How Security Lights Enhance The Protection Of The House?

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Security lights come with many benefits. When the natural lights of the day turn to night and spread darkness, you can opt for Olown security lights. When you get the fixtures mounted outside the house, they can cover the large area of the house.

During the night, the darkness may feel safe and secure. It is what you cannot see that is the primary concern. When you choose the outdoor lights, you will get a simple and efficient method of protecting the house. There are still many people who look at the benefits of security lighting outside the home.

How Security Lights Enhance The Protection Of The House

Why Are Security Systems Essential?

When leaving for work, you go with the expectation to come back to the smiling family and a safe house. There has been the growth of crimes across many cities. For this reason, it is highly essential to opt for the security system so that you are always protected and get the peace of mind to assure that your family is safe when you are out.

Choosing the home security system may be tricky, as selecting the most appropriate method is essential for house protection. If you’re not in the condition to invest in the tight security system, just having the security lights will be sufficient to increase the house’s security.

Adding the LED lights and the camera will be the most efficient security method to opt for. With the help of the security light systems, you will get various benefits such as:

1. Security

Having outdoor lights will become the best way to expose the burglars in the shadows they usually try to hide. Lights will leave them exposed and reduce the potential of a burglar to be deterred once they know that they do not have any other way to break in the house without being seen.

Your neighbors and the pedestrians will also be able to alert you when someone is lurking outside of your home. If you have security cameras, lights can help you capture them quickly.

2. Longevity

Security lights, particularly LED, tend to last long. You won’t be required to change them for many years to come, which can help you save money in the long term.

The reliability of the outdoor lights will provide you with ease of mind and keep the thought of maintenance away for a long time. Whereas, when you have the traditional light bulbs, they come with limited lifespans, and you will have to change them frequently, which will consume more time and cost for the investment.

4. Energy Savings

When you have LED lights, these lights tend to consume low voltage that can help you to save a significant amount of energy. Operating at a lower voltage than any other type of bulb, LEDs not only use less energy and reduce the bill but also get rid of the chances of them catching fire.

The extra energy will be required to keep the house lit from the outside, so there will be no reason not to have the LED lights experience the benefit by themselves.

Also Read: The Essential Features of LED Lighting for Green Buildings

5. Increase Property Value

When adding the exterior lighting, you should consider it an investment for the house as it can help you to boost the property value. It will also help you increase the demand for the house, and the potential future buyer will look at your property and consider buying it.

Another way it boosts the value lies in reducing the insurance rates allowing you to save over time. You will save money on unexpected costs when break-ins occur.

6. Control

There are different types of control options varying from on/off switches to time-controlled switches that you can program to go on at night at particular times. Others also include the photocells that can detect the dark, and it will turn on the light by itself due to the motion detector.

When it is on, it will turn on the light when it detects the motion nearby and turns it off when everything is settled.

7. Weather Resistant

Most fixtures can withstand dampness, but some are more resistant to weather. They will generally work whether it is rainy, dry, or snow. They can work at any weather changes during any type of season.

solar-powered-street

Conclusion

Having security lights can be the best way to protect the house, as you will always be able to see outside the house and leverage the benefits of tight security. Security lights can be the way to protect your family members and kids because the burglars think they will know that they will be caught.

Climate and Weather – They Are Not The Same Thing

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We can predict the climate but we are not so good at predicting the weather.

Why is this?

First, let us clarify the difference between weather and climate. Weather is what happens in the atmosphere here and now. The weather may seem chaotic, even random. Weather tends to be what many of us focus on especially before weekends and holiday, and very special events. As community-based people, we need to know what the weather will be in the very near future. We have an immediate need to know whether the weather conditions with be sunny and fine, wet and windy, or more extreme.

atmospheric river

Can we express the difference between weather and climate?

Well, yes. Weather refers to short term atmospheric conditions. And by short-term, we mean really short-term such as hour-by-hour or day-by-day.  It applies to our immediate location usually. In contrast, climate is the weather of a specific region averaged over a long period of time. Climate is dependent on two different parameters: spatial and temporal. The spatial is determined by climate zones (that is another weather topic) and long-term temporal periods such as a minimum of 30 years.

Let us dive in a little deeper into the topic of weather vs climate.

This random, chaotic nature of weather takes effect even at very small, microscopic levels.  Microscopic disturbances can have a significant impact on our weather. These disturbances can result in very real large-scale changes in the weather.

Climate, on the other hand, is far more steady and stable. This is because it is the long-term average of the weather over a number of years. Preferably a minimum of 3 decades or 30 years. It is shaped by the large global forces that alter the energy balances in the atmosphere.

For example, changes in the sun’s intensity of energy, the tilt of the earth’s axis, the amount of sunlight the earth receives from the sun, the amount of solar energy reflected back to space, and the concentration of the greenhouse gases (human generated gases) released into the atmosphere wherever humans are living.

A change in any of these parameters affect the climate in largely predictable ways. To summarize the key differences: weather is all about short-term fluctuations while climate is large-scale and predictable.

We cannot observe climate directly. All that we are able to see and experience is the weather. This is typically measured in air temperature, air pressure, precipitation, cloud cover, and soil temperature and moisture. But that average weather over the course of many years reveals a pattern that represents the long-term trends in the climate.

The best advice, therefore, is to keep your focus on the climate, the long-term happenings and not on the short-term, erratic weather. But at the same time, we also need to monitor the weather in our immediate area for our personal plans and activities. Be aware that the 10-day forecast gives a general possible overview of the coming weather over the coming week. But be flexible and ready to adapt to the changes that inevitably happen.

climate change impacts

Weather is hard to predict. But climate is (almost) totally predictable. Climate has still changed over the decades and centuries. But these changes are always in response to a global force that is observable. This tends to make the climate trends far easier to predict and observe.

Needless to say, humans also have an impact. The strongest force that is driving the climate right now, in our lifetime, is the increasing levels of CO2 released into the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. These CO2 emissions are trapping additional heat from the sun within our atmosphere and in other CO2 reservoirs. A smaller portion of the trapped heat warms the air, i.e. it goes into the atmosphere. But most of the increased heat energy is sequestered (stored) into the oceans. That’s right, the oceans across the globe are getting warmer. And that has major long-term consequences. That’s another topic for another article.

Now you are better equipped to understand the variability and reliability of weather and climate.

