In summer, enjoying the sun is the watchword, but you have to be careful with prolonged exposure. For this, the terrace and garden should be shaded so that the whole family can relax. On the market, many solutions are offered to create shade in your relaxation areas, but also to bring charm to your exterior. If you want to protect yourself from the sun and heat, here are some trendy and especially practical terrace and garden design ideas.

Install an awning on your terrace

Also called outdoor awning or terrace awning, the awning is a stretched canvas that allows you to create shade on a terrace, a balcony, or in front of a shop. It is composed of two articulated aluminum arms, a canvas, a lambrequin, and an opening and closing system. This system can be manual, electric, or remote-controlled.

Like Osyla's products, the awning can be attached to a wall or under a roof. It is a real protection against UV rays and heat. To create a friendly outdoor space to enjoy your garden or terrace during hot periods, it is a great ally. It is found in several models, colors, and materials that adapt without difficulty to any type of architecture.

The different types of awnings

There are three main types of awnings, namely trunk, semi-chest, and traditional or monobloc models. Each of them has specific characteristics that make their advantages.

The awning chest

This model is suitable for houses without roof advances, with large terraces exposed to the weather. Indeed, the components of this awning (the canvas, the arms, and the mechanism) are protected thanks to an aluminum box.

The semi-safe awning

Unlike the trunk awning, the semi-trunk awning only protects the canvas and the motor. It is suitable for terraces exposed to bad weather with a deep advance. In addition, it is lightweight and adapts well to windy areas.

The one-piece awning

This is the classic of exterior blinds. It is sober and robust and gives your terrace a timeless and refined style. Unlike the first two models, it does not protect your canvas from the weather. For this, it is best to install it on terraces and balconies protected by a slab or roof advance.

The dimensions of the awning

For perfect protection of your terrace or garden, the area of the awning must be greater than that of the area to be covered. For this, you need to take into account its width and advance.

The widths of such equipment are between 3 and 7 meters. It is recommended to opt for a blind as wide as possible in order to have shade at any time of the day. As for the progress of the awning, it depends on its location of it. Thus, for small spaces such as the balcony, an advance of 2 m will be enough to create 1 m of shade. To cover an average terrace, an advance of 3.5 m will allow you to get about 2.5 m of shade to be able to have lunch with 6 or more.

Colours

To choose the color of your awning canvas, you must harmonize it with the style, architecture, and terrace decoration. Thus, you can opt for sober tones like black, white, gray, or beige to create a contemporary and chic style. You can also choose brighter colors such as green, blue, and red to create a warm atmosphere and give pep to your exterior.

Opt for shade sails

Generally triangular in shape, shade sails bring dynamism to the décor of a terrace. Not only do they create shade, but they let air through and protect you from the sun and light rain. In addition, they are aesthetic and adapt well to modern houses of geometric shapes.

Thus, while having a practical function, the shade sail offers a nice touch of decoration to your garden. You have the possibility to play with the colors and the attachment system to create a special atmosphere. For a discreet and airy result, you can place it, stretched horizontally. You can also place it obliquely from the top of the wall to the ground, to have an oriental and exotic décor. It can also be used as a screen.

To mount your shade sail, it is advisable to call on professionals especially if it is a large surface. Indeed, they are light and require a perfectly anchored fixing system, in order to resist the wind. However, there are openwork canvases that are much more resistant to the wind but do not protect from the rain.

Have a pergola installed in your outdoor space

The pergola is a garden or terrace structure intended to protect from the sun and bad weather. On the market, there are three types of pergolas namely: removable pergolas, freestanding pergolas, and backed pergolas. They are all options to allow you to enjoy the sun while improving the aesthetic appearance of your home.

Removable pergolas

As its name suggests, a removable pergola can be dismantled and stored when the weather does not lend itself to its use. In general, it is used occasionally to host an event in a garden or on a terrace. Thus, when buying, opt for a model with a solid and resistant steel or aluminum structure. This choice will allow you to benefit from more sustainability.

You should also pay close attention to the canvas of your pergola. It must be resistant to UV rays and waterproof to ensure better protection against the sun and rain. It can be made of PVC or acrylic which are the most recommended materials.

Self-supporting pergolas

The freestanding pergola is an independent structure that can be installed in the middle of the garden or on your terrace to create a corner of the shade. Indeed, it is equipped with 4 pillars that support it and are fixed in the ground. It gives character to your home and fits perfectly into your outdoor decoration.

To create a warm atmosphere, you can opt for wood for the construction of your pergola. On the other hand, for a cocooning or Zen space, choose an aluminum pergola.

Leaning pergolas

This type of pergola is installed against the wall of your home. The structure rests on pillars and on the facade of the house. It adapts to all kinds of buildings, whether to complete a terrace, complete a space with a swimming pool, or cover a balcony. The main thing is to have a wall on which the structure will rest.

The leaning pergola offers great flexibility in terms of size or type of roof. Indeed, its roof can be closed, opened, or with bioclimatic slats.

Equip yourself with a garden umbrella

Umbrellas are a timeless protective shelter. Composed of a canvas attached to a metal frame, they are used as an umbrella. There are four main types of umbrellas namely: tilting, deported, wall, and straight models.

The reclining parasol

This model adapts to your sun protection needs and remarkably enhances the design of your living spaces. Indeed, these umbrellas are handy and can be installed on a terrace, balcony, garden, or by the pool. They are usually round, square or rectangular in shape. Their canvas can be made of polyester, acrylic, or cotton. This umbrella has the ability to rotate 360 °, which allows you to fully enjoy your moments of relaxation without being disturbed by the sun.

The deported parasol

In general, the deported umbrella is larger than the straight umbrella. Its dimensions can go beyond 2.5 m in diameter. It is ideal for large terraces, as it covers a large area. Whatever its shape, round or rectangular, it can protect you from the sun throughout the day.

The wall parasol

If you have a small space, the wall-mounted umbrella is what you need. It attaches to the facade of a house and offers 180 ° mobility that protects you relatively from the sun. When you open the arms of the parasol, the canvas spreads offering a beautiful shaded space.

The straight parasol

It is an emblematic model indicated for tables with a central hole. Whatever its shape, it can be installed between two deckchairs for example. On the other hand, it is not very modular and not very mobile, which can make it difficult to use.

Note that to choose your umbrella, you must take into account a few elements to know: the height of the umbrella, its degree of inclination, and the surface to be covered. When it comes to height, opt for adjustable umbrellas. These can be adjusted according to your needs, unlike fixed umbrellas which are less versatile. Then pay attention to the degree of inclination of your equipment. The 360° model is ideal, as it can be adjusted according to the orientation of the sun at any time of the day.

In short, there are different solutions to protect you from the sun on your terrace or in your garden. Whether you opt for an awning, a pergola, a shade sail, and an umbrella, there is bound to be a solution that fits your outdoor space. However, they should be chosen according to the dimensions of the space to be covered and your preferences.

 By dint of quantified assessments and recommendations that contradict each other in a multitude of studies, we no longer really know what rules to follow to eat without impacting the planet too much. A few days before Christmas dinner, we decided to take a step back from all these injunctions in order to bring nuance and compose a festive menu with common sense.

