What is the first image that pops up in your head, when you think about casinos? Probably, these attracting slot machines that light up dozens of colors. And what would be the first place that you would think of if you got asked about a luxurious casino to visit? There
Academics at Northumbria University, Newcastle, have been backed by the Government’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to develop an antiviral coating suitable for use on everyday surfaces. DASA, part of the Ministry of Defence, has commissioned a research team from Northumbria to develop a new type of multifunctional antiviral coating
Many homeowners love conducting home renovations and projects every once in a while as a way of improving their homes and these home improvement projects are more than just hanging a banksy canvas on the wall for interior design. We’re talking about renovations that can potentially increase your home’s value.
Now we are in post-Brexit Britain, what is the current situation with the plastic pipes and fittings industry in the UK, a significant industry supplying the utilities, construction, housing and plumbing sectors? Caroline Ayres of the BPF Pipes Group confirmed: “Our industry is continuing to supply its markets without any
While some of you are finding that you are spending more and more time at home, you might be looking around your home and seeing things that need a little fixing up. “Do it yourself” projects are a great way to pass time, and also make you feel accomplished taking
SO Resi, the shared ownership brand of leading housing association Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), has joined forces with Cambridge University to release the first annual report into the status of shared ownership in England. The findings of the report, by Dr Gemma Burgess, Acting Director of the Cambridge Centre
Family-run Seddon, which knows first-hand the importance of cancer treatment, is pledging to raise £175,000 toward a new state-of-the-art cancer centre. The Bolton-based construction firm has once again teamed up with The Christie charity to help raise funds – this time for the new Christie at Macclesfield cancer centre. Seddon
Going to a casino is one of the most enjoyable forms of entertainment for many adults. It goes far beyond the ability to play games such as poker or roulette, or even spend a few hours playing at the slot machines. Many of these casinos are meccas of entertainment. They
Homeowners and prospective buyers looking to purchase a new property can look to these seven ingredients for a happy home from property experts at FHP Waterside Living. It is often said that home is where the heart is – but how much does the layout, location and ‘liveability’ of our
Improving property value is key for one in five Brits who decide to take on DIY home renovations according to recent research gathered by Estate Agents Douglas & Gordon. In fact, since last March, Britons have spent an average of £4,035.70 each on DIY projects. The trend has continued into
What is the first image that pops up in your head, when you think about casinos? Probably, these attracting slot machines that light up dozens of colors. And what would be the first place that you would think of if you got asked about a luxurious casino to visit? There is a high chance that you would name Las Vegas with its hundreds of casinos of all types, where everyone can find something to their taste. Fair enough, because it is tacitly considered to be the center of the casino world – a place of luxury, gamble, and both happy and sad moments. Las Vegas might be a must-visit for many, but we may all agree on one thing – it has become somewhat, a cliché, since we’ve seen it so many times in the movies, travel shows and so on. Now, let’s explore the world of new, up-to-date abodes of the elite. Apart from being a high-end hotel for those, who opt for palatial accommodation, impeccable service and extensive facilities, this building in the shape of three columns with a giant ship on the top, also has a grand casino. It possesses more than 2,000 slot machines and around 500 tables for gaming. After an evening at this paradise of gambling, you can have a swim at the rooftop pool with a view, which covers the whole city. Even Gclub Casino with their famous slot games can’t compete with that luxury. More than 500k square feet space, full of gambling tables and slot machines – pure pleasure for gamblers. What’s more, this place has multiple replicas of Venice’s most popular tourist attractions, including canals! Yes, you heard it right, you can have a boat ride down the canals right inside the building, what a wonder. You can see lots of such things in many casinos of Asian region. If you are a parent, you won’t have to worry about bringing your child in, since there is a big area for kids, where they can play and simply have some good time, interacting with their peers. This casino is one of the most luxurious and popular out there. It is an embodiment of luxury and wealth, so if you want to approach that lifestyle even if for a day, pay a visit to this wonderful place. You may also stop by the cars, parked at the entrance, to see what are the latest trends in the motor industry. The name of the casino itself, suggests us that spending some time there may result in the highest pleasure. Surrounded by one of the most beautiful national parks in South Africa, this casino provides its visitors with a real African experience. Once you see this place, with its large pool and all of the attractions the casino has to offer, you won’t regret travelling this far. One of the oldest casinos in the world is located alongside a high-end SPA resort. Even though this casino can’t boast of its grandiose size, it has a lot of other things to offer, otherwise Marlene Dietrich wouldn’t entitle it as the most beautiful casino in the world. The chandeliers, the furniture – all has the smell of luxury. Find our more about arabic real money earning games https://arabcasinohex.com/real-money-earning-games/ with HEX
