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Top Residential Areas in Qatar to Consider for Living

  • August 9, 2023

Top Residential Areas in Qatar to Consider for Living

When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home in Qatar, there are several exceptional residential areas that stand out. With a booming real estate market and a variety of properties for rent in Qatar, there’s something for everyone’s preferences and needs. Whether you’re a young professional, a family with kids, or a retiree looking for a peaceful environment, Qatar has a range of residential options to cater to your lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top residential areas in Qatar that you should consider for living.

1. The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar is a stunning man-made island that’s become synonymous with luxury living. Its Mediterranean-style architecture, picturesque views, and high-end shopping and dining options make it one of the most sought-after residential areas in the country. The Pearl offers a mix of apartments and villas, all equipped with modern amenities and stunning waterfront views. It’s also conveniently located near major business districts, making it an attractive choice for professionals. If you’re looking for exclusivity and a lavish lifestyle, The Pearl-Qatar should be at the top of your list.

2. West Bay

West Bay is another prominent residential area in Qatar, known for its towering skyscrapers, impressive skyline, and proximity to major business hubs. This area is perfect for those who seek convenience, as it’s situated in the heart of Doha, the capital city. West Bay offers a mix of upscale apartments and serviced residences, making it a great choice for expatriates and professionals. The area is also home to numerous international schools, making it suitable for families with children.

3. Al Sadd

Al Sadd is a vibrant neighborhood that strikes a balance between modernity and tradition. It’s known for its bustling markets, cultural attractions, and a wide range of housing options. From cozy apartments Read the rest

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Finding Your Dream Home in St Albans: Tips for House Hunting in a Competitive Market

  • July 20, 2023

Finding Your Dream Home in St Albans: Tips for House Hunting in a Competitive Market

Introduction

St Albans, a historic city nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, has become a sought-after destination for homebuyers. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to London, it’s no wonder that the property market in St Albans is highly competitive. If you’re on the hunt for your dream home in this bustling city, here are some tips to help you navigate the challenges of a competitive market and find the perfect property.

Define Your Priorities 

Before diving into the house hunting process, take the time to identify your priorities. Consider factors such as location, size, amenities, and budget. Knowing what you’re looking for will help you stay focused and make informed decisions during your search.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage 

In a competitive market, it’s crucial to be prepared. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a clear understanding of your budget and show sellers that you’re a serious buyer. This step will also expedite the buying process once you find your dream home.

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent

Partnering with a knowledgeable and experienced St Albans estate agent who specializes in the St Albans market can be a game-changer. They will have insider knowledge, access to exclusive listings, and the negotiation skills needed to help you secure your dream home in a competitive market.

Stay Updated with Online Listings 

Set up alerts on popular property websites and stay updated with new listings. In a competitive market, desirable properties can go under offer quickly. Being one of the first to know about new listings will give you an advantage and increase your chances of finding your dream home.

Attend Open Houses and Viewings  

Actively participate in open houses and property viewings. This will give you the opportunity to get a feel for different neighborhoods, Read the rest

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Why Use Hot Tub Enzymes for Hot Tubs or Spa Care

  • July 14, 2023

Why Use Hot Tub Enzymes for Hot Tubs or Spa Care

A hot tub is a luxurious amenity that provides relaxation, therapeutic pros, and a great place to unwind. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure your hot tub’s durability and optimal performance. There are various products available for spa care.

However, hot tub enzymes are popular for their exceptional cleaning and maintenance properties. This article will explore why incorporating hot tub enzymes into your spa care routine is wise.

What are Hot Tub Enzymes?

Hot tub enzymes are specialized products that help maintain water cleanliness and clarity in a hot tub or spa. They are formulated with a blend of natural enzymes and bacteria that work together to break down and digest organic contaminants in the water. Enzymes effectively eliminate oils, lotions, detergents, and other organic substances accumulating in the water.

Reasons to Use Hot Tub Enzymes 

  1. Improves Water Clarity

One of the main reasons to utilize hot tub enzymes is their ability to enhance water clarity. Enzymes break down organic matter like body oils, lotions, and cosmetics that accumulate in the water. Enzymes avoid cloudy water by eliminating contaminants, leaving your hot tub crystal clear and clean. You can enjoy a pristine spa experience without worrying about impurities affecting the visual appeal of your tub.

