, glistening mirrors, luxurious fabrics, sparkling crystal, and engraved centre tables in Italian marbles are unique and interesting pieces of furniture which are an important part of today's highend homes. Neutral walls and fabrics look clean and neat in a room.

BATHROOM FLOORING

2009-07-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

Floored in the bathroom

For that cozy, creative and unique look to your dream bathroom, Anjali Tiwari offers a few tips

Bathroom flooring should be chosen keeping safety in mind. There are lots of options for bathroom flooring in the market. But it will be wiser to set the budget before going to the market. The most popular options are bathroom carpets, bathroom carpet tiles, ceramic floor tiles, bamboo flooring, laminate flooring, vinyl linoleum flooring, hardwood flooring.
There is no doubt that bathroom carpet adds warmth and softness to the floor. In winters, you cannot imagine going barefoot but if you have a carpet in the bathroom, then you can take that step - barefoot! But, a bathroom carpet is not easy to maintain as a wet carpet makes the flooring dirty and also creates an unpleasant odor. So, it is better to use throwaway rugs instead of carpets for comfort. But if you are really keen on bathroom carpet flooring then use vinyl border around the bath, toilet and basin and put a few bath mats on it to soak in water and moisture from your feet. The most popular carpet in the bathroom is one with foam backing.
In comparison, carpet tiles are easy to install and if there is any defect in any one tile, you just have to replace the tile, while for a bathroom carpet flooring you have to tear down the whole carpet in case of any defect. Vinyl linoleum flooring is durable and easy to clean and maintain. Marble flooring and good quality tiles are also durable, easy to clean and require no maintenance.
It is said that laminate bathroom flooring may or may not be used for wet floors, but you can use high quality laminate bathroom flooring with high gloss finish. This type of flooring requires maintenance. Stone finish in bathroom laminate flooring is durable and looks beautiful. Hardwood flooring is durable but needs extra care. Normally, in hardwood flooring, oak and pinewood is used. Bathroom with hardwood flooring looks sophisticated and elegant. There is one more quite economic option of bathroom flooring - the ceramic bathroom floor tiling, which requires little care while installing. Ceramic bathroom tiles are durable, come in lots of colours and easy to clean. These types of tiles do not get too slippery when it gets wet. But it is advisable that one chooses slip-resistant surface in ceramic tiles for bathroom safety.
Another great option for bathroom flooring is bamboo flooring that does not require much maintenance. If you do not wish to spend more money in bathroom flooring but simultaneously want to create a dream bathroom , you can opt for unglazed tile, but they need much maintenance and need to be cleaned frequently. Bathroom floor tiles come in square, rectangular , hexagonal and octagonal shapes, while accent tiles are generally diamond shaped and come in smaller sizes. For giving larger look to a bathroom , use same colour tiles on floor and walls. Tiles that are too large look ridiculous in small bathrooms, and preferably.
Use of two different colours of tiles is a great option. On the floor choose the tiles in one colour while choose another colour on the walls and thus give a dramatic look to your bathroom.

Lamp Talk...

2009-07-04T04:40:00.000-07:00

Lamp Talk...

Decorative table lamps and floor lamps do more than simply illuminate - they create ambience . Lamps with ornate handcrafted bases made of cast iron, pottery, carved wood, hammered copper, brass, and elegant combinations of hand-blown glass, crystals and marble are now widely available in the Indian market.
Your lighting choice should complement the entire room setting. Match the lamp to your furniture style to help complete the look. For example , select a sophisticated lamp to use with furniture that is more refined.
Lamps can be fitted with dimmer switches to refine the lighting arrangement. Floor standing lamps are used to add drama, while table lamps are used to add coziness to a room. Working lamps should be flexible and portable.

