December 2022 - Page 4 of 13

December 26, 2022

Designing a Gender Neutral Bathroom in the Workplace: Navigating the Debate

As society becomes increasingly aware of and supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, the topic of gender neutral bathrooms has gained attention in various settings, including the workplace. While some see gender neutral bathrooms as a necessary step towards inclusivity and equality, others raise concerns about privacy and safety. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of implementing gender neutral bathrooms in the workplace, as well as strategies for successful design and implementation.

The Case for Gender Neutral Bathrooms:

Proponents of gender neutral bathrooms argue that they provide a more inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals who may not feel comfortable using gendered facilities. This can include transgender individuals, non-binary individuals, and those who do not conform to traditional gender roles. Allowing individuals to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity can help reduce feelings of anxiety and discrimination, and can also help to prevent incidents of harassment or violence.

In addition to being more inclusive, gender neutral bathrooms can also be more efficient and cost-effective for employers. Instead of having separate facilities for men and women, a single gender neutral bathroom can be used by all employees and visitors. This can save space and resources, and can also make it easier for individuals with disabilities to access facilities that meet their needs.

The Case Against the Debate:

While the arguments in favor of gender neutral bathrooms are compelling, there are also valid concerns that have been raised in the debate. One common concern is the issue of privacy, as some individuals may feel uncomfortable sharing facilities with people of a different gender. To address this concern, it is important to design gender neutral bathrooms in a way that maximizes privacy for all users. This can include installing stalls with doors that reach the floor, as well as providing individual sinks and hand dryers.

Another concern that has been raised is the issue of safety. Some individuals argue that allowing people of all genders to use the same bathroom could potentially expose other coworkers to danger. However, there is no evidence to support the claim that gender neutral bathrooms are less safe than gendered facilities. In fact, many transgender individuals report experiencing harassment or violence while using gendered facilities, and implementing gender neutral bathrooms can help to reduce these incidents.

Design Strategies for Successful Implementation:

So, how can employers successfully implement gender neutral bathrooms in the workplace without causing undue controversy or discomfort? Here are a few design strategies to consider:

Consult with a diverse group of stakeholders

Before making any decisions about bathroom design, it is important to gather input from a diverse group of employees, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. This can help ensure that the needs and concerns of all employees are taken into account.

Use clear signage

To avoid confusion, it is important to clearly label gender neutral bathrooms and to provide clear instructions for use. This can include using inclusive language and symbols, such as the gender neutral “toilet” symbol or the word “all-gender.”

Consider the layout and amenities

As mentioned above, privacy is an important concern for many people when it comes to bathroom design. To maximize privacy, consider installing stalls with floor-to-ceiling doors, as well as individual sinks and hand dryers. It is also important to ensure that the bathroom is well-lit and well-ventilated.

Implementing gender neutral bathrooms in the workplace can be a controversial and sensitive issue. However, with careful consideration and a commitment to inclusivity, it is possible to create a bathroom environment that is welcoming and respectful for all individuals.

In many states and countries, it is illegal to discriminate against individuals based on their gender identity. This means that employers may be required to provide gender neutral bathroom options for employees who do not feel comfortable using gendered facilities.

There are also a number of best practices and guidelines available for employers looking to implement gender neutral bathrooms in the workplace. For example, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) has developed guidelines for the design and construction of gender neutral restrooms, including recommendations for layout, signage, and amenities. Employers can also seek guidance from organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and the National Center for Transgender Equality, which offer resources and support for creating inclusive workplaces.

Ultimately, the decision to implement gender neutral bathrooms in the workplace will depend on the specific needs and concerns of the organization and its employees. By considering the pros and cons of the debate, as well as the legal and practical considerations, employers can make informed decisions that support the well-being and dignity of all employees.

December 26, 2022

Boho Home Decor: 4 Homes That Remind Us How Timeless The Style Can Be

London’s Cheyne Walk presents a sedate streetscape that bears no witness, save some blue English Heritage plaques embedded in various façades, to its daredevil history. To the redbrick Georgian and Queen Anne houses and apartment buildings that line this Thames-side street in Chelsea, all manner of creative iconoclasts since the third quarter of the 19th century have gravitated. Querulous painter James Abbott McNeill Whistler bunked here, as did dandified tastemaker Christopher Gibbs, actor Laurence Olivier, and a few of the Rolling Stones, plus Marianne Faithfull.

