There is a new mirror trend for modern and contemporary bathrooms that has replaced many traditional mirrors. This mirror has special features with all the advantages that attract many people. But what exactly makes this mirror so special? Install a vanity mirror with led light, not just any decorative glass. However, backlit mirrors are mirrors with light behind them. This mirror has exciting advantages. A mirror with a light behind it does not cast shadows in the bathroom. You don’t need to worry about the position of the wall or hanging lamps to light up the room.

Mirrors emit light pleasantly and uniformly. The color of the light around the mirror does not have to be white. If you prefer another color with a certain nuance, use that favorite color. The rays of light behind the mirror are clear and pure, friendly to the eyes, natural, and caress the room gently.

Plus, LED strips last longer than light bulbs, so you won’t have to worry about having to replace them any time soon. LED lights are very veritably energy efficient and also more environmentally friendly. If this is a concern, you can add this fact to the list of benefits that come with backlit mirrors.

Then, for mirrors, the glass is of higher quality than the ordinary type. Of course, there are differences between traditional mirrors and the more modern backlit types. In terms of style, a backlit mirror will be a focal point for the room, usually the bathroom. Thus, there is no need to use ornate frames, interesting shapes, or other details.

The light will frame the mirror perfectly, making it stand out in a glamorous way. Since you don’t need a stand-alone light fixture near the mirror, it means there’s more space for other things. You can take advantage of this if you have a small space and add some storage.

Some mirrors can be attached to cupboards, like ordinary mirrors. You can also complement the mirror with a wall backlight or a hanging lamp that functions separately. These types of built-in LED lights on their backs are sometimes equipped with additional features such as motion or proximity sensors or anti-fog features.

The following are the benefits of using LED mirrors:

Improved Visibility: LED mirrors provide clear, even, and natural lighting, which is ideal for tasks like shaving, applying makeup, and other grooming activities. They minimize shadows and reduce the need for additional lighting.

Energy Efficiency: LED lighting is highly energy-efficient and consumes significantly less electricity than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs.

Longevity: LEDs have a long lifespan, typically lasting for tens of thousands of hours before needing replacement. This means you won’t have to change the bulbs as frequently as with other types of lighting.

Low Heat Emission: LED lights produce very little heat compared to incandescent or halogen bulbs. This is beneficial in the bathroom because it helps maintain a comfortable temperature and reduces the risk of fogging on the mirror.

Customizable Lighting: Many LED mirrors come with dimming options and color temperature adjustments, allowing you to customize the lighting to your preferences. You can choose between warm and cool white light, making it suitable for different tasks and moods.

Space Saving: LED mirrors often have a sleek and modern design, which can save space in smaller bathrooms. They eliminate the need for separate lighting fixtures and take up minimal wall space.

Decorative Element: LED mirrors are available in various shapes, sizes, and styles, making them a decorative element in your bathroom. They can complement the overall design and add a touch of elegance.

Anti-Fog Functionality: Some LED mirrors come with a built-in anti-fog feature, which helps keep the mirror clear even in steamy bathroom conditions. This is especially useful after hot showers.

Versatility: LED mirrors can be installed in various locations in the bathroom, such as above the vanity or as a full-length mirror on the wall or door. They can also be used in different settings, including residential bathrooms, hotels, and commercial spaces.

Smart Features: Some modern LED mirrors come with additional features like built-in Bluetooth speakers, touch controls, and even smart home integration, allowing you to control the mirror’s lighting and other functions through your smartphone or voice commands.

Increased Property Value: Upgrading your bathroom with LED mirrors can enhance the overall appeal of your home. This can be a valuable selling point if you plan to sell your property in the future.

While LED mirrors offer numerous benefits, it is important to consider factors such as the quality of the LEDs, installation, and the mirror’s overall build when making a purchase. The right LED mirror can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom.

With all these features, aren’t you interested in replacing the mirror in your bathroom with a backlit mirror soon in WELLFOR?

