Tips

tips for creating a healthy nursery with bamboo flooring

Before you bring your little one home for the first time, it’s important to think about constructing a nursery. This space should not only be welcoming and functional for your newborn, it should be a healthy room as well. This way, you can sleep safe and sound knowing that your child is getting the very best. Be sure to consider these helpful tips when designing the nursery: Open the windows In order to help minimize the buildup of dust and other...

4 ways to improve the look of your classroom with bamboo flooring and panels

As a teacher, you know that the design of your classroom can have a big impact on a student’s education. For instance, if the classroom is cluttered or messy, this sends the message that disorganization and poor work habits are acceptable. Instead, the space should enhance productivity, boost creativity and be a welcoming room that students enjoy visiting each day. Here are a few ways to upgrade both style and functionality in your classroom: Stick with consistent color themes While color...

7 ideas for a beautiful modern library with bamboo lumber

For many people, time spent in a home library is just as relaxing as a day at the spa. In your private library space, you can curl up with a cup of coffee, a cozy blanket and a good book to get lost in. Modernize and revamp your home library with any of these design ideas: Warm materials Balance out the cool, contemporary vibe of your library by using a warm and inviting material like bamboo. Bamboo lumber can be used...

5 ways to add texture to your home

Texture is a large part of what brings your home to life. It’s especially important in rooms that have a monochromatic color palette, because varying textures create visual interest and add character and dimension. Textures make an especially big impact when you put opposites together – like weathered wood cabinets against sleek and shiny flooring or plush couches with a brick accent wall. From the floor all the way to the ceiling, there are different ways to mix and match textures for an interesting ambiance....

get your creative juices flowing with interior design

Believe it or not, your surroundings can have an impact on your state of mind. Some designs can actually encourage productivity, concentration and even creativity. Think about the spaces in your office or home, like a garage, an art studio or a kitchen. Are these areas inspiring to work in? If not, you can alter your interior design to encourage flexible thinking. High ceilings High ceilings can actually encourage critical thinking and creative thought, but if your office or home...

5 ways to reflect the warmth of summer with interior design

It may not be summer quite yet, but the season is fast approaching. Summer is filled with warm rays of sun shining down on vibrant green grasses and boldly colored blooms sprouting from the ground. There is just something so likeable about this time of year – there is a relaxing and easygoing vibe that’s always in the air. Bring this casual ambiance into your home for a warm and inviting space. Here are a few simple summer decorating tips to...

using rhythm to create a design flow

One of the most basic interior design principles is rhythm. Much like music, any space that you design must have balance and an appropriate flow, no matter the style. Rhythm can be described as a regular or repeated movement or sound. When it comes to interior design, rhythm refers to repetition throughout a space. Repetition is important for a number of reasons – it helps define a specific style and creates a necessary flow, gently guiding the eye from one...

creative approaches to interior design

In order to really help your home stand out from other dwellings, it’s important to step out of your comfort zone every once in a while. Taking a risk in interior design by utilizing creative approaches can leave you with an inspiring and striking design. Here are a few ways to think outside of the box when it comes to your home’s style: Hanging swing chairs It’s no secret that chairs normally sit on the ground. But what about hanging a...

out-of-the-box items to use as your coffee table

Coffee tables are a must-have for any room – they create a focal point, contribute style and provide necessary storage space for items like magazines, books and TV remotes. However, your coffee table doesn’t have to be made from a traditional slab of wood. Achieve a modern design in your home with any of these unique coffee table ideas: Surfboard Give your beach house a burst of modern color by repurposing a surfboard into a coffee table. It gives any...

lighting ideas to highlight decor and architecture

From bamboo flooring and wall panels to open shelving and wall art, there are always lots of elements to highlight in a room to really bring out the style of the space. Proper lighting is essential to not only provide sufficient illumination, but to set a mood and draw attention to decor and architectural pieces. Never overlook the importance of lighting in any space, whether it’s a tech startup office, a yoga studio, a home or a restaurant. Here are some helpful...

interior design with health in mind

Thanks to hidden chemicals, bacteria, allergens and toxins hiding in homes, offices, gyms and other areas, the interior of spaces can have a big impact on your health. This is why it’s important to have health and well-being in mind when restructuring your interior design. Certain materials can help ward off unwanted elements for a much more hygienic space. Opt for bamboo Wood is no longer the only top contender when it comes to flooring, paneling and other architectural structures...

flex rooms: what are they?

Throughout 2014, interior designers are implementing more flex rooms into areas of the home. A flex room is essentially a space that can be used for a number of functions. One month it could be used as an entryway, and the next, it could be transformed into an elegant dining hall. The purpose of flex rooms Flex rooms are being implemented into homes for their versatility and for their convenience to the baby boomer generation. This demographic is going to...

5 storage ideas for your basement

Your basement is the perfect area in the home to gather with family, entertain and just lounge around. But if the space is filled with lots of clutter, the basement can’t be properly enjoyed. Here are a few unique storage solutions that will help you clear away the mess: Under-stair cabinets Use your basement’s lower staircase wall as a display/storage area with built-in cabinets slanting downward alongside the stairs for a unique look. This storage method not only gives you plenty...

