Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/84343
live at home Feeling Sneezy? Avoid indoor allergies by considering carpet As temperatures drop, families head indoors to stave off the winter weather. Yet, even without pollen and ragweed in the air, we may find equally-as-frustrat- ing indoor allergens tickling our noses. To ward off pesky allergens, we asked Tim Coyle of Coyle Carpet One to weigh in the benefits of home carpeting. It's a Beautiful Life at Home Eye-catching finds abound at La Bella Vita Gallery & Gifts By Tuesday Wustrack Swinging the doors open and stepping inside La Bella Vita Gallery & Gifts, it doesn't take long to realize why the store is more than just a shop for home goods—it's a gallery. Colorful lamps, hand-painted clocks, and intricate artwork that would make a statement in any home are displayed alongside cases of jewelry boasting an ar- ray of one-of-a-kind pieces—from crafty and casual to geometric and dramatic. It's an assortment of offerings owner Yvette Kindschi says will ensure custom- ers can nab something that brings a fresh perspective to their home or jewelry col- lection. "I want [customers] to feel like they have From a lamp made by a family in Indonesia to jewelry crafted by a designer who draws inspiration from her dreary life in Russia, Kindschi aims to offer items with a histo- ry that customers can relate to. While the look of a piece might pique a customer's interest, Kindschi says it's the story that often seals the deal. Whether you're on the hunt for a unique gift, vivid décor or pieces with their own dramatic tale to share, you can find it all at La Bella Vita. In short: A charming jewelry, home and art gallery that offers a variety of quality gifts from designers around the world. not seen anything like this anywhere else," she says. "The store reenergizes people." Kindschi's knack for selecting and dis- playing the products in the store along with her past careers in floral arrangements and graphic and interior design have made her a well-rounded, some would say artistic, business owner. But Kndischi also has another skill up her sleeve: Selecting items that aren't just styl- ish, but have their own unique story to tell. 20 BRAVA Magazine October 2012 Kindschi's favorites: The Teak Ball—a large decorative piece made from reclaimed teak chunks and wood nails Kindishi says is perfect for a garden or home. Why you'll love it: It's a great place to stumble across that dramatic décor or jew- elry find you didn't know you needed. Where to go: 6666 University Ave., Mid- dleton; (608) 831-3303 or lbvgallery.com When looking to minimize indoor allergens, what's the best flooring? Carpet! It's beneficial for allergy sufferers because the pollutants become trapped in the carpet instead of remaining airborne. Studies from the Carpet and Rug Institute have shown that carpet does a better job at trapping airborne allergens than hard surfaces like wood, tile, vinyl and laminate. Once vacuumed with a proper vacuum, you can create an environment with fewer allergens. What type of vacuum would you recommend? One with a HEPA filter, which can eliminate over 99 percent of indoor air particulates, including dust and other allergens. Are some types of carpets better for allergy sufferers? I would not say one style of carpet is bet- ter than another for allergies. In regards to fibers, consumers may want to look at wool for its hypoallergenic qualities. Overall, carpet—as opposed to other flooring choices—is a good choice for eliminating airborne allergens. But installation can be dusty. Is getting new carpet counterproductive? Not necessarily. Look for companies that offer a healthy installation system that is designed to minimize dust, irritants and odors while encouraging better air quality in your home. Some installations can also include an anti- microbial coating that helps ward off allergens under your carpet as well. Photo by Amber Arnold