Ecological Christmas: choose local food

Prefer a turkey raised a few kilometers from home or buy a liter of milk harvested from the nearest farm... Choosing local is an act of solidarity and support for French producers, less an ecological gesture. Seeking a solution to reduce the carbon footprint of human activity on the planet, this advice needs to be followed with nuance. The environmental cost of transporting food goods is a reality: buying an avocado produced in Peru when you live in Paris is more impactful for the planet than preferring Corsican clementines when you live in Ajaccio. In the journal Nature, Food, a team of researchers from the universities of Sydney and Beijing indicated last June that the kilometers swallowed by transporting food accounted for nearly 20% of total emissions from food production chains. "To mitigate the environmental impact of food, a transition to plant-based foods must be coupled with more local products, mainly in rich countries," the study concludes.

Everything is said: more than local production, it is the choice of food that changes the game. We must take into account the greenhouse gas emissions of various food products to determine the impact that our preferences may have. This is what a study by the global platform Our world in data did by comparing the impact of land conversion for livestock or cultivation, but also all that can emit a farm, whether it is manure or fuel needed for the tractor, as well as food to support livestock,  transport or packaging and sales. In this scheme, beef, lamb, cheese and dairy cows successively constitute the food productions that emit the most greenhouse gases and the carbon footprint of the transport of goods is minimal. In other words, composing a Christmas menu by including a steak of beef, even produced in a department close to home, has a considerable environmental impact. An exception must be made, and the Our World of Data study makes it clear: food transported by air generates fifty times more CO2 than a boat per tonne-kilometer. In food production chains, however, this type of transport is rarely used, representing only 0.16% of 'food kilometers'.

Cooking other than with a gas stove

In these times of sobriety, the use of the sacrosanct gas stove is questioned by more and more chefs who see a way to save money, but also to better preserve the well-being of their brigade which must otherwise deal with the heat of this type of energy. If we take into account the environmental aspect, the abandonment of the gas stove can also be an argument. Cows are often blamed for emitting methane when digesting their meal. Yet the cooking appliance deeply rooted in French gastronomic culture also produces some. The annual methane emissions of all U.S. fireplace gas stoves would have a climate impact similar to that of the CO2 emitted by 500,000 cars each year, according to research published by the American Chemical Society. And we're not just talking about the timing of cooking. It is estimated that gas cookers can emit up to 1.3% of the gas as unburned methane.

Alcohol: choose responsible containers

When it comes to pairings with wines and spirits, it is complicated to recommend one beverage over another. We could mention the use of pesticides for the cultivation of grapes, corn, barley, etc. But, we could also highlight a large amount of water required for the elaboration of various alcoholic beverages. According to the Water Footprint Network, 109 litres of water would be needed to produce just one glass of wine. Depending on the source, it takes between 40 and 100 liters of water to produce one liter of whisky. On the beer side, four to six liters of water are used, knowing that the Brasseurs de France were enthusiastic in 2019 about the 30% decrease in average water consumption for the manufacture and cleaning of tanks over the last thirty years.

 Bed bugs are a scourge that affects a lot of homes in France every year. These insects live mainly in our bedding and feeding on human blood is harmful to the health of the occupants of the infested house. Fortunately, it is possible to overcome it with certain methods whose effectiveness is proven.

Mechanical methods of combating bedbugs

You should resort to these methods as soon as you detect bed bug infestation. The earlier the treatment, the more effective these methods are.

• Carefully vacuum the whole house, passing through every nook and cranny. Also pass on mattresses, curtains, and all linens. Suction does not kill bedbugs, so it is important to destroy them by vacuuming at the end of the insecticide or spraying some into the vacuum cleaner duct.
• Clean textiles in the washing machine at least 60 °C.  For clothes that do not support this type of washing, it is possible to dry them without washing them beforehand or to freeze them at -20°C for at least 72 hours.
• Use a steam cleaner to remove bedbugs from all mattresses and linens. A switch to steam at 110°C or even 180°C, which is more effective, kills all bed bugs, including in the depths of mattresses and the nooks and crannies of the bedroom.
• Discard infested furniture in which bed bugs have taken up residence and from which it is impossible to dislodge them.
• Spread diatomaceous earth on the passage of bedbugs. This natural substance attaches to insects and dehydrates them until they die in 5-15 days. Diatomaceous earth should be handled with care, as it can be toxic to humans and pets.

Chemical methods of combating bedbugs

In case of failure of mechanical methods, you can resort to chemical methods of combating bedbugs. Although insecticidal products targeting bed bugs can be purchased by the general public in specialized stores, they remain toxic and of restrictive use. It is therefore recommended to use a specialized company.

Insecticides are applied at least twice, with an interval of two weeks so that all eggs and larvae are killed. Disinsection companies usually use insecticides of two types, one diffused by fumigation in each room to be treated and the second sprayed on potential hiding places and crossing points of bedbugs.

After the intervention of the company, it is forbidden to vacuum or wash the floors for at least a month.

How do you know if your home is infested with bed bugs?

It is sometimes difficult to detect the presence of bed bugs early. These insects come out only at night and are small in size, although as adults they are the size of a lens. Larvae and eggs are even more difficult to detect, as they are small in size and light in color. However, you can be sure that your home is infested with bed bugs if you observe the following three signs.

Black spots

Bed bugs feed on the blood of people who occupy the infested bed and produce droppings that look like blood points. These small black spots can be found on sheets, duvets, pillows, or mattresses and are indisputable proof of the presence of these insects.

Blood trails

When bed bugs come out to feed at night, they can cause itching and pain, causing the bitten person to roll over in bed, crushing bedbugs. This crushing leaf traces in the bed in the form of blood trails.

Bites

Bed bug bites are strongly reminiscent of mosquitoes. They leave red traces and sometimes cause intense itching. The marks left by the bites can disappear quickly or, in some people, induce an allergic reaction in the form of painful blisters.

Sometimes two people occupy the same bed, but only one is stitched. This is due to the fact that bedbugs, at the beginning of the infestation, preferably bite the person who gives off the most heat.

WHAT IS BITCOIN?

Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency founded in 2008 by a Japanese, Satoshi Nakamoto. This virtual currency is limited, initially, to 21 million units, the smallest being the 'satoshi', named after the creator of the currency.

What makes this cryptocurrency special is that all transactions in which it is involved are recorded in a kind of public ledger, called 'blockchain'. It is deemed unfalsifiable.

As we can read in the blurb of Bitcoin Era, a site specializing in cryptocurrency trading, the bitcoin-based system works without the intervention of any central authority. This is another of its originalities, and not the least.

It is therefore a decentralized currency, which quickly attracted many investors. Indeed, its capitalization exceeded $ 1,000 billion during the first quarter of 2021.

EXPERTS' OPTIMISTIC PREDICTIONS FOR 2023

The price of bitcoin, like that of all cryptocurrencies, is very changeable, it is difficult to pronounce its evolution. It is this volatility that explains the divergent opinions of experts on it.

Some are rather optimistic about the immediate future. They believe that after the period of decline experienced by bitcoin, for a year, its value could rise again in mid-2023.

For these analysts, the price of bitcoin moves in periods. After a downward cycle in early 2023, it is expected to rise again in the middle of the year.