4 different spaces to put your bamboo lumber to use

You may want to think about swapping traditional architectural-grade wood for bamboo lumber. Not only does bamboo offer a much more striking design, its durability and versatility simply cannot be beat. And if that’s not enough reason to implement bamboo lumber into your home, office or business, the material is also eco-friendly. While hardwood takes anywhere from 30 to 50 years to mature, bamboo grows to its full potential within just three to five years. Bamboo also produces more oxygen per...

5 top kitchen trends to consider for your home

Kitchen trends are constantly changing, and the year 2014 is all about innovative surfaces and materials that are stylish and work with your lifestyle. Ensure that your kitchen is up to date on all the latest and greatest trends by implementing these design ideas: Eco-friendly lighting Being eco-friendly in the kitchen doesn’t just mean conserving water and recycling. You can help out the earth with the lighting you have installed. Whether your kitchen is filled with pendants, under-cabinet lights, track...

chic and modern upgrades to make to your home for spring

Spring is the time for renewal and freshness, so what better time to revamp your home? Prep your dwelling for a new season and give it a unique and memorable look with any of these chic and modern upgrades: Implement gold kitchen and bath fixtures Gold can help promote elegance and modern design. Swap out the traditional stainless steel faucets and fixtures with gold-toned finishes. Gold can be combined with a number of design elements and creates a dramatic contrast...

sustainable decorating with greenery

Eco-friendly interior office building design is becoming more and more important for conserving water, energy and materials. According to the Western North Carolina Green Building Council, in the United States, buildings account for 68 percent of total electricity consumption, 30 percent of landfill waste and 39 percent of total energy use. Going green is simple Some building owners may shy away from adhering to sustainable practices because they’re under the impression that those changes are costly or take too much...

achieving a coastal vibe in your home

Incorporating a coastal, beachy feel in the home is a top choice among many homeowners because of the relaxing, serene vibe that it produces. The colors associated with the sea like cool blues and greens are commonly incorporated into the interior design of a coastal home. Even if you don’t live by the water, you can inject this gorgeous style into your dwelling using the right essentials: Bamboo panels San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong has a line of bamboo...

tips for creating an accent wall

Accent walls are the perfect way to contribute plenty of color and personality to any space, whether it’s a bedroom, an office or a hotel lobby. An accent wall is where you can really be as bold as you would like. But there is a fine line between accentuating a space and overpowering it with this particular design element. Maintain a balanced interior by keeping these accent wall tips in mind: Choose the right color Whether you’re opting for wallpaper,...

4 ways to go green in your yoga studio

Going green and practicing yoga go hand-in-hand. After all, yoga has a special connection to the natural world, always making references to the earth using terminology like “ground” and “root.” Many owners are going green in their studio because they want to offer their customers the cleanest breathing space possible. Going green can also be a selling point for many classes. It’s likely that many people who practice yoga would like to workout in a clean space that is conscious...

how to improve your health while working from home

Working from home is becoming the norm for many employees. It helps to reduce gas emissions and is a perfect option for parents who need to stay at home and look after the kids. Plus, companies can reduce overhead expenses when employees work from home. Employers won’t have to spend as much money on office equipment, Internet and amenities like coffee. New technologies allow many employees to work from a home computer. Most often all that’s required is an Internet connection. People can...

5 small design details that make a big impact

Whether you’re designing an office space, a hotel lobby or a home, there’s one thing you should always keep in mind: small details make a big impact. Therefore, if you’re going for a new look, a complete overhaul isn’t always necessary. By updating certain small details, you can stay within your budget while still producing a very stylish and functional space. Here are a few updates to make if you’re looking to renovate: 1. Paint moldings and window panes For a...

creating a cozy and functional walk-in closet

Your walk-in closet may not be the largest room in your home, but it’s a space that you visit daily, so it should be as stylish as it is functional. Transform your walk-in closet from drab to fab with these simple yet effective design ideas: Install bamboo flooring Choosing flooring for your walk-in closet should never be an afterthought. While carpeting is a common choice for the closet, bamboo flooring is simpler to maintain. These floors can easily be wiped clean...

3 minimalist pieces you need in your office

Not sure how to design your office? Consider the simple, contemporary and stylish minimalist trend. Minimalism uses very few design elements and muted colors in order to produce a space that is clean, clutter-free and visually pleasing. Benefits of minimalism in the office There are several benefits to sticking with a simple, minimalist interior design style. This trend puts a strong emphasis on cleanliness and a reduction of clutter. Reduced messes in the workplace has been linked with less stress...

creating a live-in kitchen

One trend that’s sweeping through homes are live-in kitchens. In other words, these spaces are transforming into areas that are for much more than just cooking. Kitchens are adapting to make room for relaxation and entertainment. A live-in kitchen is perfect for busy families. The design allows parents to whip up dinner while helping their little ones with homework at the same time. And when adults have guests over, the homeowners can keep an eye on what’s in the oven...

how to select the perfect color for your bamboo floors

Installing new floors into your home, office or business can instantly bring new life to the space. In fact, according to The Designer’s Lesson, flooring covers one-sixth of a room’s surface area, on average, so it’s easy to understand how much of an impact it can have on a space. Bamboo flooring is a great alternative to traditional wood floors because bamboo is eco-friendly, relatively affordable and is available in so many different shades. San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong offers flooring...