Academics at Northumbria University, Newcastle, have been backed by the Government’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to develop an antiviral coating suitable for use on everyday surfaces. DASA, part of the Ministry of Defence, has commissioned a research team from Northumbria to develop a new type of multifunctional antiviral coating which could form part of the country’s biodefence – crucial to combatting public health crises such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), academics from the University’s Department of Applied Sciences are working to create a unique “superhydrophobic” – low friction – coating that enables surfaces to be functionalised in a way that destroys viruses whilst maintaining robust and easy-to-clean properties. While antiviral coatings are not a new concept, existing approaches can release undesirable chemical compounds into the environment, are not long lasting or are difficult to clean and maintain. This novel coating aims to provide a solution to the drawbacks of current formulas. Funding from DASA will enable the research team to explore wide-ranging applications, to understand whether the coating is universally robust on an array of surfaces and materials. It is hoped that in the future it could be used on high-contact surfaces such as handrails on public transport, hospital trolleys or shop till-points, as well as domestically – on door handles or bathroom taps, for example. Such a scientific development is a vital biodefence tool that could help bring down the COVID-19 ‘R’ rate, while allowing more scope for ‘normal’ life to continue. Dr Matt Unthank, project lead and Associate Professor in Polymer Chemistry, said: “Having the ability and insight to design multifunctional coating systems that can create long lasting defence against viruses, whilst also being compatible with everyday life, is challenging yet important. “It’s not just about destroying viruses in the laboratory. New coating systems and surface treatments need to be robustness, easy to clean, universal in their application, safe and low cost. Our research seeks to explore these interdependencies and to develop new antiviral coating systems for the current and future pandemics.” Routes to antiviral surfaces Disinfecting methods such as chemical, bleach or alcohol-based products actively destroy, or deactivate, microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses on contact. However, this approach requires constant retreatment of the surfaces with disinfecting agent which can be labour intensive and impractical. An alternative approach is to create a permanent or semi-permanent surface that destroys virus particles on contact, known as an ‘antiviral’ surface. These fall into two major categories: 1) those that slowly leach virucidal chemicals from a coated surface into the environment resulting in an antiviral effect, known as ‘controlled release’ biocidal or virucidal coatings. 2) those that have a surface that is permanently capable of destroying microorganisms, such as coronavirus and are known as ‘contact biocidal’ or ‘contact virucidal’ coating Ian Shortman, technical partner and Senior Scientist at Dstl, said: “This work aims to develop transparent coatings which are both biocidal and water repellent. The approaches being adopted could provide a wide range of benefits, and be easily applied to a range of surfaces such as textiles and plastics.” Andrew Caldwell, Head of DASA, said: “Congratulations to Northumbria University, we look forward to seeing the progress of this important and exciting project. “This work is a great example of how DASA working with others finds, funds and helps accelerate the development of important innovations that help keep us all safe.” Dr Matt Unthank and his team are focussing on developing new multifunctional contact biocidal and virucidal coatings, which are safe, do not release chemicals to the environment and are user friendly and universal in their application. One disadvantage of all biocidal and virucidal coatings is that surface contamination by dust, debris and dirt can disable its antiviral capabilities overtime. An ideal coating system would be both potent in its antimicrobial properties but also easy-clean or even self-cleaning in nature. This concept is the inspiration for the low friction, or ‘superhydrophobic’ qualities of the coatings under development by researchers at Northumbria University – a vision that sets it apart from existing antiviral coating technologies.
