Choosing the best security system for your apartment comes down to a few factors. First, determine your budget for upfront and monthly monitoring costs. Then, compare the benefits of installing a system versus relying on the buildings security.

Decide which sensors your apartment needs to protect the doors and windows and determine if you need a doorbell or other camera. Consider an indoor camera or two for extra peace of mind.

Finally, choose a system thats easy to install and take down that requires no hole drilling or screws for installation to comply with the buildings related rules.

Selecting the right components for your apartments security system is key to ensuring optimal protection without violating rental agreements. Consider these features:

For renters, choosing a security system thats easy to install and remove is crucial. Look for DIY systems that dont require drilling or permanent changes to the apartment. These systems often use adhesive mounts or standalone devices, making them ideal for renters who need to comply with leasing restrictions.

Cost is a significant factor when choosing a security system for your apartment. Consider both the upfront cost of equipment and any ongoing monthly fees for monitoring services. Balance your budget with the level of security you need, remembering that many effective systems are available at a range of price points.

Before committing to a security system, understand the contract terms. Some companies require long-term commitments, while others offer more flexibility with month-to-month options. As a renter, you might prefer a system with no long-term contract to align with your lease terms.

When selecting a security system for your apartment, the range of available features can significantly impact its effectiveness and convenience. Key features to consider include:

These features not only fortify your apartments security but also provide a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Excerpt from:
Best Security Systems For Apartments Of 2024 Forbes Home - Forbes

Even though Hosts had permission to install indoor cameras in common areas, many Airbnb guests were perturbed by the perceived invasion of privacy such as one female guest, traveling by herself, who stayed at an Airbnb and found a camera in the bedroom which she claimed wasn't listed on the Airbnb listing page. Reports such as this likely influenced the company's decision to ban indoor cameras after April 30.Following that deadline,if guests report finding cameras in their homes, Airbnb will investigate, assess, and remove listings if needed. Outdoor cameras, while still allowed, will also have new limitations, being restricted from more personal areas such as saunas.

Airbnb's Head of Community Policy and Partnerships, Juniper Downs, states, "These changes were made in consultation with our guests, Hosts and privacy experts, and we'll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community. Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb."

So, as Airbnb makes this change, Hosts will need to take heed. And if you're one of many homeowners thinking ofturning your home into an Airbnb for a cool side gig, it's crucial to keep up with the changing guidelines to ensure everything runs smoothly.

See the original post here:
Airbnb's Unexpected Home Security Ban Sets A New Standard For Rental Property Owners - House Digest

SAVE $80: The Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell is just $49.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $129.99. That's a 62% discount.

We live in an incredible timepractically anything you want can arrive at your doorstep in just a few days, if not a few hours. However, this convenience comes with the concern of unattended packages sitting on the front porch. If you tend to check delivery status about 12 times per hour, today's deal could help by taking the guessing game away from package delivery.

As of March 8, the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell is just $49.99 at Amazon, down from the typical price of $129.99. That's a savings of $80 or a discount of 62%.

The Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell packs in the safety features you're looking for when selecting a home security system. The camera uses a wide 180 degree viewing angle which means you'll be able to see front door visitors from head to toe. The camera also features night vision so you'll still be able to keep an eye on later deliveries or those that arrive at 4:30 pm in December. It's also designed to weather-resistant, capable of withstanding rain, cold, heat, and sun.

This model of the Arlo video doorbell requires some wiring to install. You'll need to have existing electrical wiring with voltage between 6V AC and 24V AC and a 10VA. To install the doorbell, you'll have to turn off the power to the breaker and follow a few simple steps to connect the doorbell to your home. Once connected, you'll want to set up the Arlo app to complete the installation process.

From the Arlo app, you'll gain access to video calls and notifications. You can see and even speak to delivery people through the two-way audio, should you have special instructions or simply want to thank them for their hard work. You can also prerecord messages to play during a delivery.

When it comes to security, the Arlo has a built in siren that you can trigger either automatically or manually through the Arlo app, should the need arise.

Spring cleaning season is a great time to upgrade your home security system and thanks to today's deal at Amazon, you can add the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell for just $49.99.

Read the original:
Best home security deal: Get the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell for just $49.99 at Amazon. - Mashable

Lithe Audio and Lilin have announced the integration of Lilin's AI camera range within the Lithe Audio iO1 outdoor wireless speaker.