3 interior design trends for your hotel

Part of attracting new customers and encouraging existing patrons to return for another visit is the interior design of your space. If you own a modern hotel, it’s important to always stay up-to-date on the latest in contemporary style. Enhancing the look of your hotel lobby as well as each suite can help create a stylish space that customers flock to when they need a place to stay. Sustainability Just like in home design, hotels all over the world are making more...

setting up a home art studio

Sometimes it’s hard to get your creative juices flowing in your bedroom, living room or kitchen. There are often distractions that make it difficult for you to really focus. Those with a passion for art should consider making room in their home for their very own art gallery. Having a studio designated for designing, drawing, painting and more can offer a quiet, inspiring space to get your work done. Follow these tips for a stylish and functional home art studio: Figure...

fresh upgrades to make in your kitchen

Is your kitchen in need of a fresh look? Beat the winter blues by giving the space a bit of life. There are a few easy ways to revamp your kitchen and give it a whole new look. Here are a few ways to improve the heart of your home: Install bamboo panels Bring life to your kitchen by installing bamboo paneling around the island. It creates a beautiful focal point in the space and is an eco-friendly material. Bamboo grows...

6 ways to go green in your laundry room

You may not spend a whole lot of time in your laundry room, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored when it comes to being eco-friendly. There are lots of ways to create cleaner air and cut energy costs in the laundry room. Install bamboo flooring The material you use for the flooring in your laundry room can make a big impact on the environment. Bamboo flooring is a beautiful and modern eco-friendly option for the space. It creates...

making a movie theater more customer friendly

Going to the movies to see the latest flick has been a source of entertainment for years. However, it seems because of services like Netflix and Hulu, fewer people are heading to the movies. In fact, according to Fast Company, ticket sales have been decreasing by about 2 percent each year since 2002. Netflix costs just $8 per month to subscribe, which is often less money than one movie ticket and a small popcorn. It’s no wonder why so many people...

creating an attractive visual display in your retail store

The way in which merchandise is put on display can have a big impact on whether or not a customer decides to buy that product. For example, if racks of clothes are disorganized or cluttered, a patron may lose interest, move to a different area of the store or simply leave. Nobody wants to sort through piles of clothes to find what they’re after. This concept applies to any product, no matter what you’re selling. Check out these tips to help you...

do’s and don’ts of modern decorating

Decorating your home certainly isn’t clear-cut – much of it is combining trends with your own personal style. But there are certain rules that you should always adhere to if you’re trying to stick to a contemporary design. Following these do’s and don’ts can help your home look fresh, modern and stylish: Do use color sparingly While a traditional modern design often embraces a neutral color palette, feel free to introduce pops of color here and there. To avoid overpowering the...

ways to remove formaldehyde from your home or business

Maintaining a healthy and clean office or home means keeping a close eye on the indoor air quality. One chemical that often finds its way into indoor spaces is formaldehyde. This is a colorless and odorless chemical that can be found in building materials and household products, such as glues and other adhesives, pressed-wood products, paint, cigarette smoke, disinfectants and more. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, formaldehyde is a type of human carcinogen, which is a cancer-causing substance....

breathe easier at night with these eco-friendly bedroom design ideas

You spend a lot of time in your bedroom, most of which involves sleeping. According to the American Time Use Survey, the average American age 15 and older spent an average of eight hours and 44 minutes sleeping per day. That adds up to quite a lot of time in the bedroom. And that isn’t counting the hours and minutes you spend in there talking on the phone, eating or just hanging out. This is why it’s important to keep an...

boost motivation in your home gym with these design tricks

The environment in which you live, work and play has a direct affect on your day-to-day activities. Your surroundings can either help or hinder your productivity and motivation. Everyone knows that those two things often aren’t easy to come by, but using interior design as a tool allows you to generate inspiration for your daily tasks. One of the design trends that homeowners and business owners alike are taking advantage of is feng shui. This layout style can be applied to your...

creating a more effective conference room

Many companies use conference rooms for office lunches, client meetings, presentations, business calls and more. It’s a space that’s consistently being used at all times of the day, so it’s essential that the room is as functional and effective as it can be. When designing your conference room, include these essentials to enhance the beauty of the space and help employees to be as productive as possible: Bamboo flooring You want the flooring in your conference room to be able to stand up...

achieving your vision for a cozy coffee shop

A coffee shop is where people go to refuel and relax. Some customers are in and out, only stopping in for coffee or a latte, while others choose to stay while they read a book, catch up on the day’s news or get some work done on their laptop. But it’s not just your tasty coffee that can bring in customers – the ambiance in your shop has a lot to do with the success of your business. Create a...

how to choose the right lighting in your kitchen

Updating the lights in your kitchen can change the overall mood and theme of the whole room. Pendant lights are a beautiful way to illuminate your space, and they come in a variety of styles, shapes and sizes to fit any decor. Floor level lighting There are countless styles to choose from when you are selecting the right lights for your kitchen space, and you can match the style to anything that inspires you. If your kitchen boasts beautiful bamboo...

how to work with a white bathroom design

White is a great color for bathroom designs. It is fresh, bright, and allows you to add elements of color that reflect your style and really pop against a pale canvas. Whether your style is traditional or modern, glamorous or understated, here are some ways to achieve an updated feel in your bathroom. Fresh flooring The color white is the perfect canvas for a contemporary bath. Pair it with bamboo hardwood flooring and modular fixtures like a deep, stacked sink...