Step into the vibrant world of bespoke bathroom basins with Gabbi Murrell, the creative visionary behind Bramstone. As the Creative Director of Bramstone Basins, Gabbi brings a kaleidoscope of colors, innovation, and sustainable artistry to the forefront of the design industry.

In an exclusive interview with House of Coco Magazine, Gabbi shares the inspiring journey of Bramstone’s evolution, from the inception of the groundbreaking Ecrylimer Eco Resin to the commitment to transforming bathrooms into personalized art spaces.

Join us as we delve into the artistic passion, resilience, and unique philosophy that define Gabbi’s creative direction and the future trajectory of Bramstone Basins.

This is more than a conversation; it’s an exploration of how Gabbi Murrell is redefining the norms of the bathroom basin industry, one swirling masterpiece at a time…

Can you share the story of how Bramstone came into existence and what inspired you to enter the world of bathroom basins and accessories?

I’m a self-proclaimed multipotentialite, forever dabbling in diverse artistic arenas and always experimenting! When my earlier innovation, ‘Ecrylimer’ casting compound, gained momentum, a thought struck: Why limit its magic to smaller creations? Let’s make something big! Why not make a bigger splash, and in the literal sense?

The rise in popularity of colored concrete basins intrigued me. While they have their urban charm, they present certain drawbacks. They are usually single colors, sport pitted surfaces, and oddly enough, aren’t big fans of water puddling in them—quite the paradox for a basin, don’t you think?

I had this wild vision: What if we go one step further? What if we craft basins from a typically super-porous material to be perfectly watertight? Then, further this with Ecrylimer’s versatile properties by creating in a kaleidoscope of patterns and hues.

Bramstone isn’t just a brand; it’s an artistic journey. Using Ecrylimer as our star medium, we’re not just making colorful basins. We’re crafting dreams, curating experiences, and bringing a unique touch to the space they are in.

It’s about offering more than just a basin – it’s an invitation for clients to infuse their personal stories and styles into their homes. Every Bramstone basin is a fusion of our artistic vision and the client’s unique essence, transforming an ordinary space into something truly extraordinary.

Your company’s proprietary formula, “Ecrylimer” Eco Resin, is quite unique. Could you tell us more about the development process behind it and how it has contributed to Bramstone’s success?

My adventure began in the world of wedding and event styling, where it is essential to develop cohesive worlds of color palettes. To be unique and creative for our clients, I explored a way to create color-matched decor, candle holders, and all things pretty and personalised.

To this end, I was importing a casting compound that produces a matte ceramic finish from the UK, but, oh my, it was a heavy affair for the pocket and the supply was intermittent.

At a certain juncture, I found myself asking Joe, “Why can’t we just make one here in Australia?” It wasn’t just a whimsical thought; it was a call to action spurred by sheer determination. Pivoting was more than a business strategy; it was an imperative.

As a mother, a wife, and a business owner, I faced the harrowing storm that Covid brought upon our primary income, wiping out our very livelihood. Yet, amidst this chaos, I summoned every fiber of my being, every drop of tenacity and grit that resided within, and channeled it towards reinventing our path.

This pursuit wasn’t just about crafting an improved formula; it was about survival. It was about leveraging every aspect of my multipotentialite essence to ensure that we didn’t just endure but emerged even more resilient and innovative than before.

Every step of this journey was an embodiment of unwavering determination, a testament to what women everywhere are capable of when confronted with adversity.

It just became a fait accompli I would develop an Australian version with an improved formulation and support it with a solid logistics train. By improved, I mean designing in important traits like fewer bubbles (smoother finishes for casting) and no Volatile Organic Compounds, formaldehyde, or Silicas; it had to be safe.

Absolute functionality and safety form two of our business cornerstones. I’m not a chemist, but I wouldn’t mind a dollar for every time someone has asked me that!

Covid’s tumultuous impact on the wedding events industry offered somewhat of a silver lining, allowing for dedicated time to perfect a formula, which, with many frustrations and Eureka moments along the way, had evolved into a successful product.

