How to design a small front yard landscape

Owning your own country house is a dream for many people. Firstly, because around the house there is a small front yard landscape to your taste, thereby emphasizing the individuality and design of the structure. In addition to this area one would like to arrange a place for recreation, vegetable gardens, flower beds. But what to do if the area is limited? In this case it is important to carefully consider the landscape design of the small plot, so it was not only beautiful but also functional. Some design techniques allow you to visually increase the area around the house.

How to zone the territory

As with the development of the interior, the design of a small plot begins with the development of such a plan. To do this, the boundaries of the plot are drawn on paper on a scale. On it note the location of the main structure, as well as technical communications, which can not be moved. It also indicates the location of large trees that will remain on the site, mark the place of the existing auxiliary buildings. Color can be highlighted those objects that are subject to future removal or transfer.

During the development of the adjacent area plan take into account the following:

• Firstly determine the necessary number and type of buildings and functional areas on the site. Specify the location of the main building, outbuildings, vegetable garden and greenhouses, flowerbeds, a place to rest with a gazebo, playground.
• Once the main objects on the site are identified, carry out marking of places where there will be garden paths. Conventionally, they can be divided into main, auxiliary and decorative. Main paths are wider with a thorough coating of tile or concrete, flat. They are designed to connect the main structures on the site. Such paths should provide the shortest path from the house to the auxiliary buildings, such as a toilet or bath. The path in this case should be as flat as possible, without obstacles in the way. Auxiliary paths are located between the economic objects on the site: vegetable garden, greenhouse, gazebo and swimming pool. Decorative paths serve as decoration. They can have a whimsical and winding shape. They are made of stone or sawn wood.
• When placing on the site of functional zones take into account the safe distance between them and the main structure. For example, children’s playground should not be located close to the recreation area with a grill, as well as undesirable to locate directly near the windows of the bedroom in the house. When choosing locations for a vegetable garden or flower garden take into account the orientation of the site to the sides of the world. To visually make the site look more spacious and free, the buildings outside should not look massive. It is better to partially hide them behind green plantings in the form of hedges, shrubs or other decorative elements.
• The design of a small plot at the design stage involves the choice of the style of design of the lawn. The style can be regular or natural. In the first case, the arrangement of objects and plants is symmetrical, in the second – free. Specialists recommend for landscape design of a small plot to choose the design in English, rustic or eco style. Also suitable is minimalism or Japanese style.
• It is desirable to refuse tall large trees because of their massive root system and sprawling crowns, which will create a large shady area. Better it will be a single tree, under which you can place a cozy sitting area.

Options for arranging a small plot

Proceeding to the design of the area near the house, on it first place large objects so that they do not look massive. To do this, between them plant plants, hedges, install elements of vertical gardening. 

If the area of the territory is large enough, the house is located in its depth. This allows you to visually expand the area, breaking in front of the house a small area with a lawn and flower beds. Be sure to provide a place to park the car.

The location of the garage depends on the number of floors of the house. If it has two floors, the garage is located on the first floor and make it insulated. If the house is one-story, then the garage is located at the side.

Getting started to design the adjacent area, even if it is small, it is desirable to take into account its geological parameters. In particular, it is important to have an idea of the properties of the soil, as this criterion will be decisive in choosing the types of plants and style of site design.

For a comfortable recreation area on the territory choose the most remote, quiet and windless place. This is also where the barbecue area is located.

The role of trees on a small plot

When choosing the design of a small plot, take into account the presence of existing plants. It is not necessary to place on a small plot many tall trees with spreading crowns. It is better to place one or two large deciduous trees, which will give the necessary coolness and shade on hot days. This is the perfect place to set up a seating area. A large tree will also allow you to disguise an ugly view, hide from prying eyes, reduce the light in the bedroom, the windows of which overlook the garden.

Particularly popular are conifers of trees and shrubs. They are unpretentious and feel great in conditions of lack of sunlight. Choosing a place for planting a tall tree, it is necessary to figure out in advance how it will shade the plot.

Pond on the plot

A water surface has, like a mirror, a reflective capacity, so it visually increases the space around. A pond on a small plot firstly gives an opportunity to divert attention from the area of the territory. A small well-groomed pond will become the main accent and decoration of the plot. But from the fountain or an artificial waterfall is better to refuse, as in a small area the sound of the continuous gurgling of water will create discomfort. 

You can decorate the water reservoir with water lilies, decorative stones and garden figurines in the form of birds or frogs.

Choosing a place for a gazebo

The main advantage of a country house with an adjacent territory is that on it you can arrange a comfortable and comfortable recreation area with a gazebo, where you can relax in all weathers.

In the design of the recreation area take into account the following:

• If the area is too small, then the gazebo can not put, and be limited to a light canopy with climbing plants and a bench.
• On a small level glade in the summer under the spreading branches of a tree is enough to arrange a wicker furniture: a table and a couple of chairs.
• On sale are all kinds of prefabricated structures with awnings in the form of canopies and tents. Temporary gazebos reliably protect from the sun, wind, rain and mosquitoes.
• To place a permanent gazebo choose elevated or remote from the main structure. The material can be wood, metal or polycarbonate. They are usually used in combined gazebos, where the metal frame is sheathed in wood or polycarbonate. To look lightweight gazebo, make it as open as possible, without the walls, with openwork parts that let the light in.
• Near the gazebo have a barbecue area. Even, rammed area is suitable for this. Sometimes it is covered with tiles or stone. In some cases, the barbecue areas become the main accent on the territory, and flowerbeds and flowerbeds serve as their decoration and are located around them.

The role of the lawn

On a small plot, it is necessary to provide a place for a lawn. It can be decorated with shrubs, pebbles or paving tiles. A lawn can serve not only as a decoration, but also as a convenient place for active games. 