Some analysts are even more optimistic. Indeed, they see bitcoin exceeding $ 80,000, or even $ 250,000. Which, to say the least, does not seem to reflect the current trend.

SOME EXPERTS ARE MORE
PESSIMISTIC ABOUT THE FUTURE OF CRYPTOCURRENCY IN 2023

The relative pessimism of these analysts is based primarily on the figures. Indeed, bitcoin had reached, in November 2021, the historic level of $ 68,789, a more than a 1,600% increase compared to March 2020.

However, since that date, the value of the cryptocurrency has continued to fall. Indeed, the price of bitcoin is only $ 16,700 as of November 24, 2022. Between November 2021 and November 2022, the value of this digital currency fell by nearly 75%.

These experts explain this evolution in particular from a rather gloomy economic context. Indeed, high inflation, partly linked to the war in Ukraine, and the increase in interest rates, due in particular to the policy of the US Federal Reserve (FED), make investors more cautious.

IS IT TOO LATE TO INVEST?

The current downward trend in the price of bitcoin could discourage potential buyers. Moreover, the behavior of this cryptocurrency is too familiar to them. So it no longer holds enough surprises.

Some investors also blame the operation of what specialists call 'mining', a complex process to secure bitcoin transactions.

But, for others, it's not yet too late to acquire bitcoins. They are based on some optimistic forecasts for 2023. Another element reassures them about the future of cryptocurrency: its adoption by financial institutions and investment funds.

But what reinforces the confidence of some maintains the pessimism of others. To them, in fact, this 'institutionalization' of bitcoin seems ominous, because it suggests lower returns.

WHERE TO BUY BITCOINS?

There are several possibilities to buy bitcoins. We can first go through platforms specialized in buying and selling bitcoins. So they work a bit like stock exchanges.

By using these platforms, the user, therefore, integrates a digital market. This 'bitcoin exchange' makes it possible to convert a currency, such as a dollar or a euro, into bitcoins. The reverse process is also possible.

Once on the platform, in fact, where he has created an account, the user must link it to a bank account, whose resources will allow him to buy bitcoins.

There are also bitcoin ATMs. They are often found in crowded places, such as airports or train stations. Simply swipe a sum of money into these ATMs to receive the equivalent in bitcoins.

Once these bitcoins are purchased, it is possible to store them in a 'wallet', in other words, a digital wallet.

 Do you have a doubt about a payment made by credit card some time ago? Your balance is not what you had expected and you think there is an error? A merchant claims a sum from you when you remember paying it by credit card? For many reasons, you may need to look for a card payment. We explain how to do this.

View your account transaction history

First, it is worth checking the history of your financial transactions. They are all recorded on your account statements and you can consult them on your paper and digital documents. You can even search directly from your customer area via your bank's website or from the mobile application.

From your bank's website

By logging into your customer area, you can enter an indication in the search bar. It is possible to search for a transaction by date, amount, or payment type. In this case, you can type "CB" as well as a certain period.

Via your phone or tablet

The same search can be done from your mobile app. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play and log in. From the menu, select your map page, and then select the management page. It should then be possible to view the transaction history in which you can search for the credit card payment in question.

By doing additional research on the Internet

If the company name does not appear on the ticket, as often happens, you will need to do further web research. In this case, start by doing a search by date and look for the titles you don't recognize. Now you just have to search for this company on Google or any other search engine. Simply enter the label that appears on your credit card receipt. You will get information about the company in question such as its location or industry. You will then be able to remember the establishment you are looking for.

If your search is not successful, contact your bank and ask your advisor to do some research. If he agrees, which is not always the case, know that this service will certainly be charged to you.

Disputing a payment by credit card that has already been debited: is it possible and how to do it?

Do you notice a payment by credit card that seems fraudulent to you? Notify your bank immediately, you may be able to object, even if it was you who was the originator of this payment.

CB fraud: What are your rights if the fraudulent debit is proven?

First, you need to wait for your bank to confirm that you are a victim of fraud. If this is the case, your bank is obliged to reimburse you the full amount. The type of insurance contract you have taken out does not change this right and even without insurance, you must be reimbursed.

If this incident has caused an overdraft situation, your bank will also have to reimburse you for all the costs incurred (agios, payment incident fees, information letter, intervention commission, etc.).

In case of refusal, write to the mediator whose contact details you will find on your bank's website. If the latter persists in refusing any refund, take the matter to court.

7 tips to avoid having your credit card hacked

There are a few things you can do to help you avoid getting hacked:

• Store your credit card: it is strongly recommended to place it in a wallet that must itself be stored on you or in a purse that you will keep nearby.
• Do not leave your credit card tickets lying around: destroy them, fraudsters could use the information they contain.
• Memorize your codes, do not write them down: if someone has stolen your credit card and your smartphone and your codes are written in them, the danger is great.
• Shop on secure sites: If so, the URL will start with "HTTPS", with the final "s" standing for "secure".
• Hide your credit card numbers: for example, you can erase the cryptogram, but this will not prevent fraud related to phishing or malware installation.
• Don't let anyone see your code: When making a purchase or pickup, make sure no one is looking over your shoulder.
• For online payments, choose virtual cards whose number is valid only once.

The whole point of doing your accounts and keeping your credit card tickets is to be able to notice the slightest error. If this is the case, notify your bank as soon as possible. You should be able to find your credit card payment quickly. And above all, don't forget to destroy your tickets afterward!

The case of fraudulent debit

You still have your credit card in your possession, but someone used your numbers to make a purchase? You are a victim of credit card fraud! Object as soon as possible and contact your advisor.

If you no longer have your bank card in your possession because it has been stolen, go and file a complaint with the police (gendarmerie or police). If you have lost it and you see a suspicious payment a few days later, go file a complaint as well.

The case of authorized flow

You may also want to dispute a payment that you have made, but whose amount does not seem to correspond to the value of your purchase. You may find yourself in this situation if you give your card numbers to an organization for a reservation and the final payment is surprisingly important. It should be noted that the law authorizes (Article L133-25) the contestation of payment if:

• you did not know the exact amount of the purchase in advance;
• The final amount exceeds what you could "reasonably expect".

These two conditions must be met and this dispute must be made within 8 weeks after the day of the debit. The bank must refund the full amount within 10 days. Otherwise, it must justify its refusal.

If a merchant has made an input error on the payment terminal and you have not seen it, you will have to settle this amicably with it in the hope that it is in good faith. Your bank may say that the problem is contractual, but not the result of a serious offence. It may therefore refuse to reimburse you.

What is the legal deadline to dispute a payment?

According to Article L133-24, in the event of an unauthorized or poorly executed transaction, you must report the incident to your bank within 13 months of the date of payment, unless the merchant has not given you a ticket.

If the payment was made outside the European Economic Area, the period is reduced to 70 days. It can possibly be extended to 120 days on a contractual basis.

 A small room can be difficult to arrange. However, with a few tricks, it is quite possible to transform this room into a welcoming and pleasant place to live. All you have to do is set up suitable storage while playing on optical illusions so that your room looks more spacious. Here is the essential to know to optimize the layout of a small room.

