Stairway to…HEAVEN!!!

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Alegbra, Angles, China, Construction, decor, Degree, design, Designer Staircase, designs, Down, Downstairs, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Dr.Seuss, Flight, Geometry, Goal, Heart Chair, Heaven, interior, Level, Levels, life, marble, Math, Mount Niesen, Riser, Society, Spiral, Stair, Staircase, Stairs, Stairway, Stairway to Heaven, Stairwell, Step, Steps, style, Styles, Susan Lachance, Tread, Up, Upstairs

Flight Information: “Steps” Connection With “Stairs”… is ON TIME!!!!

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“Step with care and great tact,
and remember that Life’s a Great Balancing Act.” Dr. Seuss

 

Departure:

Welcome to “flight: Steps with connection to Stairs”.  In order to elevate to the next level we must first simply go over the “tread” and “riser”.  Please understand the construction and purpose of the “flight”.

Vertical distances are bridged together allowing travel to be completed between floors.  This link is better known as, a staircase.  Which are two or more straight pieces that connect at angles or by taking a step and repeating the previous one(s) just slightly different.  The tread is the part where the floor meets your feet; as it is the actual flooring that is stepped on.  The vertical part creating space between each tread is the riser.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Take Off:

Next in line for takeoff is “nosing” which is the part in which sticks out over the riser yet is also an element of the tread.  With every step that is taken there is distance that is being achieved vertically.  An easy way of counting steps is by counting the number of risers.  Overall, the stairway is a mathematical enchantment of geometry, algebra, in conjunction with measurement.  When combined in the proper manner, the design of the staircase is developed.

There are many different styles when it comes to the steps in which we take.  Some are to be said floating when the riser is invisible, others twist and turn in a delight giving a ninety degree rotation from start to finish.  Other types are simple and straight, these are most common in high traffic areas.  The stair is complicated and simple but full of detail.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The creation of stairs and the architecture styles is endless; especially today with all the creative and innovative advancements in construction partnered with technology.  Staircases are works of art that complete two motions: up and down, yet all in one structural component.  However, there is still only one purpose that remains despite all the changes in designs, that is: the stairs or steps are a connector to one level to another.  They are the links that allow access on a vertical plane.

Spiral and helical stairs are characterized by the number of turns that are made. Another direction changer would be the winder, it permits for multiple variations.  The staircase has become a stylish element in the interior and exterior of homes, buildings, and structures.  They add emotion to the décor on many scales.  Stairs have become the accent piece or backdrop for many pictures throughout life.

Interestingly, the ergonomic relationship was first established by a man named Nicholas-Francois Blondel.  He noted in his Cours d’architecture of 1675-1683 that the two times the riser plus the tread would equal the step length.  (2 x riser + tread=Step length).  This equation is still used today.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

In Flight Entertainment:

Uniquely, over six thousand years ago the first stairs are believed to be those of wooden tree trunks which were fixed together.  A symbol of religious power, the first granite stairs made a debut in China.  Mount Niesen in the Swiss Alps is the home of the longest staircase in the world.  The steps come to a total sum of: 11,674.  The first steps at the White House in Washington, DC, USA weren’t installed until 1948.  Before then there were ramps, pulleys, winches, and ladders.

In most castles you will find that the stairs that are spiral always lead clockwise. It has been believed the purpose for the clockwise rotation is because of the knights being right-handed and that would be the hand in which they would hold their sword, leaving the left hand to grab the railing or wall for balance.

The earliest temple to have spiral staircase was in Greece and dates back to 480-470BC.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Landing:

Prepare for landing as we come to back to the first floor.  Society has used references to steps in metaphors or analogies referring how to live each day.  The relation to ascension or the movement of going upward towards is used as measure of success; by the extent of the steps in which it took to get there.  Or define the status of one’s position in the world.