Many homeowners love conducting home renovations and projects every once in a while as a way of improving their homes and these home improvement projects are more than just hanging a banksy canvas on the wall for interior design. We’re talking about renovations that can potentially increase your home’s value. Your house is not just a home, but it’s also a valuable and possible lifetime investment. If you work hard to take care of your home and preserve its quality and stability, your home value will also increase. An increased home value can be your valuable source of income as you age. As you decide to improve your home, there are two factors you may have to consider first: improvements that can increase your house’s value to you or improvements that could increase your home’s value to others when you soon sell it. While deciding, keep in mind that the most valuable home improvements are those projects that increase your house’s worth more than the amount you’ve spent on it. However, it may be hard to say how much your home could be valued over time, as sometimes it depends on uncontrollable factors like the economy, the number of homes available in the market, and more. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure that your home gets the top value it deserves when you soon sell it. Here are the five home improvements you can do to increase your home value: Get Your Roof In Shape You may not see your roof every day as you move in and out of your house, but it’s actually one of the easiest parts to see by prospective buyers. Your roof doesn’t only serve as your home’s shield from natural elements, but also boost your home value. A well-maintained and stable roof will look appealing to your buyers and can positively add value to your resale price too. To ensure your roof stays in shape, schedule regular roof maintenance and inspections with a roofing company like www.topglaze.com.au, especially before winter. A roof that’s regularly checked is guaranteed to have a longer lifespan. 2. Upgrade Your Kitchen One of the massive changes you can make to your homes is kitchen remodeling. Your kitchen is also one of your house’s areas that buyers check before purchasing. The good reason for this is that kitchens are the heart of your home, and that’s where homeowners prepare their food to fuel their bodies with energy. Hence, it’s essential for homeowners and homebuyers to have an updated and functional kitchen. Fortunately, you don’t need to spend a big budget to remodel your kitchen. You can start by modernising your kitchen countertops and cabinets and updating your faucets, sinks, and flooring. You can either DIY this or call the help of a contractor. 3. Renovate Your Bathroom A renovated bathroom can guarantee you an excellent return of investment. There are a few ways to renovate your bathroom without involving the electrical and plumbing system. Some smart DIY changes you can do include: Upgrading your bathroom’s lighting Adding new tile floors Replacing your bathroom mirrors Changing your old toilet with an updated water-saving design Do valuable research first to make sure all your bathroom renovations can guarantee you a return of investment. 4. Window Replacement Your windows are the eyes of your home. They also help create your home’s first impression from the outside. When they’re rusty and unclean, people may think your house is not well-cleaned and maintained. Thus, replacing them is a great way to add value to your home. Besides that, upgraded windows can also enhance your home’s energy efficiency, which means you wouldn’t have to spend much on HVAC. The cost for upgrading your windows will vary on your home’s size and the quality of windows you choose. Nonetheless, new windows can earnestly complement the overall look of your house. 5. Basic Home Updates The best way to keep your home at its top value is by conducting regular home updates. That includes keeping your home’s paint fresh, replacing wood that shows potential rot, fixing the roof as soon as it shows leaks, and getting rid of all the mold you see. Keeping up with these updates will help your home be in its best shape and away from any risk of deterioration. Everyone knows that one thing all buyers look for is a safe, solid, and well-cared home, and you can guarantee that to them by being consistent with your routine maintenance. Wrapping Up There are still endless options on how you can improve your home and boost its value. To make sure you’re doing the suitable projects, focus your home improvements on smaller projects that can enhance your home’s quality and make it more appealing to buyers. Be more mindful about energy efficiency and updates that can boost your home’s character and comfort. Don’t hesitate to consult custom home builders for a professional opinion on how to do so.