Humanizing Architecture – Through the Eyes of Abeer Seikaly

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Through the jasmine-scented roads of L’weibdeh (Jordan) I navigated my way to Abeer Seikaly’s studio, an old house that resembles Jordan’s genuine and inspiring identity. Abeer Seikaly is a young Jordanian architect who has been featured on several global and local media platforms because of her innovation “Weaving a Home” that was shortlisted for the 2012 Lexus Design Award.

Influence of Education and Local Knowledge

Top architecture schools in the Arab world are heavily influenced by international trends in built environment and sustainability, and unfortunately Arabic reference material is largely ignored in teaching. The emerging thinking around built environment and its relationship with people and nature rely largely on digital and virtual practice leaving students with minimal interaction with communities and building materials.

Architect-Studio

Moreover, the growing disconnect between research and market requirements in most developing countries magnifies the gap between engineering and sustainable development. Acknowledging the uniqueness of traditional Arab architecture and its historical importance in shaping sustainable building concepts raises concern on the diminishing role of local knowledge in responding to contemporary sustainability challenges.

For Abeer, having the chance to study abroad provided her with new insights not only about architecture but more importantly about her own potential and abilities within a larger context. What her culture-rich home environment gave her, on the other hand, was respect and appreciation for art, creativity and surroundings. With time, exposure and experimentation, Abeer defined her own architecture. Emphasizing that the pure definition of technology is craft, weaving, and making, her definition of innovative architecture combines old and new, traditional and contemporary. It is also thinking about architecture as a social technology.

Re-defining Success

When people are focused on the product, they usually tend to neglect the joy and benefit of the process itself. Focusing on the process boosts self-confidence and self-awareness and yet requires diligence and mindfulness while enjoying experimentation. It enables us to engage more deeply with the present, and thus, allow us to learn faster and experience life to the fullest.

According to Abeer Seikaly, architecture is not about the building itself but more about getting into it and experiencing its metaphysical nature with time. “Ordinary architects nowadays are inclined to use computer software to design buildings while sitting in closed offices. This is only dragging them away from people and from nature. As a real architect, you need to be out there to feel, interact and test your designs”, says Seikaly. “Creating is about the process and not about the outcome.”

Thinking through Making: The Tent

As a firm believer in the process, Abeer Seikaly has been working on her creative structural fabric for years. When the time was right, she used this creative work to bridge a gap in human needs. Participating in the Lexus Design Award was part of engaging her fabric with people and nature.

Disaster shelters have been made from a wide range of materials, but Abeer turned to solar-absorbing fabric as her material of choice in creating woven shelters that are powered by the sun and inspired by nomadic culture. The use of structural fabric references ancient traditions of joining linear fibers to make complex 3-D shapes.

Study Model_AbeerSeikaly

Study model showing movement of the system and its collapsibility

Tackling an important issue like shelter for a humanitarian purpose can’t be more relevant to both innovative architecture and sustainable development. With Jordan being host to more than 1.4 million Syrian refugees, this is about humanizing architecture and meeting basic human needs.

She passionately mentions her ultimate inspiration: thinking through making. “Experimenting, looking at material’s behavior, testing, and slowly you are there”, says Seikaly. “It is about thriving and not about surviving. Revelation results from years of hard work and continuous perseverance throughout the process”, she adds.

Recipe to Innovate

There is no recipe for innovation, Abeer Seikaly explains, but Jordanian engineers and architects need to ask themselves the following: What are you about? What is local/sustainable? What is Jordan about?

When asked about role of engineering firms, Seikaly stressed the fact that most corporations nowadays do not provide an enabling environment for youth to learn and grow. Emphasizing the importance of innovation, she says “With no personal attention and coaching, engineers are disconnecting from themselves and from community. Despite all the difficulties we face in our country, innovation goes back to personal drive and motivation: if you need it, you will make it”.

“Define your role as an Architect in a developing country, I have discovered mine and became an aware human being. To serve society and improve well-being is who I am”, concludes Abeer.

Architecture and Sustainable Development

The straightforward link between architecture and SDGs is Global Goal No. 11 i.e. Sustainable Cities and Communities; nevertheless, a deeper look at how architecture influences and gets influenced by other elements brings about a link with almost each of the other Global Goals.

The unique relationship between built environment, people and nature makes it an opportunity to demonstrate real sustainable development, as highlighted by Abeer Seikaly’s innovation. Around 60% of the world’s population will be living in cities in 2030 which dictates a new and integrated way of thinking about urban design and architecture.

10 Ways to Efficiently Heat and Cool Small Spaces

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Efficient heating and cooling of space save energy and money. Luckily, you don’t need expensive traditional heating and cooling systems to efficiently heat and cool small spaces. These are pretty powerful and will quickly overheat a small space.

So how can you efficiently heat and cool spaces? There are several options. Below are ten permanent and portable solutions for heating and cooling small spaces.

1. Mini-Split Heating and Air Conditioning Systems

Currently, no permanent HVAC solution for small spaces is more popular than mini-split HVAC units. They’re the perfect option as a super-efficient, all-in-one heating and cooling system for a small setup.

How to Efficiently Heat and Cool Small Spaces

Heat ducts lose a lot of heat (25% to 40%) via the duct system. This is pretty inefficient and an unnecessary wastage of fuel. On the other hand, mini-splits don’t need any ductwork to provide heat. They do it directly, resulting in less fuel usage. This is not only better for your pocket, but the environment too.

Mini-split systems are great for small rooms and apartments. Since you mount the unit on the wall, it makes them great space savers because they won’t take up any floor space within your already compact setup.

Additionally, mini splits replace the need for separate window AC units, saving you more space. Therefore, you don’t have to look for a place to store another unit once winter is here.

In addition to a mini-split HVAC system’s efficiency in heating and cooling, it comes with modern electronics features, including remote control, a built-in dehumidifier, and a timer. Of course, you’ll never have such conveniences with other heating options such as an underfloor heater or a fireplace.

A mini-split is relatively inexpensive compared to other permanent heating and cooling options. Though you must have an HVAC technician do it for you, it doesn’t involve extensive installation.

Granted, mini-splits aren’t the cheapest option for heating and cooling small spaces. However, they may be the most effective and efficient option in the long run.

2. Electric Panel Heaters

An electric panel heater is another great option to heat small spaces. These low-watt heaters feature several advantages, one being affordability. Indeed, you can purchase an electric panel heater from your local home goods stores for as little as $100, or even less.