  1. Avoiding Unpleasant Odors

Using your tub regularly leads to the accumulation of organic compounds that emit unpleasant odors. Hot tub enzymes efficiently digest these compounds, removing foul smells and ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere in your spa. By addressing the root cause of the odors rather than simply masking them with fragrances, enzymes provide a durable -lasting solution for an odor-free hot tub experience.

  1. Prevents Scale Formation

Calcium and other minerals naturally found in water lead to scale formation on the surface of your hot tub. The deposits not only detract from the appearance Read the rest

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Find midcentury modern furniture at Coastal Mod in Virginia Beach

  • March 28, 2024

Jonathan Langman used to spend hours a day reading 50 to 100 patents and scientific journals. Now, he researches furniture and art.

After spending 16 years as a patent examiner, Langman left his secure government job to pursue his passion in finding and reselling vintage furniture. In 2022, he opened Coastal Mod Gallery, a store selling high-end vintage furniture and art near the Oceanfront.

Langman’s interest in furniture began in 2006 after visiting his aunt and uncle in New York City.

“The second I walked into their apartment, I was floored,” he said. “They were mid-century modern collectors, and their Lower East Side walkup was filled with the best of the best.”

They exposed Langman to a few designers and inspired him to start searching for some special pieces for his home outside of Fredericksburg. He scoured Craigslist and started collecting.

In 2012, when he moved to Virginia Beach, his hometown, some of the furniture didn’t work in his new home. So, he decided to resell part of his collection. A dealer from Raleigh, North Carolina, bought all his pieces.

Jonathan Langman opened Coastal Mod Gallery, a store selling high-end vintage furniture and art near the Oceanfront, in 2022. (Lee Belote/Freelance)
Jonathan Langman opened Coastal Mod Gallery, a store selling high-end vintage furniture and art near the Oceanfront, in 2022. (Lee Belote/Freelance)

“I thought maybe I can try reselling,” Langman said. “It took a few years of lucrative side hustles and the seed was planted. I built an Instagram page and started selling my new finds in 2015 as Coastal Mod.”

After side hustling for years, Langman eventually left his job to open Coastal Mod. He saw an opportunity amid supply chain issues from the pandemic. Langman said lead times were six to nine months for news chairs and sofas, so many people were discovering vintage furniture.

“I was content selling online with customers all over the country and abroad,” he

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Flexible Furniture Gives Teachers and Students More Opportunities for Collaboration

  • March 25, 2024

Today, the redesigned media center is a world away from the “pink prison” of the past. Flexible furniture accommodates diverse activities. Collaboration spaces equipped with cutting-edge technology foster group projects and presentations. A dedicated tech center empowers students to troubleshoot their peers’ devices and acquire valuable technology skills.

Separate classroom spaces within the media center cater to various learning styles, featuring everything from a stadium seating in one area to movable tables and chairs, and can be used as a conference room ideal for focused discussions.

One of the most significant transformations lies not in the physical space but in the mindset shift. Media specialists, once hesitant to lose the library, are now embracing their new roles as facilitators and guides, creating engaging activities and supporting student-led initiatives.

DIG DEEPER: Tech-savvy librarians provide value to modern students.

The media center is now open before, during and after school, including during senior privilege and lunch periods, fostering a sense of community. A student-operated food and drink concession adds a touch of entrepreneurship and responsibility.

“It’s incredible to see students taking ownership of their learning space,” Wall says. “They understand it’s theirs, and that empowers them to use it responsibly and creatively.”

Furniture Meets Students’ Social, Emotional and Physical Needs

In schools across the country, Patti Clark has seen how the thoughtful selection of furniture can positively impact students. She tells the story of a school in Atlanta, where new seating included movable stools. The teacher would come around to each group, carrying her own stool with her, and talk with students eye to eye.

