Consumer Corner
Unexpected Spaces: Surprising home upgrade ideas
(Family Features) Not all great things come in big packages, and home upgrades are an example of the truth in this wisdom. Unexpected, smaller spaces may not get the same attention as high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms and living areas, but their impact can be just as powerful.
Get inspired to make improvements to the lesser-used areas of your home with these tips from the home decorating experts at Wellborn Cabinet, Inc.:
Entryway
It’s the impression that welcomes guests into your home, so even if the space is small, your entryway warrants some TLC. Focus on making it open and inviting by removing any unnecessary furnishings. Some functional storage, like a bench with integrated coat hooks, can serve a practical purpose, and if you have the space, some built-in cabinetry with an eye-catching countertop can incorporate stylish storage.
Laundry Room
Getting motivated to do chores like laundry is easy when you have a beautiful setting for getting to work. Introducing pops of color in nontraditional places, like the cabinetry, adds a high-end elegance. Water-inspired and earthy hues like Midtown Matte Tidewater or Arcadia Chiffon Cypress are perfect for the laundry space. Both are options in Wellborn Cabinet, Inc.’s Aspire Series, which features concealed hinges with self-close functionality and matching interiors for a high-class look, even when the doors are open for business.
Closet
A cluttered closet may not be the first thing a guest notices, but it’s a space you visit daily. Improving the organizational features can streamline your morning routine and put you in a more positive frame of mind to start each day. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to closet design, but using cabinetry in place of open shelving and rods lends a more luxurious feel. Plan for adequate hanging and closed storage, and if space allows, be sure to plan for shoes and accessories since these items can easily contribute to a closet’s disarray.
Mini Bar
If you fear you don’t have room for a mini bar, you may be surprised. Reimagining a larder cabinet, like the ones Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. offers in 30-, 33-, 36- and 42-inch widths, can create an instant bar out of just about any wall space where you can fit a cabinet. Install it as a coffee bar or traditional bar, or add the optional Appliance Pullout shelf for more versatility.
Pantry
Guests may not find themselves in your pantry very often, but you likely use this space every day. Transform your pantry for heightened utility in simple ways like using clear plastic bins for small boxed foods or stylish wicker baskets to hide away snacks. For a more permanent solution, take advantage of unused space on the back of the pantry door with thin shelves for items like seasoning packets and smaller canned goods.
Guest Bathroom
Swapping out a tired vanity and countertop is a relatively affordable upgrade that can completely change the style of a secondary bathroom. Be sure to also update the fixtures for a more contemporary look and, if budget allows, replace the flooring. Finish the project with a fresh coat of paint in a light, airy shade and add new textiles and a few decorative touches to complete the job.
Find more ideas for updating unexpected spaces in your home at Wellborn.com.
Hideaway Storage Spaces
One feature that enhances virtually any space is more storage. Having convenient places to tuck away all your stuff makes rooms feel more open and inviting. Hidden storage solutions are often better because you can enjoy the functionality they add to the space without interrupting your design aesthetic.
Here are some clever ideas for keeping necessary items tucked out of sight but within easy reach:
Built-in Step Stool: If you love the look of tall cabinets but struggle to reach the top shelves, a practical addition is a hidden step ladder in a pullout caddy. Specially designed ladders that fold down extra narrow and feature nonslip rubber treads make this a handy addition you’ll reach for again and again.
Paper Towel Pullout: Keep paper towels hidden but close by hiding them in a pullout cabinet such as Wellborn Cabinet Inc.’s 12-inch-wide model, which features a built-in paper towel holder and bottom shelf ideal for organizing cleaning products. There’s also a space behind the paper towels that’s perfect for storing sponges and other kitchen supplies.
