Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

(Rick Bowmer | AP photo)In this Oct. 5, 2019, photo, The Salt Lake Temple stands at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

| Nov. 12, 2021, 1:00 p.m.

In Brazil, the impoverished build their home one cinder block at a time. Saving enough money to build a single additional room often takes years. During the lengthy construction, families live in any room that is completed, meaning it has walls and a tin roof.

In 2004, I was a 20 year-old missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Fernando, Ana and their three daughters were learning about the church in the only room in their home. Fernando and Ana had been saving to buy additional cinder blocks for a wall for a second room, which would eventually be their kitchen.

For the past twenty minutes, I had been sitting on their bed as they sat on the dirt floor. This family listened intently as I taught them one of the last lessons required before they could be baptized.

I looked up and recited what I had been told my entire life If you pay your tithing, God will open the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing. The family was soon baptized into the church. Paying tithing meant that completing a second room to their meager home would take additional years as their payment of 10 percent of their earnings was an extreme sacrifice for this impoverished family.

In LDS culture, church members are told that their financial sacrifices to pay tithing are sacred. It is often explained that they are living examples of the biblical widow who gave her last mite to the church. These sacrifices are deemed to be sacred by the church.

Recently, the vast difference in wealth that exists between the wealthiest and the poorest has taken the forefront of discussion on social media.

Memes decrying excessive wealth have become ever-present. One common meme states that Elon Musk could single-handedly solve world hunger, but chooses not to. Indeed, this argument reignited at the recent G-20 Summit when Elon Musk sparred over Twitter with leaders who said that minimal help from billionaires could solve world hunger.

In 2019, it came to light that the church had amassed over $100 billion in stocks. These holdings exclude significant real estate, cattle and farm holdings that the church owns.

This discovery was jarring to many church members who believe that Jesus Christ, himself, gave instructions to a faithful, but wealthy follower to sell all of his belongings and to give the proceeds to the poor. When the follower left saddened, Jesus said it was harder for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than it was for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven.

The churchs vast accumulation of wealth goes directly against Jesuss teachings of caring for the poor and raises a question regarding the propriety of requiring its poorest members to choose tithing over necessities and then allegedly using the funds to buy stocks.

Although the memes about Musk ending world hunger are often done in hyperbole, I do believe it would be worthwhile posing the same hypothetical question of the church: could the church single-handedly solve world hunger?

It is estimated that 3.1 million children die of hunger each year. These deaths are preventable.

Few people and organizations have ever been in as strong of a position to solve world hunger as the church is. By some estimates, the church owns one million acres of farmland. This farmland could uniquely be used to feed millions of the worlds starving.

Additionally, the church already has worldwide ties to most communities and methods of distribution of food to the needy. It also has vast worldwide infrastructure and real estate holdings.

Some experts estimate that the cost to solve world hunger is between $7 billion and $265 billion dollars per year. If the lowest estimate is correct, world hunger could be solved entirely by using only the interest on the churchs investments.

Even if the church were to put just one tenth of its interest toward solving world hunger, it could potentially make a significant dent in helping feed the poorest in the world and literally save millions of lives.

Could the church single-handedly solve world hunger? As a well-equipped charitable organization, it should try.

Gregory John Wilder II, Provo, is an attorney with a degree in history from Brigham Young University and a law degree from Texas Wesleyan School of Law.

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Gregory Wilder: Could the LDS Church single-handedly solve world hunger? - Salt Lake Tribune

James Marvin Anderson Jr.

NICOLLET James Marvin Anderson Jr., age 74, of Nicollet died unexpectedly on Friday, November 12, 2021.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, November 17 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Nicollet. Pastor Micah Plocher will officiate and burial will follow in Green Lawn cemetery in rural Nicollet. The Nicollet American Legion will provide Military Honors at the cemetery.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 16 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Nicollet and will continue for one hour prior to the time of service at church on Wednesday.

To leave an online condolence for his family or to sign the guestbook, go to mvfh.org.

James, known to many as Jim, Andy, Jimmy, Jim Bob and Papa was born in Bridgewater, SD on September 26, 1947 to James Sr. and Lydia (Golder) Anderson. He graduated from Menno High School in 1965. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served until 1969. During this time, he served on the naval ship USS Liberty. On June 5, 1967 the ship was torpedoed in an unprovoked and deliberate attack. Jim was not injured and became part of the cleanup crew until the ship could make it back to dry dock. After his honorable discharge in October 1969, he worked construction which brought him to Nicollet. Jim was united in marriage to Connie Gleason on May 22, 1971 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Nicollet. Over the next years he worked for Judson Market, Nicollet Ag and retired from Crystal Valley Coop where he continued seasonal work until his death.