Choose a bed that will save you space

The choice of bed is crucial in the layout of a small room. You need to be careful to choose a model with sufficient dimensions to ensure comfort, without taking up too much space in the room. Two types of beds are suitable for this purpose: the trundle bed and the mezzanine bed!

Trundle bed

The trundle bed is a model designed to offer maximum space saving to its user. It is functional and suitable for both children and adults. This is a single bed that you can turn into a double bed in a very short time. It integrates a drawer bed into its structure, which is ideal in a particularly narrow room.

If you decide to equip the room with a trundle bed, you need to choose a resistant and good-quality model. Ideally, opt for a bed that can withstand a maximum weight of 100 kilos. Also, pay attention to the roller displacement system. It should be easy to use to allow you to move the bed at any time.

In addition to value for money, the choice of a trundle bed for an adult room is based on several criteria. This is the reason why this model is available in several colors. When it comes to the material of manufacture, you have the choice between wood and metal. Whatever your preference, try to choose a certified eco-friendly bed.

Mezzanine bed

The adult loft bed is very convenient for a cramped room. It offers a very comfortable sleeping in height. You can also set up a relaxation area, storage, or a desk under the bed. In addition, depending on your needs, you have the choice between a mezzanine bed in 1 or 2 places.

The first point to consider when choosing a bed of this type is strength. The mezzanine model must be solid to guarantee the safety of its user. As such, it is recommended to buy a solid wood bed designed to support the weight of an adult. The second element that determines the choice of a bed is the decoration of the room for which it is intended. The mezzanine bed offers many possibilities in this sense.

In addition to the various colors available on the market, you can customize the space under the bed of this type of bed. Do not hesitate to:

• add armchairs or a sofa to create a relaxation area,
• place a daybed to receive guests,
• Put a chair and a desk to set up a workspace.

Do you want to optimize storage in a small room? Do not hesitate to use the space under the loft bed to install a chiffonnier or a storage unit with dressers. Here too, the choice of an eco-responsible model is highly recommended.

Opt for light colors to give the impression that the room is larger

Light-colored homes look bigger than they actually are. Repainting your room is therefore a priority for a successful layout, especially if the current paintings are too dark.

Light shades reflect light to create an optical illusion in the room they decorate. As such, white is an essential color. It is, however, considered a neutral color. In addition, this choice is not suitable if you want to create an original atmosphere in your room. Blue and green are more suitable in this case, but make sure you don't choose shades that are too dark. Also opt for very soft shades of brown or beige such as ochre, linen, sand, vanilla beige, or greige.

In terms of light paintings, pastel tones are preferred. Feel free to choose shades of blue, yellow, or green and create contrast on the walls, floor, and ceiling of your room. If you appreciate the Scandinavian style, do not hesitate to use the codes to embellish your room. But how to use cold colors to create a sense of space in this room?

Murals

Start by applying the paints of your choice on the walls of the room. You can use a darker color on the wall near the head of the bed in order to get a warmer room. Curtains are to be banned from the room because they affect the brightness of this small room. However, you can place transparent and lightweight models if you care about this decorative element.

Another choice is obvious to you in the choice of paint to apply on the walls: matte or glossy? Glossy, satin, or lacquered shades are ideal for increasing the spacious side of the room, but you run the risk of reinforcing all the imperfections of the partitions. On the other hand, matte paints tend to shrink the room, because they do not reflect light. Wallpaper offers a good alternative to painting. Make a choice based on your decorating goals.

Ceiling paints

The ceiling also helps to give a spacious look to your rooms. The small room is no exception. Contrary to popular belief, the ceiling does not have to be white. To create a feeling of openness in the room, nothing beats a light color like beige, ice blue, and light gray.

The ceiling painted with a matte tint creates the illusion that the walls are higher in the room. It is recommended to choose an acrylic paint that is easy to apply and free of polluting solvents. This type of paint is also easy to clean at the end of the development work.

Use mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space

The small room looks more spacious if you bring in light. Daylight and sunlight play a big role in this, but sometimes natural light needs to be amplified. To do this, use mirrors cleverly.

Place a large mirror on one of the walls to visually enlarge the room and give it a bohemian feel. Depending on the design of the mirror, you can also create an industrial atmosphere. Facing the window, the mirror makes it possible to reflect daylight and play on perspectives to visually amplify the volume of the room.

Do you want to give the illusion that the small room is totally open? Hang a mirror on the door of this room! You also get an effective trompe-l'oeil by placing this accessory on the doors of a dressing room or wardrobe. To optimize the optical illusion, be sure to cover the entire door with the mirror. Finally, you can place a mirror on the ceiling to create a sense of escape in the bedroom. To further optimize the brightness of this room, add artificial lights on the wall or ceiling.

 Energy consumption by buildings is one of the major expenses of households and businesses, but also one of the major sources of pollution. To reduce the energy bill and the impact of a building on the environment, it is possible to carry out an energy audit in order to better target energy renovation work.

What is an energy audit?

The energy audit of a building is the study of its characteristics concerning its energy consumption for various uses such as heating, hot water, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, etc.

The audit can be carried out by an architect, prime contractor, or contractor and can be of four different types.

The short on-site audit is carried out during a short visit during which the professional identifies elements that can be improved at a lower cost to achieve substantial and immediate energy savings.

The audit with energy cost analysis is more thorough and analyzes the operating costs of equipment and facilities using energy data from several years. This type of audit identifies consumption peaks and establishes a consumption profile to set up a home rehabilitation plan.

The energy audit with measurements defines an energy consumption benchmark that makes it possible to evaluate the possible savings. This audit is carried out with the use of measuring instruments for various variables such as temperatures, air velocities, or combustion fume analysis.

The detailed energy audit is more comprehensive and is based on measurement techniques over a long period of time.

Why do an energy audit?

The energy audit is useful for energy renovation work on homes, it makes it possible to better target the improvements to be made, but also to obtain aid. The audit is also mandatory in certain cases, especially for companies and condominiums.

To optimize energy renovation work

The energy audit is a prerequisite for all energy renovation work. It makes it possible to know the defects and strengths of the building, to identify the most greedy and least efficient equipment from an energy point of view, and to know the habits of the occupants of the house.

With this information, it is possible to implement targeted works and improvements that correct the weak points and energy failures of the house, without altering its strengths. Thanks to the audit, the work is more efficient and allows to obtain a greater reduction in energy consumption while improving the comfort of the house and making it more adapted to the habits of its residents.

To obtain assistance

Energy renovation works are encouraged and assisted by the State. However, to obtain this aid, an energy audit must be carried out beforehand. This makes it possible to objectively measure the level of improvement brought about by the work.

Some aid is subject to minimum energy performance conditions. This is particularly the case for the zero-interest eco-loan or eco-PTZ, MaPrimeRénov' for a global renovation or the EEC aid Global Renovation or Energy Saving Certificates.

Because it is mandatory in some cases

From September 2022, the completion of an energy audit will be mandatory for any sale of a home whose energy performance diagnosis or DPE is of class D, E, F, or G, that is to say, considered to be a thermal sieve.

The energy audit is also mandatory in all condominiums with more than 50 lots, which were built before 2001 and are equipped with a collective heating or cooling system. The energy audit is valid for ten years and aims to establish the energy classification of the building and to make suggestions for work to be carried out to improve its performance.