KEEP HOME SAFE DURING MONSOONS

2009-07-02T06:43:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the monsoon magic

If you fear the monsoons anticipating your belongings will be ruined because of the moisture in air, you can breathe a sigh of relief. We tell you how to keep your home and your precious belongings free of moisture and make your home a haven, away from allergies, dust mites, moisture, moulds and pollens

Suruchi Sharma

Hot , humid weather has arrived and it is time you should gear up for allergy control, more so with the arrival of the rainy season. The situation gets worse during monsoons as the atmosphere gets humid and the air gets nippy . So, if you fear the monsoons because you anticipate your belongings will be ruined, you can breathe a sigh of relief. We will tell you how to keep your home and your precious belongings free of moisture this monsoon and make your home a haven, away from allergies, dust mites, moisture, moulds and pollens.
No doubt it needs extra effort, but it has its rewards. You and your family will stay healthy and your costly things at home remains with you for longer. After all, your home should be a warm and clean shelter from the torrent outside.

Cool and dry

The first and foremost is to keep your home cool and dry. This is a must if you want to avoid mould, dust mites and cockroaches. Make it a point to wash curtains and rugs often enough to reduce the allergen population. Getting the house whitewashed before the monsoon is another way of keeping allergen levels low. If you have carpets in the house, vacuum them frequently , as often as once a week and put them out in the sun to dry to remove dust mites. But most importantly to keep your home safe it is paramount to keep it ventilated . This is one sure-shot way of making your home allergy-free . Sunlight kills germs and bacteria, so let fresh air into your home at least for a few hours in the day. It will reduce pollution and allergens.

Kitchen cleaners

Before collapsing onto the bed or sofa to watch your late night editions, use kitchen cleaners or disposable cloths, to pick up crumbs, dust, etc from your kitchen. Now-adays markets are flooded with numerous kitchen cleaners that help reduce your hard work when it comes to cleaning fussy and hard stains. Select one according to your needs and get going. These strong and active kitchen cleaners work wonders and make your kitchen sparkling clean and ready to use for the next day.

Tissue issue

The common problems that we come across during monsoon are pimple, skin eruption, rashes, etc. But these monsoon blues can be a temporary phase if you gear up properly to face the odds. To ward off the sweat and remain fresh, keep tissues or wipes handy. If your face gets wet, just dab it with a tissue and apply moisturizer whenever you feel dry. Wet wipes work wonders during monsoons as they clean your face from dust and pollution as well as keep you fresh and glowing.

Mattress care

During monsoons it's imperative to launder bed sheets and pillow cases in hot water and vacuum mattresses and if possible , keep them in sun for an hour. To protect your new mattress from damage and everyday wear and tear, you should invest in a mattress cover. The one thing that mattresses really hate is moisture , whether it is due to the humid weather, food or drink spillage or the condensation or body sweat, whatever the reason, the mattress absorbs everything . This is where the mattress cover helps as it acts as a barrier between you and your new mattress, and will catch any moisture before it reaches the mattress ; it will also help reduce the amount of wear and tear a mattress suffers. Mattress covers are relatively cheap and can be replaced much easier than the mattress itself.

Door maintenance

Monsoons can harm your doors in ways that you can't even imagine. From termites to moisture seeping in wood, doors can be a subject of humid fury. Wooden and ply doors require more maintenance during monsoon . The doors should be at least 6mm from the ground so that flowing water doesn't harm it. The bathroom doors should be made out of marine ply of a good quality. Make sure that the wood is sealed and well polished to prevent entry of moisture or water into the wood. Bathroom doors should have an aluminium powder coated frame to save them from constant wear and tear.

DOOR CURE

2009-06-26T05:11:00.000-07:00

DOOR CURE

Q: Is it okay to have the entrance door towards the southeast Please advise. RAMESH KABRA

A.

A main door towards the southeast, southwest or northwest is not considered auspicious. It is always good to locate it in the north or northeast.

HOT Tip:

Make the main door slightly larger than other doors in the house. Its length:breadth ratio should be 2:1. If the height or width of the door are not in this ratio, due to shortage of space, problems related to opportunities and wealth may crop up.

DOs & DONTs

Do decorate the door with auspicious symbols like kalash, Maa Lakshmis charan pointing towards the house or swastika with Riddhi Siddhi and Shubh Laabh written on either sides of the symbol. It is believed that positive energies only enter the house that has beautiful doors. Remember to keep the door clean at all times. Make sure that you lubricate the hinges of the doors, windows and cupboards at regular intervals. Do not allow a door to make creaking sounds; these can kill all positive energies!