This pioneering technology marks a significant leap in security systems, offering an unprecedented level of automated audio deterrence without the need for a traditional control system. Built-in alarms and security announcements within the speaker ensure zero-latency local announcements independent of an internet connection. This integration is part of a move towards the future of decentralised smart systems. By eliminating the need for a central controller, this integration empowers residential and commercial properties with more efficient and autonomous security solutions. The system's flexibility allows for the creation of different zones with specific announcements.

The core benefit of this integration is its proactive approach. While traditional security systems rely on footage review after an incident, this solution deters potential threats before they materialise. When a potential threat is detected, an automated announcement will alert individuals in the vicinity, providing them with information and prompting appropriate actions. By informing individuals that they are under surveillance or that their actions are being monitored, potential intruders may be warned off.

Wesley Siu, co-founder of Lithe Audio, said : Audio announcements can serve as an effective deterrent. The psychological impact of a human-like voice delivering warnings or instructions can be more persuasive than traditional alarms. Our partnership with Lilin now provides the market with high quality speakers delivering fast, smart, clear and intelligible audio alarms that are autonomous of any central controller. This is an unprecedented and highly effective solution, and were thrilled to be at the forefront of this new era of smart security deterrents.

See the article here:
Lithe Audio and Lilin integrate AI for home security - HiddenWires

Airbnb hosts may have good reasons to want to install security cameras inside properties they rent outtheyve been used to catch theft, or vandalism, or even just non-compliance with rental rules. But concerns about privacy violations have pushed the property rental company Airbnb to ban all indoor security cameras in all of its listings worldwide.

Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb, Juniper Downs, Airbnbs head of community policy and partnerships, said in a blog post by the San Francisco-based company announcing the new measure on Monday. These changes were made in consultation with our guests, Hosts and privacy experts, and well continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community.

Changes to their policy, according to Airbnb, which previously allowed indoor cameras in common areas such as living rooms so long as they were disclosed, will take effect on April 30. The update simplifies Airbnbs approach and makes clear that security cameras regardless of their location, purpose or prior disclosure are prohibited inside rented out properties. As the majority of listings on Airbnb do not report having a security camera, this update is expected to impact a smaller subset of listings on the platform.

Read More: We Asked An Etiquette Expert About Home Security Cameras

Airbnb has been dogged by controversies in which renters have found seemingly hidden cameras in their lodgingsincluding in areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy like bathrooms. In an essay titled Airbnb Has a Hidden-Camera Problem, former technology staff writer for the Atlantic Sidney Fussell reported in 2019 that in some cases, distressed guests had to resort to social media for Airbnb to settle their complaints. The problem has become so common that sites including the Washington Post and Fast Company have published guides on how to find hidden cameras in your Airbnb, and NBCs Saturday Night Live aired a skit last week parodying Airbnb with references to cameras in the toilet and the bedroom.

Last August, a couple filed a $75,000 lawsuit against a Maryland host for allegedly placing hidden cameras recording their intimate moments in the bedroom of a Silver Spring property they rented out. One member of the couple, who installs smoke detectors professionally, discovered the cameras after spotting two smoke detectors in the bedroom.

And in September 2023, Indonesian police intervened after a newlywed Chinese couple took to XiaohongshuChinas equivalent of Instagramto share that they found a small camera hidden in a wall power socket in an Airbnb room in Kota Kinabalu. The couple said they searched the room after a previous hotel they booked under the platform also had cameras.

Airbnb also apologized to a New Zealand family in 2019 after the renters found a hidden camera live-streaming their stay in Cork, Ireland.

In 2015, a German woman sued Airbnb and an Irvine couple after she said she hadnt been informed of a camera in the living room of the southern California rental she had stayed in, where she walked around naked. The suit reached a settlement in 2017.

Airbnb did not immediately respond to TIMEs request for comment.

In its announcement about indoor cameras, the company clarified that devices like doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors continue to be permitted on Airbnb and can be an effective, privacy-protective way for Hosts to monitor security for their home and get ahead of issues like unauthorized parties. However, outdoor cameras are prohibited from monitoring indoor spaces and spaces like enclosed outdoor showers or saunas, Airbnb added.

Read the original:
Why Airbnb Is Banning Cameras in Rentals - TIME

If you are considering a bathroom remodel, Lifespan Construction in Tumwater says the key to a successful project starts in the planning stages, well before construction begins. Lifespan Construction is an award-winning design/build firm that has helped many local homeowners plan and implement their dream remodels. Ready to remodel? Cantrell and the firms experienced team offer their top five useful tips in preparing for a bathroom remodel.