In addition, once you acquire an electric panel heater, you don’t need any special skills or help from an HVAC technician to install it. All you have to do for the heater to start working is plug it in. And since most come in low wattages, an electric panel heater is cheap to operate.

An electric panel heater is a perfect choice for heating small spaces. That’s because it hardly takes up any space. It also heats up quite fast. These two qualities make these electric heaters ideal for small spaces, especially in areas that don’t get extremely cold.

3. Wood Fireplaces

A wood fireplace is a great way to heat a small space quickly and add character to your small apartment. It’s also a permanent small space heating solution.

The good news is that heating your small space with wood is quite inexpensive. Better yet, it’s free for those with readily available wood at their homes.

The only disadvantage of heating a small space with a wood fireplace is the cost of installation. It can be pretty expensive. Also, in some places, installing one in an apartment is illegal or impossible. Remember, you need a chimney for the heater. That means for a small apartment, you must be on the top floor.

Consider a wood-burning stove too. It’s a viable heating option for small spaces too. While these are old-fashioned ways, they can go a long way in cozying up your space. All you need is to load your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

4. Gas Space Heaters

Small spaces also have spots that can be colder than others. This is where a small space heater, especially a gas heater, comes in. Propane or natural gas space heaters burn cleaner than kerosene, making them a better alternative than kerosene heaters.

In most cases, running a gas space heater doesn’t require electricity. This is good news because your small space heater will work even amidst a power outage.

If you live in areas where natural gas is abundant, purchase a gas space heater to run with this gas. You can also use propane gas- it’s widely available throughout the country.

Gas space heaters are pocket-friendly, costing less than $150. Besides, they’re small, thus ideal for small apartments. Since they burn clean, you don’t have to worry about cleaning the gas space heater’s components or changing its filters every time you run it.

On top of all these benefits, portable gas space heaters can generate a lot of heat within a short time. You’ll also enjoy the scene of live fire as it warms your small space up.

warm home in winter

5. Electric Underfloor Heaters

An electric underfloor heater is an ideal heating solution for a small space. You can install the heater underneath carpeting, ceramic floors, or laminate floors. This home heater is quite comfortable as it heats your small apartments from the floor up.

The good news is that electric underfloor heaters don’t consume much power. For instance, an electric underfloor heater will only use about 180 watts if you live in a small space of 6 by 3 feet. This is a minimal amount of power.

Another benefit of heating a small space with an underfloor heater is that the heat it radiates off spreads uniformly throughout your small house. Rising from the floor upwards means you’ll have no cold space left out within your home.

Also, nobody likes a noisy heater. But as this underfloor heating is on the floor, it operates quietly and unobtrusively, taking up minimal space.

It’s worth mentioning that although these heaters are not expensive, installing them can be costly. You either have to pull up your flooring or install another flooring over your existing one after laying your heating mat.

6. Ethanol Fireplaces

An ethanol fireplace is a small fireplace that runs on a bio-ethanol liquid or gel fuel. You can get yourself one of these fireplaces and install it in your small space.

They’re a great option, providing a clean-burning fire. Besides, ethanol fireplaces don’t require ventilation. You’ll hear people saying running an ethanol fireplace is just like running a candle, which shows how clean this solution can be.

The fact that ethanol fireplaces produce live flames means you’ll need another heater for your small space to use while asleep or away for safety reasons.

7. Gas Fireplaces

Instead of using a wood fireplace, you can go for a gas one. This is a great alternative that comes with more convenience because you’ll not have to add fuel manually now and then.

In addition, a gas fireplace doesn’t produce ash and smoke like a wood fireplace. It’s also easier to vent.

But remember, you must hook a gas fireplace to a gas line. Therefore, installation can be a bit more expensive than a wood fireplace. In addition, it might not be legal to install one in your small apartment.

8. Electric Fan Heaters

Electric fan heaters heat a small space by blowing hot air around your apartment through fans. The heater is usually more powerful than an electric wall heater. Regardless of the size, an electric fan heater will operate at high watts (over 1500).

An electric fan heater is cheap. The good news is that you can even purchase it like a fireplace model. This is good for aesthetic purposes. Moreover, you can use a remote control to operate it.

However, you should note that running an electric fan heater can be expensive. Additionally, the heater gets so hot that it can damage a child, pet, or anything else near it. So, you must keep them away from the electric fan heater at all times.

9. Kerosene Heaters

Another great option to heat a small space is a kerosene heater. These heaters are extremely portable and produce a lot of heat.

Though kerosene heaters will go a long way in heating your small apartment, be wary of their drawbacks.

Remember, they produce a live flame which can deprive a small space of oxygen. This means ventilation is necessary if you must use one.

Many apartments will not allow kerosene heaters too. Besides, you might have one but lack fuel to run it. Kerosene is not only becoming costly but rare to find with each passing year too.

Cleaning kerosene heaters and replacing their wicks is also costly.

10. Cooling Options for a Small Space

Apart from heating, you may require to cool your small space, especially during summer. Some of the options available for small apartments include:

  • Mini-split system: As discussed above, mini-split HVAC units have cooling capabilities alongside heating ones.
  • Using a PTAC unit. Make sure you use a PTAC of the right size to adequately cool your space.
  • Window air conditioner: A window AC will go a long way in cooling your small space. Whether it’s a small apartment, room, or house, window ACs make a great, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective cooling option. Luckily, they take no additional space in your small apartment. The good news is that there are window air conditioners with heat that you can use for year-round climate control for your small apartment.
  • Wall air conditioner: Wall air conditioners will also cool your small space. Just like window ACs, they don’t sacrifice space as they run through your apartment wall.
  • Opening your windows to facilitate cross ventilation.
  • Using oscillating fans.

Wrap Up

When it comes to heating and cooling a small space, there are many options at your disposal. Of course, many factors will go into determining the one you choose for your small apartment, including ownership, budget, preferences, and your local climate. More important is to make your small space cozy with heat or AC.

Driving Tips from the Pros to Make the Roads Safe This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive celebrations, but it also raises the risk of road accidents. As millions of Americans travel the roadways to see loved ones or shop for gifts, traffic congestion, bad weather, and distracted driving increase the chance of accidents.