BEDROOM BASICS

2009-06-26T05:10:00.001-07:00

BEDROOM BASICS

In the past, the toilets were located on the external side of the house. Nowadays, the toilets are not only located within the house but, in many designs, they are attached to the bedroom. However, after decades of use, it appears that the toilet is not as harmful as we think. Here are a few Feng Shui bedroom design rules that could make your life easier... Make sure that the door of your toilet does not open in front of your bed. Ideally, it should be located at the side of the bed. If the room is large enough, place a screen to block the view of the toilet door from the bed. Dont forget to shut the toilet door. It should be closed all the time. Try installing an automatic door closer! Make sure your bed does not share a common wall with the toilet or the bathroom.Water from the bath can seep through the walls and the excess moisture can greatly affect your health. Place the bed in such a manner that the bed head is placed against a solid wall for support. Avoid placing it against a window, as you might start feeling low on confidence. It may even affect your health. Dont place overhead beams cutting across your bed as they could be hazardous to your health. Also ensure that lighting fixtures and air-conditioners are not installed over your head or any part of the bed. The ceiling should also be levelled. Sloping ceilings can create emotion-related problems.

PROPER UTILIZATION OF SPACE

2009-06-22T04:12:00.000-07:00

Space IT OUT

Keep a few things in mind while arranging your decor. The use of right furniture, lighting and colours will do the trick

Neha Dewan

IT doesnt matter whether your space at home is big or small. What is important is to make proper utilisation of the given space. Using the right furniture, lighting, colours and accessories can make your decor space look extremely well arranged.
D K Jairath, COO, Hindware Home Retail which owns home furnishing brand EVOK - Home Specialty Store says that if the house size is continually shrinking, it does not mean that one cannot furnish according to ones choice, Nicely placed low lying furniture, storage units, full length mirrors with some ingenious decorative ideas can make spaces look bigger and help you create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. We offer chaise lounges, balcony chairs and table sets, sofa cum beds and recliners which fit in well to make good use of space. Priced in the range of Rs 6,000-Rs 30,000, the furniture range at Evok does not give a bulky appearance.
Infact there are small ways that can work to make for maximum utilisation of the space. Kavita Yadav, interior designer and creative director of decor brand Thesauros offers some key tips. Kavita says that keeping a few things in mind can make it easier for you to create the illusion of a larger space. It is advisable to keep the wall colours neutral to provide a good backdrop with other elements like furniture, accessories etc. When you buy furniture, opt for pieces that have a dual purpose such as fold-out beds and pieces that offer storage cabinets and drawers to keep things like DVDs or CDs, toys and paperwork out of sight. Avoid table lamps that have large shades, as they can easily become the focus of the room. Another tip is to leave the room open and make sure that you keep the same flooring throughout the area, without changing too much colour or texture from one room to another. And if its your kitchen which is highly disorganized and needs some fixing up to do, try Spanish brand Catas built in kitchen accessories which will save on space as well as make it more comfortable . The brand has an entire range of Product Chimneys, Built-in Hobs (Gas and Electric) and Built-in Ovens which will help to keep your kitchen in order. While the Built-in ovens are priced in the range of Rs 8,000-Rs 35,000, the chimneys are between Rs 8,000-Rs 1 lakh. Arrange your space keeping a few small things in mind. Organise it, make it better and enjoy the spaciousness around you.

DOORS

2009-06-20T00:07:00.001-07:00

Door Talk
Dcor Speak

The first impression of the home is gained from the door. Make sure it fulfills all the criteria needed, and still looks good. A panel door consists of wood panels held in place by wood stiles and rails panels and can be made from solid wood, plywood , metal or glass. The most common type of door, it works out cheaper than a solid wood door.
A solid door consists of a lumber core or compressed wood fiber core. It can also be a rigid foam board laminated to plywood or metal facing. These are harder and more long lasting than the paneled door.
A fabricated and welded metal door with ornate designs or a grille. These give the home owner a chance to see a visitor before opening the actual door.
Hollow core wood door consists of a plywood or press board face and a honeycomb wood or paper interior core. These are usually for interior use only.
French doors are full length windows, normally opening onto a patio or terrace. These are purely decorative.
A pet door allows pets to enter and exit without the whole door opening. As it is possible for burglars to enter some bigger pet doors, today you can find doors for exit only, and electronic pet doors that allow only pets with special tags to enter and exit. This last may not be available easily as yet in India.