Cantrell says about one in four homeowners add luxury touches such as heated floors, heated towel racks or increasingly popular bidets. Customized items require advance planning and may add to the cost, so homeowners will want to plan out their budget if they are considering some of these luxury items.

Heated floors are a nice upgrade if the bathroom doesnt currently have heating, says Maddy Cantrell, Lifespan Constructions co-owner and project developer. Some folks even have it in the shower and its a great way to keep the area dry. It can also be programmed to come on when you need it!

Cantrell says many heated towel rack products are available. Heated towel racks are a great way to put in a cozy touch to the space, she says. There are a lot of options out there for finding the right one for the user.

The Lifespan Construction team wants to ensure a bathroom remodel fits your needs. For many homeowners that means increasing storage for tall shampoo bottles, towels and other items. Possibilities include adding oversized niches in the shower or around the tub. Keep in mind that advanced planning may be required to address framing, plumbing and electrical for recessed features, but the added space is worth it. Recessed mirrors can take those everyday items off the countertops, adds Cantrell. A lot of them are now LED and can have outlets so you can charge things while being hidden away.

And there are other methods to add storage. If someone has the space, extra cabinets like over-the-john and tall linen cabinets that match the vanity are a great way to expand the usable space, says Cantrell.

To tile or not to tile, that is the question. Todays bathrooms usually incorporate both tile and solid surface products. Homeowners should consider the look they want, their budget and practicality. Cantrell says tiling allows for customization. Tile shower pans, barrier-free or not, are a nice upgrade and can help achieve the custom spa-like bathroom retreats that people are going for, says Cantrell. However, Fiberglass pans are significantly less expensive, easier to maintain, and you can still do an appealing tile on the walls.

For some, easy cleaning is an important feature. There are solid surface options, like Quartz or Dekton that can help eliminate grout lines, although depending on the product and application, they can get expensive, says Cantrell.

Planning what colors to use in your bathroom and how to incorporate them through paint, tile, countertops and other products is tip. Weve done a lot of bathrooms where the client knows they will always love a certain color, says Cantrell. Greens and blues specifically are tranquil colors we see a lot.

Cantrell says if you are not ready to commit to a color on hard surfaces like the tiles, cabinetry, floors or paint, then look at achieving a pop of color through towels, rugs, artwork and mirrors.

Appropriate lighting is one more key to a successful and functional bathroom remodel. To some, a light in the shower is a must not only for bathing, but for cleaning, too, says Cantrell. On the other hand, maybe you want to be in the tub and dont want a light blaring down on your face. Analyzing how you are going to use the space can make sure a custom lighting plan fits your needs.

Cantrell says other options include a fan/light combo on a timer switch, toe-kick lighting near the floor, and LED make-up mirrors.

Early decisions about design elements such as custom touches, storage, tiles, color and lighting translate into an efficient and rewarding outcome. Three or Four months ahead of a project seems like an appropriate rule, says Cantrell, describing a pre-planning timeline for a typical bathroom remodel. Its important for homeowners to make a plan and not to wing it if they want the project done right the first time.

Careful advance planning with expert assistance means you can line up your needs with your wants. If you are ready to organize your bathroom remodel, make an appointment with Lifespan Constructions experienced design/build team.

Lifespan Construction 7924 Sweet Iron Ct SE, Suite 104, Tumwater 360.584.3833

Sponsored

See the original post here:
Lifespan Construction in Tumwater Has 5 Useful Tips for Planning Your Dream Bathroom Remodel - ThurstonTalk

Landscape Architect Sara Zewde Reimagines the Land at Dia Beacon, New York

Facebook

Twitter

Mail

Pinterest

Whatsapp

Or

Dia Art Foundation announced a major landscape project to reimagine the land at Dia Beacon, New York. Commissioned landscape architect Sara Zewde of Studio Zewde aims to go beyond the simple arrangement of attractive plants and integrate ideas of ecology, culture, and people into the design. Taking over the museums 32-acre campus, the project will create an expanded outdoor park, free to access for visitors and locals alike, complete with native meadows, sculptural landforms, and winding pathways. The project, which has been recently extended to also include the museums eight back acres, is expected to open to the public in 2025.