That is why it is critical to follow expert driving advice to make the roads safer for all. This article talks about some essential tips to make you a safe driver this holiday season.

safe driving tips

And if the unexpected happens, you look for a good personal injury attorney, like the ones at TopDog Law personal injury lawyers to protect your rights. As one of the leading networks of attorneys,

Check Your Vehicle

A little planning before your trip can help prevent accidents. Checking the fundamentals of your vehicle to ensure it is in good condition will be helpful. Here are some parts you should pay attention to.

  • Tires: Check the pressure and tread. Worn-out tires are dangerous, especially in wet or snowy weather.
  • Brakes: Make sure that the brakes are working correctly. Poor brakes can cause longer stopping distances, particularly on slippery roads.
  • Lights and Indicators: Check all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they operate correctly. Visibility is critical, especially during winter when daylight hours are limited.
  • Windshield Wipers and Fluid: Visibility is critical in winter storms. Replace worn-out wipers and keep the windshield washer fluid topped off.

Plan Your Route and Watch the Weather

Traffic jams are unavoidable, and the weather can be unpredictable. Planning your route and monitoring the weather can help avoid unsafe driving situations. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

  • Check Traffic Updates: Use navigation apps to check real-time traffic reports and road closures.
  • Weather Conditions: Avoid unnecessary trips if a winter storm is approaching. If you must drive, make sure that your car contains an emergency kit that includes a blanket, a torch, a beverage, and snacks. Snow and ice can make roadways difficult, so allow enough time and travel slowly.

Be Mindful While Driving

The holiday season brings a large rush of cars onto the road. More number of drivers equals a higher risk for accidents, especially in congested locations. Here are a few safety tips from the experts:

  • Allow Extra Space: Maintain a safe following distance between yourself and the car in front of you, especially in inclement weather or heavy traffic. In slippery conditions, stopping takes longer, so having more excellent space allows you to respond more quickly.
  • Drive Defensively: Expect the unexpected, whether someone cuts you off or brakes abruptly. Always be vigilant and prepared to alter your driving.
  • Avoid Switching Lanes Often: Constantly switching lanes in traffic does not get you anywhere faster and can increase the risk of an accident. Be patient and wait until the appropriate moment.

Do not Drive Impaired or Distracted

Holiday celebrations frequently include alcohol, and driving while intoxicated is one of the most dangerous activities on the road. Alcohol impairs thinking, reaction time, and vision, increasing the likelihood of a collision. To avoid this risk, follow these tips:

  • Designate a Driver: If you are going to drink, always assign a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service.
  • Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is as deadly as drunk driving. Put down your phone, don’t eat or alter your radio while driving, and focus on the road.

How to Look for a Good Personal Injury Attorney

Things are unpredictable, so understanding how to look for a good personal injury attorney will help protect your rights if you find yourself in an unfavorable situation. There are some elements you should check before hiring a car accident lawyer.

  • Always check if the attorney has more experience
  • Look at their field of expertise
  • Check their success rate

If everything is okay, hire them for your car accident claim. They can stand up for you, negotiate with the insurance companies, and get fair compensation.

The Repurposing of Abandoned Oil Platforms: Perspectives

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Imagine a silent oil platform, rusting away at sea, its once-busy halls echoing a haunting lullaby of abandonment. Yet, underneath this decay lies a potential haven for marine life. As you dive deeper into the implications of these abandoned structures, you’ll discover a complex narrative interwoven with the threads of environmental preservation and innovative sustainability. What if, instead of leaving these giants to corrosion and ruin, we could breathe new life into them?

The Dark Side of Abandonment

Corrosion and Structural Failure

Over time, abandoned oil platforms face relentless forces from nature. Corrosion is a major player in weakening their structures. You might ask, how does this affect marine life? When a platform fails, it can lead to catastrophic oil spills. Such spills are ecological disasters, threatening the very heart of marine ecosystems.

environmental impact of abandoned oil platforms

Wellhead Leaks

Imagine a silent leak—this is exactly what happens with abandoned wellheads. These wells may not be sealed properly, allowing harmful oil and gas to seep into surrounding waters. These leaks pose severe threats to marine life and coastal health. As one marine conservationist poignantly states, “An abandoned oil platform is like a ticking time bomb for marine ecosystems if left unchecked.”

Physical Barriers

Abandoned platforms don’t just disrupt the environment; they become physical barriers in the ocean. They hinder the natural migration of marine species and alter local currents, which can drastically change local ecosystems. You might wonder, how does this affect fish populations? The answer is simple: it can disrupt breeding patterns and food availability.

Overall, the implications of abandonment are profound. As these platforms corrode and leak, their impacts on the environment grow increasingly severe. Keeping our eyes on these silent threats is crucial for the future health of our oceans.

Environmental Benefits of Repurposing Abandoned Oil Platforms

Creating New Habitats

Have you ever considered the potential of abandoned oil platforms? These structures can become more than just rusting metal—they can serve as artificial reefs. By repurposing them, we can create new habitats for marine life. Fish, corals, and invertebrates will find a home in these rigs. It’s like turning an old house into a community center!

  • These reefs promote marine biodiversity.
  • They attract diverse species, enriching local ecosystems.

Fisheries Support

The economic advantages are hard to ignore. Thriving fish populations drawn to these repurposed rigs mean better livelihoods for local fishermen. It’s a win-win!

Enhancing local fisheries not only stimulates coastal economies but also provides sustainable food sources. By transforming idle structures into vital ecosystems, we can preserve life under the sea and ensure ecological balance.

Mitigating Risks of Adapting

To ensure that abandoned oil platforms are environmentally safe when repurposed, rigorous decommissioning is essential. This involves a series of crucial steps:

  • Thorough Cleaning: Removing all residual oil and chemicals.
  • Structural Integrity Assessment: Evaluating the rig to guarantee long-term stability.

Why is this important? If not properly managed, these platforms can deteriorate. Corrosion and structural failures can lead to environmental disasters, including oil spills. Regular inspections are critical to keeping the structure sound and preventing leaks post-adaptation.

2. The Role of Eco-Friendly Design

Another key aspect to consider is the use of eco-friendly design and materials. Implementing sustainable practices can greatly lessen ecological footprints:

  • Use of Sustainable Materials: Opt for recycled or renewable components.
  • Minimal Environmental Impact: Design processes should cause the least disturbance to marine ecosystems.