Independent floor registration in NCR

2009-06-12T01:09:00.001-07:00

Independent floor registration in NCR

In a move that will come as a shot in the arm to realty sector and owners, HUDA has given the go ahead for registration of independent floors in Gurgaon, Faridabad and Sonepat

Monika Saini

In a move that could bring huge relief to owners of floors in plotted colonies in Gurgaon, Faridabad, and Sonepat, Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) has finally issued guidelines for registration of independent floors. This is also good news to real estate business in NCR, which hit rock bottom.
HUDA officials said registration of independent floors would be allowed in case of residential plots in HUDA sectors . In case of built-up property in the existing sectors, where the owner has applied for or obtained occupation certificate prior to the date of issuance of these guidelines, registration of independent floors would be allowed only in case the buildings are constructed on plots measuring 180 sq yard or more. However, there would be no such restriction for vacant plots in old sectors, as well as all residential plots in new sectors.
Officials said the owner of each independent floor would have a distinct title along with proportionate rights in the declared common areas and facilities like right of access, basements and other ownership rights as well as the right to use, transfer or dispose of the property . Any two floors can be jointly transferred, provided the ownership of both the floors is being transferred to one person. A senior HUDA official said the owner of each such floor would be entitled to separate utility connections such as water supply and electricity , subject to building regulations . According to the new guidelines, the basement, allowed in a residential building would not constitute a separate floor and would form a part of the independent floor at ground level. But, in case owners of different floors in a building intend and agree to use basement as a common area for different floors in the building, they might have undivided proportionate rights in the basement. Similarly , the garage, servant quarters, store, open spaces constructed at ground floor forming part of the building's ancillary would not form a separate subdivision and would form part of the ground floor only.
Significantly, no increase in maximum permissible Floor Area Ratio (FAR) would be allowed. However , the owner would have an option to distribute the maximum permissible coverage equally on all the floors. No subdivision of plot and vertical divisions of buildings would be allowed. The owners of each floor in a building will have to make adequate arrangement for parking of their vehicles within their premises and not misuse roads for parking in any manner. This is seen as a critical condition considering the fact that in posh colonies like DLF, Sushant Lok in Gurgaon the average car population per floor is more than two. "So , six cars can no way be accommodated in any existing plot. That is going to be a serious problem until some common parking space is developed in a colony," said a Gurgaon-based property consultant. As per the norms, only such owners who have completed all the three floors as per approved building plans and have obtained occupation certificate from competent authority would be eligible to transfer the floor-wise ownership of their buildings. How to do it: The present owner or allottee may submit an application on the prescribed proforma to the local HUDA estate officer (EO) seeking permission to transfer the ownership of independent floors. The request has to be accompanied by information
or documents such as the area or floor proposed to be transferred, along with details of common areas and common facilities, duly defined on the prescribed format.
The owner has also to submit the approved building plan besides a payment of Rs 10,000 towards administrative charges, the original allotment letter, a copy of the approved building plan, copy of the occupation certificate and photographs of the existing building from all corners. The EO has the authority to grant permission for such registration after going through the information and documents submitted by the original allottee and after inspecting the building. As per the new set of rules, the transferee shall get a sale deed of the respective floor executed or registered in his or her favour with the sub-registrar and shall submit a certified copy with the EO. Also, the owner will have to submit an indemnity bond on the prescribed proforma and an affidavit from the transferee on the prescribed proforma .
These formalities have to be completed by the transferor and transferee within 90 days from the date of issuance of permission to transfer, failing which the permission to transfer shall stand withdrawn and the owner shall have to apply afresh. Common areas include columns, beams, supports, main valves, common roofs, corridors, staircase, fire escapes , entrances and exit of the building. Parking areas, passages , driveways, gardens, storage space, space for security, installations of common services such as power, light, gas, water, heating, refrigeration, air conditioning , sewerage, elevators, tanks, pumps, ducts and such other common facilities.