“All of Chelsea is a fairy tale for me,” says Patrick Mele, a young decorator who is based in New York City but looks straight out of the Cheyne Walk playbook, with a tousled mop of dark hair foaming above an angular face that’s pure Egon Schiele. “My best friend growing up was English, so I have always been drawn to that Anglo sensibility. And I used to come here a decade ago, when I worked for Ralph Lauren, to work on the stores.” So, when Sara Tayeb-Khalifa and her husband, Hussein Khalifa, high-fived Mele’s zesty decoration of a bedroom in their Manhattan apartment, they offered to send him back across the pond to revamp the Cheyne Walk flat they had owned since the early 1990s.

“I had done it room by room by room, but nothing matched—plus, I no longer wanted safe,” explains the elegant Tayeb-Khalifa, a former Phillips executive who is partnering with sustainable-fashion designer Jussara Lee on collections of T-shirts and cushions. “I wanted to make it happy: happy colors, happy home.” To that end, her discussions with Mele were peppered with references to Auntie Mame, Miss Havisham, and the ceilings of old French bistros, stained “a color that reminds you of cigarettes, wine, bad alcohol, and more cigarettes,” Tayeb-Khalifa says with a laugh. —Mitchell Owens

A breakfast nook is enveloped by the garden. Artwork by Sydney Ball.

Photo: Anson Smart; Styling: Joseph Gardner

In the main living area, a Maker&Son sofa is joined by a custom wood cocktail table and a Glas Italia side table on a vintage Moroccan Taznakht carpet. Artworks by Simon Degroot (left) and Karen Black (above).

Photo: Anson Smart; Styling: Joseph Gardner

When asked what someone unfamiliar with his biography might surmise simply by walking through his Melbourne home, Troye Sivan remains sanguine: “I’d hope they’d think that I’m an unpretentious guy, maybe a bit eccentric, someone who loves art and design, someone devoted to his family—and definitely the fact that I’m gay,” says the wildly popular 25-year-old Australian singer-songwriter and actor.

Indeed, if that hypothetical visitor happened to be a persnickety design snob, they’d surely not fail to register the array of treasures by the likes of Percival Lafer, Ettore Sottsass, Tobia Scarpa, and Marios Bellini and Botta; the cabinetry details inspired by Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé; and the bespoke, Memphis-flavored appointments of the bath and powder rooms. On a deeper level, however, it would also be crystal clear that this is the home of someone with the cultivation and confidence to recognize that great design is as much about suitability and nuance as it is about important objects and artworks.

“Troye is an incredibly savvy collaborator. In our earliest conversations, he talked about materiality, how he wanted to feel in his house, about the scent and the sound and the light. It was so much more than just a few pretty things he found on Pinterest,” recalls designer David Flack of local firm Flack Studio, Sivan’s partner in the sensitive, sophisticated reimagining of the singer’s Victorian-era home.

The house in question is a genuine architectural gem. Erected in 1869 as a handball court, the building was converted into a brick factory in 1950 and then subsequently transformed into a residence in 1970 by renowned Australian architect John Mockridge, a fixture of the local art-and-design scene. The conversion is said to be the first adaptive reuse project of its kind in the city. “You can picture Mockridge and his friends sitting around drinking whiskey and talking about art. I wanted to preserve that bohemian spirit and honor the original architecture while creating something that feels like me,” Sivan says. —Mayer Rus

December 25, 2022

3 Historic homes in the Baltimore area you can purchase for $629K

There’s the charming 1920s Colonial, the sprawling 1900 home with a large front porch, or the recently renovated 1790s rowhome.

Quality craftsmanship. Unique character. Interesting history. These are just a few reasons some people love living in historic houses. For many, living in and stewarding a historic home is a rewarding labor of love.

It’s no secret historic homes are my favorite, hence why I created an Instagram account named Historic Homes of Baltimore. Here are three real estate listings of historic homes in the Baltimore area ranging from $600,000-$629,000.