“The students told me the teacher was spending more one-on-one time with them,” says Clark. “I’m not sure if she actually was, but because she was sitting down on their level instead of looking down at them

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Luxury Furniture Brands For Your Next Interior Design Upgrade

  • March 24, 2024
high end furniture brands

Best Luxury Furniture Brands

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There were many interior gems and trends found at Paris Design Week 2024 earlier this year, and it’s time to put them into practice. Craving a new statement chair like the one wrapped in Dedar fabrics via the Invisible collection? Perhaps head to Perigold or Industry West for new upholstery. For the mid-century modern fanatics, the style that has most recently moved en vogue, a treasure trove of delight awaits at Kelly Wearstler and All Modern. Or, did the whimsical presentation at Loro Piana inspire you to have a bit more fun with your interior? For those who are still keen on timelessness, RH is always a good destination.

Regardless of trends, collecting fine furniture pieces has several benefits. Aside from the aesthetics, you are investing in quality. Pieces sold by luxury brands are crafted with intention and care, which means they will often last longer (think decades). True luxury is a mix of high and low, though and team T&C wholeheartedly believes in mastering this art form. But, it is paramount to remember that one’s personal space should be well thought out, curated, and constructed to one’s liking.

Where one begins the search for pieces to ornament a home can be difficult and overwhelming. We’ve curated a list of the best high-end furniture brands to source from in 2024. Whether you’re looking for a bohemian abode or a Scandinavian chalet, here are the 32 best luxury furniture brands to shop from.

Kelly Wearstler

If you’re looking for a furniture brand that merges luxury and design prowess, you’ve found it. American designer Kelly Wearstler melds top-of-the-line craftsmanship with her one-of-a-kind creative vision for items such as this Superluxe Dichotomy Table,

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New Orleans furniture store Hurwitz Mintz turns 100 | Blake Pontchartrain | Gambit Weekly

  • March 21, 2024

Hey Blake,

Hurwitz Mintz furniture store recently advertised its 100th anniversary sale. Who are (or were) the Hurwitz and Mintz in the store’s name?

Dear reader,

Joseph Hurwitz and Morris Mintz were brothers-in-law and Russian Jewish immigrants who came to New Orleans in 1920 and opened their furniture store together soon after. An Oct. 11, 1925 New Orleans Item article advertised their new store at 217-219 Royal St., across from the Hotel Monteleone. The location had been a furniture store in the past, operated by W.G. Tebault.

“Three fundamental principles underlie our business, frame our policy and constitute the essentials of our pledge (to the public),” the owners said in the Item article. “They are quality of merchandise, sound values and real service.”

In later years, Hurwitz Mintz expanded to include the building at 211 Royal St. The business’ name is still visible in tiles on the sidewalk out front, although the location closed after Hurricane Katrina.

Mintz died in 1945, while Hurwitz died in 1965. The business remained in the hands of family members, including Mintz’s son Ellis, who joined in the 1930s by working summers in the furniture warehouse. During his more than 60 years at the helm, the company became one of the leading furniture stores in the region. In the 1970s and 1980s, TV actors Barbara Feldon (best known for “Get Smart”) and “Batman” star Adam West even appeared in commercials for the store.

In 1971, Hurwitz Mintz opened another French Quarter furniture store, called Units, at 227 Chartres St. It sold more contemporary furniture before closing in 2004. In 1974, as the company marked its 50th anniversary, it also opened a new warehouse in the 6000 block of Press Street.

“All of this is being done because in the coming years we feel that even

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Burrow Sleep Week Sale 2024: The Best Deals on Bedroom Furniture to Shop Now

  • March 20, 2024

Sleep Awareness Week 2024 is officially underway until tomorrow, March 16. Although it’s not a major retail holiday, some of our favorite retailers are offering dream-worthy Sleep Week deals on a variety of bedroom essentials. If your bedroom furniture could use a refresh before heading into spring, this weekend’s Burrow sale is not one to miss. 

From now until March 19, you can save up to 50% on everything for the bedroom from Burrow. Create your perfect sanctuary for sleep and snag savings on beds, sleeper sofas, cooling mattresses, nightstands and more.

Shop Burrow’s Sleep Week Sale

Getting good sleep doesn’t only come down to the mattress you sleep on. From comfy sheets and a duvet cover to bed frames, there are many products that make a huge difference in your bedroom’s atmosphere. Daylight savings can be heard on your sleep routine and there are plenty of Sleep Week deals to keep you feeling well rested all year.