FOCAL POINT

Significantly, no increase in maximum permissible FAR would be allowed. However, the owner would have an option to distribute the maximu

NATURE CURES

2007-09-30T23:43:00.000-07:00

Even within the home, one is surrounded by an alarming array of toxic pollutants which could affect our well being.
Natural materials create a more natural and low stress environment , in contrast to manmade laminates.
Maximum use of natural elements like sun and wind, appropriate use of colours, furnishing materials, lighting system, regulated use of mechanical and electronic gadgets etc together make up a healthy home.
Improperly maintained gadgets and some of our own habits, increase the level of pollutants indoors, affecting air quality and ultimately our health.
Sources of indoor pollution are building materials, water supply systems, chemical cleaner/toiletries, paints , pesticides in the vegetables we buy, vinyl carpets using adhesives, synthetic products and from footwear.
Harmful effects range from skin rashes, burning in eyes, respiratory discomfort etc.
Avoid chemical air fresheners. Instead use baking soda or other natural fresheners.
Choose toxic free upholstery,furniture, carpet and curtains that do not contain brominated flame retardants,stain repellant or wrinkle resistant treatments.
Use fragrance free detergents and fabric softeners.
Have lots of houseplants. They clean the air by asorbing the chemicals and converting them into food and enegy. 2-3 houseplants per 100 sq ft of room space is recommended.
Allow natural regulation of indoor humidity.
Use real wood rather than processed particle board.

Healthy home is wealthy home

2007-08-18T02:56:00.000-07:00

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/quickiearticleshow/2289242.cms

The air indoors is now thought to be more polluted than what it was earlier. The culprits remain the same, but new ones are getting included in the list. Some major pollutants that affect indoor air quality are: contaminants like moulds, mildews, allergens, odours, cooking fumes (oil), certain building materials and furnishings, household products and outdoor pollutants that remain in the air like carbon monoxide.
In order to have a house with good indoor air quality, it is important that we take a look at the things to avoid. Certain building materials emit volatile components into the air that causes allergies, irritation of the eyes and respiratory problems. Some of these toxic pollutants or VOCs (volatile organic compounds) like formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene are found in commonly used products.
Apart from pollutants that affect the air quality, lack of ventilation also creates unhealthy interiors. Natural ventilation can be facilitated by proper placement of doors and windows.

Ideally, south and east facing windows let in cool air. Also, big windows on one side of the house when complemented with smaller openings on the other side facilitates cross-ventilation. If opening windows or doors in the evenings and nights becomes a problem due to mosquito menace, invest in mesh screens. Louvered shutters or doors aid in ventilation of air. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to vent pollutants to the outside. Kitchens can also be ventilated with electric chimneys. Have electric fans to help circulation of air. Air conditioners must be frequently cleaned for improving the quality of air.
Earlier, paints were made from petroleum based solvents. Today, paints with low VOCs are made using water as a solvent. These paints contribute to healthy interiors as offgassing (emitting of toxins) is reduced to the bare minimum. Be aware of this when selecting paints for your house.
Wooden boards like plywood, particle boards and medium density boards often use formaldehyde based resins to hold the wood components together. The strong fumes of the (VOC) volatile organic compounds results in watery eyes if it comes in contact with the eyes. Check the adhesive used before taking a call on the choice of boards.
Wall-to-wall carpets are like a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, mildew dust mites and also animal hair. With such allergens rampant on these carpets, it is advisable not to have them in homes. Otherwise, regular, thorough and professional cleaning is required. Smaller carpets are easier to clean and are therefore more desirable. Carpets of wool and other synthetic fibres are harder to clean than cotton.
Furnishings of cotton are easier to clean and maintain. This reduces the problem of dust allergens considerably. Choose furnishings that can be washed and dried rather than those which can only be dry cleaned. Dry cleaned articles may emit certain chemicals that can cause short-term allergies.
Indoor air quality can be considerably improved by keeping plants in the rooms. Study has proved that certain plants can combat specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs). On the whole, plants like spider plants, philodendron species, Boston ivy and rubber plants are good air purifiers. Ensure that the moist top soil is free of moulds. Since plants are major dust collectors, wipe or wash the leaves regularly to keep them dust free. Also, use organic pesticides like neem cakes rather than chemicals.