Charming 1920s Colonial in Homeland

Charming 1920s Colonial in Homeland. (Reside MBB/Compass)

This well-cared for home in Homeland offers historic charm with modern updates. Those looking for historic charm will find it in this home with beautiful wood floors, unique millwork, slate roof, and real shutters. An inviting foyer features a beautiful wood staircase that continues to the third story. A formal living room contains a gas fireplace. A welcoming screened porch off the living room is the perfect spot to enjoy the outside. The family room, an addition, features built-ins and large windows. The kitchen has been updated with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast bar. Upstairs, you’ll find four bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The home was built in 1928.

A stone patio covered in an awning, overlooks the backyard. A flat fenced in yard provides space to enjoy, while an irrigation system ensures the gardens are well cared for. The home is set in charming Homeland, just around the corner from the neighborhood’s beautiful lakes.

Beautiful 1900 home in historic Relay

Beautiful 1900 home in historic Relay. (Bright/MLS)

This well-preserved home, located in historic Relay, is full of charm. A large front porch welcomes you to this home, built in 1900. In-laid wood floors, transom windows and a porte-cochere are just a few of the historic details that make this home special. Inside, you’ll find a large foyer with an ornate staircase. The living room and dining room both feature rustic brick fireplaces. A warm kitchen has been updated with wood cabinets and modern appliances, while still maintaining its charm with two crystal chandeliers. There’s also a family room, half bathroom, and small bedroom on the first floor. At the back of the house, a bright sunroom provides access to the beautiful backyard. Three spacious bedrooms are upstairs as well as two full bathrooms. The third level provides finished storage space and additional bonus rooms.

A large backyard provides ample space to enjoy, garden, and park. Situated in historic Relay, the home is minutes to St. Denis train station, providing easy access to Washington D.C. and Baltimore, and Patapsco State Park.

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point.

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point. (Dynamic Frame)

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point.

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point. (Dynamic Frame)

Renovated 1790s rowhome in Fells Point.

Want to live in a historic home but worried about maintenance? Then this Fells Point home is for you. It was originally built in the 1790s but was completely renovated and updated in 2008. Original decorative fireplaces, heartwood pine floors and a beautiful original brick façade are a few of the historic elements preserved during the renovation. The living room and dining room have been opened to create one, bright, shared space. A powder bathroom and a modern kitchen complete the main level. Upstairs, each bedroom is on its own level, with its own bathroom. The second story bedroom features a decorative fireplace, walk in closet, and a large bathroom, with its own decorative fireplace. The second bedroom is also spacious, with another large bathroom.

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This three-story home is located steps from Broadway Square and the surrounding shops and restaurants. It’s also two blocks to the water, and easily accessible to downtown, Harbor East and Canton.

December 25, 2022

Buyers are asking about pickleball, the new ‘hot’ perk in luxury real estate development | Real Estate

It is believed that above 4.5 million individuals are participating in pickleball, making it one particular of the fastest developing athletics in the US, which has attracted the attention of luxury true estate developers. Now, pickleball courts are a perk being supplied in several substantial-end communities.

For example, Cipriani Residences Miami in Brickell, developed by Mast Capital, a organization launched by Camilo Miguel, Jr., describes itself as a group exactly where “residents will enjoy a lifetime of effortless class.” Amid its amenities are a state-of-the-artwork health center, a golf simulator, and a pickle ball court.

Toll Brothers, a person of the leading builders of luxurious properties, offers pickleball and bocce ball courts in its latest enhancement in Florida’s Treasure Coastline Port St. Lucie, Toll Brothers at Tesoro Club, as part of an amenities offer that features an 18-gap PGA championship-stage Palmer golf program

Pickleball is a sport that can be savored equally indoors or outdoor and combines things of tennis, badminton and ping-pong played on a badminton-sized courtroom.

The United states Pickleball web-site claims the activity was invented in 1965 by 3 dads -– Joel Pritchard, Monthly bill Bell, and Barney McCallumare — on Bainbridge Island, a quick ferry trip from Seattle, Washington.