Locate the lawn is recommended in a visible area of the plot, preferably in front of the house. This is one of the methods of visual space enhancement, when the flat plane of the lawn is framed by shrubs and ornamental plants on the perimeter.

Designers do not recommend in the central part of the garden to have massive buildings and plantings, but rather, to give this place for a flat area with low grass.

In a small area, the lawn also performs a communication function, allowing you to move around the site and not overload it with many garden paths. For this planting of grasses resistant to trampling.

Arrangement of an alpine hill

If there is a natural roughness on the plot, you can equip such an element of decor as an alpine hill. It looks not only beautiful, but also attracts attention, becoming the main decoration of the territory near the house. 

Work plan for the arrangement of an alpine hill developed at the stage of site planning. Large stones, perennial plants, coniferous shrubs will be required.

In the absence of fertile soil on the plot you can use sandy or rocky soil, which is suitable for good development and flowering plants.

The simplest and most popular type of alpine hill is a rock cliff. This method of arrangement is especially relevant for areas with a natural steep slope. When creating such an alpinarium, first lay large boulders, and then plants are planted.

To diversify the composition, large boulders are dug into the ground, creating a path imitating a mountain landscape. And to give realism plants in different colors.

It is not necessary to reject the idea of arranging an alpinarian, if the area near the house has no natural slopes. It is enough to properly arrange the stones of different sizes and plant plants.

On a flat site, you can arrange a flat rockery with a few high points in the form of large stones, trees or shrubs. In the space between these elements fill the decorative gravel or plant creeping groundcover plants. Such a rockery will take up little space, and it is better to arrange it along the front of the plot near the recreation area with a pergola.

Another variety is called a gravel garden. To create it, gravel is poured and steppe plants are planted. In this case, large boulders are not used.

What a garden can be

A garden is not necessarily something large-scale, with many trees and bushes. Even in a small area you can intelligently arrange the plants. 

When setting up a small garden, a few simple rules should be followed:

• When planting plants, take into account their requirements for light. For example, the tallest plants are planted in the northern area, and stunted plants – on the contrary, in the southern part of the site.
• It is desirable that the plants that are used for a small garden do not take up much free space. Special attention should be given to the design of the entrance to the plot. To arrange beds and flower beds, use the space along the fence, and in the center of the plot create a decorative composition with bright lush flowers.
• Place under the vegetable garden is chosen last. If desired, a compact bed has between the beds and flower beds.

Methods to visually increase the space

There are different design techniques that can reduce the impression of cramped space through the correct approach to the design of the objects located on the site. It is worth starting with the fence – a fencing structure on the perimeter of the territory. It not only indicates the boundaries of the site, but also protects the garden from wind, dust, penetration from the street of animals and intruders.

The height of the fence is regulated by the regulations and suggests that it is made of light transmitting materials by 50%. On the aesthetic side, a blind and high fence attracts all the attention and visually makes the space smaller than it really is.

If you can not do without such a fence, it should be masked with climbing plants and trees (grapes, ivy, roses, lemongrass), so that the living wall will become an extension of the garden. In other cases, it is better to abandon the massive structures in favor of lightweight, with high light transmission capacity.

The best looks wooden fence, it can even be solid – natural wood does not cause discomfort, but on the contrary, will give a sense of comfort and warmth. Other popular constructions: fenceboard or trellis. Such a fence can also be partially masked by climbing plants.

Also visually correct the area of the adjacent territory can be used with the help of decorative elements and buildings. It is possible to highlight several original techniques:

• Some functional zones on the plot can be raised by creating an artificial height difference. For example, the garden area with rockery and flower beds can be raised by 20 cm. This way it will look larger than the zones located in the neighborhood. 2. Deaf fence is replaced by a metal mesh, fence posts or hedges, thus extending the boundaries of the site. A greater effect can be achieved by changing the height and width of the fence. 3. The perception of the area of the site depends largely on the shape of the objects located on it. Sculpture, flower arrangement or any other decorative element, which has a round or spherical shape, will create the illusion of space. 4. Paths that go into perspective also create the impression of infinite space. Such paths have a winding shape and, skirting the walls with climbing plants, decorative arches or flower beds, as if running away into the distance. 5. It is worth paying attention to the shades of flowering plants. If in the corners of the plot to plant light flowers, the plot will visually expand. 6. It is necessary to get rid of empty corners, which visually significantly limit the space. To fill them, use corner flower beds, benches, pergolas or garden figures.
• Blank fence is replaced by a metal mesh, fence posts or hedges, thus extending the boundaries of the site. A greater effect can be achieved by changing the height and width of the fence.
• The perception of the area of the site largely depends on the shape of the objects located on it. Sculpture, flower arrangement or any other decorative element, which has a round or spherical shape, will create the illusion of space.
• Paths that go into perspective also create the impression of infinite space. Such paths have a sinuous shape and, skirting the walls with climbing plants, decorative arches or flower beds, as if running away into the distance.
• It is worth paying attention to the shades of flowering plants. If in the corners of the site to plant light-colored flowers, the site will visually expand.
• It is necessary to get rid of empty corners, which visually significantly limit the space. To fill them, use corner flower beds, benches, pergolas or garden figures.
• Several decorative compositions in different places in the form of flowers or decorations will attract attention to themselves, not to the area of the plot.

When decorating a small area, the features of the chosen style should be taken into account. As in the interior, in the exterior, minimalist styles are aimed at the visual expansion of space. The style of minimalism involves the use of light wood, stone, water bodies with a calm water surface, a minimum of decor.