Automated home solutions: A smart life

2007-08-13T01:25:00.000-07:00

Driving her way to office Malini remembers she has left the gas burner turned on, quietly she takes out her mobile, dials a code number and the gas burner of her house is turned off, and all this takes a few seconds.
Home Net System offered by Honeywell takes care of the optimal control of temperature , lighting, gas and home appliances, among others.
Also the availability of complete security solutions, includes high-tech integrated systems for burglary and fire prevention and entry control for visitors. The
Home Net also has the radio alarm buttons which can signal security or residential units instantly in case of emergencies.
The system provides home owners with information on energy, water and gas consumption enabling better monitoring of resources.
The Home Net System will enable home owners to be at peace when they go out, knowing that the system will alert them of any unexpected situations
Legrand, electrical products manufacturers, has introduced ‘In One’ which offers home owners the options to manage their electrical appliances through a network. The system works on the principle of customisation of lighting arrangement . Every individual situation demands a specific lighting set up which requires different lighting modes, “In One by Legrand can keep in its memory the customised lighting set ups for any specific occasion , for example the lighting situation for a family dinner or for a party arranged for your son’s birthday can all be switched on at the press of the button of remote.” .
The best part of ‘In One’ is the fact that it can be installed without going for a wiring change.
When everything in your house gets automated the ugly looking wires hanging from the roof tops too need a makeover.
Sterlite Optical Technologies, the optical fibre and telecom cable manufacturer has come up with Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technology enabling the use of optical fibres instead of the usual copper cable — for cable TV, telephone and for the Internet .
This single optical fibre carries the traffic for all the telecom and video applications and saves the cost of laying and maintaining three cable networks. Automated home Monitor water and cooking gas consumption Customise the lighting arrangements Optical fibres instead of the usual copper cables

AESTHETIC SEATING AREAS IN THE HOME

2007-08-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

Seating areas in your living space have to be planned according to the demands of comfort and entertainment. They are usually designed keeping style and space as the main criteria .

Carefully chosen furniture will help you achieve a designer seating area that impresses visitors. Remember to guard against impulse purchases and shop for furniture that is according to scale and beauty.

Try to find a common theme for each of the areas.

With the above caveats in mind, take a look at the spaces that can be enhanced into designer seating areas. Living room You could have one large seating/conversation area or two seating arrangements depending on your entertainment requirements. Area rugs help to demarcate these areas. Placement of furniture must be around a focal point like a large window, an entertainment centre or an elaborate painting. Paramount to a designer look is the style of the furniture. A traditional style looks luxurious and rich. Traditional furniture goes best with this style. Sofas and arm chairs with rich upholstery, hand woven Persian carpets, an ornate centre table, side tables, table lamps, and some well-placed plants give a look of exclusivity to the seating area. A few ornaments of brass or wood can reflect this theme. A classic style looks elegant and subtle. Armchairs, sofas, swivel chairs and futon chairs in dark leather give a discreetly rich look. Club chairs, which are actually luxuriously stuffed leather armchairs with low backs, are affluent and classy. Wooden panelling, bold wall hangings and floor lamps look well in place with this theme. If you go in for club chairs, consider having matching ottomans . They can serve as seating options for extra visitors . A contemporary style is the easiest theme to handle. Straight line modern furniture or delightfully funky seating options give a sensational look to your seating area. Brightly coloured mushroom chairs, swivel armchairs and metal/hardwood frame sofas with leather/fabric upholstery are contemporary and comfortable . Metal floor uplighters, quirky sculptures and bright area rugs complete the picture. If you decide on two seating areas in the living room, the larger seating area must be able to seat at least six people . The smaller seating area can have a chaise lounge or a love couch for relaxed seating . These genre come in all the styles discussed above. Alternately, you could have two armchairs with a side table in the centre. An elegant table lamp will transform the seating area into a reading corner. Dining room Generally, conversation lingers over the dining table. The seating arrangement becomes important and the focus of the room. A formal dining room with highbacked chairs is stylish and impressive. Fabric slipcovers add elegance to the theme. A low dining table with colourful cushions in lieu of chairs, gives an informal ambience. Elegant accessories like candelabras , crystals and fresh flowers enhance the seating area.