Collaboration with marine scientists can help optimize design for ecological benefits. Their input can lead to innovative solutions for habitat creation and biodiversity enhancement.

oil rig repurposing

Transformative Energy Solutions for Marine Projects

Renewable Energy Options

Imagine a marine research center powered entirely by nature. This is not just a dream but a reality with the right mix of renewable energy sources. You can harness:

  • Solar Energy: Solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight. They are perfect for sunny locations.
  • Wind Energy: Turbines capture wind’s power. Small wind turbines are well-suited for oil platforms
  • Ocean Energy: From wave energy converters to ocean thermal energy systems, the ocean itself can be a vast power source.

This combination optimizes energy usage, catering to both surface and underwater facilities.

Energy Efficiency Measures

Now, how can you make your marine research hub even more efficient? Implementing energy efficiency measures is key. Consider:

  • Smart Energy Management: Monitor consumption to identify and reduce energy waste.
  • Energy-Efficient Equipment: Using modern technology can significantly decrease energy needs.

These steps are vital for creating self-sufficient ecosystems.

Integrating diverse energy solutions ensures resilience against storms and other natural factors. Do you think about energy storage? It’s essential for managing fluctuations. These technologies help ensure a reliable power supply for a repurposed oil platform.

Looking Ahead: The Global Implications of Local Actions

Have you ever considered how a local action can resonate globally? The repurposing of abandoned oil rigs into a  thriving marine research center is a prime example. It’s not just about cleaning up an area; it’s about inspiring scalability of solutions everywhere. By transforming these structures into habitats for marine life and a marine research hub, we can set a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide. If communities successfully turn abandoned rigs into coral reef-like environments, similar sustainable strategies can be implemented in other regions.

إجعل رمضانك أخضر

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في شهر رمضان نشهد إختلافاً كبيراً في العادات والأنشطة اليومية سواء من عادات الأكل أو الصلاة . وتأتي الدعوة لعدم الأكل والشرب من شروق الشمس إلى غروبها في هذا الشهر لتعزيز قدرات التحمل البدني والعقلي، وفهم الصعوبات التي يواجهها المحرومين ممن ليس لديهم ما يكفي من الموارد لتلبية حاجاتهم الأساسية. ويتجلى المعنى الحقيقي لشهر رمضان بتنقية أنفسنا مع الحرص على صحة الجسم، والروح، وعلاقاتنا الانسانية  بالإضافة إلى علاقتنا مع النظم البيئية التي تدعم وجودنا على هذه الارض.

green-iftar

شهر رمضان هو فرصة ذهبية للتفكير في إمكانية التحول نحو “نمط الحياة الخضراء” الذي يتمثل بأسلوب حياة صديقة للبيئة، تتجنب التلوث والإسراف، وتهدف إلى التوفير في استهلاكنا للموارد الطبيعية. نمط الحياة الخضراء يعني تحسين نوعية الحياة وتحقيق التنمية المستدامة.

دعونا نخلق الوعي حول استخدامنا للموارد الطبيعية خلال شهر رمضان، ونبدأ بالتفكير والتصرف بشكل إيجابي لحماية بيئتنا وتغيير عاداتنا التي تؤثر على النظام البيئي حولنا. دعونا نغتنم هذه الفرصة التي يوفرها رمضان ونعتمد نموذجا للسلوك الأخضر والمسؤول الذي يعالج القضايا البيئية الملحة.

من المعروف أن استهلاك اللحوم والخضار والفواكه بالإضافة إلى المشروبات والعصائر يشهد إزدياداً كبيراً في هذا الشهر. لذلك، دعونا نتأنى بقراراتنا الاستهلاكية ونتناول الطعام الصحي والعضوي بكميات مدروسة. دعونا نزرع الخضراوات والفواكه بالمساحات المتاحة لدينا، ونستخدم المواد الغذائية بحكمة. دعونا نبتعد عن عاداتنا الروتينية التي تلوث الهواء والتربة والمياه. هذا وعلينا أن ندرك أن أي سوء إدارة لمواردنا المتاحة سيكون له آثار لا رجعة فيها على التوازن البيئي وعلى أجيالنا المقبلة.

يقدم رمضان فرصة مثالية لإعادة شحن طاقتنا الروحانية كل عام. فهو أنسب وقت للتكفير عما فات والتفكر في خلق الله. حيث حمل البشر مسؤولية عمارة الأرض التي تتضمن الاستخدام  الأمثل للموارد والبيئة بحيث نضمن استدامتها.

ليكن هذا الشهر نقطة تحول في سبيل احترام مواردنا والبيئة من حولنا. وفيما يلي بعض الأفكار الأساسية:

دعم المنتجات المحلية.

التخطيط لاستخدام أمثل للغذاء، دون أي هدر أو إسراف.

ترشيد استهلاك المياه، وخاصة أثناء الوضوء، وتصويب أي مسبب للهدر.

ترشيد استهلاك الطاقة والتنبه لبصمتنا الكربونية.

توليد كمية أقل من النفايات خاصة النفايات الغذائية. بالإضافة إلى ضرورة دعم وممارسة إعادة التدوير وإعادة الاستخدام.

عدم رمي القمامة في المناطق العامة، كالأماكن التجارية والدينية ومناطق التسوق.

الحد من أو عدم استخدام الأكياس البلاستيكية، وتقليل استخدام الورق والقرطاسية.

إطفاء الأجهزة بعد انتهاء الحاجة منها مثل الأضواء، وأجهزة التكييف، والمراوح، والسخانات، وما إلى ذلك.

استخدام الأجهزة الكهربائية مثل الغسالات والمكواة والمكنسة الكهربائية وغسالات الصحون خارج ساعات الذروة.

استبدال المصابيح العادية بمصابيح أقل استهلاكاً للطاقة وإطفاء الأنوارعند عدم الحاجة لها.

القضاء على عادة استخدام المواد المخصصة لاستعمال مرة واحدة، من صحون وأكواب، الخ. وتجنب استخدام الأوعية المصنوعة من الستايروفوم وأدوات المائدة البلاستيكية.

ترجمة: سمر طه

أخصائية في مجال البيئة  ودراسات تقييم الأثر البيئي في الأردن، حاصلة على درجتي الماجيستير في التقييم والمراقبة البيئية والعلوم البيئة وإدارتھا وبكالوريوس في إدارة المياه والبيئة.

