Exploring The Growing Popularity Of Floor To Ceiling Windows

As building techniques improve and fashions change, the size, shape and style of Australian homes continues to evolve. One of the most striking trends in architecture over recent years has been a move to bigger windows, with a rising number of property owners across the country opting for impressive floor-to-ceiling glazing. But what exactly has caused this phenomenon to take off? Why do we Aussies seem to think that, when it comes to windows at least, bigger is better?

Bathing rooms in natural light to boost our moods

One possible answer is the effect that natural light has on our moods. It’s well known the amount of sunlight we’re exposed to can have a big impact on how we feel and function. For example, it affects our production of the hormone melatonin, which in turn can make us feel more drowsy or alert. Light levels also help to control serotonin, a hormone that affects our mood, sleep and even appetite.

To get an insight into the importance of this issue, it’s useful to look at the impact of exposure to natural light on office workers. According to a study conducted by a team at Northwestern University in Illinois, employees with windows in the workplace reported a better quality of life, less disturbed sleep and fewer physical problems than their counterparts without access to sunlight during the working day.

So, by bathing our rooms in extra sunlight, we could be making ourselves happier and healthier. Even when people want privacy in their properties, they are often still keen to let the light stream in. This is why the translucent sunscreen blinds offered by specialist providers such as CurtainWorld are proving so popular. While offering seclusion, and protection from UV rays, they still allow lots of natural light to enter rooms.

Making the most of the views on offer

We’re certainly not short of impressive views in Australia. From serene ocean vistas to undulating mountain ranges and seemingly endless plains, there are a multitude of scenes to celebrate. Many of the homes with super-sized windows overlook these spectacular landscapes, and this floor-to-ceiling glazing allows their owners to make the very most of the terrain around them.

Buildings designed in this way help people to feel part of their environments when they’re in their properties, rather than being cut off from them.

The epitome of sleek modern design

Then there’s style to consider. These large windows can give properties a sleek, contemporary look that helps to set them apart from more traditional builds. The abundance of glass gives them a minimalist, light and clean appearance that epitomises the best of modern design. Both from the inside and the outside, these features can look simply stunning. They work especially well in uncluttered houses with airy, open plan interiors.

Given the myriad benefits associated with floor to ceiling windows, it’s no surprise that a rising number of people across Australia, and around the world, are choosing to incorporate them into their properties.

This is an S2 POST.

The post The Growing Popularity Of Floor To Ceiling Windows appeared first on All Mum Said.

If the style of your home is starting to feel outdated, it might be time for a decorating project. Instead of blowing your savings on a whole house of new furniture, check out some of these budget-friendly ideas to decorate your home.

Shelving Units Are Your Friend

The beauty of shelving units is being able to stash those items you use frequently, but don’t want left all over the place. Picking shelving units in plain colours allows you to strategically place homewares on each of the shelves. Check out a retailer such as www.superamart.com.au for affordable and practical storage units, then dress them up by adding some colourful knick-knacks, vases or photo frames. You can also use these shelves for storing magazines, music collections or even linen. If the block layout doesn’t work for you, look at laddered designs for something different. Storage doesn’t have to be hidden away, or boring!

Add in Some New Lighting

Lighting your home doesn’t require expensive chandeliers or pearl light covers. There are plenty of inexpensive ways to add light to your home without going over your budget. Look for bedside lamps, lanterns for the dining table or candles to spread around the house. These are all quick, easy and affordable ways to add some light and colour to your home. Candles can be bought quite cheaply from department stores and there are so many scents, styles and colours available to match with the décor of your room.

Dress Up Your Walls with Canvases & Prints

If you have an eye for art, this is the perfect time to use it! Colourful artworks, beautiful photos printed on canvas and framed prints can completely change the look of a room. You don’t have to search galleries to find an investment piece for your home. Instead, select your favourite family photo to be printed and mounted, or scout around craft markets for creative transfers on wood and gorgeous sketches. Once you have found something you love, hang it as your statement piece in the room.

Reflect Some Light into the Room

Subtle additions of light through reflection can exaggerate the size of the room. Placing a mirror where it catches light (either natural or artificial light) makes the room instantly look bigger. Hallways and entrance ways can benefit from the addition of a mirror (either small or large) to brighten the area up. Mirrors can be bought second-hand from most charity shops, or purchased cheaply from many homewares stores. When hanging or standing a mirror, avoid placing it where the surface reflects outside a window or doorway – it’s considered very bad Feng Shui.

Add Small Pops of Colour

You don’t have to use large pieces of coloured furniture to decorate a room. Small pops of colour through rugs, throws, knick-knacks or vases can make a big difference to any space. You can pick up vases in a range of materials, colours, styles and sizes relatively cheaply. These can be placed on mantelpieces, side tables, dining tables or even on your shelving units. Don’t feel that you need to fill your vases either – let coloured or quirky designs speak for themselves.

Re-decorating areas of your home doesn’t have to be an expensive activity.

What are some of the key pieces you use to decorate with?

This is an S2 POST.

The post Cheap decorating ideas for your home appeared first on All Mum Said.