4 ways to highlight your bathroom’s modern tub

Freestanding bathtubs are becoming increasingly popular in the world of modern design. Their sleek lines and polished finish help create a serene and beautiful environment. Many homeowners choose to make their tub the focus of the room for an attractive and up-to-date aesthetic. Here are a few ways to highlight this crucial piece in your bathroom: Bamboo flooring Tile may be the traditional choice for modern bathrooms, but there are other options that are even better. Consider installing bamboo flooring into...

why is bamboo so popular with designers?

Custom kitchen designs are featuring more eco-friendly options than ever, including cupboards and vanity cabinets made with sustainable and durable bamboo. Choosing bamboo has many benefits for business and homeowners, and here are just a few of them to help you as you plan your next room remodel. Decoration These days, bamboo is not just for floors. Bamboo can be found in panels that add dimension and texture to your cabinetry. It can be woven or presented in vertical strips adhered...

tips for decorating a gender-neutral nursery

If you have chosen to let the gender of your baby be a surprise, you may need some advice on how to decorate a space that would welcome either a girl or a boy. Designing a gender-neutral nursery can benefit you if you are planning to have multiple children and want a room that will fit their different needs and personalities. Here are three tips that can guide you. Design with you in mind You will be spending a lot of...

tips for a celebrity-inspired walk-in closet

Celebrities can be the inspiration for the way we dress, what we drive and where we eat, so why not turn to celebrity styles for ideas for your walk-in closet design? These functional rooms provide unlimited options for displaying your clothes and accessories. Here are a few tips to follow to achieve a glamorous look after sorting through everything you have to keep, donate or store. Start from the floor up Your closet can really reflect your style, whether you want...

let your cabinets be your canvas

Decorating your custom cabinets is a quick and easy way to change the look of your whole kitchen. Many different options are available to anyone who wants to add their own creative touch to their space. Paneling Plywood or veneer panels are beautiful and unique options for updating your cabinetry. Bamboo panels can be applied to the face of your cupboards or kitchen island for an exotic feel and rich texture that will add dimension to your space. Paint Paint can...

how to choose the right cutting board

Customizing your kitchen accessories is an important step in making your kitchen an efficient and fun place to cook. One important and functional element in your kitchen is the cutting board. Countless options are available to you to reflect your style or blend into your kitchen design, so how do you choose? Here are some tips to help you select the right one for you. Bamboo Bamboo can be found in cabinets, flooring and even cutting boards because of its...

how to choose a light or dark kitchen design

Whether you are going for a complete kitchen remodel or just looking to update your style, there are some trends to consider. One way to reflect your personality with kitchen design is to opt for either light or dark cabinetry and flooring. Bamboo is a natural choice because it is available in different colors. But which one best fits your style? Here are some helpful tips to guide your decision. Bright, light vibe If your kitchen is on the small side,...

tips and tricks to warm up your bathroom

Many contemporary touches may make your bathroom seem cold. Smooth cabinet surfaces and tile floors might require using some tips and tricks to add some warmth into your space. There are tons of quick and easy options to heat up your bathroom’s design and will make it a cozier and more comfortable place for you and your guests in the winter months. Focus on the floor If you are looking to update your flooring or are completely remodeling your space, opt for...

incorporate an ancient metal in your design

Bronze is an ancient metal that been around for thousands of years. Its warm tones can be a subtle complement to any piece of custom cabinetry. Bronze can be treated with different methods to bring out its age-old beauty and add a lovely look to the wood in your home. Complementary colors Bronze’s subtle variations in tone help to bring out the rich texture of the wood you have chosen in your room. Bamboo flooring or cabinetry is an excellent option...

new trends in wall panels and paper

Today, designs for wall panels and wallpaper are taking a new, modern direction. With unique options and patterns available, there are countless ways to express your personality with paneling. Fabric as inspiration Wallpaper and panels can now be found in a variety of different textures, some that mimic the look and feel of fabric. One way to achieve an impressive textured look is by using bamboo panels. Vertical lines of bamboo create a natural, harmonious feel, and many different color and...

kid-friendly kitchen design tips

It is important to create a safe space for your little one to explore in your home, and your kitchen is no exception. Your child’s needs will evolve as he or she ages, but here are some tips to get you started on making a space that works for everyone in your home. Focus on flooring One concern for parents is making sure their kitchen design is safe for their youngster. Start with a durable floor where they can safely play....

bring natural elements into your bathroom

Elements from nature can bring a sense of peace and tranquility to any room in your home, and your bathroom is no exception. Try some of these tips and tricks to update your bathroom area and create a relaxing space for you and your guests. Bamboo backsplash The beautiful tones of bamboo are a popular choice for modern bathroom designs. Its light colors tend to blend seamlessly into contemporary decor features and it is available in different styles. Bamboo reeds lined up create...

designing an effective home gym

If you have a spare room in your home, turning it into a gym can come with a lot of benefits. You won’t have to get in your car and waste gas driving all the way to the gym and back. Plus, you’ll have the convenience of being able to exercise in the comfort of your own home. In order to create a home gym that is as comfortable and effective as one for which you would pay a monthly membership you...

improving acoustics in the classroom

One of the most vital parts of a child’s learning experience is the ability to hear his or her teacher and peers clearly. Every student in the classroom needs to be able to understand speech, concentrate and pay attention to everything being said. Poor acoustics can have a negative impact on all of those things. Background noise like children in the hallway, teachers speaking in classrooms nearby, a lawnmower outside or an air conditioning unit can all interfere with the way children...