Don’t want to hit the snooze button on this Burrow Sleep Week sale. Ahead, shop the best bedroom furniture deals and head over to Burrow to check out the entire sale.

Chorus Bed

Chorus Bed

Burrow

Chorus Bed

The clean lines, premium materials, and unfussy aesthetic of this bed will fit with almost any design scheme.

Heist Nightstand

Heist Nightstand

Burrow

Heist Nightstand

The Heist Nightstand brings function and visual appeal together in equal measure, with its mid-century modern aesthetic, curved hardwood handles, and dual drawers.

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Apt2B Spring Clearance Sale 2024: Save 20% on Furniture and Decor for the New Season

  • March 19, 2024

If you’ve started spring cleaning, you might be noticing some existing gaps in your furniture and decor. Now is a great time to fill the space in your home with Apt2B’s Spring Clearance Sale. From best-selling couches to bar carts and nightstands, look no further than Apt2B to score massive savings ahead of the new season.

Now through Tuesday, March 19, Apt2B is offering 20% off all furniture and decor sitewide. Plus, free shipping is included with everything. Whether you’re in the market for a new sleeper sofa, or looking to upgrade your dining room set, this Apt2B sale has you covered. 

Shop the Apt2B Sale

No matter which part of your home you’re looking to spruce up, Apt2B has makes it a mission to create beautiful furniture and home decor that not only looks good but is also built to last. The Spring Clearance Sale at Apt2B is practically a one-stop shop for your furniture shopping this week.

Since high-quality, furniture pieces can be expensive, seasonal savings from your favorite brands are the best way to go when you’re looking to purchase big-ticket items like sectionals, platform beds and credenzas. Below, shop the best furniture deals from Apt2B’s sale.

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

Apt2B

Melrose Reversible Chaise Sofa

This best-selling sofa offers the versatility you need for rearranging furniture and accommodating any future moves. It’s designed like a traditional sectional, but features a reversible chaise ottoman that can be placed on either end.

Aiken Platform Bed

Aiken Platform Bed

Apt2B

Aiken Platform Bed

This modern platform bed features a contrasting fabric headboard in graphite and is supported by a sturdy frame with smooth, rounded edges.

Pasadena Sideboard

Pasadena Sideboard

Apt2B

Pasadena Sideboard

Made of beautiful Sheesham wood, the Pasadena Sideboard adds some much needed visual flair to your dining

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Why furniture is getting cheaper

  • March 18, 2024

The furniture segment is one of a few to see prices go down lately, according to today’s CPI report. The furniture index fell 3.7% over the last year, and kept slipping last month. And Ikea, one of the biggest furniture retailers in the world, is no exception. The Swedish home store has been cutting prices on budget staples like the Billy bookcase and Kallax storage cubes, and executives say the price rollbacks will continue in 2024 across all markets where Ikea operates.

That weird supply and demand shock of the pandemic hit furniture sales harder than a sleep-deprived person stumbling into the corner of their bed the first morning of daylight savings.

First there was the pivot to working from home in 2020, said Marisa Ortega, a retail analyst at Mintel. Then in 2021 with record low mortgage rates, a lot of people upsized their homes.

“And you know that requires to fill more spaces in your home — more pieces for another living room and another bedroom,” she said.

That intense demand has subsided as mortgage rates have soared.

“If people are not buying houses, there is less need to look for furniture and home decor,” Ortega said.

At the same time, supply pressures like shipping costs have also eased. Most furniture is imported, said Michael Brown, a partner with Kearney Consulting.

“Coming in on ships that were very, very expensive. And that quickly dissipated,” he said.

Brown said Ikea has been uniquely positioned to save thanks to its clean modern designs, which are also more efficient to manufacture and transport.

“There’s not a lot of waste. There’s not a lot of shapes. They’re all pretty straight cuts, you know all connected by similar hardware,” he said.

Transportation and materials make up the bulk of furniture costs, which

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Gardenfurniture Presents: Unwind in Style Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Furniture Pieces

  • March 17, 2024

Gardenfurniture Presents: Unwind in Style Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Furniture Pieces.