فوائد لا تحصى للأراضي الرطبة

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لطالما أغفلنا روعة وأهمية الأراضي الرطبة بسبب جهلنا للميزات العديدة لهذا النظام البيئي. و لطالما استخدم مصطلح الأراضي الرطبة   للتعبير عن المستنقعات العكرة  المليئة بالبعوض أو الأراضي غير المستغلة التي تحتاج إلى بعض التحسينات لتكون أكثر إفادة للإنسان. و قد أدى هذا التقليل من شأن وأهمية الأراضي الرطبة إلى فقدان الكثير منها، الأمر الذي استلزم التوقيع على معاهدة الأراضي الرطبة في رامسار، في إيران عام 1971. ولا تزال تلك المعاهدة تعد بمثابة الحركة الدولية للمحافظة على الأراضي الرطبة، حيث تضم أكثر من 160 دولة موقعة.

wetlands in arab countries

لقد وضح الراحل نيلسون مانديلا روعة التنوع البيولوجي الموجود في الأراضي الرطبة عندما ذكر منطقة القديس لوسيا في خطاب له قائلاً: “نستطيع القول أن الأراضي الرطبة هي المكان الوحيد على الكرة الأرضية الذي يتعايش فيه أقدم الثدييات البرية في العالم (وحيد القرن) وأكبر الثدييات البرية (الفيل) مع أقدم الأسماك في العالم ( سمك سيلكانث) وأكبر الثدييات البحرية في العالم الحوت)”.

و يمكن أن تكون الأراضي الرطبة طبيعية أو اصطناعية، كما يمكن أن تكون مشبعة بمياه عذبة أو مالحة أوآسنة (و هي المياه التي تكون نسبة ملوحتها عالية ولكن ليس بقدر ملوحة مياه البحر)، هذا وتدعم هذه الأراضي الغطاء النباتي الذي يتم تكييفه خصيصا للنمو في التربة المشبعة. و بصرف النظر عن خصائصها الفريدة، فإن الأسرار الحقيقية لهذه الأراضي تكمن في منافعها المتعددة للإنسان وللبيئة.

و تعد واحدة من أهم خصائص هذا النظام البيئي المدهشة هو أنه يعد بمثابة اسفنجة أو نظام طبيعي للسيطرة على الفيضانات. حيث أن طبيعية الأراضي الرطبة تمكنها من استيعاب مياه الأمطار وبالتالي تقليل كمية الماء التي تصل إلى الأنهار والجداول مما يقلل بشكل طبيعي من خطر الفيضانات. ويساعد اتساع السهول الفيضية  أيضا على التحكم في حركة و تخزين مياه الأمطار. و بالإضافة إلى ذلك، فإن الميزة المدهشة الأخرى للأراضي الرطبة هي قدرتها على تنقية المياه من خلال احتجازها للملوثات داخل التربة والغطاء النباتي. وعليه فإن الأراضي الرطبة تعتبر فعالة جدا في تنقية المياه ولذا يتم استخدامها لتنقية المياه العادمة الناتجة عن الصناعة والتعدين و مياه الصرف الصحي.

azraq wetland in jordan

و علاوة على ذلك، تساهم الأراضي الرطبة في تجديد إمدادات المياه الجوفية والتي تعتبر مصدرا هاما لتزويد المياه. كما تدعم حياة مجموعة كبيرة ومتنوعة من الأنواع الحيوانية والنباتية. و على الرغم من المزايا الإيجابية  المتعددة لهذه لأراضي إلا أنه وللأسف، هناك العديد من العوامل التي تهدد هذا النوع من المناظر الطبيعية. فعلى سبيل المثال،  تعاني الأراضي الرطبة في جنوب أفريقيا من عدة مشاكل تهدد ديمومتها منها: الرعي الجائر، والتلوث بالمبيدات الحشرية، والنمو التجاري والنباتات الدخيلة وسوء إدارة مياه الأمطار في المناطق الحضرية..

و في المناطق الجافة في الشرق الأوسط، و نظرا لزيادة الطلب على المياه العذب فإن الأراضي الرطبة الداخلية، مثل الأنهار والبحيرات، بدأت في طريقها إلى الاضمحلال، و تعتبر واحة الأزرق (وهي موقع رامسار الوحيد في الأردن) ونهر الموجب من الأمثلة الجيدة على  الوضع الحرج للمياه في الشرق الأوسط. وتواجه الأراضي الرطبة في العراق أيضا خطر الاندثار كنتيجة لعقود ممتدة من الصراعات وسوء الإدارة بالإضافة إلى قربها من الحقول النفطية. ويعد فقدان الأراضي الرطبة مؤشراً واضحاً على مشاكل تتعدى كونها مشاكل انخفاض وفرة المياه؛ فهي مشكلة تهدد البيئة والناس الذين كانوا يعتمدون على هذه المناطق.

وبوصفنا حماة لهذه لأرض، فإن من مسؤوليتنا أن نخصص بعض الوقت ليس فقط للزيارة ومعرفة المزيد عن هذه البيئات ولكن ينبغي أن نشارك في مشاريع للمساعدة في حفظ وحماية وإعادة تأهيل النظم البيئية للأراضي الرطبة المتبقية في جميع أنحاء العالم. وفقنا الله وبارك لنا بوفرة في جهودنا لتحافظ على واستعادة بيئتنا(آمين).

ترجمة 

سمرطه

أخصائية في مجال البيئة  قامت بدراسات أثر بيئية لعدة مشاريع مختلفة في الأردن، حاصلة على درجتي الماجيستير في التقييم والمراقبة البيئية والعلوم البيئة وإدارتھا وبكالوريوس في إدارة المياه والبيئة.

E-Waste Management: Perspectives from Egypt

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As the person in charge of reducing my company’s environmental impact and maintaining our ISO 14K certification, I had to find a solution for the ever growing number of discarded mobile phones from our employees, partners and 30+ million customers!

I explored almost every initiative related to e-waste management in Egypt. I participated in forums addressing the problem, attended meetings full of great ideas and intentions, met local and expat experts, participated in student competitions offering solutions and contacted overseas entities with great track record like Close The Gap, Umicore and Greencyc.

ewaste-mobiles

Despite all of these resources, I couldn’t find a scheme for collecting and recycling e-waste in Egypt that is environmentally correct and economically profitable or even sustainable.