Since 2012, large companies with more than 250 employees or an annual turnover of more than €50 million are also required to carry out energy audits for their buildings. These audits are valid for four years, after which they must be renewed.

 Just like humans, animals also need health coverage in case of illness. Many people choose to purchase insurance for their pets to ensure their pet's well-being. Before taking out such insurance, however, certain arrangements must be made. Discover here 4 elements to consider when choosing health coverage for your faithful four-legged friend.

The different formulas of mutuals for animals

To ensure your pet, it is important to browse the different offers of mutuals in order to compare them. The first formula to check is the basic one. This is the simplest offer that any mutual must present. It covers the costs to be paid to the veterinarian following an accident. This formula must allow your four-legged friend to enjoy free care within a given limit. The amount to pay to benefit from this insurance is usually low and costs on average 10 to 15 euros. The repayment ceiling in such a formula is also very low.

In addition, health insurance for animals comes in a mixed formula that allows you to reimburse various veterinary expenses. Diseases and accidents are the two elements that disrupt the life of the animal. The mixed formula covers both risks. In addition, it covers the costs of periodic vaccination of the animal. To do this, the mutual requires a flat rate of 50 euros at most to prevent any infectious or viral disease in your four-legged companion. However, the amount may vary depending on the coverage offered.

You can also inquire about the latest formula which is the high-end option. This takes care of all the guarantees of the previous formulas. In addition, there are other additional benefits. In the event of the death of the insured animal, for example, the mutual insurance company can pay capital to its owner. The same applies to the insurance of the custody of the dog or cat if its owner is sick or hospitalized. The factor to check here is the degree of comfort given to the animal. Due to the multiple advantages of this formula, it is often expensive.

The cost of your pet insurance

As is the case with health insurance, the price of the mutual for a dog or cat varies according to several criteria. The first element to consider is the breed of the animal. Insurance for an ordinary dog, for example, will be cheaper than that for a bulldog. Prices also vary if it is a cat, dog or other pet. The insurance then takes into account the age factor.

Young animals are generally not exposed to pathologies such as osteoarthritis. When it comes to health insurance, an older pet will cost you more than a young one. However, puppies and kittens are restless and more easily exposed to the risk of accidents. It is therefore possible to pay a high flat rate compared to adult animals. The general state of health of the animal is also to be checked to define the cost of its insurance.

We advise you to take stock of these elements in order to better appreciate the cost of insurance to choose for your four-legged friend. Although it is difficult for you to define precisely which package to pay, you will be able to have a rough idea. The monthly fee for the insurance of a cat is between 7 and 20 euros. As for the dog, it is possible to pay from 10 to 25 euros each month.

The professionalism of the mutual concerning the breed of animals

To verify the performance of a mutual, you must take into account the profile of the staff. Pet insurance must have animal health experts. Novices in this field will not be able to develop offers that integrate all aspects related to animal protection. The mutual must therefore have at its side veterinarians and experienced auxiliaries. They will also be able to give advice on keeping animals and the breed of the one you own.

An effective mutual must prioritize the health of your pet. For this reason, it is important to make sure that it offers a fairly short waiting period, if possible less than 7 days. In this way, when the animal is insured, it can already benefit from its insurance from the 8th day at the latest. However, this rule should not be applied to young animals. If your four-legged friend is not yet 3 months old, the insurance must take effect on the date of signing the contract. Otherwise, the insurance will take effect from the day the animal is 3 months old.

Effective insurance must be able to cover all risks related to your pet's health. Your mutual insurance company must offer in its basic offer the care following an accident or illness. In addition, this risk coverage must not be limited to a period. Even as the animal ages, it must enjoy the same guarantees in order to maintain good health.

The content of the coverage of the animal insurance contract

The pet insurance contract covers different risks for your pet. You must therefore study it carefully to make sure that it meets the needs of your four-legged friend. First, check all the diseases that are covered by the mutual. In this section, the insurance contract may cover all or part of the costs incurred with the veterinarian. Consultation and care are the responsibility of the mutual. The same applies in the event of an accident. Pet insurance also covers tests, ultrasound, surgery, and, if possible, hospitalization costs.

In addition, the animal insurance contract covers the costs related to the purchase of medicines for the care of the animal. Damage caused to others must also be covered by the health insurance contract. This option is found in contracts signed for dangerous animals. When the insured dog bites a third person, for example, the responsibility of its owner is engaged. If you have insured your pet with a mutual insurance company, it covers medical expenses. All this, however, depends on the conditions under which the incident occurred.

 The cold weakens the immune system of dogs and makes them more vulnerable to different infectious diseases. They are also at risk of cold snaps during the winter, which can lead to serious health consequences.

It is recommended to pay special attention to these pets during this period and to take the necessary measures to preserve their health. Discover our tips for taking care of your dog in winter.

Get health insurance for your healthcare

Whether in winter or not, the first step to take care of your dog's health is to take out health insurance. Some veterinary care can be particularly expensive. To give you the means to deal with it without affecting your finances, a health insurance contract for pets is the best choice.

Why take out health insurance for your dog's care?

Many dog breeds resist the cold well, thanks to the thickness of their fur. This is not the case for those who have a fine morphology or for small canids. Nevertheless, regardless of the breed of your dog, its immune resistance decreases when temperatures are too low. The slightest exposure to a cold or a microbial germ is likely to cause more or less serious health problems. This requires you to make a consultation with the veterinarian for an average cost that varies between 30 and 40 euros depending on the breed of the dog and the region.

The cost of the acts performed during this consultation will be added to your bill, which can increase your expenses very quickly. Thanks to health insurance for your pet, you can always face these situations with great peace of mind. Your dog's veterinary care will be covered in part or in full by the insurance company. Any expenses you incurred will be reimbursed immediately. This solution helps you amortize your pet's health expenses and have peace of mind.

How do take out health insurance adapted to your dog in winter?

To find the most advantageous offer, the trick is to make a dog insurance quote on different platforms of mutual health for animals and compare them. There are indeed many companies that offer various insurance contracts for pets. Rates, guarantees as well as the terms of support and reimbursement are often variable.

You must then study the offers according to these different criteria in order to choose the one that will best meet the needs of your canid. To take care of your dog's health in winter, choose companies that include a package for preventive veterinary care. Scalable formulas and contracts that cover almost all veterinary costs are also preferred.

Buy dog clothes suitable for winter

In winter, get into the habit of dressing your dog to protect him from the cold. This gesture helps prevent many health problems and promotes the development of your canine companion. Investing in winter-friendly clothing will save you from spending time at the vet and stressing out when your pet is unwell. To protect your companion while having a wide range of choices in terms of style, offer him:

• Sweaters
• Jackets
• winter coats,
• Beanies
• Slippers...

These clothes will be useful for traditional walks as well as for short outings outside for the needs of the dog. Young canine companions as well as older ones are even more vulnerable during the winter season. You should not neglect any aspect of their protection. During the coldest periods, your dogs can even stay dressed indoors. These clothes will also help you keep your rooms clean because they retain the hairs that usually scatter.