By October 2021, Ecrylimer PRO was born, weaving its magic in studios around Australia as other artists cast and reimagined their creations with it.

But, here’s the twist! While Ecrylimer boasted unparalleled qualities, it behaved akin to a sponge, drawing water in. This is the same for any type of compound similar to this, including concrete – I dreamt of making it dance with water, but never absorb it.

So, the quest to make it 100% waterproof became my next artistic obsession. This turned out to be extremely hard, seemingly verging on the impossible, I spoke with experts, experimented with hundreds of sealers, nearly giving up.

Every experiment with Ecrylimer at this point was a journey into the unknown, filled with continuous trials and frustration. Imagine running hundreds of tests over months and months, each time brimming with hope, only to watch the water soak in an hour or less later. The emotional toll was palpable – it felt like being on a relentless rollercoaster and much like the original time had been in creating the Ecylimer formula.

But then came the day when we filled a basin with water, and even after two days, it remained impervious. For many, a waterproof basin might seem elementary, almost a given.

However, for us, attempting to emulate the properties of ceramics without the use of a kiln made this feat feel nothing short of a miracle.

Seeing it take form as a swirling colorful basin was more than an achievement; it was a vindication of all the sleepless nights, the relentless testing, and unwavering belief in our vision. It wasn’t merely about forging a product; it was about metamorphosing an experience.

Along this journey, I developed another 2 versions of Ecrylimer: Ecrylimer BOLD (the world’s first commercial just add water Acrylic Polymer), BOLD+ (a hybrid version), and of course the final Ecrylimer triumph: Bramstone Basins.

Bramstone seems to prioritise artistic versatility and customisation. How do you approach the challenge of providing such a wide range of styles and colours to your customers while maintaining quality?

Absolutely, at the very core of Bramstone lies a passionate commitment to artistic versatility and bespoke design. For us, each creation isn’t just a product; it’s a piece of art that tells its own unique story.

Our approach is a holistic one. By diving deep into the aesthetic aspirations of each task, we blend styles, patterns, and hues to craft an artistic masterpiece. Our intimate understanding of Ecrylimer and its capabilities acts as our compass, ensuring consistent quality regardless of the vast array of customizations.

That being said, art is often an exploration, a journey into the unknown. While we approach each project with an informed perspective, surprises are not uncommon, often leading to fresh ideas and insights.

What sets Bramstone apart from other companies in the bathroom basin industry, in terms of both product and philosophy?

Our existing philosophy to improve on every aspect of our business is what drove us initially to develop our products beginning back in 2021. In a way, we have worked ourselves into a position where product and philosophy are co-dependent, driving and maintaining each other.

To elaborate on our philosophy, Bramstone stands as a testament to sustainability and environmental consciousness. In a world teetering on the edge of ecological imbalance, our commitment to sustainability is non-negotiable.

This not only aligns with our vision for a greener future but also adds a distinctive touch to each basin – a history etched in every creation.

Moreover, our dedication to customisation is a hallmark. We’re not just providing basins; we’re crafting experiences. Our clients aren’t merely buying a product; they are investing in a narrative, a story that seamlessly integrates into their personal space.

In terms of product, our crowning glory is undoubtedly the proprietary Ecrylimer Eco Resin. Its evolution from an idea to a waterproof, customisable, and environmentally responsible material was a journey fraught with challenges, but the result is a product that transcends traditional boundaries.

Our commitment to innovation is also evident in the variety of Ecrylimer versions we’ve developed – each an improvement, a refinement, an expansion of possibilities. Ecrylimer BOLD and BOLD+ stand as testament to our relentless pursuit of perfection, catering to different artistic needs.

How do you see the future of Bramstone unfolding, both in terms of product development and market presence?

The journey ahead for Bramstone is an exciting one, marked by continuous evolution and expansion. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation will persist, and we envision further refining and expanding the Ecrylimer product line. There’s always room for improvement and innovation, and we are dedicated to exploring new possibilities that align with our vision for sustainable, customisable, and artistic basins.