Jim spent many years playing fast pitch softball where he made many lifelong friends. He was very passionate about his community and served on the Trinity Lutheran School board, was a member of the American Legion, Nicollet Conservation Club and served as Mayor and currently a city council member. Jim served on the Nicollet Fire Department for 30 years and continued to serve as Secretary Treasurer of the Rural Relief Fire Association Joint Powers Board. He also enjoyed spending many summers with friends and family at Ragers Acres Campground in Pequot Lakes.

Jim was loved by everyone that met him. He had a smile for everyone and had the gift of gab. He was selfless and was willing to help out where ever he was needed. He would give the shirt off of his back to anyone who needed it. He never held a grudge and would encourage everyone to do the same. He was always level headed and kind. His loved his family deeply and his grandchildren were everything to him and he was everything to them! We will miss him dearly!

James is survived by his wife of 50 years, Connie (Gleason) of Nicollet; daughter, Melissa (Rick) Theuninck of North Mankato; son, Josh (Quinci) Anderson of North Mankato; grandchildren Jordyn and Lindsey Theuninck and Weston Anderson; brothers-in-law, Fran (Kathy) Gleason of Nicollet, Dave Kleinsasser of Rapid City, SD; many nieces, nephews and many special friends including Craig and Bev Stevensen and their family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Willard and Florence Gleason, sister Donna Kleinsasser and an infant daughter.

Blessed be his memory!

Mvfh.org

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John Martin Bell, 91, of Bushwood, MD passed away peacefully on November 4, 2021 at Hospice House of St. Marys.

John was born in Leesburg, VA on February 16, 1930 to the late John B. Bell and Myrtle Irene Gallahan. In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his brothers, Roland Bell, Mark Bell, and William Bill Bell.

On February 26, 1950, John married his beloved wife, Elizabeth Ann Wise, in Falls Church, VA. He spent his entire career employed as a builder in home construction. His love of the Washington Redskins was only exceeded by his love of animals.

In addition to his loving wife of 71 years, Elizabeth Ann Betty Bell, John is also survived by his three daughters, Joyce Hermansen (Eric), of Amissville, VA, Catherine Giles (Buddy), of Toano, VA, and Susan Griffin (John) of Sterling, VA; his brother, Gilbert Bell of Fairfax, VA; his grandchildren, Garrett Hermansen (Robin), Brock Hermansen (Jessica), Coel Hermansen (Christy), Torsten Hermansen (Samia), Tait Hermansen (Soumya), Shane Griffin (Trish), Kyle Griffin (Brandi), and Taylor Soto; as well as several great grandchildren whom he loved dearly.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 23080 Maddox Road, Bushwood, MD 20618. A Graveside Service will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Seventh District Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 7, Avenue, MD 20609 and Holy Angels Catholic Church, 21340 Colton Point Road, Avenue, MD 20609.

Condolences to the family may be made at http://www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.

This entry was posted on November 15, 2021 at 1:02 pm and is filed under All News, brin, Obituaries, z 600X120 Top Ad Bottom, z Obituary Ad Top. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.

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A team of UW-Madison students is getting a $250,000 award for carbon dioxide sequestration research through a global competition backed by the Musk Foundation.

The XPRIZE for Carbon Removal Student Competition recently announced $5 million in awards for student teams. The Madison team is getting the largest possible award for the student competition for its work to pull carbon dioxide out of the air, reducing the environmental impact of this greenhouse gas.

Their system uses a direct air capture unit to trap C02 and a carbonization mechanism for converting the gas into solid particles that can be repurposed for other uses.

We are really excited about our technology, and its cool to be working on something that has the potential of scaling up in a big way and actually have an impact, says team leader Keerthana Sreenivasan, a graduate student in civil and environmental engineering.

Entrepreneur Elon Musks nonprofit research foundation is providing $100 million for the global effort, which funds eligible projects among both students and established scientists. Its aimed at scaling up engineering systems to maximize their potential environmental impact.

Bu Wang, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at UW-Madison and co-advisor for the student team, holds a patent for the carbonization component of the system. A release from the university shows the final product which includes fine limestone and activated silica particles can be used in construction as a cement alternative.

In essence, were converting carbon dioxide from the air into carbonate minerals that can be upcycled into construction materials, Wang said.

After receiving the award, the student team will proceed in the contest, which runs through Earth Day 2025. Further efforts will focus on refining the system, scaling up its capacity and planning how to implement the technology in a practical manner.

Team members include six graduate students from the universitys College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Letters & Science and Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, as well as two undergraduate students. Rob Anex, a professor of biological systems engineering and another co-advisor for the team, says students learn a lot by taking part in the competition.

Some of these students might make a career out of this, Anex said. Its an important problem and Id love to see a bunch of them work on solving some of the big environmental problems that face the world.