To the minimalist design styles can be attributed eastern directions – Chinese and Japanese style. No less important is the lighting. With its help, you can successfully adjust a small area.

The right approach allows even a tiny plot of land to turn into a comfortable functional space.

How to design something for a 3D printer

3D printers are becoming more and more available, and accordingly, ordinary users who want to learn this technology are also buying them. Some people are not satisfied with printing ready-made models downloaded from the Internet, so they wonder about creating their own project. This task is accomplished with the help of special software and requires superficial or in-depth knowledge in the functionality of such software, which depends on the user’s requirements for the model.

Method 1: Blender

Blender is the first program whose main purpose is to create 3D models for further animation or use in various areas of computer technology. It is distributed free of charge and is suitable for novice users who are encountering applications of this kind for the first time, so it occupies this position. Let’s take a brief look at the procedure of preparing a model for printing step by step, starting with the setting up of the tool itself.

Step 1: Preparatory steps

Of course, after launching Blender, you can immediately begin to familiarize yourself with the interface and develop models, but first it is better to pay attention to preparatory actions to configure the working environment for layouts for 3D printers. This operation does not take long and requires the activation of only a few parameters.

To begin, select the appearance and layout of the elements in the start window, based on your personal needs.

In the next section of the Quick Setup window you will see different templates for getting started and links to sources of background information that will help you in mastering the software. Close this window to move on to the next configuration step.

In the panel on the right, look for the “Scene” icon and click on it. The name of the button appears a few seconds after you hover over it.

In the category that appears, expand the “Units” block.

Set the metric system of measurements and set the scale to “1”. This is necessary in order for the scene parameters to be transferred to the 3D printer space in a proper form.

Now pay attention to the upper panel of the program. There hover your cursor over “Edit” and select “Preferences” in the popup menu that appears.

In the settings window, move to “Add-ons”.

Find and activate the two items called “Mesh: 3D-Print Toolbox” and “Mesh: LoopTools”.

Make sure that the checkboxes have been successfully checked, and then leave this window.

Additionally, we recommend that you pay attention to other configuration items. Here you can customize the appearance of the program, change the layout of interface elements, transform them or disable them altogether. Once you have done all of these things, go to the next step.

Step 2: Creating a 3D object

Modeling – the basic process of creating a project for further printing on the appropriate equipment. Every user who wants to work on various shapes and objects on his own will have to deal with this topic. However for this purpose it is necessary to study a rather large layer of information, because Blender functionality is so huge that only the basics can be understood intuitively. Unfortunately, the format of our today’s article does not allow to fit even a small part of all the information and instructions, so we advise you to turn to the official documentation, where all the information is categorized and described in detail.

Step 3: Check the project for general guidelines

Before finalizing your model, we advise you not to miss the most important aspects that you should follow to optimize your project and ensure that it prints correctly on your printer. First, make sure that none of the surfaces overlap. They should only touch, forming a single object. If somewhere goes out of bounds, there are likely to be problems with the quality of the figure itself, as there will be a small print failure in the wrong place. For convenience, you can always turn on the transparent grid display to check each line and field.

Next, deal with reducing the number of polygons, because a large number of these elements only artificially complicates the figure itself and interferes with optimization. Of course, it is recommended to avoid unnecessary polygons while creating the object itself, but it is not always possible to do it at this stage. You can use any methods of this optimization, which is also written in the documentation and told in tutorials from independent users.

Now we want to mention thin lines or any transitions. As you know, the nozzle itself has a certain size, which also depends on the model of the printer, and plastic is not the most reliable material. Because of this, it is better to avoid having very thin elements, which in theory may not get printed at all or will be extremely fragile. If such points are present in the design, enlarge them slightly, add support or get rid of them if possible.

Step 4: Export the project

The final step in preparing the model for printing is to export it in a suitable STL format. This type of data is supported by 3D printers and will be correctly recognized. No rendering or additional processing can be performed if colors or simple textures have already been assigned to the project.

Open the “File” menu and hover your cursor over “Export”.

From the pop-up list that appears, select “Stl (.stl)”.

Specify a location on removable or local media, set a name for the model and click “Export STL”.

The project will be immediately saved and available for other actions. Now you can insert the USB stick into the printer or connect it to your computer to run the existing job. We will not give tips on how to configure it, because they are strictly individual for each model of device and are clearly spelled out in the instructions and various documents.

Way 2: Autodesk Fusion 360.

The next program is called Autodesk Fusion 360 and it’s available for free private use for a year so it’s a good way to get started and create simple models to print on existing equipment in the future. We decided to make the principle of getting to know this software the same way we did with Blender, so we created a step-by-step breakdown.

Step 1: Preparatory Steps

In Autodesk Fusion 360 you don’t have to activate toolbars or select any unusual options. The user just has to make sure the project metrics are correct and change the view side properties as needed, which is how it works:

After downloading and installing Autodesk Fusion 360 from the official site, the first run should occur. No initial windows will be displayed, so a new project will be created automatically. Notice the “Browser” section on the left below the main panels. Here select “Document Settings” to expand this section.

Go to edit the “Units” file if the standard value in millimeters doesn’t suit you.

In the box that appears to the right, choose the optimal unit of measure, which you should follow throughout your interaction with the project.

After that, take a look at the Named Views and Origin section. Here you can rename each side according to your personal preferences and adjust the display of axes in your workspace.

At the end of the configuration, make sure that the “Design” space is selected, because that’s where the initial creation of all objects takes place.

Step 2: Designing the model for printing

If you find yourself needing to develop the model manually through Autodesk Fusion 360, you will have to do some extensive research on the program or at least familiarize yourself with the basics. Let’s start by looking at a simple example of adding shapes and editing their size.