The industry still remains small and localized within informal and primitive albeit efficient entities on the outskirts of Cairo. A fact that led us to collaborate with CID, a regional consulting agency in establishing a special e-waste school aiming to teach young waste collectors new skills and improving their lives; but that was about it.

Why isn’t this industry picking up?

E-waste management is a ‘labor intensive’ industry that is lucrative and has great growth potential. It is ideal for countries like Egypt; however the main and perhaps only reason it is not progressing as we want it to be is lack of flow to justify investments in a recycling facility capable of extracting value more than any scrap dealer.

You see, it is not easy creating a steady flow of e-waste as people don’t give up their old stuff unless they get something in return; and in poorer societies, environmental priorities are less important than daily livelihood.

Therefore, a direct incentive should have be offered to get these end-of-life mobile phones and other electronics from the drawers and into the recycling bins… at the same time, businesses are reluctant to pay money upfront for, after all, a risky and uncertain venture. So, until someone steps in and breaks this vicious circle, the industry will hardly pick up.

Sorry if I am pessimistic but it is better to know the challenges beforehand. I have examples of well-funded recycling start-ups that invested heavily in equipment and employee training but did not account for the cost of collection. They assumed that a “build it and they will come” model will work but it didn’t, and ended up in disaster!

The Way Forward

For a corporation looking to establish an e-waste program, here’s what how you should do it and what to expect…

  1. An e-waste initiative will start small; and probably, will stay this way for some time. The way I see it, the Egyptian market is still maturing.
  2. Sources of e-waste can come from the corporates and partners at least in the beginning, just to get the process going.
  3. Do not expect immediate profit, it can be a CSR initiative for a while but will soon be cash positive.
  4. As far as the government is concerned, I promise you will have full support. The Ministries of ICT and Environment are both keen to see a successful and sustainable e-waste management initiative.
  5. No need to re-invent the wheel; there are a few small companies already recycling e-waste with good track records. I particularly like one that seems to be having a lot of fun and most profit: Recyclobekia.

Having that said, the way to a sustainable, profitable e-waste management business becomes a lot more feasible.

10 Ways Seniors Can Save Money by Green Living

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Anyone could save money by adopting green living practices. Seniors have an even higher chance of leading a more economical and fulfilling life in their retirement. Leading an eco-friendly lifestyle can help seniors to save a significant amount of precious money. The lifestyle options suggested for a green living will not suffocate you. They will still allow you to lead your life usually. Your life will significantly improve. Here are 10 easy green living tips for seniors to save money, conserve natural resources and thus lead a more satisfying life:

1. Save Energy

Keep your crawl spaces and attics insulated so that you will use lesser energy to keep your house warm. Insulate your weather strip doors and windows and install natural blinds and or curtains over the cold side of your house.

Use a programmable thermostat so that your air conditioners do not have to keep running unnecessarily. When you are not home, the device will not keep expending energy.

2. Bicycles

Using a bicycle has more than just economic advantages. A bike is a great option for seniors, especially if they tend to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Health experts have lots of great comments about bicycles.

green-living-seniors

“Regular use of bicycle can also reduce your life insurance cost. Good health is an important part of life insurance and bicycle helps a lot to stay fit”, says, Linda Chavez, the Founder of Seniors Life Insurance Finder. So, you should not miss this opportunity as we all know how expensive senior life insurance is.

The advantages range from a personal health perspective to the overall health of the population. Economists also concur that a lot of savings would suffice if more people opted for the bicycle. Many errands can be run with a bicycle, with ease.

In short, a bike is great for both health and the economy. You have a chance to flex your muscles in exercise while still helping the environment to keep green.

Unlike motor vehicles, bicycles do not emit any fumes. In any case, for towns and cities with traffic snarl-ups, a bicycle will get you to your destination, way faster.

3. Pool Your Cars

Once people retire, they notice that their need for a car reduces significantly. It is economical to make use of a common means when headed in the same direction.

If you live in the same locality or estate, you could agree with your neighbors to make use of a common vehicle to visit some places. Still, if your family owns two cars or more, it would help to agree to make use of just one to run errands and for travel. Using one car will save you many dollars in fuel and repairs.

It would help if you also considered making use of public transport which is, by far cheaper than using personal means.

4. Mass Transit Options

If you live in towns such as Mammoth Lakes, there is a free town shuttle service. Other towns and cities provide this option too.

Even where the shuttle service is paid for, it costs much less. There is less carbon emitted to the environment, per individual, too.

5. Avoid Excessive Use of Bottled Water

Well it looks and feels right to use bottled water, right? It may be “cool”, yes, but that is just about it. Did you know that bottled water costs tens of thousands more than tap water over the long term?

If you keep using bottled water ever so regularly, you will soon not feel so “cool” after all. Your pockets will begin to feel the pinch.

clean-water-

So, save money by purchasing a water filter for once, and fill your reusable bottles with tap water and use them. It will feel just as cool, convenient, and well, you will keep feeling “cool” for longer.

6. Save on Food

According to the US Department of Agriculture Data, most consumers dispose of at least 30% of the food they purchase. They leave it to go stale or outlive its shelf life before it is used.

Our advice is for you to keep track of the food you have in your possession: in the fridge and store. You should also develop ways of reusing food that you could have left during your previous meal, by preserving it for use next time hunger bites.

It would help if you also were frugal and shrewd when buying food. Do not buy more than you need.

Avoid visiting food stores when you are hungry. Some research has suggested that buying food when you are hungry predisposes you to buy more. Another way to make sure that you do not buy more is to budget precisely.

7. Living in a Small Home

If you have been living in a huge home, you could consider downsizing. Living in a smaller residence means that you will use less energy on heating, cooling and other services.

green-living-seniors

In retirement, you want to save more than you spend because often time, your income reduces. Smaller residences also come with significantly smaller carbon prints. You save the environment and your pocket by opting for a smaller home. A smaller home will require less paint, cleaning reagents, less water for lawns, among other things.

8. Eco-Camping

Camping in the wild is always adventurous and good for health. There are many National Park Service programs in the US, which allow seniors a free travel to the parks. Many of them only require you to take up some volunteer work with the park in exchange for a free camping pass.

Some parks provide you with a pass that allows you access to museums and other historic sites. If you can dedicate only 250 hours a year, you get a free pass for adventure.