4 ways to make your wedding more sustainable

You can say “I do” and be friendly to the environment at the same time. Many couples may be under the impression that going green during your nuptials may mean you have to sacrifice some of the luxuries you’ve always wanted for your big day, but that certainly isn’t the case. Consider any of these sustainable ideas for your big day: Use bamboo Bamboo can be used in a variety of ways at your wedding. This environmentally friendly material is rapidly...

tips for decorating with neutral colors

Whether you’re looking to renovate your home, office space, salon, restaurant or gym, color is an important factor to consider. A neutral color palette filled with whites, creams, tans, beiges, etc., can provide as powerful an effect as a bright and vibrant combination of hues. In fact, many celebrities have opted for a muted color scheme in their homes, including Julianne Moore, Ellen Pompeo and Keri Russell. But before you start integrating neutral hues into your space, consider these tips: Include...

improving the look of your basement’s wet bar

If you love to entertain, it’s important to have an area of the house where guests can sit back, relax and have a drink. The basement is a perfect place for a wet bar. You and your guests can head downstairs for a drink before you watch the big game or a swanky cocktail party. But before you have any visitors over, consider revamping your wet bar with these ideas: Put drinks on display You’re going to need a place to store...

attracting more tenants to your apartment complex

Apartment complexes must change with the needs of potential tenants in order to attract business. Tenants are not only looking for a place near amenities and ample parking, but a space that directly speaks to their needs and lifestyle. If you’re looking to bring more tenants into your apartment building, here are a few amenities to consider including: Quiet floors The issue that many tenants have with multi-unit buildings is the floors. Unless you live on the very top floor, you’re constantly bothered...

improving the look of your home’s stairs

Stairs are often found in the entryway of homes, so they’re likely the first thing that visitors see when they head into a house. As such, stairs directly contribute to the first impression made about the rest of the home, so it’s important that they give off a vibe that blends with the rest of your interior design. In order to turn your staircase into the main event of your entryway, try these techniques: Stair nosing Give your stairs the finishing...

4 essentials for a more user-friendly library

The library is a place where people come to study in groups or alone, to read or conduct research for a project. The environment can greatly affect their experience, either aiding in their productivity or working against it. If you want more readers coming back to your library in the future, it’s important to create a space that is centered entirely around the visitor. For a more user-friendly library, consider any of these ideas: Quiet floors It’s important for libraries to...

2 ways to reach your goals of getting healthier in the new year

With the start of a new year upon us, everyone’s thinking up resolutions they can accomplish in the coming months. One of the most common aspirations is getting healthier, whether that entails losing weight or eating better. Of course, getting healthier can mean much more than that. The environment, for instance, largely contributes to your body’s health. One environmental facet that affects your health is air quality. You want to make sure that you’re breathing clean air. Things like cigarette smoke, bacteria and...

discovering the different types of bamboo flooring

Bamboo flooring is becoming a top choice for homes, gyms, office buildings and restaurants because of its sustainable qualities and natural beauty. Once you’ve made the decision to install bamboo floors in your space, you must then choose a tone and texture. San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong offers you a wide variety of flooring options that can be incorporated into many interior design styles. Here are a few types and how they differ from one another: Stiletto Strand flooring This...

designing a quieter apartment

If you live in a multi-level apartment or condo, you know how much of an affect the flooring can have on the noise level. Creaky wood floors may be keeping the tenants above and below you awake, which can create a less than enjoyable living environment for all. There’s one way that you can cut back on the ambient noise in your apartment: bamboo flooring. San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong has a line of flooring known as PlybooQuiet. This is a unique...

4 ways to modernize your office

An office that has well-thought-out and visually appealing interior design is likely to produce a more welcoming environment for all of the employees and clients who enter. A modern style is very popular among offices for its trendy feel and simplistic design. If you’re after this contemporary vibe in your office space, consider any of these style ideas: iPhone bamboo charger doc Keep your phone fully charged and easily accessible to take any business calls using an iPhone dock. The...

4 ways to improve your crossfit gym

Crossfit is one of the latest fitness phenomena and is what many people swear by to get in shape. It combines plyometric jumps with weight lifting exercises using kettlebells, sandbags and suspension systems. Participants also do a variety of squats, hip hinges and rotating movements to gain strength and improve their cardiovascular system. If you’re looking to create a CrossFit gym or improve upon the one that you already own, here are a few tips to help attract and maintain customers: Bamboo...

creative ways to use bamboo in your home office

Nowadays, many people have the option of working at home – a privilege that often comes with many benefits. According to Forbes, it’s environmentally friendly, offers a quieter atmosphere and eliminates a long commute. In order to be as productive as you are in the office, however, you need to have a home space that is just as effective and allows you to get all the work done that you need. One thing that can be used to create a beautiful,...

bamboo being used to treat wastewater

Bamboo offers many environmental benefits. It grows quickly, and without the need for any harmful pesticides or fertilizers. It also helps release oxygen into the air – about 35 percent more so than trees. Bamboo can also be used to create a variety of items, like panels, flooring, shelving, cutting boards, bikes and even homes. More recently, however, bamboo is being used to treat wastewater and improve the quality of H2O around the world. Water in rivers, lakes and oceans as...