See more on the competition here: https://www.xprize.org/prizes/elonmusk

Researchers at UW-Madison have received a provisional patent for their discovery of a new method for producing energy through a chemical reaction involving ammonia.

By adding ammonia to a metal catalyst containing the element ruthenium, the chemistry researchers found that the reaction spontaneously produced nitrogen while releasing energy. A release from the university shows the process can be used to produce electricity, and the metal components can be recycled through exposure to oxygen and used repeatedly.

Ammonia has been burned for fuel in the past, including for automobiles during World War II. But burning ammonia releases nitrogen oxide gases that are toxic. The release shows the newly discovered reaction avoids those toxic byproducts.

John Berry, the Lester McNall Professor of Chemistry at UW-Madison, says getting energy from an ammonia-to-nitrogen reaction under these conditions is a pretty big deal.

We figured out that, not only are we making nitrogen, we are making it under conditions that are completely unprecedented, he said in the release.

Results of the research were published last week in the journal Nature Chemistry, and authors have gotten a provisional patent from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation.

See the journal article here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41557-021-00797-w

Mike Dankler, trade advisor for Michael Best Strategies in Washington, D. C., is the featured guest in the latest Talking Trade video podcast.

Talking Trade hosts Ian Coxhead and Sandi Siegel discuss future trade and tariff issues with Dankler, including the new trade agreement reached between the United States and the European Union.

Watch the show here: https://www.wisbusiness.com/2021/talking-trade-with-mike-dankler-trade-advisor-for-michael-best-strategies-in-washington-d-c/

Health officials warn this years flu season could be more severe than last years relatively mild season, though the outlook is uncertain.

To what extent were going to have influenza season, we just dont know, Tom Haupt, influenza surveillance coordinator for the Department of Health Services, said Friday during a briefing with reporters. Were hoping its going to be a mild season, but we have to be prepared, get people vaccinated for this potentially very serious disease.

DHS has identified 27 cases of the flu so far this season, while just seven were seen at this point last year, Haupt said. Two years ago, when the state had a typical flu season, that number was 109.

So its not what we would normally see at this particular point. Its still very low, but it is definitely an increase and it is on the rise, he said.

As of this week, Wisconsins flu vaccination rate is 26 percent, which is lower than last years comparable rate of 34 percent. At this point in 2019, the rate was 28 percent.

So were close to what we had two years ago, which was a typical influenza season, Haupt said. But again, the numbers arent quite there as compared to what we had last year. Hoping we can improve that significantly very quickly.

Mitigation measures aimed at COVID-19 helped keep the flu from spreading last year, with only a fraction of the typical number of cases and hospitalizations seen in Wisconsin. Although the pandemic is still ongoing, Haupt doesnt expect another year with extremely low numbers.

While flu activity has increased, he also noted health officials are seeing a more severe strain of the virus this year.

Hes urging everyone whos eligible in the state to get the flu vaccine, noting that people can get it and the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. He also encourages testing for both COVID-19 and the flu, as symptoms of the two viruses can be difficult to distinguish from one another.

The flu season typically peaks in late January or early February in Wisconsin.

See more from DHS on the flu: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/influenza/index.htm

A recent Midday podcast talks about COVID-19 and flu. Listen here: https://www.wispolitics.com/2021/covid-19-cases-and-death-rates-rise-heading-into-flu-season/

Imbed Biosciences has been awarded a nearly $2 million contract by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Commands Military Infectious Diseases Research Program.

The Fitchburg-based company will use the funding to support further development of its bacteria-killing wound dressing product, a release shows.

This award will fund a prospective human clinical trial of the novel antibiofilm matrix on donor site wounds in patients in need of autologous skin grafts, Imbed Biosciences CEO Ankit Agarwal said in a statement. We are honored to develop this advanced wound matrix for maximizing the readiness and performance of our warfighters in the field.

See more at Madison Startups: https://www.madisonstartups.com/imbed-biosciences-wins-2m-award-from-u-s-army/

See an earlier story on the company: https://www.wisbusiness.com/2019/imbed-biosciences-closes-2-million-funding-round/

Total assets of Wisconsin credit unions have increased by over $5 billion so far this year, according to a report from the state Department of Financial Institutions.

The report shows total credit union assets were $54.7 billion at the end of September, compared to $49.5 billion at the end of 2020.

DFI Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld says net income for credit unions in the state has increased to $509 million as economic uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic has decreased. Over the same period, loan growth was nearly $2.3 billion, and DFI says real estate lending has especially been strong this year.

Overall, Wisconsins state-chartered credit unions are financially stable with a positive outlook, she said in a release.