9. Visiting Libraries

Libraries are great places to enhance your digital literacy. There, you can read a book and leave it for the next person. You do not have to buy the book you so want to read. You can do the same for music and movies.

If you like reading newspapers, you will save money by visiting the library and reading the same for free. The environment will also be saved of the litter. The amount of paper that needs printing will also reduce if more people used libraries for these services.

10. Retirement Communities

Some communities have developed resources that retirees can share and save money and conserve energy. You can use shared bicycles, cars, and vanpools to travel and for errands in these communities.

Conclusion

Since saving is a personal initiative, all or some of the above options can work for you. The bottom line, though, is that the need to save the planet from further destruction while maintaining our lifestyle without disruption is ever growing stronger and urgent.

The tips provided have proven to work to that end. Old people will appreciate living comfortably, healthy, and saving money by using them.

Gas Flaring in Iraq: A “Burning” Issue

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Ever since crude oil production started in the 19th century, gas flaring and venting were born with it. Companies and even some governments found associated gas a nuisance that had to be flared and vented if continued and increasing crude oil production was to be achieved. But the value of gas as a source of energy and its environmental benefits were gradually realised and some governments introduced regulations to limit gas flaring to the minimum.

However, the problem is still with us and the World Bank estimates that in 2017 gas flaring was at a level of around 140 billion cubic meters (bcm). The Bank established the Global Gas Flaring Reduction initiative with the aim of reaching “zero routine flaring by 2030”.

The Arab countries, with the exception of Iraq, as major crude oil producers, have made serious efforts to reduce flaring and use the resulting savings for power generation and feedstock for the fertiliser and petrochemical industry. In 2013, their crude oil production was close to 24 mbd and gas flaring at 21.8 bcm. By 2017, crude oil production was over 26 mbd and gas flaring increased to 25.5 bcm.

Almost all the increase in gas flaring came from Iraq where in that period oil production increased from 3.0 to 4.5 mbd, while flaring increased from 13.3 to 17.8 bcm. Iraq has to learn from its neighbours to initiate a programme to set flaring on a reduction path if it is to meet its oil minster’s promise to reach zero flaring by 2021, a very optimistic promise not supported by firm action on the ground.

Gas Flaring – A Wasted Resource

Reports suggest that Iraq wastes almost 62 per cent of its gas production which is equivalent to 196,000 barrels a day of crude oil. At US$70 a barrel the wasted resource is worth close to US$45 billion, which would have been sufficient to build a whole new gas industry. Lately gas production and utilisation had gone up appreciably to 29.4 and 13.8 bcm a year respectively, which means that flaring has also risen to 15.9 bcm. This which is equivalent to about 260,000 thousand barrels a day or a loss of about US$20 million a day.

To rectify the need for gas in power stations, Iraq resorted to imports from Iran rather than increase processing capacity and augment its transmission and distribution network. The potential of two agreements with Iran may eventually reach over 18 bcm a year at an estimated cost of US$10.56 per million BTU, a price much higher than its equivalent in international markets.

As Iraq’s crude oil production is expected to increases, gas production will follow proportionately and if processing and utilisation is not increased, flaring will increase. The South Gas Company and also The Basra Gas Company have lately implemented some measures for the recovery of flare gas in the southern oil fields in Iraq. Judging by the size and outputs of these projects it becomes apparent of the scale of this issue. This means that unless further projects are signed and expedited, Iraq will continue flaring gas.

It needs at least an additional processing capacity of some 10 bcm a year considering its expected oil production then. The effective use of gas in Iraq will create jobs, increased revenues, develop other industries and most importantly reduce harmful emissions and finally help the environment.

6 Wardrobe Designs for Bedrooms to Choose From

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Wardrobes in bedrooms are excellent places to store your clothing, shoes, bags, accessories, and other valuables. There are many types of wardrobes available, each designed to meet the specific needs of their owners. To achieve the perfect combination of aesthetics and utility, it is essential to consider your unique needs and the existing interior design of your bedroom. Some wardrobes offer easy access, and adequate storage space, while some offer the best of both worlds. First, let’s look at the different types of bedroom wardrobes.

different types of bedroom wardrobes

1. Wardrobe with drawers and a bookshelf

To optimise your master’s bedroom space, a fitted wardrobe with open storage feature such as bookshelves is worth considering. This design offers the functionality of a bookshelf, where you can place other items such as books, decors, and accessories. In addition, you can customise and use colours that complement the existing design scheme of your master bedroom.

2. Sliding door wardrobe

If you have a bedroom with limited space, a sliding door wardrobe is a better option than a swing-door style wardrobe. Sliding doors are outfitted with various mechanisms, including overlapping door mechanisms, in-line door mechanisms, etc. In addition, you can customise the door with a variety of colours and finishes, including laminates, tinted mirrors, veneers, acrylic, lacquered glass, frosted glass, and many more.

3. Wardrobe with a dresser and shoebox features

A wardrobe with a dresser and shoebox is an excellent solution for people leading busy and hectic schedules. A simple cabinet with swing doors and open shoebox and dresser units will allow you to access everything you need quickly. You can further customise by adding organisers that will allow you to organise clothes and accessories based on your preferences.

4. Glass and aluminium shutter wardrobe

To add a touch of luxury to your master’s bedroom, you should consider a wardrobe with tinted glass and wooden accents. You can also add LED light strips inside the closet for easy access. Depending on your budget, you can add wooden accents made from laminate or veneers. If you’re looking for a unique design, you can choose a bedroom wardrobe with a soft-gold tone framing or a colour that blends seamlessly with the aesthetics of your bedroom.

5. Wardrobe with dressing table

A bedroom wardrobe with a dressing table attachment has been a hot trend. You can install the wardrobe in a corner for space optimisation. A dresser also enhances efficiency since you can prepare, from outfit selection to doing your makeup, in just one space.

6. Classic mirror bedroom wardrobe

A mirror for a bedroom wardrobe door gives an antique look to your bedroom. Additionally, a mirror also creates the illusion of a bigger space in small bedrooms.

Final thoughts

Bedroom wardrobes combine functionality and aesthetics. Whether you opt for fitted wardrobes, freestanding, or a traditional style wardrobe, it is recommended to choose one that perfectly matches your style, storage needs, and budget. Choose a company that specialises in customised wardrobes. Being involved in the material selection and design process will ensure you get the right wardrobe for your needs.