+ 14

Located on the 32-acre former industrial site of the Nabisco box printing factory in the Hudson Valley, the Dia Beacon Museum houses Dia Art Foundations collection of works by conceptual, minimalist, and land artists. The experience of the museum is thus linked to the landscaping surrounding it. Studio Zewdes approach responds to the locations particular conditions and history, as well as to Dias collection of Land art. In addition to extensive research, the studio also discussed with Indigenous organizations around Beacon and with artist Robert Irwin, who designed the original landscape framing the museum entrance.

The design introduces winding pathways that connect the sculptural hills with the meadowland, recreating the patterns of water moving through the floodplain. It also creates references to the Indigenous river crossing and movements through the land, while also allowing the public to experience the landscape.

The design also takes into consideration the changing weather patterns and strives to create resilience against rising waters. The presence of water on site is thus choreographed through landforms and the extensive meadowland, in addition to underground storage, all designed to manage the range of water levels. More than 90 native meadow species are introduced, along with nearly 400 new trees and shrubs to support the water management. A small lawn area is also integrated to offer event-organizing possibilities for the institutions outdoor public programming.

The landscape project is designed by Studio Zewde, in conjunction with Sherwood Design Engineers, LWLA (Larry Weaner Landscape Associates), and Pine & Swallow Environmental.

Historys impressions on the land that now hosts Dia Beacon inspire our design for the landscape. Our work together with Dia Art Foundation has been a process of listening, seeing, and amplifying the patterns of movement, water, material, and culture across the site over time. The designs landforms, the meadows, and the embrace of water in the landscape are a means of managing the 21st-century challenge of rising water but are also a means of remembering. We are honored to be working with Dia on this project of opening up eight acres of land to public access. - Sara Zewde, Studio Zewdes founding principal.

New York-based landscape and urban design firm Studio Zewde was founded by Sara Zewde in 2018. The firms work gained recognition for its integration of cultural native approaches and careful site interpretation. In 2021, the Black-women-owned film joined a multidisciplinary team to design the redevelopment of Kingsboro Psychiatric Center in Brooklyn.

Read the original:
Landscape Architect Sara Zewde Reimagines the Land at Dia Beacon, New York - ArchDaily

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 By: Kyle Niblett

More than 100 people passionate about the University of Florida Department of Landscape Architecture descended upon the UF College of Design, Construction and Planning this past Wednesday evening for an extravagant gala celebrating the 90th anniversary of the department. The event was sponsored by CHW Professional Consultants, an NV5 company.

The 90th Anniversary GaLA was the perfect occasion to unite students, faculty, alumni, and friends in celebration of our accomplishments, said Dr. Jules Bruck, the director of the UF School of Landscape Architecture and Planning and chair of the Department of Landscape Architecture. Tonight offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on our achievements while also igniting enthusiasm for the future of the department and its programs.

Serving as a poignant reminder of the extensive network of support from the departments alumni base and industry friends, the event kicked off with DCP Dean Chimay Anumba welcoming everyone and thanking sponsor CHW, followed by Dr. Bruck previewing the plans for the next 90 years.

It was very unique to have different generations of alumni in attendance in support of the department, said UF LA student Jourdan Friedlander. It was truly a privilege to be part of this event and see how connected the Gator LA family is.

Following Brucks speech, LA masters student Michael Valenti highlighted UFs student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, reflecting on what it meant to be a student in the department and how important the alumni network was.

The 90th Anniversary GaLA was a fantastic opportunity to connect with alumni, faculty, and fellow students in a relaxed atmosphere, free from the pressures of career networking, Valenti said a day after the event. It was a chance to celebrate the rich history of landscape architecture at UF and to look forward to its promising future.

Once Valenti wrapped up his speech, 1996 UF LA graduate and EDSA Chief Executive Officer and Principal Scott LaMont gave a toast to the audience and then a catered meal from Sonnys was served.

Preceding the GaLA was an open house sponsored by Ervin Lovett Miller, an architecture, landscape architecture, and planning firm located in Jacksonville, Florida. For two hours, Lamont, other members of the UF LA Alumni and Professional Advisory Council and outside industry leaders had the chance to visit with current students and critique their work. For some students, it was the chance of a lifetime.

Having industry professionals in the studio was beneficial for both parties, said UF LA student Lily Crawford, who spent her time mostly with CHW Vice President Laurie Hall and CMA Senior Landscape Architect Tanya McCormick. I think that they enjoyed getting to come in and see what we were working on and relive their memories in the studio, while also helping and encouraging us in our projects.