Now we are in post-Brexit Britain, what is the current situation with the plastic pipes and fittings industry in the UK, a significant industry supplying the utilities, construction, housing and plumbing sectors? Caroline Ayres of the BPF Pipes Group confirmed: “Our industry is continuing to supply its markets without any interruptions, whilst our members continue to operate within Covid-19 guidelines to ensure safe and secure delivery of plastic pipes and fittings to customers.” With Britain leaving the EU, many aspects of the future relationship remain unclear, but BPF Pipes Group manufacturers remain committed to continuing to supply quality products to the same high standards. These incorporate third party approved products to British European Standards (BS ENs) where applicable, standards which users and specifiers are familiar with and which provide reassurance that the products are always fit for purpose. BPF Pipes Group members remain actively engaged in the processes of drafting new standards and for now nothing will change – manufacturers will continue to supply products that are third party approved to the existing BS ENs. Additionally, the BSI’s membership of CEN and CENELEC is continuing beyond the EU exit transition period. It will enable the UK’s continued influence over standards produced in both CEN and CENELEC, providing additional certainty and stability to stakeholders. Plastic pipe systems are successfully used in a huge range of sectors in the UK, from water, waste, gas and telecoms to general construction and plumbing, playing a major role in new installed pipe networks as well as in maintaining and improving existing networks. These types of pipes are also proving ideal for some of the emerging technologies around low-energy use, such as ground source heat pumps, district heating and underfloor heating. At the end of their service life plastic pipes can be recycled and turned into other useful products to aid the circular economy. More information about plastic pipes is available from www.bpfpipesgroup.com
While some of you are finding that you are spending more and more time at home, you might be looking around your home and seeing things that need a little fixing up. “Do it yourself” projects are a great way to pass time, and also make you feel accomplished taking care of business yourself. If you are new to DIY projects, then check out this list of products that can be useful to help get a variety of tasks done around the house. There is no need to run out and buy a whole hardware store. With an AliExpress discount code you can save money on everything you need. As you spend more time at home, you are bound to come across a leaking faucet, squeaky door hinges, and other small things around the house that need a little extra attention. There are certain tools you must have in your toolbox to complete general tasks at home. A set of screwdrivers can be used for so many different projects around the house. As a beginner to DIY projects, you may be asking yourself why you need more than one. Screwdrivers can tighten screws on hardware, light switches, open your kids’ favorite toys to replace the batteries, and many more everyday chores. You don’t need to have any prior knowledge, just make sure you use the screwdriver size that fits best with the screw. A tape measure is another tool that you should always have on hand. Are you looking to add some wall art to your living room? Make sure you measure the distance between frames, and keep everything nicely centered so that you don’t end up with distracting, off-centered pieces. Are you looking to upgrade your TV and wanting to make sure it fits with your entertainment center? Don’t let the eye fool you. Always measure first before you buy to save you a trip to the electronics store. A tool that can be used hand and hand with a tape measure is a stud finder. If you are hanging decorations or redoing some electrical work, you are going to need to know what’s behind the walls before you start doing any drilling. With such advanced technology these days, stud finders are even equipped with lasers so you can make sure the items you are hanging are level. A utility knife speaks for itself: useful, beneficial, and practical. From sharpening pencils when you can’t find the pencil sharpener, to cutting down electrical wires, and even simple tasks like opening boxes, you shouldn’t be without one. This next tool may seem basic, but can be handy when you least expect it. Having a flashlight at hand or in your tool box is convenient when unpredictable weather conditions cause your electricity to go out. A flashlight can help you find your way to the fuse box, or the stash of candles you have collected for emergencies. You can even purchase headlamps to help you in small places and keep you hands free such as when you are fixing the pipes under the kitchen sink or checking wires under your car. A repair tool kit such as wax chips is an excellent tool to have in your toolbox. From wooden floors, antique or vintage furniture, and even ceramic countertops, you can fill in those scratches, chips, and signs of wear. Bring your furniture back to life with this professional repair kit. When you find yourself completing more and more tasks at home, it may be useful to invest in a simple tool belt so that you can carry all the tools you need to get the job done.
SO Resi, the shared ownership brand of leading housing association Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), has joined forces with Cambridge University to release the first annual report into the status of shared ownership in England. The findings of the report, by Dr Gemma Burgess, Acting Director of the Cambridge Centre for Housing & Planning Research and a professor at the prestigious university, were released at an industry roundtable on Wednesday 3rd February. The event, chaired by property writer and editor Stacey Meadwell, brought together a panel of experts from the property world – Kush Rawal, Director of Residential Investment at MTVH; Jon Lord, Managing Director at Metro Finance; and Ben Fry, Head of Housing Investment at Gresham House – to discuss the findings with Dr Burgess. The panel heard from Dr Burgess’ report: “Shared ownership providers, lenders and wider industry stakeholders interviewed for this research were all very positive about what shared ownership offers to customers. In many parts of the