With dog boots, you protect your companion's paws against frostbite, cuts, and the effects of salt, and snow... Thanks to protective clothing suitable for winter, you also avoid changing your dog's habits by keeping him excessively indoors. This could affect their development and behavior. If it's windy, don't forget to add dog glasses to your clothing collection for the winter season.

Provide protective care after the dog's outings

In winter, you should be particularly attentive to your dog's movements and behaviors during walks. Once at home, it is recommended to practice some protective care to preserve the health of the animal. During your walks, you must prevent your canine companion from licking his paws or slippers if there is snow removal salt on them. This product is toxic and could cause burns, and digestive and neurological disorders.

As soon as you get home, you should rinse your dog's paws with water or clean them with suitable wipes. Then use a towel to dry them and take the opportunity to auscultate his pads. If there are cracks or wounds, apply a repair balm immediately. When returning from walks, dry your canine with a towel or hair dryer if he has a wet coat. Rub its paws, well to prevent the formation of snowballs between its pads. If you notice the presence of ice, give your dog a paw bath with warm water before drying him.

Give your dog a diet adapted to his age and needs

In winter, your dog needs the energy to fight the cold. His food needs will then increase slightly according to his age. You must take care of it to provide it with a suitable diet to strengthen its resistance. The lower the temperatures, the more your companion will need a supplement to supplement his ration. On the other hand, it is necessary to considerably limit the proportions if the dog spends a lot of time indoors.

For an active dog, it is recommended to increase the ratio by 10 to 20% depending on the weather. If the cold is intense, small and older dogs will need to burn more calories to maintain a high body temperature. Cereals are rich in carbohydrates and are easily digested by animals. They thus bring a good energy reserve to your companion without him spending a lot of energy to assimilate them. Cooked rice, green beans, and zucchini are examples of foods recommended for dogs during the winter season.

Limit dog baths in winter

The dogs' bodies produce protective sebum that is deposited on the surface of their epidermis to protect them against cold and bacterial infections. After bathing, water and shampoos destroy this natural barrier. In addition to this, too-low temperatures prevent the animal from warming itself. This is why it is necessary to considerably reduce the frequency at which you give baths to your companion. Instead, the animal should be dressed to protect it from dirt. Also, adopt dry shampoos to clean it.

To maintain its coat and remove dirt, brush your pet regularly. If it is possibly too dirty, only wash the affected area with a moistened washcloth and warm water. This will help him maintain his body temperature to withstand the cold. In addition, stay very attentive to the state of health of your dog. Despite all the precautions you have taken to prevent him from getting sick, he may have a health concern. This may or may not be due to winter. The most important thing is that you quickly notice his symptoms to take him to the vet.

 Located in Washington State, on the western tip of the United States, the city of Seattle deserves to be known. Highlighted in the series Grey's Anatomy and in the Twilight saga, Seattle has become for fifteen years a popular place for tourists. 150 km from the Canadian border, Seattle enjoys exceptional natural landscapes. Have you planned a trip to Seattle and are wondering what are the must-see sites to visit? So, discover the top 30 unmissable activities.

1. Le public market center

Along Elliot Bay, near the harbor and close to Pike Square, this market is one of the best-known in the city. It is also one of the oldest in that it exists since 1907. It attracts many tourists from all over the world every year. Extremely fresh products, litter the shelves and bring color to the place. Fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, and local bread have something to delight the taste buds of the most demanding gourmets. Be careful, however, as prices are particularly high. So don't be surprised when you receive your rating.

2. The waterfront

Along Elliott Bay, not far from the public market center, admire the waterfront and marvel at the breathtaking views of the sometimes snow-capped Olympic Mountains. Preferably, plan this walk at dusk to admire a wonderful sunset. Take the opportunity to take nice pictures in memory of your trip to Seattle.

3. The Space Needle

184 meters high, the Seattle Tower has been an emblem of the city since 1962, when a World's Fair was held. Do not hesitate to climb to the top of the needle of space, to go to the platform, and contemplate the 360 ° view. From the top of the Space Needle, you can see the Olympic mountain ranges, the various waterfalls, Mount Rainier, etc. You can even have lunch there if you want to linger more on this site. The visit to the Space Needle usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours.

• Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Rates: $13 per adult

4. Columbia Center

The Columbia Center is the tallest skyscraper in the city of Seattle. From the top of its 287 m, it even exceeds the Space Needle. Do not hesitate to approach the building to become aware of all its magnificence.

5. Bruce Lee's grave

Head to Lakeview Cemetery on Capitol Hill and pay your respects at the grave of the famous king of Kung Fu, Bruce Lee. You can also visit Arthur Armstrong Denny, one of the founders of the city of Seattle.

Opening hours: daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

6. The original Starbucks

Head to 1912 Pike-Place and discover the 1st Starbucks coffee to open in 1971. Yes, this one is located in Seattle, the city that was the starting point of the wonderful adventure of the American coffee chain that now has no less than 23,000 cafes around the world. Drinks start at $2.

Opening hours: daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 6:30 a.m. On Sundays.

7. Downtown Seattle

Since Seattle is the most important city in Washington State, you are forced to linger in its city center. You will discover typical neighborhoods, even picturesque ones. You can also take the opportunity to go shopping or eat in one of the best establishments in the city.

8. A donut at Top Pot

When you travel to the United States and you are greedy, you are forced to taste an iconic American donut. To enjoy a delicious donut, head to 5th Avenue at Top Pot. It is unquestionably one of the best donut makers in the city of Seattle. The brand has been a real institution since 2002. On the other hand, be aware that you can also consume other delicacies, such as delicious American muffins.

Opening hours:

• Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• weekends from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

9. Lake Washington

Lake Washington is the 2nd largest lake in Washington State. It lies between the cities of Seattle and Kirkland. For the more athletic among you, cross the lake by kayak and reach Mercer Island. You may be lucky enough to spot sea lions. Moreover, the house of Bill Gates, the famous designer of Microsoft, lives in a house on one of the shores of the lake.

10. A boat tour in Puget Sound

The city of Seattle is aptly named because water is omnipresent. It was built around an arm of the Pacific Ocean: Puget Sound. In order to discover this maritime city from the sea, it is possible to take a boat tour. Moreover, do not hesitate to stay in the Edgewater Hotel which overlooks the bay. This unusual property allows travelers to fish directly from the balcony of their room.

11. The Gum Wall

Near Pike Place Market, discover the street where the walls are completely covered with chewed gum. Indeed, this tradition began in 1993, when patrons from the nearby theatre waited in line before entering. They used to stick their chewing gum on the wall before entering the theater. After several unsuccessful attempts by the authorities to have this wall washed by the managers of the theater, the Gum Wall became a tourist attraction in 1999.

In 2015, it had to be cleaned, because the red bricks of the wall were too attacked by sugar and various bacteria. It took more than 3 days to evacuate the accumulation of more than a million chewing gums. Rest assured, since this stage, Seattle residents and tourists have quickly glued their chewing gum to restore the singular identity of this wall.

12. Play guitar at the Experience Music Project

At the heart of the Seattle Center business park is a building completely disconnected from reality: the Experience Music Project. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this building is entirely dedicated to rock and grunge. Enter this establishment and observe the relics of Nirvana and AC/DC. You can also strum a few chords on the available guitars.