See the report: https://www.wdfi.org/_resources/indexed/site/fi/cu/QuarterlyReports/2021/2021%20Third%20Quarter%20Bulletin.pdf

Five nonprofit organizations in Madison are getting a total of $50,000 in grant funding to support installation of rooftop solar arrays.

The MadiSUN Backyard Solar grant funding was announced recently by the city and renewable energy advocacy group RENEW Wisconsin. These grants cover up to 20 percent of the cost of the solar array, aimed at offsetting upfront expenses associated with installing these projects.

A release from the city shows the program is supporting over $450,000 in new energy investments, and the five solar arrays are expected to collectively save the facilities about $30,000 per year on their electricity bills.

Recipients include the Access Community Health Center, a fitness and arts nonprofit called Madison Circus Space, Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program, Chapel Valley Church and Mt. Zion Baptist Church.

As the second oldest predominantly African American church in Madison, Mt. Zion strives to be a leader in the South Madison community, said Birl Lowry, chair of the Trustee Board at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. As such, we want to become more environmentally responsible and as energy-efficient as possible.

The grant program has awarded more than $100,000 in grants since 2019, supporting installations that collectively add enough renewable electricity to offset the usage of approximately 150 households, according to a release.

See more: https://www.wispolitics.com/2021/city-of-madison-five-community-organizations-win-grants-to-install-solar-arrays/

Savant Wealth Management has announced plans to acquire Madison-based Filbrandt Wealth Management by the end of the month.

Illinois-based Savant Wealth Management, which also has a location in Madison, is a registered investment advisor with nearly $12 billion in assets under management.

Filbrandt Wealth Management has about $1.8 billion in assets under management, representing the largest acquisition to date for Savant. The firm provides financial planning services to university leaders and professionals, a release shows.

Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

See the release: https://www.wisbusiness.com/2021/savant-wealth-management-to-acquire-wi-based-filbrandt-wealth-management/

#TOP STORIES#

# I cant believe its not yellow: A peek into Wisconsins quirky margarine laws

https://www.wpr.org/i-cant-believe-its-not-yellow-peek-wisconsins-quirky-margarine-laws

# Facing thousands of job openings, Advocate Aurora hikes minimum hourly pay to $18

https://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/news/2021/11/11/advocate-aurora-hikes-hourly-pay-minumum-to-18.html

# Equipment manufacturers vow to support Republicans who voted for infrastructure bill

https://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/news/2021/11/13/equipment-manufacturers-vow-to-support-republicans.html

#TOPICS#

# AGRIBUSINESS

Wisconsin dairies honored for reproduction success

http://wisconsinagconnection.com/story-state.php?Id=1148&yr=2021

$20 million available to organic livestock, crop producers

http://wisconsinagconnection.com/story-state.php?Id=1149&yr=2021

# CONSTRUCTION

Bottoms up: Couture crews complete hole dig, gearing up for next steps

# ECONOMY

Report: Wisconsin tax burden fell faster since 1999 than almost any other state

https://www.wpr.org/report-wisconsin-tax-burden-fell-faster-1999-almost-any-other-state

# EDUCATION

Beef producers asked to help shape future of Extension events

http://wisconsinagconnection.com/story-state.php?Id=1151&yr=2021

Northern Wisconsin school remains closed after odor prompts dozens to seek medical treatment

https://www.wpr.org/northern-wisconsin-school-remains-closed-after-odor-prompts-dozens-seek-medical-treatment

Masks likely to remain in MMSD beyond public health mandate

https://captimes.com/news/education/masks-likely-to-remain-in-mmsd-beyond-public-health-mandate/article_fc44c869-fd8c-541e-b745-b06dba9cfdef.html

# HEALTH CARE

Wisconsin health officials brace for flu season and urge people to be get the vaccine

https://www.wpr.org/wisconsin-health-officials-brace-flu-season-and-urge-people-be-get-vaccine

# LABOR

Haribo starts hiring for 400 jobs in Pleasant Prairie plant that opens in a year

https://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/news/2021/11/11/haribo-starts0hiring-for-400-jobs-pleasant-prairie.html

# LEGAL

Tech disputes at Rittenhouse trial not new issue for courts

https://apnews.com/article/kyle-rittenhouse-technology-wisconsin-kenosha-homicide-b561bef68dc6aadaadc9b45a1bd93a19

# MANUFACTURING

Milwaukee Tool, Milwaukee Academy Science partner to offer students woodworking, computer science experience

# RETAIL

Ohio company buys Wisconsin bakery with a name well-known to Milwaukeeans

https://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/news/2021/11/12/main-street-gourmet-acquires.html

# TOURISM

World Dairy Expo to move 2022 schedule up a day

http://wisconsinagconnection.com/story-state.php?Id=1150&yr=2021

# PRESS RELEASES

See these and other press releases:

http://wisbusiness.com/index.iml?Content=82

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MON AM News: UW-Madison student team awarded $250,000 for carbon dioxide removal; Researchers discover 'unprecedented' chemical reaction -...