Open the “Create” list and take a look at the shapes and objects available. As you can see, all the basic shapes are present here. Just click on one of them to proceed to adding.

In addition, take a look at the other elements in the upper panel. The main space here is occupied by modifiers. Their icons make it clear what they are responsible for. For example, the first modifier displaces sides, the second rounds them, and the third creates an indentation.

After adding object shapes to the workspace, there will be levers, by moving which you adjust the size of each side.

When adjusting, look also at the separate field with dimensions. You can edit it yourself by setting the necessary values.

We have already talked about the main features that must be followed when looking at Blender, so we won’t dwell on them again. Instead, we suggest that you explore the rest of the interaction with Autodesk Fusion 360 by reading the official documentation on the website to master the creation of not only primitives, but also objects of a much higher level of complexity.

Step 3: Preparing to print / Saving the document

In this step, let’s talk about two different actions that are directly related to 3D printing. The first is to send the job immediately through the software you are using. This option will only work in situations where the printer itself can be connected to a computer and supports communication with such software.

Activate the “3D Print” item in the “File” menu.

The settings block will appear on the right. Here you only need to select the output device itself, turn on the preview if necessary, and start the job.

However, now most standard printing devices still only support flash drives or operate exclusively through proprietary software, so the need to save the object occurs much more often. This is done as follows:

In the same “File” pop-up menu, click the “Export” button.

Expand the “Type” list.

Select “OBJ Files (*obj)” or “STL Files (*.stl)”.

After that, specify the location to save and click the blue “Export” button.

Wait for the saving to finish. This process will take literally a few minutes.

If the export fails, you will need to save the project again. To do this, click on the special button or use the standard keyboard shortcut Ctrl + S.

Method 3: SketchUp

Many users know SketchUp as a home modeling tool, but the functionality of this software is much broader, so it can be used as a modeling tool in preparation for 3D printing. SketchUp made it to our list today because it is easy to import already ready-made free models for editing and further saving to the desired format. Let’s go through all aspects of managing this software one by one.

Step 1: Getting Started and Working with Models

First, we suggest getting acquainted with the basic principle of interaction with SketchUp to understand exactly how models are added and managed. 

After installing and running SketchUp, you need to click on the “Login” button to connect your user account. If you have started to get acquainted with the trial period, from this point the days until it ends will start counting down.

When the “Welcome to SketchUp” window appears, click on “Simple” to go to the workspace.

Drawing shapes in this program is done in exactly the same way as in other similar solutions. Hover your cursor over the “Draw” section and select an arbitrary shape.

After that it is placed on the workspace and at the same time its size is edited.

The other buttons in the upper panels perform modifier options and are responsible for other actions.

As we said before, the developers of SketchUp provide many different tutorials on interacting with this application not only in text format, but also as videos on YouTube.

Step 2: Loading the finished model

Not all users want to create their own models to be sent to print in the future. In these cases, it is possible to upload a finished project, edit it and then export it in a suitable format. The official resource from the developers of SketchUp is used for this.

Use the link above to get to the home page of the site to search for models. There, confirm the license agreement to start using it.

Next we suggest you use the built-in category search to quickly find the right model.

Look for an option in the list and pay attention to additional filters.

After selecting the model all you have to do is click on “Download”.

Run the resulting file through SketchUp.

Review the model and edit it if necessary.

Step 3: Export the finished project

At the end of the process, all that is left is to export the finished project for further printing on your existing device. You already know in which format you want to save the file, and you do it this way:

Hover your cursor over “File” – “Export” and select “3D Model”.

In the Explorer window that appears, you are interested in OBJ or STL format.

After selecting the location and format, you only need to click on “Export”.

The export operation will start, the status of which you can monitor yourself.

You will be informed of the results of the procedure and can move on to the printing task.

You have just learned about three different 3D modeling programs that are suitable for creating any job for printing on a 3D printer yourself. There are other similar solutions that allow you to save files in STL or OBJ format. We recommend that you take a look at their list in situations where the solutions described above do not suit you for some reason.

That was all the information about creating a model for printing on a 3D printer that we wanted to tell you in one tutorial. Next, all you have to do is load the object file into the job preparation software, connect the printer, and start printing.

How to design a home bar like a commercial bar

Organizing a home bar, although not difficult, requires prior research so as not to spend too much money and not to buy unnecessary accessories and drinks. Here is a guide on how to organize a home bar without too much effort and expense.

Bar tools

You should start with the most basic tools. As your bar grows, you will understand what you need and buy more. For starters, you need:

• an oversized shaker that allows you to mix more than one cocktail at a time;
• a sharp knife with a serrated blade for slicing citrus fruits;
• cutting board;
• a jigger, a double-sided measuring utensil of the shot glass type, used for measuring alcohol;
• several easy-to-clean glass bottles or jars for storing simple syrups and fresh juices;
• a basic corkscrew;
• a bottle opener for crown corks;
• a set of towels.

Subsequently, you can buy a blender and citrus press, with which it will be easier to prepare citrus juices.

If you can not invest in good equipment, use homemade utensils: instead of a shaker – a jar with a tightly closing lid, instead of jigger – a shot glass, and replace the bar spoon to ordinary. Nevertheless, do not forget that the quality of cocktails and the aesthetics of the preparation directly depend on the equipment. If you do decide to splurge, order high-quality, durable, metal accessories at professional bartending sites.

Glass

The right glasses are an essential part of a good home bar. Yes, they take up space, yes, they often break, and yes, you have to splurge on quality and beautiful glass. For starters, you can limit yourself to low and wide rox glasses for classic cocktails like Americano and Manhattan. They can also be used to serve sauerkraut and long drinks. If you plan to make Aperol Spritz at home, get versatile wine glasses. Fragile cocktail glasses in a home bar are optional, unless you plan to surprise guests with Bond and Gatsby-style parties.