For genuine estate builders, the level of popularity and growth of the sports activities, which is played every day at the Vital Biscayne Group Heart, will make it an best perk to supply as they are somewhat low-cost to set up, taking up small room. The courts are 44 feet extended and 20 feet wide and expense from $20,000 to $45,000, according to a report by the site LocalToday.

The Tal Aventura – a 26-story, 86-unit residential tower in Aventura — will include pickleball courts. “Everyone and their mom are playing pickleball currently,” stated Matthew Rosenblatt, president of Miami-primarily based 2151 Growth.

“You have youngsters who participate in pickleball, you have mother and father who engage in pickleball. It lets all ages and demographics to come jointly,” included Rosenblatt.

Pickleball courts will also be current at the planned Common Residences in Midtown Miami and A person Park Tower at SoLé Mia in North Miami, getting developed by Rosso Team.

Jorge Perez’s Linked Group has several tasks in the performs. Casamar Residences, Residences at Bal Harbour, St. Regis Residences Miami and Casa Bella Residences by B&B Italia will all include things like pickleball courts.

Wendy Pines, revenue director for the Casamar Residences, which start off at $1.5 million, lately informed Barron’s that “Buyers are surely inquiring about pickleball.”

And builders can be innovative in acquiring ways to add pickleball to their offerings. Typical Residences in Midtown, Miami’s very first true Pied-A-Terre group, designed an indoor courtroom that can be transformed into a social gathering place.

December 25, 2022

8 Kitchen, Bedroom And Bathroom Wellness Design Ideas For Cyber Monday

Some straightforward adds accessible on the net can make holiday break entertaining simpler and more healthy.

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You are almost certainly not going to purchase new countertops or ground coverings on the web to boost the wellness likely of your house, but there are lots of buys value thinking about this Cyber Monday. Listed here are eight concepts to boost the wellness likely of your kitchen area, loos and bedrooms — all very easily procured as a result of your most loved internet sites:

Kitchen area Ideas

Transportable induction burner improves cooking potential devoid of off-gassing into your kitchen.

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1. Transportable Induction Cooktop

You’ve most likely browse by now that gasoline cooktop burners emit harmful gases into your household. Perhaps you’re not ready to swap this key appliance, or you’re not sure you are going to take pleasure in cooking on induction, a superior functionality substitute. 1 way to test this technologies – and raise your holiday cooking efficiency – is with a moveable induction burner. These do not just take a ton of room on your countertop, and can manage an entrée or aspect dish. They also will not harm your indoor air top quality. If you locate yourself having fun with the efficiency and low maintenance of these models, think about changing your fuel cooktop with a constructed-in induction cooktop in 2023.

2. Countertop Combi-steam Oven

These blended convection-steam ovens come in built-in and countertop models. A countertop version can be yet another way to prepare dinner healthy entrees, sides and desserts when your oven is complete. This will increase your cooking ease, and the steam location indicates meals cooked with considerably less fats and a lot more nutrient preservation.

3. Multi-cooker

Look for a design with the cooking modes that assistance you build healthy foods for on your own, your loved ones and attendees. A sluggish cooker with a retain warm environment is perfect for cooking winter season stews and soups though you are at perform. Other modes involve sous vide, air fry, dehydrate and stress cooking.

4. Kitchen area Organizers

It’s incredible how a lot you can strengthen your kitchen area without having a rework. Storage organizers are one Diy-welcoming way to obtain advancements. Swing outs in blind corner cupboards make tough to access corners reachable. Roll-out trays make it much easier to see and access goods saved in the again of foundation or pantry cupboards. Drawer organizers make obtaining items in your utensil drawers less difficult to place. Pull-downs in wall cupboards make superior shelves available to anyone petit or confined to a wheelchair. Backsplash organizers flip wall area into storage area.

Bedroom & Toilet Suggestions

Organic bedding provides ease and comfort and wellness probable to a bedroom.

M Monroe Structure (Inside Design and style) Photography by Dylan Chandler // Wellness by Layout (Tiller Press/September 2020) (c) J. Gold

5. Organic and natural Sheets and Towels

Make getaway web hosting a more at ease expertise for on your own and your friends with new, natural and organic sheets and towels. Being aware of that they are not created with pesticide-treated fabrics or made with harmful dyes brings peace of thoughts and decreases the threat of allergic-variety reactions.

