Ibdltd's Blog

Higher elevations offer many challenges to home design.  In the Rocky Mountain region, passive solar keeps temperatures warm in the winter as well as conserving energy.  The accentuated angle of the sun at high altitude plays a critical role when planning an interior space.  Homes in high altitude areas in particular should be designed to maximize and retain heat in the winter while minimizing heat gain and too much radiation from the sun in the summer.

The interior flooring, walls, and window treatments can be selected to absorb heat and radiate warmth throughout the home during the cool months.  Fewer windows on north walls, well insulated windows, and window treatments with high R-value keep temperatures comfortable when it’s cold outside.  Heavier fabrics and darker colors create a feeling of warmth.  Maximizing natural air flow and reflecting the sun’s rays with proper window treatments can properly regulate the temperature during hotter months.  Ceiling fans promote proper air circulation in both summer and winter months to regulate temperatures.

Lack of humidity is another environmental hazard in the Rocky Mountains.  Unique problems such as wood shrinkage and cracking, loose wood joints, and masonry or drywall cracks are common in dry climates.  Professionals familiar with these challenges can help since they know the products and techniques used to combat these problems.

Materials that fit our unique region with its varying climates make a huge impact on creating comfortable living environments.  Working with a local interior designer can help you to identify products and finishes that are best suited for the Rocky Mountain region.  For more information, please call us at Interiors by Design in Breckenridge, Colorado.  We have been designing Rocky Mountain interiors since 1984.  We know how to help you create an amazing and comfortable home.   

(970) 453-9020

www.ibdltd.net

Living green is not only good for the environment but good in the long-term for your family and your pocketbook.  Some simple changes around the house can create a greener environment and save you money at the same time.

1. Change old thermostats to programmable thermostats.  You can save on your heating and cooling costs by setting your thermostat back when you are not at home or while you are sleeping.  Set your thermostat to 78 degrees F or higher in the summer and 62 degrees F or lower in the winter.  This will reduce energy usage and the cost.  Remember it takes in floor heat longer to transition between temperature settings.
2. Switch out incandescent light bulbs with CFL’s (compact fluorescent light bulbs).  By switching 5 incandescent bulbs with CFL’s you can save $100 a year.  Once the long-life CFL’s finally burn out, be prepared to recycle them responsibly.
3. Replace older appliances with ENERGY STAR appliances.  Replacing appliances, water heaters, furnaces or air-conditioners with ENERGY STAR rated products can save you anywhere from 10-30% on your energy costs.
4. Select products that are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds)  or organic.  Paint and carpeting are two products that are now available with no or lower VOC”s.  Carpeting made from recycled materials and fully recyclable is now available also, or choose a laminate wood flooring if it is suited for your lifestyle.  There are also new and improved green cleaning products with no chemicals added that can safely clean your home and laundry.
5. Replace older shower heads, faucets and toilets with newer low-flow models.   Just switching out your shower heads can save a family of 4 up to $285 per year on water costs and will conserve water supplies.
6. Replace windows and install energy-efficient window treatments that work to insulate your home both in the winter and summer months.  Hunter Douglas brand window treatments are rated for energy efficiency and Interiors by Design can help you select the style most suitable for your home and environment.
7. Recycle waste.  The easiest way to stay on top of this is to create a space in your kitchen that makes it easy for you to separate recycled materials.  If you are getting ready to remodel your kitchen, consider built-in recycled bins for your cabinets by the kitchen sink or pantry.

At Interiors by Design, we can help you decide the best place to start.  If you are planning to remodel your home, this is an excellent time to begin to incorporate green changes into your environment that will promote the health of our environment, your health and the health of your wallet!  Please call us at 970-453-9020 for more information on how to make your home greener. 

www.pathnet.org, www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au

There are so many different flooring options available that it can be overwhelming.  When considering what to choose, keep in mind these things:

1. Which room(s) are you considering new flooring for? What functions does this space perform?  Kitchens and baths are candidates for tile.  Bedrooms, living and dining areas might work better for carpeting.
2. Consider your family’s lifestyle – do you have children, what are their ages, are there elderly or disabled members in the household, are there pets to consider?  Children and pets may mean more wear on your flooring.  Grout lines, thresholds and some types of carpeting may be harder for an elderly or disabled person to maneuver.
3. Determine what your budget is.  Many products are offered in a variety of price ranges.  Consider for example, laminate wood vs. hand-scrapped wood or ceramic tile vs. natural stone.

Other things to think about:

• Do any of the family members have allergies or respiratory conditions?
• How much time do you have to spend on cleaning and maintenance?
• What are your personal preferences regarding type of flooring and why is it important to you?

Some flooring materials that are available for you to choose from include:

• Vinyl
• Laminate
• Wood
• Linoleum
• Cork
• Carpeting
• Tile
• Concrete
• Stone
• Bamboo

Always ask your Interior Designer for help with selecting a flooring type.   They can sort out the different options available to you and provide a recommendation based on function, lifestyle and budget.  Working with a professional interior designer takes the confusion out of the decision process.

Call us at Interiors by Design to schedule an appointment about your flooring needs or any other design project for your home.