Ice

Ice will be needed to make most cocktails. It’s best to buy special ice packs or silicone molds. Always freeze large quantities at once, or you may run out of ice at the most inopportune moment. Do not use tap water, it may give the ice, and hence the drink, an unpleasant aroma and taste.

Non-alcoholic drinks

The so-called mixers are an essential part of a proper home bar. Guided by your taste, but in all likelihood you will sooner or later need: carbonated (soda) water, tonic, Coca-Cola, cranberry morsel, tomato and orange juices. Ideally, the citrus juices should be freshly squeezed so that your cocktails will taste much better. Another important ingredient is sugar syrup. You can make it at home by mixing 1 kg of sugar with 1 liter of hot water. Boil the mixture in a saucepan, cool it down and pour it into a jar or bottle. This syrup can be kept in the fridge for a few weeks. Over time, you may need other syrups, such as grenadine. This is best purchased at a health food store.

Garnishes

You should always have oranges, lemons and limes in your home bar, as they are indispensable for many recipes. Chunky or loose cane sugar is equally mandatory. If you like Mojitos, don’t forget the mint. And for Bloody Mary fans, salt, pepper, Tabasco and Worcester sauce are essential ingredients.

Alcohol

Many bartenders say the minimum assortment of a home bar is 12 basic drinks. But beginners can start with as few as six. Focus first and foremost on your taste. In our list, the ingredients are arranged in decreasing order of importance.

Gin

The base of many classic cocktails such as gin and tonic, Tom Collins, White lady and of course Martini Cocktail, gin is the favorite drink of many bartenders. For a home bar, it’s best to choose the classic London Dry Gin, not overloaded with trendy herbal additives.

Bourbon

Another classic strong alcohol, without which no bar can be imagined. It is used for Manhattan, Old Fashioned and other strong cocktails.

Light rum

Without rum, you can’t make everyone’s favorite Mojitos and Daiquiris. You can just mix it with lime juice and cola for a refreshing Cuba Libre.

Red vermouth

Vermouth is rarely the basis of a cocktail, but most bartenders are crazy about it. They add depth and complexity to a drink. A good red vermouth is the key to the success of many classic mixes.

Orange Liqueur

Cointreau or Triple Sec are orange liqueurs that are part of many basic cocktails. Strong and citrus, they add a refreshing fruity taste to the drink.

Bitter

Bitters, or bitters, are a return to the roots of cocktail culture. Today they are coming back into fashion. No decent bar can operate without at least one bitter. For a home bar, get the classic and versatile Angostura Aromatic Bitters.

Scotch Whiskey

For cocktails, it’s best to choose a not too smoky, classic blended whiskey. Beware, however, of the cheap options, they’re only good for whiskey cola.

Tequila

Tequila cocktails are always refreshing and bright. Don’t skimp on this drink. Get tequila made from 100% agave to fully experience the grassy, fresh taste of this Mexican alcohol.

Dark Rum

A good aged rum can add color to any cocktail. Even the classic Cuba Libre opens up differently. Try rums from Latin America and the Caribbean and find the one that appeals to you.

Cognac

Cognac is a multifaceted alcoholic beverage with a strong grape flavor, making it ideal for cocktails as well as for drinking pure.

Campari (or another similar bitter)

Campari is part of many classic cocktails, such as Negroni and Garibaldi. It can be substituted for Aperol in a “Spritz” or simply served with sparkling water as an apéritif.

Vodka

Vodka rounds out the list of must-have drinks for the home bar. It doesn’t have its own distinct flavor, so it’s good for mixing with fruit juices. 

How to design commercial office space

Office design in the 21st century is not just about ergonomics, as it was a couple of decades ago. A well-designed office shows customers the concept of the entire company. The interior should sell products before the potential customer sees them. A cozy and beautiful office makes jobseekers want to work in that firm, which means the design solves the issue of hiring employees.

Global corporations often allow employees to work freelance hours. Including at night. And everything in the office should be arranged so that a person would feel comfortable to be in it as at home.

Taking care of employees’ health, large companies equip gyms near their offices.

Ergonomics of the workplace is aimed at productivity and, consequently, at the development of the company as a whole. Thus, the office today solves many problems and the design project should take into account each of them.

The main differences in the design of office and living space

It is important for the designer to understand that working on a commercial project is different from the process of designing a house or apartment.

1. Office renovation has a clear deadline. Any delay means unnecessary costs. Therefore, the work of design is regulated and threatened by large fines in case of schedule violations. In the design of private homes, there are no such boundaries.
2. Work on the interior of a commercial facility begins most often without a contract. This is due to the peculiarities of the coordination of all processes related to the legal side of the issue. The contract is signed about a month after the customer has confirmed his agreement to work with the designer. In order not to lose time, the performer begins work on the basis of a letter of guarantee.
3. Unlike private clients, corporations have virtually no emotional component when making decisions.
4. Office design in general has a clear structure. Work on a commercial project is faster if it is broken down into tasks and parallelized processes.
5. When working on an office, the designer has fewer meetings with decision makers than with private clients. But he is obliged to get these meetings, not to solve serious questions through intermediaries.
6. If a designer makes mistakes in a commercial project, it will affect his reputation. For several years, he will not be able to participate in tenders.
7. For a residential project, money can be received more quickly. Companies can pay only 3 months after the project is delivered.
8. Commercial objects for the designer are more profitable than residential.
9. Realized office interiors are easier to place in the portfolio because they are not private.

Layout: defining zones

Developing an office plan, the designer takes into account the interests of the company executives, all employees and clients, whose reception will take place in this building. It is necessary to maintain the general style, but keep in mind the tasks that each zone solves.