6. Towel Hotter

This is the two a luxurious and a wellness amenity. Wrapping your entire body in a warm towel following a shower or tub is undoubtedly a convenience feature. But towel heaters can also preserve your towels cleaner and fresher than simply hanging them on hooks. For an quick incorporate, take into account a design that plugs into a wall outlet, fairly than 1 that has to be hardwired.

7. Handheld Shower-head

The shower-head that arrived with your home almost certainly does not provide the wellness features accessible these days. The finest new products present hand-held relieve, a therapeutic massage location and other consolation modes like drenching or light-weight sprays. These are inclined to be quite Do it yourself helpful and can even be briefly put in in rental models and taken with you when you transfer. The simplest to use allow you transform configurations with a push button, relatively than attempting to rotate a head with damp, cleaning soap-slicked hands.

8. Bathroom Organizers

Bathrooms usually have even extra storage challenges than kitchens, specially shared bathrooms. There are organizers that grow their ability too. Take into account u-drawers for vanities with a drawer deficit. Pull-outs can keep hair dryers and curling irons. Back again-of-doorway organizers can hold cleansing supplies. Wall cabinets can hold goods you will need to retain helpful, but just cannot suit in the self-importance. They can be recessed into a facet wall or be installed onto a wall earlier mentioned a rest room. There are also towel holders built to be installed in shower walls outdoors of the spray radius. You can also incorporate a shelf of baskets on the wall higher than the rest room door for surplus bathroom paper, visitor towels and other less-routinely wanted products.

December 25, 2022

Christmas 2022: Last-minute Christmas tree decoration ideas you must try

Xmas time is below, bringing with it scrumptious treats, amazing decorations, and elegant attire. People rejoice the delivery anniversary of Jesus Christ on this working day all throughout the globe. There are numerous customs connected with Christmas, but the custom of gorgeously decorated Xmas trees is arguably the most perfectly-regarded. Most of you have in all probability by now additional wonderful Xmas trees and other decorations to your households. Nevertheless, if you still have not had a likelihood to embellish your residence for Xmas, here are a few final-minute Christmas tree decoration ideas that will mild up your dwelling and make it Christmas-prepared. (Also examine: Merry Xmas 2022: All you want to know about background of Xmas tree )

1. Paper snowflakes

Paper snowflakes will lend a contact of nostalgic elegance to your Christmas tree and enchantment to lots of people’s getaway recollections. Furthermore, building a statement piece out of numerous paper snowflakes blended and strung all around your tree can take no time at all. To hold them or area them in minimal pots for your Xmas mantel, include a string of floss from the prime.

2. Incorporate red and inexperienced ribbons

Have some festive plaid ribbon remaining more than from reward wrapping? You have no excuse to not use it to give your Christmas tree a heat and stylish look. A ribbon with metallic undertones or produced of shimmering satin is best for individuals who appreciate the sparkle and glamour of the vacations. The ribbons you’ve included will give your tree a standard Christmas feel.

3. Include fairy lights

Fairy lights are pretty affordable but nonetheless regulate to give your Christmas tree a attractive festive environment. Your Christmas tree will appear its most vivid when lit from the within out. Make guaranteed the lights are in working buy right before hanging them from a tree. Get started at the foot of the tree and get the job done your way upward in a circle, dodging and weaving all around the branches.

4. Insert some bouquets

Isn’t it incredible how you can give your Xmas tress a new glimpse just from a couple of primary paper ornaments? Generating beautiful, huge blossoms is a great strategy, especially if your tree is missing in depth and could use some filler. You could even increase some fresh flowers. Just by incorporating a handful of blossoms, you might give your tree a new appear and some liveliness.

5. Include some pom pom

Pom pom is a straightforward and adorable Xmas tree ornament. With a couple fundamental materials, you can immediately make pom poms at home. Not only do they resemble fluffy rainbow snowballs, but they also include a cozy texture to your Christmas tree which is best for wintertime. It is astounding what you can do with yarn, scissors and a tiny bit of time.

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