country, interviewees felt that shared ownership is the only realistic route into home ownership for households with relatively low deposits. The product offers flexibility as it opens home ownership at a range of possible price points to households with modest deposits.” The research, which surveyed 24 housing providers and interviewed industry and user groups, revealed important details about the average shared ownership transaction: Most shared ownership purchasers are aged between 20 and 40 (72%), with the late 20s being the most common time to purchase. Only 5% are over 65. The largest group of shared ownership purchasers are single adults without children (50%) followed by childless couples (35%) 94% are in employment The average value of shared ownership properties purchased in 2018/19 was £265,000, with the average initial share being 42% and a deposit of £24,600 Interest in shared ownership is booming. According to the report: “All interviewees were asked about the impact of the pandemic on the shared ownership sector. The most immediate impact had been an increase in demand for shared ownership lending and in enquiries about buying a shared ownership home. Since 2015/16, the number of shared ownership completions per year has increased from 4,084 to 17,021.” -MORE- 2/…In fact, demand for shared ownership properties is now considerably greater than supply – with up to 10 people enquiring about every home in some areas. The report found that nearly half of the shared ownership homes completed in the last five years were built in London (27%) and the South East (22%), with two-bedroom homes being the most popular size of home sold (58%). The report did voice some concerns, mainly around the Government’s plans to amend the standard shared ownership scheme. At present, the minimum share that can be purchased is 25%, and shared ownership purchasers are responsible for repairs and maintenance. Under the new scheme, the minimum share will be 10%, and housing providers will be responsible for repairs for 10 years, which could affect viability. “Most survey respondents thought that the option of purchasing a 10% share and lack of responsibility for repairs and maintenance for the first ten years in particular will make the new model more attractive to buyers and will increase demand. However, most survey respondents believed that the proposed changes will reduce the supply of shared ownership properties that they are able to build.” With the difficulties around maintenance meaning that providers might be able to provide fewer homes as a result, the report urges the Government: “The unintended consequences of these changes to the product should be carefully considered before changes are implemented.” Another area of concern was public lack of understanding of the scheme, which has existed for more than 50 years, especially with regards to leasehold. Submissions from The Law Commission noted: “Members of the public do not always understand exactly how shared ownership schemes operate, or the precise nature of the legal arrangement which the purchaser of a shared ownership property is entering into.” Kush Rawal, Director of Residential Investment at Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing, comments: “We are pleased that this report – the first of many that we plan to commission – proves the valuable role that shared ownership has in helping people take their first steps on the property ladder. It’s also confirmed what we at SO Resi already knew; that people are often confused and uncertain about what it all involves. For this reason, we are determined to guide people every step of the way, with simple, clear and transparent language that ensures that there are no surprises down the line.” Dr Gemma Burgess, Acting Director Cambridge Centre for Housing and Planning Research at Cambridge University, concludes: “There is consensus that the UK has a housing crisis and that greater effort needs to be made to increase housing supply. Shared ownership has an important role to play in delivering new build housing supply and in meeting the need for affordable homes. The Government should do all it can to make it as easy and simple for providers to increase their pipeline of shared ownership homes, to reduce cost and complexity from the system, and to ensure that grant levels are sufficient to ensure a strong supply of shared ownership going forward.” To find out more about SO Resi call 0208 607 0550 or visit www.soresi.co.uk.
Family-run Seddon, which knows first-hand the importance of cancer treatment, is pledging to raise £175,000 toward a new state-of-the-art cancer centre. The Bolton-based construction firm has once again teamed up with The Christie charity to help raise funds – this time for the new Christie at Macclesfield cancer centre. Seddon – which has been supporting The Christie charity for nearly 25 years – has pledged to donate £250 for every new house it sells nationwide under its Seddon Homes brand. The fundraising drive will run until the end of 2022,raising vital donations for the new £26m cancer centre, which is due to open at the end of the year. Seddon is aiming to sell nearly 700 homes nationwide to raise the incredible sum for the charity. The company hopes its fundraising model will inspire other local construction businesses to support The Christie in the same way. The Seddon family know all too well how important the work of The Christie is, with two family members receiving treatment at the specialist cancer hospital. Seddon began supporting The Christie charity in 1997 when, as part of Seddon’s centenary celebrations, staff raised many thousands of pounds that helped to fund two operating theatres. The partnership developed further in 2009/2010 when Seddon became a Christie charity corporate partner and raised more than £400k towards a revolutionary treatment called radioimmunotherapy or ‘Magic Bullet’ – a treatment that blasts tumours with radioactive material. During these two years, Seddon staff ran, cycled, swam and walked hundreds of miles in teambuilding and fundraising events. In 2017, Seddon committed to a further two-year fundraising partnership by making The Christie its Charity of Choice, with all national fundraising initiatives supporting the charity. Over the years the company has raised an incredible £875,000 and helped fund a wide variety of projects and contributed to the development of a