Reception

The reception introduces clients, partners who come to negotiate, and potential employees to the company. Everyone who is unfamiliar with the company makes the first impression by this area. Therefore, the design should evoke only positive emotions.

The interior of the reception reflects the corporate style. For the receptionist, a counter is set up that is convenient for the employee and guests. This is the main object, and it is often made to order.

It is necessary to create a corner where guests will spend their waiting time in comfort. It is better not to use partitions designed for the working area, and replace them with live plants in tubs.

Conference room and meeting room

The meeting room differs from other office spaces with its strict design. Minimal decor – all the attention of visitors should be focused on the issues at hand. The area of the conference room is calculated on the maximum number of participants of large meetings.

The central object in the interior of the hall is a massive negotiation table. For safety reasons and from a psychological point of view, it is better to have a round table. This also applies to furniture for the meeting room. At a round table, there are no dominant faces, everyone speaks as equals.

Office of the head

The interior should distinguish the head of the company, but it is important not to overdo it. It is unethical to put leather sofas for millions in the office and cover the floor with expensive carpets, when all the other rooms are equipped with chipboard furniture and sustained in a minimalistic style.

The design of the executive space should be quite austere. Business processes allow company heads to receive clients in their own office, but not at their desks. In this room, there should be a corner for receiving guests. Zones can be divided by mobile partitions, screens, furniture.

It is appropriate to hang award sheets on the walls, set aside a corner for the appropriate items.

Do not forget about personal space. Ideally, if the office provides an enclosed area for rest, where you can place more decor than in the rest of the room.

Recreation room, relaxation area, gym

Most often, employees of companies rest in the kitchen, where they can talk about personal matters over a cup of tea or lunch. Here the interior design should provide storage areas, installed appliances. A refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, kettle – the bare minimum. Tables, sofas and chairs are installed.

The main principle in the planning of areas: relaxation is both a change of place and a change of activity.

In the offices of large corporations, in addition to the kitchen is allocated space for relaxation areas and / or gyms. The relaxation room can only partially match the overall style of the office. The decoration, furniture, sound and light are all aimed at allowing the employee to forget about the work processes for a while and switch their minds to a different direction.

A sports hall is equipped according to the area allocated for it. A running track is installed, a place for exercises with free weights is determined. Often a separate room is arranged for yoga classes. If such rooms are provided by the project, one should not forget about the rooms where employees can change their clothes and take a shower.

Working place

In the working areas all the principles of ergonomics are used: safety, functionality, aesthetics, health care.

Most often, offices are planned according to the principle of open space, but even with such an arrangement, each employee has the right to a personal area when no one disturbs anyone. Places are divided by mobile partitions with soundproofing. You can separate the desk of each employee or divide the room into microzones of 4-5 jobs. It should not be allowed to feel that the room is cramped.

Desks are organized so that the surface looks neat and there is no sense of clutter. The task is solved with the help of thought-out organizers on the desktop, drawers for storing personal belongings. It is important to understand what office equipment each employee needs, and to consider its location.

The world factories that produce office furniture for several years offer a collection of mobile models and furniture-transformers. Firstly, pay attention to desks, the height of which can be changed without taking away from the work process. The employee can change body position, work standing or sitting, which has a positive effect on health and improves performance.

Choosing the type of layout

Having understood the business processes of the company, having defined the zones, it is possible to discuss the type of the layout.

Open space

In favor of open spaces, managers are often in favor of economic considerations. After all, according to the norms for each room should be installed its own engineering systems.

Leaving the space completely without partitions is not recommended. Many people find it psychologically difficult to work, knowing that there is someone behind. And if there are constantly more than four people in front of their eyes, it also has a negative effect on productivity.

In open space are organized so-called cubicles – individual partitioned zones. The choice of partitioning material comes from the budget of the project. But it is preferable to take screens with a sound-absorbing effect. Especially if the office is set up for call centers.

The work zone has a minimum of decor. Elements reminiscent of corporate style are acceptable. It is possible to include in the interior design live plants without fragrance, not blooming.

Cabinet type of office

Rooms are provided for different departments of the company. This type of layout favorably affects the performance of employees, causing a more trusting relationship. With the cabinet type, it is necessary to carefully think through the routes of communication between departments.

Despite the division of office space by walls, the unified style in the design of all rooms is preserved.

Mixed layout

Large workspaces are combined with offices. But the rooms may not be separated by a solid wall. The boundary can be set with the help of glass partitions.

The Japanese variant

Japan has a strict hierarchy, including in interior design. The workplace of the head is placed in the center of the office. The company’s chief executives sit facing the employees. Partitions are not allowed and as such there is no personal space.

The classic Japanese type is not common in Russia, but is acceptable in the design of commercial offices for a number of areas.

Selection of furniture for workspaces

Desks

The best desk models are those with adjustable height. The tabletop area should be large enough to accommodate a monitor, papers, office supplies, and a landline phone. Office equipment is not placed on the desk. More often set up a remote connection to the printer and other office equipment. But the path to it should not take much time.

If customized equipment is required, it is placed on shelves, freestanding tables, but not on the work surface.

Modern desk design provides cable channels in which you can hide wires.

Furniture for sitting

Work in the office assumes that a person spends more time at the computer, a lot of sitting. It is important not to skimp on quality office chair models. The chair should have a high back, equipped with a headrest and armrests. The base on five wheels provides mobility of the chair, which will allow you to change the position of the body during the day. The castors themselves are ideally rubberized. Such chairs move almost silently.

According to European standards, the seat is at a height of 70-75 cm. But everyone’s physiology is different, so it is worth paying attention to models with adjustable seat height and back tilt angle.