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Carpet Land | Omaha | Lincoln | Sioux Falls | Free ...

Installation

J+J Flooring provides detailed instructions on how to properly install each of our flooring systems. These guidelines also provide information on proper storage, handling procedures, floor preparation and pattern match policy. All warranties are extended provided that the flooring is installed in accordance with the J+J Floorings installation instructions. It is recommended that installers perform site and material conditioning, surface preparation, concrete pH and moisture testing before beginning any installation.

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For maintenance questions contact your J+J Flooring Sales Representative or email our Customer Relations team at CustomerRelations@jjflooring.com.

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Carpet Installation & Maintenance - How To Guides & Videos

There's something about a carpet, with its cozy-chic, plush underfoot feeling, that wood just can't impart. And, while wooden flooring isn't going anywhere, carpet is making a comeback in a big and very stylish way. Looking into carpet trends 2021, it seems we will be expressing our creativity in bold, imaginative and innovative style.

'By treating the floor as the 5th wall, carpet is a fantastic way of introducing color or pattern into the home,' says creative designer at Brintons, Jodie Hatton. 'The floor is no longer an afterthought. The entire room can be styled working from the floor up.'

From mixing bright and bold contrasting colors to rich jewel tones, geometrics and intricate patterns, our 2021 carpet trend see self-expression as key. At the other end of the scale, the earthy, organic natural trend is set to endure throughout next year, bringing a calming landscape into our homes.

We've teamed up with a host of experts, from the likes of Brintons, Cormar Carpets, Alternative Flooring, Axminster and Carpetright, to bring you the must-have carpet trends 2021 to ensure your floor-fillers are packed with style.

Some are timelessly elegant others require bravery, but will create an indulgent finish that's pure luxury.

(Image credit: Cormar Carpets)

The enduring back-to-nature trend will carry through and be big news for 2021. 'Think natural materials like wool, sisal and jute, and warm, earthy tones to create a mindful and restful space,' says Alexandra Hindle, Marketing Executive at Cormar Carpets.

(Image credit: Cormar Carpets)

Keep everything neutral and add natural accessories like pampas grass for a luxury modern boho feel, or introduce colors that are reminiscent of the outside, like on-trend rust and terracotta furnishing.

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

An extension of the natural trend (top), sustainability and eco-focused fabrics will increasingly dictate how we're decorating our homes. As such, natural fiber carpet will become more and more prevalent.

Lorna Haigh, from Alternative Flooring, says: 'Climate change is more than a trend. Our natural fibre flooring are all monsoon-grown grasses that are sustainably sourced coir, seagrass, sisal and jute. For style and substance, our Sisal Herringbone makes a classic wall-to-wall carpet. Deep pile carpets in undyed Wool Barefoot, meanwhile, are popular in bedrooms as theyre super soft underfoot and satisfy the sustainable and wellness trend. '

'With comfort and wellbeing at the forefront of many homeowners priorities, plush carpets will be particularly on trend for 2021,' says Natalie Vest, fitted flooring buyer at John Lewis. 'Indulging in a velvet style pile or a luxurious chunky loop helps to create a soft and sumptuous environment. Perfect for low footfall spaces, such as bedrooms or home offices, these bring a hotel-style luxury into your home.'

Gary Bridge, Design Director at Axminster, agrees and says you can combine the sustainability and back-to-nature trend with hotel luxe, saying: With the topic of sustainability set to reach new heights in 2021, the eco-chic trend is one thats here to stay. Our Aalya carpet is a revolutionary, luxurious carpet concept crafted from the finest blend of sheeps wool and a touch of alpaca. A wool carpet cares for both you and the planet, as well as offering luxury underfoot. A natural, biodegradable and renewable fibre makes for a sustainable design investment, not to mention a wise lifestyle choice.'

(Image credit: Carpetright)

'Bold color and expressive style will be seen across homes in 2021,' says Carpetright buyer David Snazel. 'As we start the new decade, homeowners will be taking the time to consider their spaces and look for ways to put their own stamp on it; ensuring it is a place they love to spend their time in.'

Be brave and pair a colorful carpet with bright furniture or paint for a lively, joyful look.

(Image credit: Carpetright)

Carpet trends 2021 are all about expressing yourself don't be afraid to show off your personality. Brintons' Jodie Hatton says: 'Maximalism is all about breaking the rules. Let your creativity run wild with this fun trend which is making a massive come back, especially in the carpet industry. Mis-matched color combinations and clashing patterns define the contemporary idea of maximalism; its all about self-expression.

