Water features

Fountain

Working with IXORA on a home improvement project can be a time and money saver if you plan the collaboration carefully.

You should have positive feelings toward our interior designers. Designers have the creative energy and resources to manage projects in a cohesive manner from start to finish, realizing clients’ dreams more effectively and efficiently.

What you should expect from IXORA

The sense that your interests and opinions matter.

An accessible and proactive effort, taking the initiative to complete the job.

That some of your existing furnishings will be integrated into the new design, if you wish.

Assurance that the designer will stick to a budget (and not tempt you with “the best” unless you insist).

A full understanding of your lifestyle and use of your living space.

As hassle-free a process for you as possible.

Open communication with you to avoid surprises.

That you love your new home after the job is complete.

What you should not expect from IXORA

That the designer will maintain interest in the project if you cannot make any decisions.

That you attend each shopping trip or are shown every possible fabric in the D & D building.

That the designer can read your mind.

That there will be no misunderstandings or mistakes along the way.

That the designer will bid out every subcontractor. There is a reason that the designer has been working with the same upholster and decorative painters for years.

That the designer will supervise others’ work without an oversight fee. (The designer should be there, however, to oversee the installation of their products at no additional fee.)

That the designer becomes your new best friend.

Pools

Replacing carpeted or tiled areas in your home with wooden floorboards can breathe new life not only into the room in question, but your whole house. As well as adding value to the price of your home, they may improve the health of your family, as nasty bugs and germs have nowhere to hide on wooden surfaces.

The cost of installing wood flooring in your home varies massively depending on how big the area is, what particular style of wood you go for, and what type of finish or varnish you choose.

Dos and don'ts

Looking after your new floor

One of the main selling points of wood flooring is its longevity. Unlike carpet, it will not easily stain, or pick up smells, or even develop nasty mould or mildew. If you look after your wood floor well then you can add years to the look and lifespan of the interior of your home.

Don't mop with a wet mop

Real wooden floors hate water, so don't mop with a wet mop. If you want to clean your wood then use the manufacturer's recommended cleaning products on your hardwood floor.

Vacuum regularly

Little things like gravel, mud and small stones can scratch or scuff your wood and ruin the quality and appearance of your floor. Make sure to vacuum the areas regularly so loose grit doesn't scratch or even become embedded in the wood. Also remember when vacuuming to use a soft bristle brush attachment.

Make sure chairs don't scratch surface

Any furniture that rests directly on top of a hardwood floor should have felt protectors, or furniture coasters under all its feet, as wheels, sharp wooden legs and metal furniture legs can easily scratch and dent hardwood floors. If you have extremely heavy objects, such as pianos or clocks, in your home then you should use wide, non-staining, rubber protectors.

Clean any spills immediately

If you spill any liquids on your wood floor then immediately clean the area with a damp cloth or paper towel. Red wine, in particular, can seep into the grain of the wood, which can result in a permanent stain. Most spills won't be permanent if you clean them straightaway but, if your wood has become stained, always refer to the manufacturer's recommended cleaning guidelines.

Use the right products for your floor

Only use the wood manufacturers recommended products when cleaning your hardwood floors. Many of the over-the-counter oil-based soaps and waxes may result in damaging or dulling the color of your wood, lessening its impact and reducing the overall value of your home.