creating a calming nursery for your little one

When designing your child’s nursery, you want it to be a space where he or she feels at peace, comfortable and happy. Design plays a large role in the mood of the nursery. The right colors, wall decor and furniture placement can create a calming environment for you and your little one so that he or she can enjoy a sound, deep sleep. Choose tranquil colors Believe it or not, there are some colors that can have a negative effect...

eco-friendly gift ideas for the holidays

For those last-minute shoppers, why not give a green gift this holiday season? Here are a few sustainable ideas for everyone on your list: Bamboo wall panels Help your loved one stay organized and eco-friendly with a bamboo dry erase wall panel. Its surface makes it easy to write down to-do lists, grocery items, reminders, calendar dates and more. And when you’re done, simply wipe it off! Bamboo panels without a dry erase surface are also a great present to put under the...

creating a family-friendly media room

More and more homeowners are creating a space in their home for media rooms – an area where they can watch their favorite movies and TV shows, and listen to music. But if you have a big family, this space needs to be accommodating to a large number of people. In order to create the perfect gathering space, consider these design ideas: A bamboo media unit Bamboo is an extremely durable material, and will be able to hold all of your...

create the perfect acoustic space for your quiet business with plyboosound

Spaces like libraries and coffee shops are frequently visited locations known for their quiet and relaxing environment where people can study or simply relax. However, your choice of wall and floor paneling could be affecting the noise level in your place of business. San Francisco-based designer and manufacturer of eco-friendly bamboo products Smith & Fong has come out with a new collection that is perfect for reducing noise. The PlybooSound bamboo panels have a natural elegance to them, equipped with sound-proofing technology to greatly...

design essentials for your tech startup office

If you’re looking to build a tech startup office, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The design of such a space is almost as important as the people who work in it. Practical can go hand-in-hand with stylish to create an office that promotes productivity and collaboration. After all, if startup employees are working long hours, why not design an office where everyone enjoys their surroundings? Here are a few design ideas for your startup office:...

encourage office collaboration with an open-concept design

It’s a constant struggle trying to figure out how to increase collaboration within offices, but there’s one thing that may be able to encourage daily productivity: an open-concept office design. An overwhelming majority of U.S. employees now work in open-plan offices. More and more businesses are opting for this type of design and moving away from the traditional high-walled cubicles and corner offices. “There’s less hierarchy in the modern workplace, and this trend toward open office design reflects that,” Ken...

3 reasons to replace the flooring in your beauty salon

Things like hairspray, blow dryers, brushes, combs, scissors and flat irons are all essential to the success of a beauty salon. These tools may be what hairstylists use to give their customer the look they’re searching for, but there are many subtle factors that can affect the quality of the space and the haircuts being given, including the flooring. It might seem like a small detail to overlook, but swapping out your current carpet, tile or hardwood for bamboo flooring can make all the...

4 tips for finishing your basement

If you’ve just moved into a new home and have found that the basement isn’t finished, this isn’t a setback, it’s a perfect opportunity to shape it into a room that fits your design vision. It can be transformed into whatever you would like it to be, whether you want a home theater, a gym, a game room or an office. Here are few tips to enhance the look and function of your basement: Start with flooring You’re going to...

creating a calm environment in your bathroom

Whether you’re designing a bathroom for an office, a home or a restaurant, a serene and calming environment is important to the space. It’s a room in which you should feel comfortable and be able to relax, only if it’s even for a few moments. Fresh cut flowers One of the easiest ways to enliven a bathroom is with fresh cut flowers. They’re most commonly placed in areas like the kitchen and living room, but the bathroom is an often overlooked space...

designing a modern entryway for your home

The foyer of your home is often the first thing that guests and visitors see upon entering. Therefore, it should make a good impression and set the stage for the interior of the rest of your house. Create a welcoming and contemporary entryway with these design ideas: Bamboo flooring Flooring is extremely important to the foyer of the home because it sets the tone for the rest of the space. Rich, dark-colored bamboo can make a dramatic impression and pairs...

5 ways to make your retail store more comfortable

Comfort is very important in a retail space, not only for the customers that come in and shop around, but for the employees as well. You want the people working in the store to feel relaxed and content, which will reflect positively on the store itself. A comfortable environment can also leave customers with a good feeling, and lead to them returning at a later date. Bamboo flooring The floor beneath your feet could be affecting both your customers and employees. Consider installing bamboo...

tips for decorating your recording studio

One of the most central aspects of a recording studio is the sound. You have to be able to hear perfectly, and you want to be able to stop unwanted sound from entering or exiting the room. You don’t need a special room to record vocals, but the acoustic properties and construction are essential to flawless sound. It’s also important to understand that a studio that is both comfortable and visually appealing can help to encourage better recordings, while making clients...

unexpected ways to use bamboo in your home

Whether you just moved into a new home or are looking to do some renovations, consider using bamboo to dress up your space. Many homeowners love the material for its versatility, making it easy to fit whatever design vision they have in mind. It’s available in a variety of different shades, and is one of the most eco-friendly building materials available. It’s sturdy and solid, and it also regrows extremely fast, which makes it rapidly renewable. It’s also much more inexpensive...