From the time we are learning to walk we are told to “watch our step” or “one step at a time”.  These guidelines to fulfilling a certain goal or purpose are defined by the steps or actions that need to be taken in order to achieve the ultimate goal.  Sometimes, there are setbacks, and we may fall back a few steps before we can even think of leaping forward, yet this process always takes us to the next level despite the downfall.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Cardiovascular exercise has been achieved by walking upstairs.  Most people today would say that by skipping a step it burns additional calories however, it has been proven that taking it step by step and time spent on each step has a greater effect and uses more energy.  Downstairs have benefits that are not as exhausting.   This direction works, tones, and utilize muscles, tendons, joints, etc that are different from the ones used when traveling upward.  It doesn’t matter what way you are moving, there are many positive attributes to taking the stairs.

A mis-step is estimated to occur once in 7,398 times and injury on stairs happens once in 63,000 uses.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Skipping steps has a notion of being negative.  If you skip a step you’re not following the rules.  But maybe it should be looked at as bouncing on or over each step.  Comparatively like a child skipping. By using the term “skipping” as an action of joy, we really are experiencing life more.  It removes the edge by taking the focus off the lack of something or the mistake and allows for another opportunity to fix what didn’t work.

 

“When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor.
It’s to enjoy each step along the way.” Dr. Wayne Dyer

 

 

Embrace each step you take and remember it’s all part of the staircase of life. . We hope you enjoyed your “flight”.

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

 

 

 

Trick…Treat…And… Design!!!!

Tags

bar, bars, bathroom, bathrooms, black, design, designs, ford, halloween, home, interior, orange, sinatra, trend

Spooktacular Colors!!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Spirit of Orange and Black

In the spirit of Halloween there’s no better time for orange and black color design.  Orange being a huge trend recently in home décor and black being the classic, these two colors although opposite bring a fresh and exciting vibe.

The second most commercially successful holiday in The United States is Halloween.  The Snickers candy bar is the number one choice or popular candy.  With candy revenue of over two billion dollars annually in the United States, we understand why it is the second most celebrated holiday.

“There is no blue without yellow and without orange.”- Vincent Van Gogh

“Orange is the happiest color” – Frank Sinatra

According to feng shui specialist, the two energies are opposite in spectrums however both have powerful meanings and promote an energy that is creative.

Warmth, bright, lively, fire, sun, are all words that are used to describe the color orange typically. Much of the same descriptions or meanings are the symbolism of this color. In combination of red and yellow the color orange is associated with enthusiasm, sunshine, joy, happiness, determination, encouragement, etc.  The color is very hot especially to the human eye, and translates to the brain as a motivator that increases the oxygen and stimulates the mental state.

 

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The “orange” scented crayon that was released by Binney and Smith Inc in 1994 was part of their ‘Magic Scent Crayons’ and was actually retired as too many children had been reported as eating the scented crayon.  Later the scented crayon “orange” had a name change and was then called “tulip” as a way of keeping the product but limit the consumption by the consumer.

Throughout the world the color orange is used for safety and to grab the attentions of civilians.  In China the color orange actually holds meaning to symbolize love and happiness.  In the Netherlands’ it represents the national color and the Dutch War of Independence and rebel Prince of Orange, whom was Protestant English king and Dutch Stadholder.  In the United States the color is used both in construction as well as national security.  In compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, it is required that particular construction equipment be painted orange for safety, and is also used to set things apart such as traffic cones, zoning devices, etc.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

“People can have the Model T in any color- so long as it’s black.” – Henry Ford

Considered the unknown, black actually has a lot regarding it to be known.  A color of power, formality, mystery, elegance, yet classical and full of possibility, Evoking strong emotions the color black is authoritative and assertive.  The prestigious color gives depth as well as plays with perception.  In fashion wearing the color black can improve the appearance of an individual by making them look “thinner”.  Other times when one wears a black suit they are considered more powerful or successful.

A contrast to all other colors black stands out and is special.  Black is unique as it goes with all colors of the color wheel.  Combination of the color accents dimensions.  Another powerful term in the design industry is the saying, “the new black”.  Many times in fashion of all sorts a new hot color or trendy color is considered the “new black” of its time.

