dc: Green Countertops
- 07/25/08 10:28 AM
There are many eco-friendly countertops on the market today that hold up well under heavy use. They combine natural and man-made materials in composite slabs, and usually integrate recycled materials as well, while remaining very attractive and utilitarian alternatives to mainstream countertops. IceStone countertops (www.icestone.biz) are made of cement and glass, 75% of it recycled. Thousands of pieces of polished glass (which used to be beer bottles, windshields, or traffic lights) are set in a base of concrete, and these surfaces are available in almost any color. Vetrazzo (www.vetrazzo.com) is similar product, using 80% recycled glass. Vetrazzo is more highly customized … (4 comments)
dc: Kitchen Remodeling Budget and Design
- 07/23/08 08:35 AM
Kitchen remodeling is one of the most popular home improvement projects and is an excellent investment. However, before diving into a large kitchen remodel, carefully consider both budget and design. When planning your initial kitchen remodel budget, it is useful to allocate 40-50% of your budget for cabinets, 20-30% for appliances, 20-25% for countertops, 10-15% for flooring, and 5-15% for lighting. The primary material costs include cabinets, counters, appliances and floors, with lighting, paint, and accents topping it off. Keep in mind that designers usually charge $50-$150+ per hour, so plan your budget accordingly if you plan to hire professional design … (0 comments)
dc: It's Just Lunch: A Dating Service for Busy Professionals
- 07/21/08 08:51 AM
It's Just Lunch (IJL) is a specialized dating service for busy single professionals in D.C. A Chicago woman founded It's Just Lunch more than 15 years ago after her engagement was suddenly called off. Only 5 months after founding IJL, she attended her first IJL wedding, and has been working to create couples ever since. Their "first date experts" hope to minimize stress and maximize efficiency by coordinating fun lunch dates for busy single professionals in the Washington D.C. area. They tell you about your match, coordinate your schedules, and make the reservations at a D.C. restaurant convenient for both parties. … (0 comments)
dc: Moving in a Wired World
- 07/18/08 07:43 AM
It's wise to consider your technology needs carefully when moving to a new home. Be sure to research a new neighborhood's technology choices and problems by talking with service providers and other residents to ensure that high-speed internet access is available, or that a local monument doesn't block satellite service. In some cases, you may end up with more options than you had before, like cable, DSL, and FiOS (fiber-optics), or you may end up needing dial-up or satellite access. To supplement your live research, visit sites like www.broadbandreports.com to avoid post-move technology regrets. And remember, internet isn't the only concern. … (0 comments)
dc: 10 Steps to a Well-Designed Room
- 07/17/08 08:32 AM
1. Find a purpose. First, determine exactly how you want to use the room in question. Do you want a great room that combines dining, television, and family space? Or do you have extra rooms and want one casual family room and one formal living room? A room's purpose should be one of the strongest considerations when choosing a decorating scheme. 2. Consider others. Who will use this space? Guests, family, children, pets, or any combination of the above? Always consider a room's occupants when selecting finishes and fabrics. For example flat finish paints and silk slipcovers might be … (2 comments)
dc: How to Replace a Doorknob in 5 Easy Steps
- 07/17/08 08:29 AM
Doorknobs are small details that can have a large impact on a space, while remaining within a budget. Doorknobs come in many shapes and sizes, but be careful not to go overboard when shopping for new doorknobs; they should complement the room, but not be the focal point. To replace your doorknobs, follow these simple steps: Remove the screws holding the old doorknob in place and unscrew the striker and pull it out. After you remove the screws, the doorknob can be pulled apart and removed. Install the new doorknob by reversing the removal procedure. The holes for the new doorknob … (0 comments)
dc: DOWNTOWN DC ENJOYS HEALTHY ECONOMY DESPITE NATIONAL RECESSION
- 06/30/08 09:19 AM
The Downtown DC Business Improvement District (BID) recently released its 2007 State of Downtown Report, which shows that the Downtown BID area's economy has remained surprisingly robust in the midst of international and national economic and financial hardships. During 2007, visitors in the Downtown BID area hit an all time high of 9.5 million. The BID area Metrorail rider-ship rose to 102,000 per weekday (up 2,000 riders per day from 2006) and the DC Circulator bus carried about 6,600 daily riders in 2007 (up 16% from 2006) and served its 5 millionth passenger in December 2007. In addition, the Downtown BID … (0 comments)
dc: Spacious Living at the Trillium-Bethesda
- 06/23/08 11:40 AM