'Clash bright wall colors with a patterned carpet and you are half way there with this trend. Add mismatched textiles and expressive artworks and your rule breaking, personalized version of a maximalist interior is all set to enjoy. The best thing about this trend is its basically choosing all your favorite things and throwing them together.'

(Image credit: Brintons)

Lorna Haigh, from Alternative Flooring, agrees that we'll be getting more adventurous for 2021, mixing patterned carpets with printed sofas for a head-turning interior. She says: 'I do now think that we are prepared to make more of a statement. Our patterned carpets allow people to explore and to express their personality through their homes. With the increasing number of patterns around there is choice from florals, stripes and geometrics right through to animal print.'

Indeed, it seems going to the wild side is now not just for the fashion world. Lorna adds that you don't need to be scared by animal print as it can be done tastefully in neutral shades. 'Quirky B has a new leopard and snake skin patterns for carpet. These are wild but surprisingly easy to use as a statement floor,' she says. 'They can be classified as a neutral as the palette for the most part is a mix of naturals, browns, grey and blues.'

(Image credit: Carpetright)

Geometrics have been a popular trend across other interior areas this year (cushions, duvets, rugs) and the look will be big for carpet trends 2021. Brintons suggests that herringbone in particular will be popular, in different sizes, textures and colors; Carpetright has recently released a dotty range that is cute in children's rooms.

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

Alternative Flooring's Lorna Haigh says we're getting bolder with our geometrics, experimenting with bright hues and 'a play on haberdashery with button and ribbon pattern for carpets and a patchwork for runners'.

(Image credit: Chapter House)

'In carpet trends 2021, another looks we'll be seeing is jewel tones,' says Brintons' Jodie Hatton. In a recent development by Londonewcastle, the designers used an incredible deep purple carpet that's a great indicator of what's to come.

The interior designer of the project, Trilbey Gordon, says: 'I love to use bold, statement-making carpets in decadent jewel tones. Carpeting adds warmth to an interior. We are in turbulent times and during these periods people tend to look to textures and colors that offer comfort.

'There is something about the feel of a plush soft carpet that is incredibly reassuring. Statement colored carpets were a trend we thought wed left behind. But style is cyclical and were in the midst of a 1970s-inspired interiors boom. Joe Colombo, Nanda Vigo and Willy Rizzo were all designers from the 1960s and 70s that had penchant for carpet and their aesthetic feels very relevant now.'

Jodie Hatton, Residential Designer at Brintons advises: 'Its key to have the intended use of the room at the forefront of your mind when choosing carpet. What kind of feel do you want to create? How will the room be used? Is the space a reception area where you want to make a statement? Or a room you want to use as a retreat creating a calming and relaxed feel? Having that decision at the forefront of your mind as you choose your carpet will help to guide you towards the perfect choice for your space.'

(Image credit: Brinton)

(Image credit: Brintons)

'Bolder statement patterns always tend to lend themselves well to hallways, stairs and landing spaces as these tend to be high traffic areas. As these areas arent "lived in" as such they also lend themselves to creating more of a design statement, as there is a limited amount of space for furniture,' continues Jodie Hatton.

(Image credit: Brinton)

'The feel of a room is important and a very personal choice, as a successful interiors scheme will reflect elements of our personality. Some will want a calming, relaxing bedroom to retreat to whilst others may want to opt for more of a boudoir feel. Carpets to consider for a relaxing room would be a neutral plain, for ultimate luxury and a plush feel take a look at a velvets collection.'

(Image credit: Brintons)

'Living rooms by name and nature are one of the most lived in areas of a home; when selecting carpet for this room it is important to consider how it will wear and clean, especially if you have children or pets at home. A Berber bell twist which has a small fleck in which will hide any mishaps.'

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Carpet trends 2021 the stylish new looks for fabulous ...

Warm muffling draughts, insulating the very worst of ropy slabs and gaping boards, theres a lot to be said for carpeting quite aside from its soul-stroking beauty.

Its installation demands are a breeze compared to wood or tile projects, and its easy to lift to get to sub-flooring issues.

Children and vulnerable family members are far less likely to break bones falling on carpeting. Before getting high on the new carpet smell in the showroom, read our guide to rolling up a lovely, tough contender underfoot.

Material matters

Wool/wool blends

The ultimate brag flooring after hard-wood. Wool at 50-80 per square metre offers dimensional stability (wont flatten with wear, springing neatly back to shape), no static, is soft to the touch, hypo-allergenic when untreated for stains and highly durable (sheep wear it clinging to wind-battered mountainsides).