Dating back to in history to at least the Roman Empire in the West, the color black was worn for times of mourning.  The Aztec culture due to the black obsidian glass that was used to cut the edge of battle swords the color now signifies war.  Priests would dress only in black as a symbol of religion.  China holds the color black meaning to a variety of things.  Black is associated with winter, the north, and water.  Traditional apparel worn by boys was black.

Black also has a prestige to it and gives definition to an event by dress code, “Black Tie.”

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Black however also has meaning or symbolism to it in which some may interpret as negative.  The color can be known to represent emptiness, voids, emptiness, or the feeling of inconspicuous.  Yet all of this relates back to the mystery that is evoked by the color black and the unknown possibility that darkness that can be known as fear.

This color really makes us appreciate the empowerment it embodies with elegance.

The masculine yet sophisticated black in combination with the hot and vibrant orange add statement with swagger.  This usage of colors together isn’t just for the fall harvest or spooky night, but is a great combo for the home year round.

Not so “black and white”…Orange and Black develop harmony with excitement drawing the eye directly; catching the attention with a bold statement.

Happy Halloween!!!

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis

The Golden…Touch!!!!

Tags

art, au, color, design, designs, gold, history, interior, room, rooms, space, star, sun

Gold…Rush!!!!!

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is always in close relation to the sun that shines above us, giving meaning that represent:  success, warmth, happiness, attainment, close truthful friendships, and prosperity.  Overall, the color brightens all things and has a character that is optimistic.  Divinity has also been connected with the color Gold.

Regal in genre, gold is perceived as the color of and the credibility of financial well-being.  Not only a symbol of riches and lavishness, gold is also represented as the highest monumental achievement award; i.e. gold mental.

Gold is a variety of orange, yellow, and brown tones blended together to give the color its elemental appearance.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold Mine in Time:

Tutankhamun’s mask was made of gold.  Gold was also first recorded as a word to describe the color in 1400 in the English language.  The Crayola crayon color gold was first introduced in 1958.  A symbol of monarchy for the British Empire would be the golden lions.  Byzantine art often used metallic gold.

Throughout history, Gold (Au) has been the element that is the standard of all value pertaining to monetary currencies.  The standard economic unit of an account was measured by the weight in gold and is the only standard monetary system or policy as it is always measured in weight which is fixed.

The Golden Age also known as the Utopian Lifestyle was a past era in which the highest quality of artwork would be produced.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers; The Golden Gate Bridge is considered and cited as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.  California was also considered the Golden State as it was best known for the Gold Rush that began in 1849.

When it comes to décor, Gold has been the color of choice by many royalties.  However the most famous known for the usage of the color gold would be the bedchamber of the Queen in the Versailles Palace.  The main reception or ceremonial hall as well as the throne were called the “Chrysotriklinos” which translated means Golden Reception Hall.  The bedchamber of the grand apartment in Versailles Palace is also decorated and themed in gold, this would also be the room in which the wife of King Louis XVI of France slept, Marie Antoinette.

INTERIOR DESIGN BY: SUSAN LACHANCE INTERIOR DESIGN

Gold is unique in décor as it truly does conform and match any other color in a palette. No matter what the trend or color scheme is of your décor, gold adds accent and grace with a touch of sparkle and glamour.  The color also can be related or considered an earth tone as it is a blend of the earth tones.

Another special attribute about gold is that it looks great in any and all rooms.  It is not limited by a destination or space, but rather universally appealing for all spaces.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a wall of a hallway, a bedroom, a bathroom, or kitchen, the color gold embraces the beauty, enhancing a variety of rooms in your home.

The extravagance that leads by gold will shine in all tones, leaving you feeling that you’ve got the pot of gold in your home and have found the gold mine.  In conclusion we give the color gold a ‘gold star’!!

 

Style and Design,

Sabrina Alexis