Space can be a precious commodity more so in urban areas and the chance to find a spacious residence that is within walking or easy driving distance may be difficult. At the Trillium-Bethesda this difficulty is addressed with larger than average floor plans, one, two and three-bedroom units with 9-foot ceiling heights in living areas, abundant closets, dens and private balconies. The amenities also solve the need to go out for important necessities. Valet parking, concierge services, a luxurious main lobby featuring a water wall and original artworks, a lounge with double-sided fireplace, a party room with cocktail area that extends … (0 comments)
dc: Preserving Old Town Charm at the Prescott
- 06/20/08 10:27 AM
One block north of King Street, at 1115 Cameron Street #105, Alexandria, VA is the Prescott, a 64-unit residential condominium that is designed to blend with the Old Town charm yet feature modern amenities. The Prescott offers two-bedroom units with 9-foot ceilings in the living areas, hardwood flooring, designer blinds on all windows, spacious walk-in closets, insulated windows, spacious kitchen with granite countertops and maple cabinets, and luxury baths. Building features include a rooftop terrace, underground parking space, and controlled access to garage, elevators and lobby. The relative lack of amenities common in other luxury condominiums like a pool or gym … (0 comments)
dc: Washington Panorama at the Turnberry Tower
- 06/11/08 06:50 AM
Turnberry Arlington is a 26-story high-rise condominium going up on 1850 North Fort Myer Drive in Arlington, Va. It will be an ideal residence where one can enjoy a vantage view of the Potomac River, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial, Georgetown University and the National Cathedral. Luxury means floor-to-ceiling glass windows, private balconies, nine to 12-foot ceilings, direct-entry elevators, granite countertops and marble baths in one, two or three-bedroom units priced from $800K to $4M. Amenities reflect affluence and comfort with security, 24-hour valet, and concierge to a full-service catering kitchen, bistro dining, all-weather indoor swimming pool, fitness center, saunas and steam rooms. Sufficient enough … (0 comments)
dc: Largest Furniture and Home Décor Expo
- 05/30/08 11:16 AM
What used to be a Cadillac dealership is now your destination for the biggest selection of luxury home décor and furniture. Tysons Design Expo on 8595 Leesburg Park, Vienna has brought together the best brands and designer tools to help complete your home furniture and decorating projects. Now open for trade and the public, visit this one-stop shop and get started choosing and fitting together your home ideas. Tysons Design Expo contact details are (703) 356 4002 and www.tysonsdesignexpo.com … (3 comments)
dc: The Baltimore Downtown Luxury Living Tour
- 05/28/08 10:30 AM
The Downtown Partnership is hosting the inaugural Downtown Baltimore Luxury Living Tour on Saturday, May 31st and Sunday, June 1st from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Showcasing a wide variety of distinctive residences available downtown - the tour will help guests explore the dramatic views and distinctive designs of Baltimore's high-end condominiums, townhomes, and apartments. Each residence is presented by its property manager in an open house format, giving tour participants an inside look at the best Baltimore has to offer. Take these free guided tours to gain exclusive access to some of Baltimore's most exciting residences, including 39 West Lexington, The … (0 comments)
dc: "Cruise of the Capitol" 2nd Annual Real Estate Boat Tour
- 05/27/08 09:22 AM
ULI Washington invites you to come aboard the Odyssey for the 2nd Annual "Cruise of the Capitol" Real Estate Boat Tour on Thursday, May 29th. This unique and educational boat tour of the greater Washington, DC waterfront will showcase new developments on the shores of our nation's capitol from fascinating perspectives along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers. Public agencies and companies active in DC Southeast & Southwest markets, National Harbor, and the Virginia side of the river will offer key highlights of their projects. During the cruise, they will expand on last year's tour and will emphasize the progress made in … (0 comments)
dc: Artomatic 2008
- 05/21/08 09:08 AM
Artomatic brings the work of visual artists, musicians, and performers to the community, free of charge. With more than 100 free events, activities and performances planned over 28 days and nights May 9 through June 15, the Artomatic experience will be unique for each attendee. The hundreds of displays of visual art alone generally take several visits to experience thoroughly (there are more than 1,100 visual and performing artists signed up to participate in Artomatic 2008!), and there are also two music stages, a theatre, a dance space, a poetry room, a film room, and a classroom. Every space has a … (0 comments)
dc: The Cost Of Ownership
- 05/16/08 08:15 AM
Now that you've had a chance to recover from filing your 2007 taxes, it is time to start thinking about ways to reduce your 2008 tax spending. Most homeowners know they can deduct their mortgage interest from their primary residence if they itemize, but did you also know you can deduct mortgage interest for a secondary home, interest from a line of credit or a home equity loan? You can also deduct state and local real estate taxes if the taxes are applied as a uniform rate on the assessed value of the property. You may also be able to deduct … (2 comments)
dc: Passport D.C.