5 ways to upgrade your office windows

Windows are one of the most overlooked potential design areas in an office. However, they should never be neglected, otherwise you’ll be left with a bare view. By decorating your windows, you can turn the office space into more of a home, where people feel comfortable enough to socialize and collaborate. Transform your office windows into a focal point with any of these modern upgrades: Natural-woven shades Naturally-woven shades using bamboo are quickly gaining popularity in the design industry. They come in different colors of...

decorating rooms with bamboo flooring

Bamboo flooring can be installed virtually anywhere – in an office, a restaurant, a yoga studio or a home. This flooring material is quickly gaining popularity not only for its natural beauty and versatility, but for its eco-friendly qualities. It also offers a similar look to hardwoods like oak, walnut or pine, and comes in any shade from dark to light, but for a much more affordable price. Once you install your bamboo floors, it’s important to consider how to decorate...

see plyboo’s panel collections with this virtual design tool

One of the hardest things about redesigning a space is the inability to see what the final result will look like. Sometimes you choose a certain material for flooring, or a color of paint for the wall, and it looks entirely different than you had imagined. But with Plyboo’s virtual tool, you can choose the perfect bamboo panels for your space with just the click of a mouse. If you’re after a certain design aesthetic in your space, you’ll want to...

using exposed ceiling beams in an urban home

At first glance, it may seem natural to cover up raw ceiling beams for a finished space. But you may want to think twice before covering them up. Exposed ceiling beams are becoming an extremely popular and modern decorative element for homes everywhere. They add a certain warmth and charm to a room – something ordinary ceilings may have trouble accomplishing. The San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong offers dimensional lumber in a variety of finishes and colors, like natural and...

top 4 ways to enhance your restaurant’s design with bamboo

Interior design may be just as important as the food you’re serving in your restaurant. The design and layout of a space can often play a critical role in determining whether a customer’s experience is positive or negative. Customers wish to feel comfortable and at home wherever they may be dining. Therefore, the atmosphere must be conducive to helping them enjoy their experience. You not only want to sell everyone on the food, you want to keep them coming back because...

6 must-haves for a modern bathroom design

If you’re looking for a sleek and clean-lined bathroom, modern is the interior design aesthetic for you. With a modern bathroom, you can get a minimalist simplicity that is both classy and edgy. This style tends to produce a spa-like ambiance by using upscale amenities like modular storage and stylish lavatories. But in order to pull this off in your home, you must include a few essential design elements. Backsplash Bring some visual interest into your bathroom with a backsplash....

eliminating toxins in your business office

When you head into the office, is the air you’re breathing clean? Many assume that it is when, in fact, studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have shown that levels of indoor pollutants may be two to five times higher than they are outdoors. You wouldn’t drink impure water, so why breathe in air that isn’t clean? Having healthy air quality in your building offers a number of benefits including reducing respiratory illnesses, decreasing environmental triggers of asthma, lowering energy costs and even promoting a...

blending wood finishes in your kitchen

There are a lot of design elements in your kitchen that should coordinate well with one another in order to create a streamlined style. Two of those things are flooring and kitchen cabinets. While they don’t necessarily have to match, it’s good for them to mesh well together. A layering of various tones, hues and textures can create a visually appealing space. Here are a few things to consider when picking out flooring and cabinets for your kitchen: Color The flooring should...

how to incorporate sustainable elements into your small business office

Much of your time during the week is likely spent at the office. In fact, most people in the U.S. put in at least 40 hours per week at work. Just because your office isn’t your home (although it may feel like that sometimes), that doesn’t mean you can’t reduce your carbon footprint and make the building a more environmentally sustainable place. Bamboo flooring Simply replacing the flooring in your office building can make a positive impact on the environment. Bamboo regenerates faster than hardwood...

more apartment complexes choose to go green

More and more people are holding off on homeownership and committing to a mortgage in in favor of renting an apartment. And renters and apartment complexes alike are seeing a trend in the rental industry: going green. There are growing opportunities for renters to add green upgrades to their property, and more and more apartment complexes are making being eco-friendly a priority by giving their potential tenants a chance to reap the benefits of green living through lower utility bills and access to...

modern, environmentally friendly kitchen design ideas

Green and modern design don’t have to come separately. There are plenty of ways you can stay eco-friendly in your kitchen while still showing off a sleek and modern interior design. Here are a few easy ways to update your space while still being eco-conscious: Bamboo flooring Bamboo floors not only provide a modern design aesthetic, they’re also one of the most environmentally friendly floor options you can install in your kitchen. Bamboo is plentiful in supply and simple to replenish. It reaches maturity...

4 ways to improve your home entertainment area

You’ve sat down with family and friends, a bowl of popcorn, a blanket and remote in hand. But you’re not quite ready yet – there may be something important missing from your home entertainment center. In order to have the best movie viewing experience, there are a few updates you can make to your space. Bamboo panels You can spend top dollar on an expensive surround sound system and giant TV, but without bamboo panels, you won’t have that crisp, clear sound that you...

bamboo panels for yoga studios

Yoga has become one of the most popular forms of physical and mental exercise in the world. Its mix of bodily exertion and breathing exercises intended to create a balanced spiritual experience have helped to establish yoga as a part of the American workout landscape. With that growing popularity has come a proliferation of yoga studios, from simple storefront operations to more ornate spaces that use the most innovative techniques in modern design, including bamboo panels, to create a comforting environment that...