The 90th anniversary celebration began earlier in the day with Kona Gray serving as the keynote speaker for the annual Edward D. Stone, Jr. Lecture.

Go here to see the original:
Department of Landscape Architecture Celebrates 90 Years UF College of Design, Construction and Planning - UF College of Design, Construction and...

D'Angelo Russell is one of the few players who got a chance to play with Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. Russell started his career with the LA Lakers when Bryant was on his way out of the NBA. Now, he's a part of the Lakers organization once again as he helps James contend for another title.

Russell is in his second stint with the Lakers this season. He was traded midway through last season from the Minnesota Timberwolves, as the California-based team wanted to move on from Russell Westbrook. This season, he's suited up for 61 games, averaging 18 points, 3.0 rebounds and 6.2 assists.

At the start of his career, the Lakers were honoring Bryant by giving him a season-long farewell tour. Russell was still able to get a few lessons from the "Black Mamba".

Both Bryant and James were often compared to each other when they were both in the league, but they had different approaches to the game. Russell experienced both and he recently shared what he encountered:

While Bryant took the game seriously and was always focused on the job, James, on the other hand, wanted to keep the locker room with a positive atmosphere.

Although different, both were effective as the "Black Mamba" and "King James" have both won titles in their own right.

Also Read: "Carry on": D'Angelo Russell fires shots at Kendrick Perkins days after Anthony Davis diss

The 2023-24 season has been a wild ride for D'Angelo Russell. Since the start of the season, he's continued to compete well and help the Lakers position themselves for the playoffs. Seeing as how he's played with two legends of the game, many would expect Russell to choose between James and Bryant as his inspiration.

However, he mentioned that 2008 champion Rajon Rondo is the inspiration for him to stay competitive:

Russell shared that Rondo is one of the players he saw with extreme competitiveness. Furthermore, the Lakers guard talked about playing against the former NBA star. During their matchups, "DLo" was outmatched, but he added it helped him become a competitive athlete in the process.

Also Read: "I'm busting y'all favorite player's a**": D'Angelo Russell savagely reviews dominant stretch with 'two left feet'

Read the original here:
D'Angelo Russell sheds light on subtle disparity between sharing locker room with LeBron James & Kobe Bryant - Sportskeeda

Golden State Warriors superstar point guard Steph Curry isnt considered a big-time trash talker. However, according to the two-time MVP, he occasionally engages in respectful trash talk when hes in an offensive rhythm.

During a CBS Mornings interview with Jericka Duncan, Curry was asked about his most memorable trash-talking exchange. The four-time NBA champion recounted a time when he warned an opponent about his incoming offensive onslaught.

According to Curry, after informing his defender that he was about to go off, he nailed four consecutive 3-pointers. However, he noted that he doesnt consider it legitimate trash talk, as he was respectful.

Steph Currys story is reminiscent of famous tales involving Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird, one of the most famous trash-talkers in NBA history. Bird was known to tell his opponents exactly how he planned to score on them before doing so.

One of the most memorable instances occurred when he predicted his game-winning shot against the Seattle SuperSonics on Dec. 30, 1986. With the game tied 102-102, the three-time MVP notified Sonics forward Xavier McDaniel that he would hit a game-winning jumper over him.

According to McDaniel, Bird even showed him the exact spot on the court where he planned to shoot. Afterward, he promptly nailed a fadeaway game-winner in McDaniels face to take a 104-102 lead with 2.0 seconds remaining.

Bird also reportedly told McDaniel that he didn't mean to leave two seconds on the clock. Nonetheless, the Celtics held on to win 104-102, with Bird finishing with a game-high 27 points.

Also Read: Is Steph Curry considering running for president? Closer look at Warriors star's post-retirement plans

Later in his CBS Mornings interview, Steph Curry was asked about the most savage trash talk hes ever endured. The 35-year-old turned back the clock to high school, recounting a harsh fan chant.

According to the 10-time All-Star, a rival teams fan section ruthlessly called him out for over-depending on his father, former NBA sharpshooter Dell Curry.

However, given his illustrious basketball career, it seems safe to say that Curry didnt let the chant affect him too severely.

Also Read: Isiah Thomas discredits Steph Curry, says Draymond Green is Warriors' true "point guard"

See the rest here:
Steph Curry sheds light on his most savage trash-talking incident, eerily similar to Larry Bird's - Sportskeeda