- 05/12/08 09:51 AM
Passport DC kicked off with the EU Open House (May 3) and Europe Week (May 3 - 10) where 26 embassies showcased European art, dance, music, food, culture, and film. The International Children's Festival was held on May 10 and provided an opportunity for participants of all ages to learn more about Washington, D.C.'s embassies and international culture via authentic dress, cuisine, music, and art and engaging hands-on displays. If you have missed these opportunities, World Week is being held this week and will include embassies from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas presenting a variety of cultural programs … (0 comments)
dc: Suited for Change
- 05/07/08 10:18 AM
Suited for Change-a nonprofit D.C. organization that provides business attire and professional development training to low-income women invite the D.C. community and surrounding areas to attend their 16th Anniversary Celebration and Auction this Thursday, May 15, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Decatur House Museum in D.C. In the past two years, Suited for Change has helped put 14,000 low-income women on the path to employment. As they say, "You cannot get a job without an interview suit. But you cannot afford an interview suit without a job." Suited for Change provides professional clothing and ongoing career and life-skills education to … (0 comments)
dc: Design House Consumer Day
- 05/06/08 10:17 AM
In April I blogged about the Design House which was open through May 11, 2008. For those individuals who were unable to attend, you have been granted a reprieve... Come visit the Washington Design Center on Saturday, May 17 for their Design House Consumer Day. Not only will you have the opportunity to tour the design house for an up-close look, but you can also meet the designers and discuss your design needs on the spot! In addition, you can spend the day shopping ten beautiful luxury kitchen, bath, stone, tile, and appliance showrooms. Throughout the day there will be product … (0 comments)
dc: Have Bike, Will Travel
- 05/02/08 07:31 AM
Spring is just about the most beautiful time in D.C. The sun is shining, the cherry blossoms are in bloom, summer humidity hasn't kicked in yet, and it's light out past 5:00 pm. One of the best ways to see DC in the spring (or any time of the year) is by bike. You don't have to fight traffic or the sometimes unreliable Metro service and you can get some exercise while seeing the sights. However most people don't own a bike simply because they wouldn't use it often enough. The Smart Bike program may change that and bring bikes to … (3 comments)
dc: Moveable Feast: A Taste of D.C. Walking Tour
- 05/02/08 07:17 AM
Discover Washington D.C. by foot and delight in the food shops and restaurants that give flavor to the capital's favorite tales of gastronomic history. Along the way, learn about the inaugural party turned food fight and the quiet milestone in civil rights by racial equality advocate Mary Church Teller. By foot and Metro hops, visit a café specializing in teas of the world, pick selections at a gourmet take-out market, walk-in at a Chinese sundries shop, stop at a diner famous for its chili and half-smokes, and enjoy a dessert course at a café/bakery by DC's Food Network celebrity. Bring extra … (0 comments)
There are many eco-friendly countertops on the market today that hold up well under heavy use. They combine natural and man-made materials in composite slabs, and usually integrate recycled materials as well, while remaining very attractive and utilitarian alternatives to mainstream countertops. ;)
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