13. The zoo

Don't miss Woodland Park Zoo, and discover animals from around the world. The site is organized into several zones, namely Asia, Nordic countries, savannah, and temperate forests. You will see lions, zebras, giraffes, hippos, wallabies, leopards, monkeys, and many other species.  The site has something to interest young and old. Located between Green Lake and Fremont.

• Opening hours: daily from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Rates: $18.25

14. Museums

For those hungry for knowledge, head to one of Seattle's city museums. You will find the Museum of Flight which is dedicated to the history of aviation. The Pacific Science Center will satisfy science enthusiasts. As for art lovers, head to the Seattle Art Museum to discover the site's collection of pictorial and sculptural art.

15. San Juan Islands

Take the ferry and head off to Seattle. Disembark on the San Juan Islands and observe orcas. If you want to extend your stay on the island, you can book a room in the port of Friday Harbor.

16. Washington Park Arboretum

Go green as you walk through the Washington Park Arboretum. This botanical garden is home to more than 10,000 plants from around the world. You will observe many rhododendrons and azaleas. Being twinned with the city of Kobe, Japan, Seattle was offered a tea garden. It is quite natural that it took place in the Washington Park Arboretum. It is located between Washington Lake and Seattle Medical University.

Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

17. Seattle Central Library

Since 1891, the city of Seattle has been home to a huge library. Since 2004, the latter has settled in the city center. This glass and steel building dedicates 11 floors and many shelves to books of all kinds.

Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

18. Olympic Park

The Olympic park is a natural space of rare exception. Between beaches and mountains with lush forests, do not miss this wild site. Moreover, you can make many hikes with a guide. In winter, the excursion is in the snow-capped Olympic Mountains and requires snowshoeing.

19. The statue of Lenin

Exhibited in the Fremont district, the statue of Lenin is a bronze sculpture that pays tribute to the famous politician. This 7-ton behemoth was designed by Emil Venkov. It took the artist more than 10 years to complete his work.

20. Seattle Harbor Cruise

From the Port of Seattle, embark on a narrated cruise aboard a sightseeing boat. Admire the rooftops of the American metropolis and the Olympic Mountains from the sea. This cruise is very popular with tourists and has been around since 1949. The ship usually consists of an open upper deck and a closed lower deck so as to please everyone. The cruise takes place with a hundred other passengers.

21. Chihuly Garden and Glass

Right next to the Space Needle is the Chihuly Garden and Glass. This exhibition center will intrigue you with its glass galleries, colors, and garden. It is possible to combine it with access to the Space Needle. In this case, the entrance for the 2 sites rises.

22. Snoqualmie and Twin Falls

Connect with nature and explore the Snoqualmie and Twin waterfalls. To do this, make a hike of 2 or 3 hours. Walk to the base of the falls and admire these waterfalls over 80 m. To make sure you don't miss anything and don't get lost, plan this tour with a tour guide.

23. Discovering Seattle's vineyards

For wine lovers, take advantage of your excursion to Snoqualmie Falls to explore the winery of Château Ste Michelle. It is one of the oldest and most reputable in Washington State. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes to proceed with a wine tasting and discover American know-how.

24. Seattle Chocolate Tour

Browse the best chocolate factories for 2 or 3 hours. Discover all the design secrets of the world's most beloved treat. Take the opportunity to enjoy a tasting of Seattle's chocolate delights.

25. Mount Rainier National Park Day Trip from Seattle

From Seattle, book a tour and visit Mount, Rainier, National Park. No need to rent a vehicle, it's your driver who takes care of everything. It will take you through the park and stop several times for you to take photos of Longnire and Narada Falls. You'll also explore Jackson Visitor Center Park.

26. Boeing Factory Tour 2023

For aviation enthusiasts, visit the Boeing company and discover the manufacturing secrets of the famous airliners. The site includes an aviation museum, a Paine Field observation deck, a factory tour, and an official Boeing store. The site opens in March 2023.

Opening hours:

• Monday to Friday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

27. Meredith Grey's house in Grey's Anatomy and Kurt Cobain

For fans of the series Grey's Anatomy, it is unthinkable not to pass in front of Meredith Grey's house. To discover it, it is located at 303 W Comstock Street in Seattle, of course. Once in front, you can photograph yourself in front of the emblematic house of the series. In addition, for fans of grunge music, and more particularly of the band Nirvana, it is possible to go in front of Kurt Cobain's house. It is in this house that the famous singer committed suicide in 1994. This house is located at 171 Lake Washington Blvd East. Be careful, the building is privately owned. So you can walk past it and photograph it, but if you want to meditate, go to Viretta Park. This is a square close to the house where fans usually lay flowers and offerings in honor of Kurt Cobain.

28. Leavenworth Village of Lights Festival

If you're staying in Seattle in December, take the opportunity to visit Leavenworth. This small mountain village, picturesque, sports many lights during the holiday season. Hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights bring an authentic charm to this place. If you are a fan of Christmas romantic comedies, this is where you should go!

29. A sunset sailing trip in Seattle

Better than a tourist boat, dare to cross the sea aboard a sailboat. Enjoy this tour in a splendid schooner to watch the sunset over Seattle Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy this romantic setting while enjoying a delicious glass of champagne. This activity is to be done if you are traveling as a couple.

30 Old Ballard Brewery

If you're a beer lover, you can't leave the city without tasting the famous nectar of one of the local breweries. Located in the West Woodland district, Old Ballard is one of the best in the city.

In short, the city of Seattle is characterized by a singular geographical location. Land of contrast, both lake city and on the edge of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the country, you can marvel at the diversity of these natural landscapes. Seattle is also a dynamic city, pleasant to visit, and which has seen the birth of rock stars. With these 30 must-do activities, you have plenty to do for the duration of your stay in Seattle.

 Ecological citizenship starts with the steps you take from home. To protect the environment, there is no more procedure than necessary. Therefore, choosing an eco-house with environmentally responsible décor is a positive measure that contributes to environmental protection. It is a way of life that is more and more popular among Canadians. Want to have an eco-house, but don't know how to do it? Here are 6 tips for ecologically responsible decorating.

Decorate your home with eco-friendly furniture

Every action we take has an impact on the environment. Environmental issues must lead to behavioural change in order to deal with them properly. Summits are multiplying in order to search for solutions capable of countering the effects of environmental pollution. As a solution, it is often recommended that each person at their level develop a lifestyle that aims to purify the environment of waste and other toxic products.

Awareness must be collected so that the fight for environmental sanitation yields convincing results. It is therefore imperative that all citizens learn to develop eco-responsible behaviors. We are talking about actions or decisions on a daily basis. For example, preserving the environment by choosing objects designed from natural materials to build, but also decorating your home is an approach to encourage.

Thus, even the decoration allows, when done in an eco-responsible way, have an ecological home. It would be wrong to think that everything related to ecology lacks aesthetics and would not be suitable for sublimating the interior decor of a house. From furniture to paintings, lighting, and many other decorative objects, you can transform your home with a unique and ecological décor.

For an eco-responsible decoration, you can, for example, choose a bar stool made of natural materials with regard to the furnishing of your home. Increasingly trendy in the world of decoration with the craze aroused by American kitchens, a bar stool made of natural materials blends easily into the décor without impacting the environment with pollutants. There are different models that meet all styles and designs.