In terms of market presence, we aim to not just be a player but a trendsetter in the industry. Our focus on sustainability, artistic versatility, and client-centric customization positions us uniquely in the market. We envision expanding our reach, forging collaborations, and establishing Bramstone as a go-to name for those who seek more than just a basin – an artistic experience.

The world is evolving, and so are the tastes and preferences of consumers. We see Bramstone adapting to these changes, embracing new trends, and staying at the forefront of innovation. Our journey is one of artistic passion, resilience, and a commitment to redefining the norms of the bathroom basin industry.

As we step into the future, our story will continue to be written in every customized basin, in every swirl of Ecrylimer, and in every space transformed into a work of art. The canvas is vast, and the possibilities are endless, and we’re excited to paint the next chapters of Bramstone’s evolution.

In concluding our conversation with Gabbi Murrell, it becomes abundantly clear that Bramstone is not just a brand; it’s a testament to the fusion of artistic ingenuity, sustainability, and a commitment to creating spaces that transcend the ordinary.

Gabbi’s unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of design, coupled with the innovative Ecrylimer Eco Resin, paints a vivid picture of a future where bathrooms are not just functional spaces but personalised sanctuaries of creativity.

As we anticipate the next chapters in Bramstone’s journey, one thing is certain: Gabbi Murrell’s passion for artistry, customization, and environmental consciousness will continue to shape the narrative of a brand that invites individuals to infuse their unique essence into the heart of their homes.

We extend our gratitude to Gabbi for sharing her insights, inspirations, and the captivating story behind Bramstone Basins. Stay tuned for more as House of Coco Magazine continues to explore the frontiers of design and creativity with visionary leaders like Gabbi Murrell.

Your home’s exterior is the silent ambassador of your personal style and the sanctuary you’ve crafted within. It’s the first thing that greets guests, frames the cosy world you’ve built, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s the part of your home that whispers tales of the warmth and life thriving inside to every passerby. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a welcoming prelude to the experiences that await inside.

Elevating your home’s curb appeal can also be a rewarding endeavour, offering a sense of satisfaction every time you turn into your driveway. It’s not just a project but an ongoing commitment to showcasing your home at its best. With thoughtful changes and consistent care, you can ensure that your home makes a positive and memorable impact on both you and your visitors every single day.

The Power of a Polished Pathway

Your journey to a captivating home begins with the path that leads to your door. A pathway is more than a mere route; it’s an invitation, a red carpet that welcomes guests into your world. Imagine stepping stones nestled amongst vibrant green, leading through an artfully landscaped garden that sets the tone for your home’s character. The key lies in choosing plants that accentuate your home’s architecture and using outdoor lighting to enhance safety and highlight the beauty of your outdoor space.

Moreover, a well-maintained pathway is a symbol of care and attention. It’s about ensuring that each paving stone is in place, free from the overgrowth of grass and weeds, and every inch is swept clean. As the seasons change, so should your approach to pathway maintenance, adapting to the needs of the environment to ensure that your pathway remains a pristine passage to your doorstep.

Front Door, Foremost Impression

The front door serves as a silent herald of your home’s character and a direct reflection of your style. The choice of colour and finish can command attention and set a welcoming tone. Here, every detail counts, and the selection of door furniture is critical. A touch of elegance can be achieved through the addition of polished brass door handles, which not only serve a practical purpose but also contribute to the aesthetic allure of your entrance.

Consider the sophistication that these front door handles from Corston bring to your home’s entryway. Their brass door handles are not just mere fixtures; they are a statement of quality and design finesse. Upgrading to such refined door furniture is an effortless way to elevate your home’s curb appeal, making a statement that resonates with style and grace every time your door swings open.

A Façade That Speaks Volumes

The façade of your home is the canvas upon which your style is displayed. The choice of paint, the texture of the siding, or the intricacy of stonework are the elements that come together to tell a visual story. It’s essential to select colours and materials that not only reflect your personal aesthetic but also stand up to the rigours of the elements. A harmonious blend of hues and textures can turn a simple façade into a striking portrait of your home.