Bedroom The bedroom is a place to relax and unwind. A tastefully designed seating area would work wonders here. A large window could be the focus of this area. A window seat can be built into a bay window and highlighted with cushions. A pair of soft armchairs, a chaise lounge or a rocking chair would look great in a nook. Side tables with reading lamps and shaggy carpets could be added for a warm look. Seating area in the bedroom can also be worked around an entertainment centre. Recliners, swivel armchairs or a love couch with a warm area rug makes for a stylish picture. A corner of the bedroom also makes a lovely seating area with a side chair and a book shelf. Other living spaces Nowadays, many homes have a cozy theater wherein the entertainment centre is installed. Home furniture like armchairs with ottomans and recliners are just right for this area. Beverage holders or side tables would be ideal. The study is another personalized place where one can read and relax. Armchairs are definitely in. You can have comfortable, low backed armchairs or wooden chairs with soft upholstery arranged around a focal point like a window, an art work or a luxurious carpet. The lobby can be made impressive with plush armchairs or settees. A hand woven rug can act as the focus of this area.

http://realestate.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1909941.cms

SOIL TESTING

2007-08-03T03:01:00.000-07:00

The plot should have a high soil density so that it may be able to bear the weight of the structure.
The caring rays of the rising sun should reach the plot in abundance.
One of the methods of testing the ground is as follows :

Make a 2 ft deep and wide pit on the plot and then fill it up with the scooped out mud.
If you have mud left over after filling the pit , then it is indicative of prosperity.
If the mud is just sufficient to fill the pit up to ground level, then it indicates no profit no loss.
If the mud is not sufficient to completely fill the pit and a part of the pit remains unfilled, then it indicates loss.
Water may also be used to fill the pit before filling it with soil. After filling the pit with water , walk 400 steps and then come back. If the water level is unchanged,the land is good, but if the water level falls considerably, then the land is unsuitable as per Vaastu tenets.
If ploughing the land turns up animal remains like bone and hair, points to the unsuitability of the land.
Presence of vermin and termites makes the soil hollow , thus rendering it unsuitable.

BRAHMASTHANA

2007-07-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

There are ten directions and each has its presiding Deity.
The central area of the plot belongs to lord Brahma. ( Brahmasthana)
In olden days , houses had courtyards in the middle.The trend was to keep the Brahmasthana open to the sky.It was believed that Lord Brahma lands in this area.
Also symbolic of the navel of the Vaastupurush, this area should be properly cleaned and maintained well.
The Brahmasthana should not have underground tanks, bore wells or any water body.
Building Kitchens and toilets in this area also is a serious Vaastu defect.
Electrical equipment such as generators, inverters and heavy transformers should not be kept here.
Heavy pillars and columns in the Brahmasthana can lead to major health problems.
One should not put heavy weights in this area , or position staircases and elevators.

IT'S ALL ABOUT LOBBY'ING.

2007-07-23T04:31:00.000-07:00

A hugely interesting space in a home is a lobby. Mostly in the center of the home, it is actually a take off from the olden times, where all rooms opened into the courtyard.
A lobby is essentially an area to lounge in in. Depending on your lifestyle and hobbies, you should do up this space in a variety of ways.
A TV could be set up here for the entire family to watch and relax. a large coffee table in front of the sofa would also be very convenient.
A magazine and newspaper basket could take care of the reading material.
The furniture could be a two seater sofa or even a single large recliner with a couple of matching chairs.
a large antique mirror can be hung on the wall to visually enlarge the space.
If the lobby is large, you could even make space for a study in one corner and also install your computer, in order to work from there.
You could make huge ceiling sized racks and make it into a library as well.
You could combine your TV with your music system or even make a home theater there.
A small table with chairs could be set up for a round of scrabble or monopoly, with your family while watching TV.