Storage systems

Each workstation is provided with a drawer for storing office supplies, documents and personal belongings. If the furniture is often planned to move, consider rolling models. Looks neat in the interior design of side tables.

Stationery that is generally accessible is better stored in a separate room or in a cabinet. Stored on open racks of pens, stacks of paper, notebooks look messy.

Racks with through shelves will help to zone the space and serve as a place to store books.

Do not forget about the placement of outdoor clothing and shoes. It is undesirable to use open hangers – they create visual chaos in the interior. It is better if employees hang jackets and coats in a closed closet. Often in the design of commercial spaces, forget about places to store outdoor shoes. It is ideal to think about where boots and boots and replacement shoes can be stored. At the same time, do not forget about the slushy weather and provide easy-to-clean containers.

Office design should not be left without decor. Commercial space is decorated in accordance with the kind of activity of the company

Decor in the interior of the office

In firms where there are a lot of creative positions, there is more decor. But the elements do not distract from the work. Each detail performs its function.

A firm that sells air conditioners or is engaged in financial operations is more likely to choose a strict style. Visual clutter will not be tolerated here. But even in a stylistically austere interior, you can’t do without accessories. Ideally, the design of decorative elements is subordinate to the corporate style of the company.

There are a number of objects that are appropriate in any office. The appearance depends on the general style of the premises:

• Clocks;
• Flip charts, magnetic marker boards for notes;
• Motivational posters;
• Diplomas and awards;
• Books corresponding to the company’s activities;
• Live plants, panels of stabilized moss.

Lighting

Natural light is the most comfortable for the human eye. Placement of workstations should be designed so that on a clear day there is no need to turn on additional lighting.

Employees should not be seated with their backs to the window. The gaze will constantly fall on the dark corner, which will soon reduce vision.

The light from the lamps should not be dim. For offices, choose lamps with a neutral or white light. Warm lighting promotes relaxation and reduces performance. For the workplace of employees who work with papers, it is worth providing compact lamps on a clip or clothespin. Lamps with directional light will not distract others.

Many modern companies have switched from general overhead lighting to spot lighting for each workstation.

The design of relaxation areas includes soft, warm light with the ability to adjust a comfortable level of brightness.

Materials

Renovations in offices are carried out less frequently than in residential areas. The finishing should be durable, non-marking and easy to clean. For ceilings, walls, floor it is necessary to choose materials with sound-absorbing properties. Particular care should be taken about soundproofing in the gym, meeting rooms.

Metal, concrete, marble and ceramic tiles reflect sound and do a poor job of sound absorption.

Glass partitions instead of walls help to visually increase the space and avoid the feeling of a maze. If the budget allows, install walls made of smart glass, the transparency of which can be adjusted.

If the interior design allows for homely comfort, you can include more textiles. For example, hang light curtains on the windows instead of blinds. But it should be considered to what extent the company can afford the timely cleaning of such curtains.

Color in the interior of commercial premises

For the office, a neutral basic palette is often chosen. But the interior in a solid pastel palette looks boring and leads to despondency. Accents can be placed with the help of corporate colors, and pay attention to the colorful decor. Intense shades of blue, lemon, turquoise and green enhance performance.

Strict interior design is well-supported by the beige and chocolate palette. In such a range is easy to fit the furniture made of natural materials. Shades of gray are harmoniously diluted with orange, lilac or blue.

Take into account what side of the building the windows face. If on the north side, take as the basis warm colors. For the south side, it is better to take a cold palette.

Ergonomics in office design

The main task of a commercial space project is to increase the efficiency of employees. In addition to properly selected furniture, lighting, the designer can lay down other parameters that affect productivity.

• Study the business processes during the collection of the ToR. By understanding the internal structure of the company, you can create an interior that is comfortable for each employee.
• Take into account the interaction between departments. Build the layout based on how people communicate with each other on work issues. Do not allow long distances between closely interacting structures.
• Keep in mind that in the summer, it is hot for those who sit by south-facing windows. 80% of people complain about drafts if the air movement in the room is higher than 1 m/sec. Consider the ventilation system, types of air conditioners, and other technical features that affect thermal comfort.
• Find out how comfortable the chosen type of layout is for the employees. Managers are more likely to choose open space, while not always most team members want to work in a large open space. Studies show that people are more comfortable if they have a wall behind them. And in the field of vision enters no more than 4-5 people (these tasks are solved by seating at an angle in relation to each other and the placement of mobile partitions).
• The way to the HR department should be in such a way that a jobseeker sees the best moments of the company. This way, the company will psychologically arrange the applicant to join the team beforehand.

Style

The style of the office reflects the essence of the company. Ideally, if the interior design continues logically corporate style, provided that it has established itself in the market and the firm does not plan to rebrand.

Classic

Strict design, not suffering experiments. Expensive furniture made of natural materials. The style is more suitable for a cabinet type of layout. Choose classical style for respectable companies with long tradition in business.

Modern, Art Deco

A freer version of the classic style. Lots of lines taken from nature. Allows you to include in the interior luxurious, sometimes pompous elements – wood carvings, stained-glass. The main thing is that the decor should not distract from the work.

New York, American style

The best design option for open space, which, in principle, came from the United States. There are no superfluous details, the walls are mainly made of glass. The furniture can be inexpensive, a lot of shelving, low partitions are allowed.

Scandinavian

Strict, minimalist and light. Furnishings made of natural materials. Respects personal space of everyone. Reflects steadiness and solidity of the company.

High-tech

Unusual, experimental look of the interior, strict lines, absence of decor and maintaining order. But the main materials of this style are metal and glass, which doesn’t solve the problem with soundproofing. Suitable for small offices and office type of layout.