GardenFurniture, the leading provider of premium outdoor furniture, is excited to announce the launch of its latest collection, inviting customers to elevate their outdoor living spaces with elegance and comfort.

As the warmer months approach, people are increasingly seeking ways to transform their gardens, patios, and outdoor areas into tranquil retreats where they can unwind in style. Recognizing this desire for relaxation and luxury, GardenFurniture has curated a stunning selection of outdoor furniture pieces that blend functionality with exquisite design.

Our mission at GardenFurniture is to help our customers create outdoor spaces that reflect their personality and lifestyle,” stated, the representative at GardenFurniture. “With our new collection, we aim to inspire individuals to reimagine their outdoor living areas as extensions of their homes, where they can entertain guests, enjoy family gatherings, or simply indulge in moments of solitude amidst nature.”

From chic dining sets that set the stage for al fresco dinners to cozy loungers perfect for lazy afternoons under the sun, GardenFurniture offers an array of options to suit every taste and space requirement. Crafted from high-quality materials such as weather-resistant wicker, durable aluminum, and sustainable teak, each piece is designed to withstand the elements while exuding timeless charm.

The collection showcases a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and classic craftsmanship, allowing customers to create cohesive outdoor environments that enhance the beauty of their surroundings. Whether seeking sleek minimalism, rustic charm, or opulent extravagance, GardenFurniture provides a diverse range of styles and configurations to cater to diverse preferences.

In addition to its commitment to design excellence, GardenFurniture prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility. By sourcing materials ethically and implementing eco-friendly manufacturing processes, the company ensures that its products not only enhance

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A Closer Look at a Midcentury-Modern Home in the Woods

  • March 16, 2024

When you know it, you know it. That’s how Greg Bartelt felt when he first laid eyes on the home in which he now lives.

Nearly three years ago, Bartelt saw a real estate listing for a midcentury-modern home in Huntington Woods. “It was a Friday; we looked at it Saturday and closed the deal Sunday night.” Bartelt fell in love with modern design many years ago when attending Whitman Junior High School in Livonia. “My school was a Minoru Yamasaki design,” he says. “I loved the lines, the glass atriums, the courtyards, the floor-to-ceiling brick. Pure Yamasaki.”

Bartelt and his wife, Sue, purchased the 1950 home from the original owners’ daughter. “We started renovating immediately and wanted to get it done in under a year,” says Bartelt, who had an insider’s perspective on what that year might look like.

Bartelt owns Royal Oak-based Vogue Furniture, which designs, fabricates, finishes, and installs high-end furniture and millwork. The couple continued to live in their Birmingham townhome during the renovations.

Bartelt says the move was somewhat inspired by the fact that his family has grown to include two young grandchildren. “We needed the space again,” the creative designer says.

The home’s renovation crew, including Bloomfield Township-based Lakes Development Group, removed drywall, flooring, windows, and more. Meanwhile, the floor plan was fine-tuned to include a large primary suite that would eliminate two bedrooms, consolidating those areas into one large space.

“There are no walls between the bathroom, the floating closet, and the bedroom,” Bartelt says. Another goal was to create a new kitchen layout. “It was closed in, so we tore down walls and opened a space, moving it to where the breakfast niche once was.”

They also removed a hearth and a built-in planter area and designed a new staircase

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Best Patio Furniture Sales March 2024

  • March 13, 2024

Spring is almost here, and now’s the perfect time to shop patio furniture sales to prep your outdoor space for the upcoming season. Between now and Memorial Day, you’ll see good deals on everything from outdoor dining sets to Adirondack chairs. After that, you’re not likely to see comparable deals again until the end of the summer.

We’ve perused the current outdoor furniture sales from top retailers like West Elm, Wayfair and Frontgate and rounded up the best deals on conversation sets, outdoor couches, dining sets and more. Below, check out the best patio furniture deals separated out by category for easy browsing.

The Best Patio Furniture Sales At A Glance

Best Conversation Set Deals:

Best Outdoor Couch Deals:

Best Outdoor Dining And Bistro Set Deals:

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