VAASTU FOR PROSPERITY

2007-07-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Wealth need not always come in the form of money.There are eight aspects of Lakshmi that influence your overall personality and environment. Make sure you utilize them in a Vaastu friendly manner.

The universe understands the language of money. Money could be health, motivation or an aid to improve your relationships.
However, earnings alone do not decide the happiness and contentment in your life. You must also analyze other areas where you lack contentment.
Ma Lakshmi is also called Ashtalakshmi, which means eight aspects of Lakshmi ; they are :

Riddhi lakshmi : leads to major achievements in your life. Houses abundant in nature and natural decoratives can help you attain this aspect.
Siddhi Lakshmi : Stands for education , talent and skills.The more openings your house has towards the north , the better your awareness, concentration and memory will be.
Kirti Lakshmi :The name, fame and respect that you gain from society. Enhance your east direction by keeping it tidy, uncluttered and beautiful.
Griha Lakshmi :A good level of understanding with your partner.The right partner can make your life beautiful.To gain this, apply the law of equality. Always counterbalance dark ,dull colours with light, sharp colours.Ensure that the doors are well oiled and do not make irritating sounds when opened or closed.
Shatru vinashini Lakshmi :Possibility of a life without enemies. Make sure that the main entrances are in light shades.Avoid black and blue. Also ensure that there are no water sources near the entrances.
Sanjivani Lakshmi : Health is vital for a happy life.Analyse the bedrooms and toilets in your house. Ensure free flow of subtle energies and use them well.
Kanti Lakshmi :This aspect signifies your personality.De clutter your house and office environments. Respect the rising sun. Get up when the sun rises and keep the east facing windows open.
Dhan Lakshmi : The North east direction gives you magnetic energy which can be transformed into money.There should be no obstruction or leakage of this energy.Create entrances in the north and beautify them with decoratives.

ENERGY FROM ALL DIRECTIONS

2007-07-12T21:16:00.000-07:00

As pr the doctrines of Vaastu,there are four major directions :

Ishaan or the North East.
Vayavya or the North West.
airitya or the South West.
Agneya or the South East.

As per the Vaastu doctrine, positive cosmic energy moves from East to West, North to South and from Ishaan corners to Nairitya corners.
To fill up the drawing room or reception with soothing positivity, follow the vaastu tips given below :

Enrich the abode with wisdom :
Grab financial prosperity :
Bo dominating :
Boost the Ishaan corner :
Use Vaastu friendly curtains :
Keep the area light :

SECURE YOUR HOME

2007-06-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

Exterior lights and motion detectors can reduce the darkness and thus deter a burglar.
Simple security devices, such as door and window locks, grates, bars and bolts increases the amount of time it takes to break into your home.
Invest in a burglar alarm : effective ones also ring at an outside service.
However, don't make your home such a fortress that you are unable to escape in case of a fire or any other emergency.
Doors must be made of metal or solid hardwood with equally strong frames.Even the most efficient lock, if placed in a weak door, will be rendered ineffective.
Go in for deadbolts which can be locked with a key from outside and a thumb turn from inside. Go in for a reputed brand.
Have windows secured with key locks and grills.

LAURIE BAKER ARCHITECTURE

2007-06-11T23:12:00.001-07:00

To explore this style of costeffective and enironment friendly architecture, go to the following

url : http://in.geocities.com/c_ncr/costford/lauriebaker.htm

THE KUNDLI MANESAR PALWAL EXPRESSWAY

2007-06-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

There was a good article on the effect of this expressway on the region. Key points :

The area is slated to become one of the most popular regions after Noida and Gurgaon.

The expressway will serve as a catalyst for growth and will lead to greater development in Sonepat, jhajjar, Gurgaon , Mewat and Faridabad districts through dynamic connectivity with Delhi and the NCR.
The real estate rates in Kundli, Bahadurgarh, Palwal, Manesar etc places are expected to double, once the expressway becomes functional.