Drawer Dividers: While you can find many after-market options to organize the insides of your drawers and cabinets, choosing organizers designed to work seamlessly with your cabinetry creates a more polished look (and saves the headaches of measuring and guesstimating the fit). Tray dividers are useful for sorting cookie sheets and baking pans, while you can find dividers in a variety of heights to match drawers below the oven or where you store your cutlery. Another option that serves a similar purpose is pegs, which keep fragile items from shifting when drawers are opened or closed.
SOURCE:
Wellborn Cabinet, Inc.
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The U.S. Postal Service announced its recommended mailing and shipping dates for holiday mail and packages today.
Mailing and Shipping Dates
The following are recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before Dec. 25.
2024 Holiday Mailing and Shipping Dates for Items Sent to Addresses in the Contiguous United States (Lower 48 States):
- USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 18
- First-Class Mail service: Dec. 18
- Priority Mail service: Dec. 19
- Priority Mail Express service: Dec. 21
2024 Holiday Mailing and Shipping Dates for Items Sent to Addresses in Alaska and Hawaii:
- USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 16
- First-Class Mail service: Dec. 18
- Priority Mail service: Dec. 19
- Priority Mail Express service: Dec. 20
For customers sending packages internationally, or to military addresses, USPS suggests checking the complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates at usps.com/holidayshippingdates.
USPS urges customers to plan ahead and ship early during this holiday season. The earlier you send, the better; don’t delay — mail and ship today!
For tips on preparing shipments, including packaging guidelines, ordering free shipping supplies and information on local Post Office location hours, visit usps.com.
Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 167 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands.
The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Threads and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.
National contact: Jonathan Castillo
jonathan.r.castillo@usps.gov
usps.com/news
SOURCE U.S. Postal Service
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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Consumer Corner
On-Trend Ways to Refresh Your House in 2025: 3 trends for improving home design and function
(Family Features) Whether you’re looking to simply refresh your living space or planning a major home renovation, staying current with design trends not only enhances comfort and style but also boosts your house’s value.
As modern home design continues to evolve, trends are increasingly shifting toward long-term movements focused on versatility, sustainability and innovation. By embracing these elements in your 2025 updates, with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of high-quality, low-maintenance exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – you can ensure your living space remains stylish and functional for years to come.
Incorporate Versatile Design Elements
Because homeowners’ tastes are continuously evolving, it’s important to take an adaptable design approach when creating unique and harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces. Using products that offer exceptional design versatility, including siding, trim, stone, roofing and other exterior elements, can allow your upgrades to transcend fleeting trends and maintain their relevance and appeal over time.
Similarly, homebuyers are moving away from cookie-cutter designs, seeking bold aesthetics that enhance curb appeal and distinguish their homes from others on the block. This shift toward personalized spaces that reflect individual tastes requires mixing textures, finishes and colors to transform both exteriors and interiors to create visually dynamic and unique looks. Blending materials like brick with vinyl siding, stone with wood or modern siding with rustic stone veneer can add depth and character to facades.
Choose Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Homeowners are increasingly focused on sustainable and eco-friendly home designs to reduce their environmental impact, save on energy costs and create healthier living spaces. Complementing this trend, biophilic design is also gaining momentum as it seeks to strengthen the connection between indoor environments and nature. This approach goes beyond simply adding greenery, focusing on the use of natural light, improved ventilation and materials that mimic organic patterns and textures. Features like large windows, living walls and the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, have become popular choices, blending sustainability with a deeper connection to the natural world.
Eco-friendly materials that use fewer raw materials, generate smaller carbon footprints and conserve water play a vital role in sustainable design and are in high demand. For example, reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are popular choices due to their reduced environmental impact. Innovative products can also help reduce energy consumption like US Tile Clay Roofing, which is naturally reflective, 100% recyclable and, when paired with a cool roof system, can save homeowners up to 22% per year on heating and cooling costs compared to a standard composition asphalt shingle roof.
Seek Functional, Innovative Solutions
Driven by the evolving needs of homeowners, modular and easy-install systems, like panelized stone siding, are gaining popularity due to their ability to simplify installation while mimicking traditional materials such as stone or wood. These functional systems save time and can empower homeowners to tackle projects themselves.