Furniture is a major source of environmental pollution because of the microorganisms it produces and releases into the ambient air. Made from natural materials such as beech, oak or pine, the bar stool made of natural materials is ideal for an eco-responsible decoration. For the protection of the environment, the recommendations are strict regarding the use of wood and natural materials in the manufacture of objects.

Although it is not a style, the eco-responsible decoration should not be done in a cheesy way without any aesthetics. There are brands whose leitmotiv is the manufacture of the furniture that complies with environmental standards. With various shapes and styles, but with wood as a manufacturing material. Furniture like the bar stool brings an original touch to your home while preserving nature. Thus, being trendy in its decoration and contributing to the protection of the environment is quite possible.

Giving an ecological and aesthetic aspect to your home is an eco-responsible approach that involves the choice of natural and biodegradable materials in all its compartments. You can easily combine the personalization of your decoration and environmental protection with furniture made of natural materials. This contributes to the elimination of risks associated with the production of fine particles by industrial furniture. It would be inconsistent to proclaim yourself an eco-citizen and decorate your home with furniture that produces waste that is harmful to nature and is not biodegradable.

Look for companies that only produce eco-friendly products

Environmental issues are so important that they require everyone's input. We are now committed to ensuring a healthy environment, but also to preserving it for future generations. Global warming is due, among other things, to the emission of greenhouse gases as well as industrial pollutants that destroy the ozone layer. It is a reality that imposes new skills to adopt, including choosing products derived from natural materials.

This is why more and more companies are integrating this aspect into their production. Their mission is solely to produce ecological products for the well-being of all. Aware of the environmental challenges facing the entire world, these companies compete in ingenuity to provide people with eco-friendly items and products. This is about the social responsibility and environmental ethics that everyone should demonstrate.

Checking the origin and composition of products on supermarket shelves has now become a reflex for almost all French people. This is to extend these considerations in the choice of items to use for your home decoration. To avoid having to worry too much, you just have to do a search for companies recognized as being exclusively in the manufacture of organic and ecological products. Whether it is paint, lamps, furniture, or any other decorative object, you will be ideally served by getting closer to companies whose trademark is the realization of ecological items.

Upcycling to personalize your eco-friendly home

Upcycling is an ecological process that consists of giving new life to all the old objects that you do not use. It's time to exhume everything you've buried in your closets, cellars, and garages. This is a technique for recovering obsolete objects in order to give a special touch to your home. For example, with a used tire, you can make a lawn chair to change traditional chairs.

This process, which rightly integrates the technique of the fact by oneself, participates in the realization of an ecological decoration. The reuse of old objects contributes to the eradication of external pollutants from the environment and at the same time to the preservation of the ozone layer. Since you are better served than by yourself, and that the taste is relative, taking control of the decoration of your home gives you the necessary guarantees for work that meets your expectations.

With a view to eco-responsible decoration, you can therefore bet on upcycling and giving life to old objects. In addition, the retro touch in a modern decoration is a unique assembly for the sublimation of your living environment. Nothing is created. Nothing is lost. Everything is changing. Upcycling for an eco-responsible decoration makes it possible to have a lasting impact on your environment.

Use recycled objects

Apart from upcycling, recycling is one of the best eco-responsible approaches adopted by all those committed to the environmental cause. Indeed, everything that is thrown into nature has the possibility of experiencing a new existence or a new use. With a little talent and a lot of ingenuity, the recycled material takes on a completely different look than its original presentation. The transformation of recycled products to give them a new life is an effective and inexpensive solution to carry out eco-responsible decoration. This consists of opting for second-hand products to decorate your home.

The recycling market is also in vogue in France and you can discover all the decorative objects necessary to perfect your interior decoration. In addition to allowing you to develop your sense of creation and invention, recycling is an eco-citizen behavior. Far from being a mania or a constraint, it is an activity that contributes to the reduction of waste in nature thus promoting the protection of the environment. It is right that many recycling and waste sorting policies have been put in place with the aim of properly protecting the planet.

For example, a recycled teapot can perfectly serve as a flowerpot in your ecological home for an eco-responsible decoration. Many other examples such as a converse box lantern are legion to justify the importance of recycling on a daily basis as an eco-responsible attitude. Therefore, let your imagination run wild by using recycled objects for eco-responsible decoration.

Plants and flowers to perfect your green decoration

The protection of flora is a fierce fight waged by the guardians of nature. We all know how much flora contributes to reducing the effects of pollution. By planting trees, you limit the pangs of air pollution. In addition, it is necessary to have ecological house plants that embody nature. Planting trees in your garden gives you cleaner air. An ecological home stands out from ordinary homes by the natural appearance it gives off. It is also the ideal solution to cope with periods of heat waves without leaving your home.

You have to feel nature living in your home both outside and inside. As for the décor inside, you can fill your room with flowers placed in recycled objects like a teapot. Indoor plants and flowers are the ultimate representations of an ethical commitment to the ecological cause. So you have to think about putting plants in your home and filling your interior with fragrant flowers. You will get a greener decoration, which has the advantage of contributing to your well-being and that of your whole family.

Follow tutorials on networking for new tips

Tutorials flourish on a daily basis, from content creators and amateurs, on social networks. They make it possible to share tips and experiences on specific topics such as environmental protection with as many people as possible. How to make an eco-responsible decoration? It is a subject that unleashes passion because of the climate emergency about which all experts have been warning for years. That's why many influencers and environmental activists do not hesitate to give online advice to make your decoration based on natural materials as successful as possible.

When you lack inspiration or creativity and are looking for innovative ideas, use tutorials especially on YouTube to discover the best tips to perfect your eco-responsible decoration. Always in the perspective of encouraging DIY (Do It Yoursef), that is to say, do it yourself, follow tutorials to avoid overconsumption, and stay in the logic of eco-responsibility. You can no longer rely on a lack of inspiration to not go through with your ecological home project. In need of ideas, follow tutorials on social networks.

For an eco-responsible decoration, give priority to objects made of natural materials

We have only one planet and every action counts to preserve it. We must become aware of the danger facing humanity and be part of an eco-responsible approach in all our actions. The environmental challenges are so serious that it is essential to face them with unwavering commitment. It is therefore possible to build an ecological house and decorate it with typical Eco objects.

It consists of adopting eco-citizen habits even for something that seems as banal as the decoration of our home.

Therefore, it is quite possible to obtain a successful decoration to our liking, while respecting environmental standards. The eco-responsible decoration meets all styles. It allows you to give a unique aspect and an extraordinary soul to your living environment. To achieve it, you have the possibility to opt for suitable furniture such as bar chairs in natural materials including wood. The important thing in this context is to focus on the valorization of any object made from natural materials. This precaution aims to significantly reduce internal air pollutants such as fine particles. Apart from the emphasis on natural materials, it is desirable to include upcycling and recycling in the order of your new passions.

These are activities that not only revive your sense of creativity but also contribute to the consolidation of the eco-responsible approach. Finally, you have a considerable number of platforms that offer you certified ecological objects. Do not hesitate to explore these online sites to find the eco-responsible decorative piece that will sublimate your interior.