Wool is naturally flame-resistant, and when it does burn will not release the toxic fumes of a petro-chemical. Wool has been proven to regulate humidity and airborne toxins, mopping up nano-fibres and dust. Its generally an environmentally sound choice.`

That said, woven and tufted wool and wool mixes of 80:20 are available as cheap, skinny, badly produced carpeting that will depress and shed for years.

Look out for investment level, herringbone weaves in 100% wool, from 80 per metre plus. Married to a good underlay upstairs, a thick product will deaden noisy footfall and by adding spring and reducing slide, prolongs the life of this quality choice.

Synthetics

From less than 12 per square metre, the worst of pure synthetic cheap choices are easily detected by a cocked eyed leer across the pile for that man-made shine. Polyamide (nylon) and polypropylene from 20-60 per square metre, are used to make a wide range of less expensive, soft, tufted carpets. They can carry colours simply not possible with wool. Their stain resistance is legendary and on a budget or in a household teeming with sportsmen, its your best defence. Polyester is used in combination with wool to lower the cost and improve the durability of wool carpet.

Made from recycled plastics, it has some environmental chops too, but as with all carpeting is deemed toxic waste when you dump it. If you insist on the ante-diluvium practice of putting carpet in the bathroom, choose a nylon carpet with a rubber back and moisture-resistant pad.

Durability

Get your hands on the pile and explore the Imperial way the trade judges carpet quality ounces of fibre per square yard.

Dont just take a seductive caress, choose an area where the carpet is supported by the roll, or sample book, pressing your fingers firmly down on the tuft or weave.

A resilient carpet with a good weight and density will spring back instantly leaving no mark as your fingertips snap back.

To further explore the density, fold the sample gently and look to see if you can see the backing between the fibres. The closer together the fibres are the tougher under physical stress your carpet will be.

Take a sample home. Move it around in the room to judge the colour and texture, and step onto it heavily, again watching how the pile and texture responds. If the carpet has a twist, the higher the tuft twist or ply number the more strength and durability it has. Three to four is a great start.

Synthetic carpets tend to have worse texture retention over time, especially with longer tufted designs. Pressure cups under your furniture legs will prevent divots appearing when you move the sofas about in a seasonal shake-up. Remember, the way the carpet fibres are laid into the backing will determine the feel and performance, and should dictate what you choose for that space.

Glossary

Tufted: Twisted fibres punched in from behind, this is the most popular choice in domestic mid-range carpeting. From cheap to glorious, they offer great value and come in synthetics, naturals and mixes, with an 80:20 wool to polyester mix leading the market. Relatively easy to vacuum and clean in high traffic areas, some synthetics can stand up to bleach. In a short pile they wont show footfall like a richer, deeper Saxony

Berber: Think knotty classic. Derived from the carpets of the Berber tribes, this carpeting has the knots upward and can be textured or flat. It needs to be carefully cleaned to prevent dust and dirt from being trapped in the fibres, potentially sawing through and severing the knots. Popular in a wool mix in small tight loops a tough contender. If you have small dogs or cats, do yourself a favour and dismiss knotted carpeting or rugs

Flat-weave: Low, formal and ideal for stairs and hallways, flatweave carpet has that continuous yarn composition that is less likely to shed, and in the right product can deal with high traffic areas with elegant ease. Without depth, grot just wont be trampled deep into its fibres. Ensure your low carpet is not slippery over the nose of any steps.

Cut pile: With the 70s trending, shag carpet remains an eccentric dandy. However, velvet-cut pile is gorgeous to the touch and a sensual product underfoot for bedrooms. Fight shy of cheap synthetic velvets which will literally spark under your feet with static. For an unashamedly deep pile for the bedroom, try Saxony in a good wool blend.

Wilton and Axminster: brand names of British carpets thrown around as generic descriptions of quality carpeting. Wilton, 100% wool are continuous strand carpets favoured by four-star hotels for feel and durability, while Axminster offers cut loops. Traditionally loomed carpets, always more expensive, but are remarkably durable. Axminster is famed for its intricate pattern possibilities.

Ulster Carpets in Craigavon are among the most famous makers of woven carpet with solid colours, heathers and intricate designs in the world. Seeulstercarpets.com for free samples and local suppliers. Theres a free-post bag provided to return samples.

Shedding and allergies

Obviously, we dont want to fill the vacuum bag shaking and raking out new carpeting, but the quality and type of carpet will determine how much it sheds.

This is not just a balding out issue, its a health concern for anyone with respiratory issues and not welcome with crawling babies and young children.

A certain amount of shedding is completely normal for most carpets including natural fibres, and you can expect your carpet to shed for up to a year with median use.

Vacuum the carpet after it has been laid to take out that initial, inevitable shed that will otherwise mat up over the surface.

If you dont want much shed, look for continuous filament yarn like a velvety Wilton, long sections of weave.