range of pioneering treatments and valuable cancer research, including proton beam therapy research. “We are thrilled at this latest pledge of support from Seddon which is a much respected and longstanding supporter of our charity. It is through partnerships like this that we can bring the vision of a new cancer centre in Macclesfield to reality. It is an extremely generous pledge from Seddon which is very much appreciated and will directly improve services for a huge number of patients for many years to come,” said Marie Toller, head of major relationships at The Christie charity. The Christie at Macclesfield will transform cancer care in Cheshire, the High Peak area of Derbyshire and parts of North Staffordshire, providing care closer to home for more than 1,500 existing Christie patients a year. It will bring together essential cancer services into one purpose-built centre delivering local specialist access to radiotherapy, chemotherapy, holistic support and information services, outpatient care, palliative care and a wider range of clinical trials. Around 40,000 appointments per year will take place at the new centre. The Christie charity supports the work of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust providing enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. This includes money for care and treatment, research, education and extra patient services. Gifts from the public make a huge difference to the care and treatment that The Christie is able to provide to patients and their families. The Christie NHS Foundation Trust was the first specialist trust to be rated as ‘Outstanding’ twice (in 2016 and 2018) by the health regulator the Care Quality Commission (CQC). It referred to The Christie as ‘a leader in cancer care’ and ‘a pioneer in developing innovative solutions to cancer care.’ The CQC praised the Trust’s staff which it said ‘go the extra mile to meet the needs of patients and their families’ and that they were ‘exceptionally kind and caring.’ In 2017, the CQC rated The Christie as the best specialist trust in the country, and one of the top three trusts overall in England.
Going to a casino is one of the most enjoyable forms of entertainment for many adults. It goes far beyond the ability to play games such as poker or roulette, or even spend a few hours playing at the slot machines. Many of these casinos are meccas of entertainment. They have incredible entertainment venues where you can watch shows and live concerts, there are five-star restaurants, and many of them are affiliated with a hotel, allowing you to have a full-service experience. Casinos are truly spectacular places to visit. They not only offer these spectacular accommodations, but the beauty of these casinos is quite spectacular. It is clear that an amazing degree of architectural design and engineering feats have been used to build these facilities. What Makes for a Great Casino? One important thing to consider when discussing the beauty of a casino is that there are certain standards that need to be met. It is not just about having a large number of lights, a tall building, or thousands of gaming machines. The casino must go the extra mile. However, when you are one of the world’s largest casinos it does help to get you more attention. It takes a lot of craftsmanship and design to build such an elaborate facility, so some of these places have earned a special recognition because of how big they are. It also takes an architect with the vision. Sometimes there is already a structure located at the site of the new casino. It is the job of the architect to take the current structure and envision something completely different, something extravagant, something truly breathtaking. Then it is the job of the engineer and the construction crew to turn that vision into a reality. This collaboration has led to some of the most extravagant and spectacular casinos on earth. Here are the top five. Venetian Macao This opened in 2007 and is still one of the largest in the world today. With its incredible design and fantastic accommodations, it has quickly become a destination spot for tourists across the globe. For those who love to gamble, there is a lot to love about this facility. It starts with over 550,000 ft.² of gaming space that includes 870 tables and over 6000 slot machines. You would be hard-pressed to find a casino with so much gaming activity available to it anywhere else on the planet. In fact, renovations in 2009 had made this the biggest casino on the planet. That is no longer the case as the WinStar, the next casino on our list, has surpassed it. The casino is divided into four sections: the Imperial House, the Phoenix, the Golden Fish, and the Red Dragon. In the resort are nearly 3000 suites that are available. There is an entertainment venue that includes live sporting events, concerts, and international award shows. You do not have to play casino games to enjoy your time here. The Venetian has 24 great restaurants with international cuisine from across the planet. Because it is the Venetian, you can also take gondola rides around the complex, taking in a day of shopping, theater, or other forms of entertainment, including bars and nightclubs. There are also swimming pools available for guests. WinStar World Casino (Oklahoma, USA) If you are traveling down I-35 in Oklahoma, just before reaching the border with Texas you are going to find one of the most spectacular casinos on earth. The WinStar is constructed to provide you with a little taste of the wonders of the world as you enter the complex. The casino is built to show you some of the most spectacular sites across the globe, including the Eiffel Tower, Roman Coliseum, Big Ben, and much more. However, the WinStar is just as spectacular inside as it is out. There is a large casino that has thousands of table games and slot machines available, great restaurants, and they provide world-class entertainment as well. Plus, the resort has a spectacular hotel with incredible dining, a world-class golf resort, two gigantic swimming pools and much more. It is located conveniently about an hour from both Dallas and Oklahoma City, making it easy to get to. Rio Casino Resort (South Africa) Do you like big games? Or should we ask if you like big games? This is the great advantage of heading to the Sun City Resort in South Africa as you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Not only are you able to play casino style games in a fantastically built resort, but you can also head out to check out the incredible wild animals of the land. The resort-casino is built to give you the feel of a real-life Safari. It is beautifully designed to include several features that make you feel like you are out on the Serengeti. All of the grandeur of the natural habitat of South Africa is contained in this resort, you may even walk out a door one day feeling like you are out on a safari. There is plenty of great gaming action for you to enjoy. This includes nearly 300 slot machines +260 additional types of gaming machines. There are plenty of table games as well as the total gaming space is over 266,000 ft.