In addition, the rising frequency of severe weather events is increasing demand for smart, weather-resistant materials that enhance homes’ aesthetic appeal and offer superior protection against extreme conditions. An option like Versetta Stone, which delivers the authentic look and feel of stone in an easy-to-install panelized format, offers wind resistance up to 110 miles per hour and carries a Class A fire rating. The stone siding features a tongue-and-groove system for perfect spacing, has a built-in rainscreen and can be installed almost anywhere using screws or nails without additional footings for support.
Find more home design trends and inspiration at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.
SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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RICHMOND, BC /PRNewswire/ — Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer, announces the NeoDots True Wireless earbuds featuring a hybrid driver unit combined with a digital signal processor for the optimum in sound quality.
The combination of dynamic drivers and balanced armature drivers in audio equipment allows a broad frequency response, where dynamic drivers effectively manage low frequencies, delivering deep and rich bass, whilst the balanced armature drivers handle mid and high frequencies ensuring clear and detailed treble. This synergy results in a well-rounded sound profile that enhances the listening experience across different music genres and audio content.
The digital signal processor (DSP) enhances audio quality by optimizing balance and clarity, while the active crossover efficiently divides the audio signal into distinct frequency bands—sending low frequencies to the dynamic driver and mid/high frequencies to the balanced armature (BA) driver. This dual-driver arrangement gives superior sound quality, offering improved clarity, detail, and an overall balanced listening experience.
Premium Quality Sound
Experience exceptional audio performance with Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification. The hybrid driver units, which include balanced armature and 10mm dynamic drivers, work in tandem with advanced digital signal processing and an active crossover to deliver superior sound quality. Additionally, support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs ensures a versatile and accurate listening experience across various devices.
Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation
Advanced noise cancelling technology enhances the listening experience by extending the depth of noise cancellation to -48dB thus minimizing unwanted ambient sounds. With multiple noise cancellation modes available, you can easily adapt to different scenarios, ensuring optimal audio clarity whether you’re in a busy, noisy city, or a quiet home environment.
Powerful Battery Life
Enjoy up to 17 hours of playtime on a single charge, with an impressive total of 56 hours when utilizing the charging case. A 15-minute charge provides an additional 5 hours of use.
Crystal Clear Calls
AI algorithms enhance the performance of earbuds by focusing on specific sound sources, like a user’s voice, while filtering out background noise. This results in clearer and more accurate audio during hands-free calls, ensuring that conversations are easily intelligible even in noisy environments.
Bluetooth v5.4
Bluetooth® V5.4 enhances seamless audio streaming with a stable connection and its multipoint connection feature enables users to effortlessly switch between music, videos and calls on two devices simultaneously, making it convenient for multitasking and enhancing the overall user experience.
Low Latency Gaming Experience
The 80ms low latency audio in gaming mode ensures that sound effects and in-game actions are synchronized in real time, providing a more immersive and responsive gaming experience. This minimal delay allows gamers to react swiftly to audio cues, enhancing gameplay and overall performance during competitive scenarios.
Easy To Use
Featuring a press control design to avoid accidental touch and with wearing detection, the earbuds pause music when taken off and resume playback when put on.
Compatible with EDIFIER ConneX app for additional functions: personalize control settings, customize your EQ, and more.
Price & Availability: The Edifier NeoDots is available for $129.99 on Amazon.com.
About Edifier:
Edifier specializes in the design and manufacture of premium audio solutions that showcase technological innovation and design excellence. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Beijing, China, Edifier delivers outstanding sound experience through a wide range of audio systems for personal entertainment and professional use. Renowned for its award-winning design philosophy, expertise and innovation in acoustic technology, and superior manufacturing standards, Edifier is one of today’s leading innovators of audio electronics.
More information about Edifier is available online at www.edifier.com.
SOURCE Edifier
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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