CasaSugar

Do You Have a View of Nature?

CasaSugar — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:58 -0800

At my house, I can see a lot of trees, but my main view is of the San Francisco skyline. Sometimes I miss the more idyllic views that I grew up with in a rural community. Do you have a nature view at your home?

Source: Flickr User AMy Loves Yah

Do You Use Storm Windows?

CasaSugar — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:15:20 -0800

Storm windows were once a common weatherization measure in older homes, but since new windows have super-efficient glass, it's less common. However, older homes that still use single-pane glass can benefit from the use of storm windows. Do you use them in your home?

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Cool Idea: Cabinet Door Mirror

CasaSugar — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 08:30:49 -0700

In a Sydney home tour shot by photographer Todd Selby, I noticed this old cabinet door - check out the knobs in the center behind the plant - repurposed as a mirror, and love the look of it. I've seen old windows repurposed in plenty of ways (see here and here), but never a door. On second thought, this could be a window that opens outward. Regardless, I love how it's both thrifty and polished and how it upcycles something that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Have you repurposed any windows or doors in your home?

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Cool Idea: Old Windows as a Room Divider

CasaSugar — Thu, 28 May 2009 05:30:56 -0700

I recently showed you a few ways to decorate with old windows, and I've seen another instance that I just had to share. I stumbled across the Le Créme Spa in San Francisco, and was charmed by its shabby chic interior design. Here, the salon hung an arrangement of five white windows from the ceiling to separate the front desk from a bench used for pedicures. It instantly divides the room into two separate spaces visually, but the glass panels still allow the beautiful natural light to shine through. You can easily and affordably replicate this trick in your home, by simply repurposing old windows from your house or tracking some down at a salvage shop.

Does Your Home Have Any Round Windows?

CasaSugar — Tue, 19 May 2009 06:15:12 -0700

This round window is actually part of St. Margaret's Church, which is on the grounds of Westminster Abbey. I love the middle hinge that halves the window. Porthole windows are often seen on many homes and are popular features on Craftsman houses.
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Casa Quickie: Add a Shot of Alcohol

CasaSugar — Fri, 15 May 2009 07:00:00 -0700

. . . Rubbing alcohol, that is. If you're mixing your own green cleaning products, you might find yourself slightly dissatisfied with the simple vinegar-and-water mix you're using for cleaning windows. The New York Times recently tested different window cleaning products, including mixing up some simple vinegar-and-water solutions. The tester, Stephen Treffinger, reports, "I tried several variations of a homemade white-vinegar-and-water mix, which did a good job at practically no cost. The one that proved most effective was one part vinegar to two parts of water. It was very runny, though, which meant I had to wipe quickly and vigorously with newspaper. A couple of tablespoons of rubbing alcohol added to the mix boosted its cleaning power and made it evaporate faster."

So, next time you mix up your own window washing solution, add a shot of rubbing alcohol to really add some oomph to your homemade window cleaning product.

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How-To: Decorate With Old Windows

CasaSugar — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:00:08 -0700

Ever since I saw Marie De Salle's apartment in High Fidelity, I've been obsessed with the idea of reusing old windows in interior design. While this look is often given too much of a shabby chic bent, it can be integrated into any decorating scheme with a little care. One word of warning: when using old windows for decoration, you should make sure they aren't painted with lead paint. Source

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How-To: Hang Curtains

CasaSugar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:00:00 -0800

Hanging drapery is often the finishing touch a room needs to give off a polished look. But beyond that, the smallest difference in length can also make a drastic difference. That said, you should always take measurements before you buy any curtains, and if you must, just buy the longest size and alter them later. Hear a few tricks of the trade that can work wonders on any room when you read more.

If your ceilings are short (or average), hanging your curtains high will make your room appear taller. Sometimes just a half a foot will do the trick, while in other rooms you'll need to hang your curtain rods all the way near the ceiling. You just have to play with it. And, remember that curtain tabs add extra length.
The typical rule of thumb for curtain length is to have them hit the floor. But slightly longer curtains that bunch at the floor will add texture and a little flair to a room. In kitchens and bathrooms, where your floors are high-traffic and mess magnets, if your windows are small, it's standard to have your curtains hit the window sill.
If you're lacking in the light department, buy an extra long rod. This way, when your curtains are open and pushed back, they won't conceal the window but they'll still give it a polished look. This is also a good idea for curtains that are merely decorative.
If your curtains are store-bought, you don't have many decisions to make. But if you're having custom curtains made, I recommend having a professional come by to take your measurements. Sometimes a more narrow curtain will give your room a tall and lean look, while wider, billowing fabric can give it a casual, elegant vibe; this is why having your drapery custom-made can really pay off!

Casa Quickie: Brighten It Up

CasaSugar — Fri, 23 May 2008 15:00:30 -0700

Want in on one of the cheapest, quickest, and most potent small changes you can make in your home? Let the sun shine in! Since most family spaces (dining rooms, kitchens, living rooms, dens) don't demand the privacy that a bathroom or bedroom does, forgo the curtains or blinds. You can even strip them off your windows altogether if you're feeling particularly brave. By letting in natural light, you'll save energy by using daylighting. Not only that, but all rooms look better when naturally lit, and sunshine improves residents' moods as well. Source

Casa Quickie: Lighten Up for Spring

CasaSugar — Fri, 16 May 2008 15:00:19 -0700

In case you haven't noticed, it's Spring! Isn't that supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!? Yes, it is. So, it's time to lose a few pounds — and I'm not suggesting you get in shape for the beach. You really need to lighten up your windows! Move that thick velvet drapery to your storage closet in favor of some airy, sheer panels or shades. Spring light is nothing to shy away from; it should be whole-heartedly embraced. Not only will switching to sheer panels let in more light, but it'll give your home a more relaxed look. And, why shouldn't your home loosen up a bit when you're already sporting shorts and flip-flops? Here are a few styles that should fit the bill.

Blue Stripe Grommetted Linen Panels - $69.00	Matine Toile Roman Shade - Select Items - $119.00
Lantern Window Panel - $39.00	Medallion Window Panel - $34.00
White Crinkle Voile Curtain Panel - $14.99	Smocked Drape - $50.00
Carlisle Drape - $19.00	Paisley Panel - $49.50
Outdoor Sheer Grommet Drape - $69.00

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