². Plenty for you to enjoy the Rio Casino Resort. Casino de Genting (Malaysia) Malaysia is a mysterious land to many, but it is also a growing area that draws tourists from across the globe. It also is a great destination for those who like playing poker, roulette, or other casino games. The Genting Highlands is a complex that contains five hotels, hundreds of table games, and several bars, clubs, and restaurants. Plus, this is part of the 20th Century Fox World park, a first of its kind theme park dedicated to the entertainment giant. You can watch television shows filmed live, watch movies at the incredible cinema, even take a scenic gondola lift to view the beauty surrounding the complex. It
Homeowners and prospective buyers looking to purchase a new property can look to these seven ingredients for a happy home from property experts at FHP Waterside Living. It is often said that home is where the heart is – but how much does the layout, location and ‘liveability’ of our home affect our wellbeing and happiness? From air quality to interior décor, personal space and natural light – there are certain factors that can enhance our daily lives, bolster our happiness and make a home feel like a haven. As a result of our shifting living habits, what we look for in a property is changing and many people have spent more time at home than ever this year due to the pandemic. A study by RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) found that 70% of homeowners who responded to a survey, said that the design of their home affected their mental wellbeing during the recent lockdowns*. “Our physical and mental wellbeing are heavily tied to the homes we live our lives in – from what we can see when we look out of the window, to having enough space to balance work and relaxation, there are many factors that can affect our happiness levels, while we spend time at home. No two homes are the same, which makes identifying and creating the perfect property a challenge. We have therefore identified and compiled a list of seven ingredients, which we believe are key to creating a home that compliments your living style, habits and routines – to maximise overall wellbeing,” said David Hargreaves, managing director of FHP Living. Here are the seven ingredients to consider for a happy home: 1. Open plan living As well as being aesthetically pleasing, open plan living spaces have many benefits in enhancing the way we live at home. A report from RESI titled The Science of a Happy Home, shows that 6.25 million UK households now have open plan living spaces in their properties, confirming that this is a desirable living trend that continues to grow. ** Offering plenty of space, light and a natural ‘flow’ to the home – open plan living, dining and kitchen spaces give us the room we need to cook, entertain, relax and enjoy quality time with the people we share our home with. It also gives us a sense of freedom and space, as we are not confined to one single room and can enjoy multiple activities within a larger area of the home. 2. Views Views from your property can play a significant role in your overall wellbeing – from spectacular vistas over the water, city scapes or even access to a communal courtyard with plenty of greenery – having access to the outside, with aesthetically pleasing views from the comfort of your home, can lift your mood and improve your happiness. 3. High spec fixtures and fittings To keep your home running smoothly, it is important to choose quality appliances and electronics to improve your quality of living. Do your research online, ask trusted friends and family and choose a good standard of main appliances and electronics – the better the investment, the longer appliances will last, so it’s worth paying out for peace of mind. 4. Location Location is one of the most important aspects of any property – homeowners are often looking for a fine balance between access to convenient local amenities, such as restaurants, cafes and shops, easy transport links to work and proximity to nature. Being able to take a relaxing stroll along the riverside, having a trail to jog or cycle along, or simply living close to a public green space can not only increase the value of a property but also boost overall enjoyment of the environment you live in. 5. Indoor air quality Ventilation and air quality within the home can really contribute to overall health and wellbeing. A house that provides clean, fresh air helps us to keep a clear mind and feel uplifted – increasing our productivity whilst working from home, as well as our ability to relax and sleep soundly. Indoor plants are a great way to boost the air quality of a property – many species of plant are known to remove toxins from the air and of course, will release oxygen back into the room. 6. Natural light Ample daylight in a property can make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of the space. A home that lets in swathes of natural light thanks to large windows, a balcony or a sky light, is going to be aesthetically pleasing, as well as beneficial to our mindset and mood. Properties that lack natural daylight can be transformed with artificial lighting, with features such as ceiling spotlights or lamps with natural daylight bulbs, which imitate the sun’s rays to give that extra brightness where needed. 7. Personal space As well as having room to share with loved ones, it is also important to consider making personal space for solitary activities and downtime. This can be as simple as a corner of a house dedicated to reading or your favourite hobby – it is normal to crave some time to yourself, so don’t be afraid to carve out your own space where you can enjoy a quiet moment.