Any carpet with chopped short tufts will give up some of its fibres.

In the case of quality carpeting, the shed will cease over time. Looped Berber styles should not be attacked with the beater bar youll simply deconstruct and beard them.

Most domestic carpet carries a range of VOC in its make-up which off-gas.

That new smell is not good news, especially in a bedroom. Take off any plastic, roll it out, and let the carpet and underlay breathe for a few days, preferably with the windows cracked.

Colour practicalities

Only you can decide what sets your toes twitching in terms of tone, texture and colour, but here are a few things to keep in mind.

Paler colours will amplify space in general and smooth close-clipped carpeting in one colour has an easy formality.

Heather-coloured carpets in a mid-tone with flecks of alternating strand colour breaking up the solid, dominant background shade are fantastic for hiding light dirt and animal hair. Thats not suggesting the carpet should not be meticulously clean. Carpet that shows every thread and hint of dust is a total pain.

Some textures also show indentation, wear and the direction of the vacuum more readily, fine if you demand groomed, parallel lines in your Axminster, but difficult for everyday family life. Very long strands like Saxony and very short velvets styles in either a very dark colour or a near-white; high maintenance. Keep them for officers quarters only with light traffic.

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How to choose a carpet and ensure it stands the test of time - Irish Examiner

This all-purpose and vegan paste is great for removing rust, hard water stains, grease, and more messes around your home! To use, just apply it to a surface with a damp cloth, gently rub it in, rinse it off with water, and polish the area with a dry cloth.

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Wood

Hardwood floors are a popular, durable option that are always visually appealing. Oak and cherry give off a natural feel in any home. Hardwood floors often come as planks, parquets or prefinished boards that can be expensive and difficult to install. Theyre subject to moisture damage, so they are better installed in parts of the home that dont get wet often from showers or kitchen sinks.

Over time, they can get scratches or dents that may be expensive to fix, but these floors can be refurbished every several years and last decades.

Laminate floors are a less expensive alternative that seeks to achieve that wood-floor look. The material is composed of wood-based materials that are laminated together then layered with an imprint that mimics wood grains.

Besides wood grain, laminate floors come in a variety of colors and styles. Theyre durable and easier to install than hardwood. Although laminate is useful in high-traffic areas, its subject to moisture damage in kitchens or bathrooms where the floor gets wet often.

Engineered wood floors are made up of plywood planks that are layered on top with a real but very thin hardwood veneer. Theyre a great option for those who want something in-between laminate and hardwood. Because they have real hardwood layered on top, they more closely resemble real hardwood floors at a fraction of the cost. Unlike hardwood, refurbishing these floors usually requires replacement of the surface.

Tile is a popular option for many homeowners. Materials range from porcelain, terra cotta, marble, granite to slate. Glazed porcelain is the most cost-effective. Its nonporous, waterproof (making it great for kitchens and bathrooms) and sturdy enough for high-trafficked parts of a home.

Tiles come in a wide range of textures, shapes and finishes allowing a homeowner to be creative with tile selection. Overall tile floors are durable, but they can be expensive and difficult to install. Chips and scratches can damage tile and are difficult to repair.

Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and has a softer underfoot compared to tile or stone. Vinyl is a popular choice for basements, bathrooms or kitchens where moisture can be an issue. Its generally affordable and comes in sheets or self-stick tiles, which makes vinyl a great DIY choice. Vinyl flooring is sold in a range of widths and thicknesses. Choose a thicker vinyl for high-trafficked areas.

Concrete floors have become popular, offering long-lasting durability and lower maintenance compared to other popular flooring types. Gray concrete can be stamped or stained to look like other expensive materials like marble, granite, stone or brick.

Carpet is a common floor type in colder climates, especially in bedrooms. Carpet is cost-effective and is soft and warm underfoot. Carpet comes in a myriad of colors and styles and some are stain-resistant, which is preferable in homes with young children or pets. Carpets can be difficult to maintain; its best to have carpet professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Bamboo is an extremely durable floor type thats made from a lightweight woody grass. It can resist swelling and contractions that often happens to hardwood floors in warm, humid climates. Bamboo is also moisture-resistant making it a good option for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Cork floors are an eco-friendly alternative. They have a light, cushiony feel that absorbs vibrations and sound. If cork floors get dented, they can often bounce back over a short period of time. Its natural, non-slip surface is ideal for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Linoleum is another eco-friendly flooring alternative. Linoleum is made from all-natural materials that make it antistatic and resistant to water, dings or scratches. Linoleum floors are often found in commercial buildings, like hospitals, because theyre easy to clean, comfortable underfoot and come in a variety of colors.

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Best Flooring Installation Companies Of 2021 Forbes Advisor - Forbes