Sometimes when we attempt to renovate a room or two within our humble abodes, it can be hard to make that all-important choice between form and function. We want the best ergonomically designed armchairs, the most sumptuous beds and the most comfortable seating around our dining table. At the same time, we aren’t going to forfeit good design and chic style to feel secure. You need to find a balance. The same can be said for the security of our homes. Who wants an ugly CCTV camera system outside their house to keep the occupants safe and feel secure if it detracts from the curbside appeal of your home and makes the facade look like a factory? Take a look at the ways you can make your home feel secure while still oozing style at the same time.
DOORS
If you have a UPVC door or a front door with ridiculous amounts of glazing, it can be like a red rag to a thieving bull. Burglars will hunt for any weakness on the outer shell of a property to break in more easily. With a quick smash, a thief can reach in, grab the keys to your car from an inner shelf and drive away. Instead, opt for a composite front door as they are stronger, come with industry standard double locking systems and are also thermal efficient. Companies like Central Screens provide security doors and windows that you can install in your property. They come in a range of styles and colours that range from the minimalistic to the ornate. By making your windows just as secure as your front door, you are using every deterrent you have at your disposal.
ALARMS
An alarm system needn’t be an eyesore. With a little shopping around you could have a perfectly working system installed across the home that is barely noticeable to the naked eye and doesn’t detract from the designer show home you look you have created. By simply having that little orange box with some flashing red or flickering blue lights fixed to the brickwork on the outside of your pad, you are warning would-be burglars to stay away.
ADD LIGHTING
Lighting is a great way to add mood and ambience to your outside areas. It’s also a fantastic way to shine a spotlight on any criminal that might be tempted to break into your home unseen at night. There are plenty of solar power bollard lights that store up energy during the day and light up your driveway at night. They come in a range of hues and don’t have to light up your entrance like a runway if that’s not the look you’re after.
PRIVACY
If your home is directly on the street and passers-by can see into your living room or kitchen, consider installing some frosted privacy film on your glazing. These films are cheap and easy to pop on yourself and can look very stylish in the same way as stained glass or perspex bricks. There is a range of patterns to choose from, and the film doesn’t block any natural light so you won’t be in perpetual darkness.
Trying to strike the perfect balance between form and function can be difficult when it comes to interior design. However, implement these security measures and you won’t be forfeiting an iota of curb appeal.
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This has been a collaborative post. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are not my own