new ways to incorporate bamboo into your home or office design

Partially due to its environmental sustainability, and partially due to its practical advantages, bamboo has become a go-to material for artists and designers in recent years. One area where it has been especially useful is residential and commercial design. Floor to ceiling, bamboo is making a major impact on the way we live at home and in the office, and with new bamboo products coming out on a regular basis, that evolution is sure to continue. Bamboo panels Bamboo panels represent...

how to make bamboo panels work in your own home

It’s often the smallest details in a home that make the biggest impact on its design aesthetic, whether it’s a piece of art hanging on the wall, decorative pillows on the sofa or the finish on your kitchen sink. But there’s one design element that is often overlooked and can not only bring style and modernity to your home, but a sense of calm as well: bamboo panels. San Francisco-based company Smith & Fong has a new line of bamboo...

creating a modern kitchen with bamboo paneling

The kitchen isn’t just a place to prepare, cook and enjoy food. It’s a spot where families and friends come together to have a good time and create new memories. It’s an entertaining space that is often the heart of the home. The kitchen is also one of the main places that potential homebuyers look at first when deciding whether or not they would like to purchase a home. Therefore, the design aesthetic in your kitchen should be as welcoming, warm...

how to position panels in your space for the most sound absorption

Whether you own a restaurant, coffee shop, library or home, controlling the acoustics in your space is essential to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. Improving sound absorption can help to reduce stress, increase productivity and even improve people’s overall experience in the space. With absorbing bamboo panels, the acoustics in your space can be significantly improved. Quality and clarity of sound can be improved, while noise, echoing and reverberation can be reduced. Contrary to popular belief, sound-absorbing panels will not soundproof a room. It will, however,...

preventing indoor noise pollution

While most studies and discussions of noise pollution center around things like airports and concerts, its indoor effects, especially in the workplace, can be incredibly harmful to production and worker attitudes. Scientific study of noise pollution In the workplace, indoor noise pollution can have a wide range of detrimental effects. Government and private studies conducted the world over have pointed to noise pollution in the office as a major factor in reducing efficiency, contributing to a negative social environment and...

ways to go green in your space with the help of bamboo

There are a lot of ways to live eco-friendly, whether it’s preserving water, shutting off the lights or recycling. But the materials you’re using in your interior design could also be making an impact on the environment. Bamboo is an often overlooked material when it comes to designing everything from libraries and coffee shops to restaurants and homes. It’s one of the world’s fastest-growing plants, taking just three to six years to grow large enough to harvest – mere minutes compared to hardwoods,...

plyboo sound bamboo panels vie for interior design magazine award

Time is running out to vote for the Interior Magazine Best of the Year awards, and the Architectural Products category has inspired some pretty fierce competition. Among the entrants vying for the prize is the Plyboo Sound line of products from the San Francisco-based designer and manufacturer of eco-friendly bamboo products, Smith & Fong. While there are certainly several products in the category that are deserving of recognition, Plyboo Sound offers a level of elegance, sophistication, technological expertise and practical...

plyboo reveal bamboo panels and the annual interior design awards

Voting for the Interior Design magazine annual Best of Year awards is in full swing, and the Plyboo Reveal collection, from Smith & Fong, is among the entrants with aspirations for winning one of the coveted honors. And with voting taking place between Oct. 1 and 11, you’re going to want to log on to Interior Design’s site and place your vote within the next few days. What is Plyboo Reveal? Competing in the materials and surfaces category, the Reveal...

bamboo is setting a standard in intelligent design

Along with greater public awareness of intelligent design in homes, offices and commercial buildings, has come an increased reliance on bamboo as a building material. Bamboo floors, panels and even bamboo plywood have become essential materials for developers and contractors who are looking to create attractive, sustainable buildings that also deal with problems like noise pollution and ecological calamities. In fact, in some places around the world, bamboo has become so popular that entire homes, office buildings and schools are now being...

reducing noise in the modern office

Just as homes and commercial buildings have undergone design revolutions in recent years, so too has the modern office space. Increasingly relying on open spaces – which promote collaboration between workers, as opposed to the traditional cubicles and walled-off spaces – offices have become places with personalities all their own. While, overall, that is an exciting development, and one that has led many employees to enjoy their office experience more than they have in the past, there have been some negative consequences....

bamboo house could help alleviate many world problems

Bamboo floors and panels have almost become commonplace in modern home design and renovation, but what about entire structures made of the stuff? In Vietnam, one architectural firm is using bamboo to build low-cost homes that can withstand floods and operate as environmentally sustainable structures. It’s a design that could prove revolutionary on many different levels. Low-cost housing option The 473-square-foot structure, designed by H & P Architects and known as Blooming Bamboo, is expected to cost approximately $2,500 per...

innovative uses for bamboo in restaurants

Over the past 15 years or so, restaurants have become some of the most innovative businesses in the world. Whether it’s the dishes they prepare, the ingredients they use, the layout of their kitchens or the way they design their public spaces, restaurants across the globe have been pushing the envelope of what modern cuisine is and how it should be experienced. Among those many innovations, novel approaches to bamboo have been some of the most notable. And it isn’t just...

developments in architectural innovation

As technology and innovation continue to develop at a rapid pace, they are having an impact on everything from communications to what we eat and how we produce that food to architectural design and building. Advancements in architectural design and sustainable building have been especially impressive of late. You can go to any major city or, in some cases smaller urban and rural settings, and see examples of buildings and styles that you may never have imagined, with those buildings...