But it’s not just what you choose; it’s how you maintain it that counts. A façade should be kept clean and in good repair, with attention paid to the details that could detract from your home’s beauty if neglected. It’s these ongoing efforts that maintain the integrity and appeal of your home’s exterior, ensuring that it continues to look its best year after year.

Windows to the Soul of Your Home

Windows offer a glimpse into your home and allow your inner world to shine out. They are the eyes of your abode, and keeping them sparkling clean and well-maintained is paramount. Consider the frames and sills; are they in good condition, or could they benefit from a fresh coat of paint or varnish? Additionally, shutters and window boxes can be more than just decorative; they can be expressions of your creativity and passion for detail, enhancing the overall charm of your home’s exterior.

Let’s not overlook the importance of consistency and theme. Your window dressings should complement the architectural style of your home and should be in harmony with the colours and materials used elsewhere on your façade. Whether you opt for the quaint appeal of traditional shutters or the vibrant display of a floral window box, these features should serve to frame your windows and, by extension, your view of the world.

Landscaping That Complements, Not Complicates

A well-designed garden can be the crowning glory of your home’s curb appeal. It’s about finding the right balance between the natural and the structured, creating a landscape that complements your home without overshadowing it. The key is to choose a mix of perennials and annuals that bring colour and life to your garden throughout the year. Consider the heights and hues of your plants, ensuring they work together to draw the eye and accentuate the features of your home.

Additionally, the maintenance of your garden speaks volumes. Overgrown beds or unkempt lawns can mar the beauty you’re trying to cultivate. Regular pruning, weeding, and tidying are essential to keep your garden looking its best. It’s this dedication to the details that will keep your garden from being just a backdrop to your home, turning it instead into a vibrant part of your home’s overall appeal.

Lighting the Way to Welcoming Vibes

As the sun sets, it’s the glow from your home that offers a warm welcome. Outdoor lighting is more than a functional necessity; it’s a way to extend the beauty of your home into the evening. A softly lit porch creates an inviting atmosphere, while pathway lights can guide guests to your door with a gentle luminescence. Accent lighting can also be used to highlight architectural features or garden paths, adding drama and depth to your home’s night-time persona.

But lighting should be approached with a strategic eye. Too much light can be as unwelcoming as too little, and the choice of fixtures should reflect the style of your home. Whether you opt for modern, sleek designs or traditional lanterns, the lighting should feel like a natural extension of your home’s character, offering both visibility and a warm embrace to all who approach.

The Finishing Touches: Accessories and Accents

The final touches are what turns a house into a home. Accessories like door wreaths, welcome mats, and outdoor art can express your personality and invite others to experience a slice of your world before they even step inside. These elements should not only be welcoming but also reflective of the design integrity of your home. A wreath that echoes the seasonal colours of your garden or a welcome mat that plays off the texture of your exterior can create a sense of harmony and attention to detail that truly sets your home apart.

When selecting these accents, it’s essential to consider how they will interact with the elements and the wear they may encounter. Durability doesn’t have to compromise design; in fact, it’s an integral part of ensuring that your home’s appeal remains as enduring as its charm. Choose items that stand the test of time and weather, and your home will always have that special touch that says you care.

If your furnace keeps turning off, then you will want to find the cause as soon as possible. Issues like this tend to occur at the worst possible time. If you without heating and you have kids in the house, then you will want to know the extent of the damage as soon as possible. Some of the reasons a furnace may short cycle can be fixed with ease. Others will require expert hands.Some of those possible causes include:

Your Thermostat

Depending on where it is in your home, the thermostat is one of the major reasons why furnaces short cycle.If it is too close to the furnace, it can feel hotter than your home actually is and instruct the furnace to shut off. Calling an expert means they can help to move it to a more appropriate place that will prevent this from happening.

The Furnace Filter

Probably the most common cause for short cycling is a clogged filter. Furnace filters should be changed every few months unless you have a higher quality filter which lasts a little longer.Look for the MERV score. This determines furnace filter ratings and ranges from 1 to 16. The higher the number, the better it is at removing particles. It is these particles that can clog up if not changed frequently. Luckily it is easy to check for yourself.