Improving property value is key for one in five Brits who decide to take on DIY home renovations according to recent research gathered by Estate Agents Douglas & Gordon. In fact, since last March, Britons have spent an average of £4,035.70 each on DIY projects. The trend has continued into 2021 as Brits remain in lockdown, but the good news is that research suggests those who get their DIY home renovations right can enjoy as much as a £50,000 increase in their property value. With 60% of Brits grabbing their drills, screwdrivers, hammers and saws, what home renovation ideas have the UK’s DIYers been spending their time on? To find out, Douglas & Gordon have investigated which DIY home projects Brits are searching for the most has the biggest added property value: 1. DIY Home Office: +80% Increase in Searches (Up to £20,000) Naturally, those working from home want a comfortable, practical office space to work from — whether that’s a corner unit or an entire office extension. And the investment is worth it. A home office extension could boost your property price by an average of 8.4% (around £20,000 for the average UK home). This number may only increase with more people working from home permanently. 2. DIY Plumbing: +33% Increase in Searches (Up to £7,000) From clogged drains to installing a whole new toilet, there are plenty of plumbing repairs and installations that can be done yourself, potentially saving hundreds in repairman costs. Simple tweaks like new taps and showerheads can add as much as £7,000 to your property’s value. 3. DIY Gardening: +21% Increase in Searches (Up to £2,000) Gardening has been more popular than ever during lockdown. Brits are even planning to use their gardens in the chillier winter months, with searches for outdoor heating up 300%. And while gardens are notorious for ongoing work and maintenance, the payoff can be worth it. A well-kept garden can add as much as £2,000 to your property’s value, with sheds, patio/paving and secure fencing being essential features to buyers. 4. DIY Lighting: +19% Increase in Searches (Up to £7,200) LEDs, overhead lighting, up-lighters, table lamps and pendants are easy and simple ways to highlight features, soften the mood and create a warm, homely atmosphere. Plus, making rooms look light, bright and inviting is essential to appealing to buyers and getting the best value possible for your property. LED lighting can boost value by 1–3% (£7,200 for the average UK home). 5. DIY Extension: +13% Increase in Searches (Up to £20,000) Adding an extension to a property is a hefty task, but there’s no better time to do so. Single storey extensions add around 4–7% to a property’s value. Even better: double-storey extensions add as much as 11% — about £26,000 for the average UK home. 6. DIY Deck: +12% Increase in Searches (Up to £5,000) Decking has the potential to add as much as £5,000 to the value of your home. It’s essential to pay attention to these details, as buyers definitely will! 7. DIY Plastering: +7% Increase in Searches (Up to £2,500) When done well, good plastering makes a house more durable and reduces how much maintenance must be done, increasing the value of a home by around £1,000–£2,500. “2020 and 2021 has seen us spending more time at home than ever before. As a result, more people have tried their hand at DIY to improve their homes and make them more comfortable. We applaud anyone who takes the time to improve their living space; however it’s important to note that DIY isn’t as simple as it seems, and that if you’d like to add genuine value to your home, it’s worth consulting with an expert. If you are renovating to sell your home, we recommend finding out the value of your home before you undertake any serious renovations, so you can focus your time and energy on the areas that can add the most value,” commented on the research, Warren McCann, Area Director at Douglas & Gordon.