Futurism

Futuristic design is ideal for commercial IT-space. Reflects desire to develop digital technologies, desire to solve non-standard tasks.

Loft

Great for offices, located in buildings of former factories and plants. Brick walls, open communications, high ceilings themselves dictate how to decorate the office interior. The loft is ideal for creative spaces. It is not easy to combine it with a strict corporate style.

Minimalism

Only functional furniture, no superfluous, impractical elements. Minimalism is combined with the principles of ergonomics as much as possible.

What makes up the cost of an office design project?

The designer calculates the cost of the project based on the following factors:

• The area of the object.
• Whether a turnkey repair or a cosmetic upgrade of the space is required.
• Whether the design project includes 3D-visualization.
• The timing of the project. Urgent work is paid higher.
• The features of the room, the differences between the existing and desired layout.

If the customer wants to reduce the cost of implementing a design project, the designer can help with this. For example, rework the interior layout. Open spaces are more advantageous than the cabinet system due to the fact that each room with a door requires its own set of engineering systems. And this significantly affects the cost of repairs. You can reduce the number of rooms. For example, consider how much the company needs separate meeting rooms.

Perhaps not all employees require assigned workstations. For people who are often away on business trips, you don’t need personal desks and computers. Mobile desks with the ability to accommodate a laptop are sufficient.

Avoiding brand-name vendors will affect the total amount of the project. A designer with extensive experience has a large base and can offer quality alternatives to expensive furniture, materials, and engineering systems.

Choosing sound-absorbing materials, you can stop at PVC, which copes well with sound insulation.

Commercial design trend

When it comes to commercial interior design, you need to consider not only current trends, but also a futuristic view of the future. A commercial space needs to look good for a significant period of time, so a one-time investment is all that is needed.

Interior Design

If the environment is so important in the home, it’s easy to imagine the positive impact it can have on commercial interaction when continuous activity and stress flare up.

If you think it’s worth creating a warm space for people working in the commercial sector, here are nine incredible commercial decor trends you can follow.

Elements of Complexity

Commercial spaces should reflect an element of complexity. Marble has always been associated with princely states and standards. It is a timeless decor that creates a sense of class in a commercial space.

A variety of marble, such as patterned marble or even polished marble, will make the floor of a commercial space look like a kingdom.

Next come the walls, which can be given a solid panel look to match the overall layout of the retail space. You can choose wavy wall panels or even interlock wall panels for an interesting design.

Space in design

The whole image of the perfect commercial space will be completely wasted if the proper mechanisms are not in place to keep the space clean and clutter-free. No one wants to see pieces of paper lying on the floor and dust flying in the air.

Make sure there are enough cabinets on the walls of the retail space. To give a fancy look, these cabinets can have a wood texture.

The scent from air fresheners installed on the equidistant will always give a pleasant feeling to the workforce and visitors alike.

The key to lighting in design

The decor can be especially welcoming with the right amount of lighting that gives a combination of natural light as well as artificial light.

Having cross-over windows and a glass slab on the ceiling will make the retail space bright and piercing with sunlight.

LED lights not only give a very subtle look to a commercial interior, but they are also energy efficient and accent the space.

The risk of coloring

Contrary to popular belief, commercial spaces should be more or less black and white; figurative color coordination can have a positive effect on spaces. Go ahead and give an orange hue against pastel colors that are neutral and feel energetic.

Colors also serve the purpose of creating boundaries between different departments in a commercial workspace.

Furniture comfort

Go back to the early days of classic sofas with a wood base and buffalo leather, which is the epitome of total relaxation. As opposed to personal decor and lightness, furniture chosen for commercial interiors should have a formal touch.

You can have furniture that is completely symmetrical or abstract. Avoid mixing and matching different sections in a commercial space.

Surety is what every commercial space needs!

Freshness of plants

To relieve the stress of workers, having fresh flowers and plants is an inexpensive idea that works best. Your commercial interior can be a symbol of the responsibility you have toward the environment by simply incorporating a little bit of nature into your workspace.

Environmental designs are becoming popular day by day because it makes any business sector more responsible and eco-friendly.

Instead of having a red carpet, use a green grass walkway.

If bringing in natural pants is too bothersome, in terms of upkeep, there are many options for beautiful artificial flowers and plants that look almost real but require almost no attention.

A little non-commercial art

There are so many different types of art on the market to choose from for commercial interior decor. Move a little away from the typical billboards and advertisements and invite art that speaks to something bigger than finances.

Current social issues are best portrayed in the form of art, and a commercial workspace may well be representative of such issues, simply by showcasing art created by revolutionaries.

Public Meeting Space

Gone are the days of boxes and clear divisions between the various subsectors of any commercial space. Now is the era of open workspaces, where people work together under the radar of communication.

It’s important to keep this new trend in mind and have special corners where people can gather and have their pep talks.

Food is a vital element in bringing people together. Even more important is the customization of food preparation. Instead of individual tables and chairs, large dining areas will ensure that people meet for lunch or even coffee and talk about the day’s events.

A touch of home

Commercial settings can be so tiring that they require a lighthearted, homey atmosphere. Little details like rugs, fluffy pillows, pleasant scents, chairs, etc. etc. Make the buildings a little less concrete and a little more lively.

Frames that capture personal moments of workforce or customer interaction create a personal touch to the whole formal structure.

Commercial space planning is an integration of popular trends and a futuristic vision. Whether it’s a hotel or a corporate office, planning for the perfect design is very important to both customers and working people. This may be the reason why investing in decor is gaining popularity at such a tremendous rate.

Be a part of this race; at this point, you have the perfect tips for creating any elegant commercial interior.