Blocked Exhaust

Anything that hinders your system is going to result in it short cycling. When it comes to your exhaust vent, something as simple as a bird’s nest can cause the whole system to overheat. Check that air can flow by turning off the furnace and using a light to check for blockages.

Your Furnace Is Too Big

If you were sold a furnace that you didn’t need, it could be coming back to haunt you. A furnace that is too big will find it easy to short cycle meaning it could be happening frequently. Not only does this waste a lot of energy but the repeated turning on and off damaged the furnace. This can result in more expensive furnace repair services being necessary. An expert can help you to see if the furnace you have is right for your property.

The Furnace Itself Is Overheating

If the furnace is too hot, then the safety net of it short cycling is working. Still, this isn’t something you should allow to continue. If the airflow is blocked, which is one of the common causes of a furnace overheating, then it can lead to cracks in the heat exchanger. This is dangerous as it can lead to carbon monoxide leakages. If you suspect that this is the problem, call an expert immediately.

These are the most frequent reasons a furnace will short cycle. The first thing to check should be the filters as they are the easiest to fix. The bigger concerns should not be ignored as they can be a risk to your health.

There’s no better place than home, but that doesn’t change the fact that living in a place with way too many overcast days a year can get to you. Decorating your home to be cheerful and light is the best method of dealing with the glum outdoors. These interior design trick will also work for anyone who wants to make their home a more welcoming place that can put you in a good mood on any day.

Top 5 Interior Decorating Tips for Overcast Locations and Old Gloomy Houses

Use full-wall draperies to make the space cozy

Catching what little light you can from the windows might seem like a good idea, but if you live in a place where the light is scarce, you shouldn’t waste the effort. Having a full-wall drapery, on the oth4er hand, can cheer the place up and create a cozy and romantic atmosphere. This type of drapes will work best for bedrooms and living rooms.

Check out some great full-wall drapes ideas on Pinterest for inspiration. Remember that you should choose drapes of light colors and materials. Go for sheer colors without prints.

Add some candles

Candles make beautiful decorations and when lighted they can make any space seem cozy and warm. According to an experienced interior decorator in Montreal, a home is a place to soothe your soul, and candles can definitely do that. Montreal interior designers know how to make a home seem cheery when the sky is overcast because the weather there is cloudy nearly all year round (Weather Spark). Statistically, the consumption of candles per person has been increasing in the recent years, which proves the growing appreciation of them as an interior décor element.

You can use any candles to enhance your home interior and make it less gloomy. However, the best kind would be scented candles as they influence your sense of smell as well and can boost your mood through it.

Get a bold colored rug

The rug can become the centerpiece of your interior and the item that will take it from gloomy to cheery in an instant. To create this kind of effect, you should go for the brightest, downright outrageous rug you can find.

It doesn’t matter if it’s the only bright item in the room. In fact, this will make the interior look cheerier overall if you choose the neutral-light color scheme that will highlight the wonder of a rainbow-colored soft rug on the floor. It will be best if it’s soft and fluffy as you’ll want to spend a lot of time on that island of color on overcast days.

Choose matter over gloss

If possible make the majority of surfaces in the room matte. While it might seem that glossy polish will look better in a dark room, it actually makes it look less cozy because of the glare.

Matte surfaces reflect light equally, thus they won’t hurt your eyes under the bright LED lights.

Go ‘Scandinavian’

The residents of Scandinavian countries know exactly how dull living in an overcast location can be and they created an entire interior design style to deal with it. The main rules of the Scandinavian style seem to be ‘paint everything white’ and ‘use wood where you can’.

These are two principles you should be integrating into your home interior design. White is a great base color for any potentially dark space. And wood is a great contrast to it that makes an interior seem cozy instead of sharp.

Note that Scandinavians are also big on minimalism. Therefore, you should minimize the number of decorations in the room to make the pace feel and look lighter.