Guides Archivi - Salbini

Useful information and step-by-step guides on furniture, appliances, lighting, bathroom products, outdoor, porcelain and natural stones.

Guides

Why the Wait? Understanding the Transit of Your Order from Our Warehouse to You!

Discover the Essential Steps and Shipping Options

‘I’ve just completed my order: why can’t my items ship as early as tomorrow?’

If you’ve found yourself wondering the same thing, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll not only walk you through the different shipping methods available but also take you behind the scenes to explain the processes that ensure your goods are prepared and ready for their shipment.

Dispatch Times: The Importance of Planning

Shipping timelines are one of the most common questions we receive. It’s essential to understand that estimated delivery times begin only once the carrier has picked up your goods and they’ve left the port, airport, or transport hub. Before reaching this stage, there’s a meticulous internal process that must be completed. This includes consolidating items from various manufacturers, conducting thorough quality checks, ensuring safe packaging, and, where necessary, fumigation. Only after these steps are complete can we book a carrier, who will then provide the earliest available departure date. Within five days of that departure, we’ll load your goods. It’s important to remember that transport companies, especially shipping lines, adhere to strict schedules. Factors like overbooking or logistical constraints may lead to waiting for the next available carrier. This is why careful, advance planning is crucial to ensuring your goods arrive on time.

The Internal Process: What Happens Before the Shipment?

Imagine your goods are ready in our warehouse today—naturally, you’d expect them to ship out by tomorrow, right? Well, it’s not quite that simple. Before your products can begin their transit, several essential steps need to be completed. These steps are crucial to ensuring that every detail is handled with care and that your goods arrive at their destination in perfect condition. Here’s a look at what happens behind the scenes before your shipment leaves our warehouse:

1.Consolidation of Goods from Manufacturers

Before we can proceed with shipping, we need to receive all the items you’ve ordered. This step is especially important when your order includes products from multiple manufacturers, as each item must be carefully consolidated to ensure everything is ready to go together.

2. Quality Control

Once we receive the goods, each item undergoes a meticulous quality check to ensure it meets our high standards. This process is crucial in preventing any issues down the line and ensuring that all products are in perfect condition before shipment.

3. Packaging and Preparation

After passing quality control, your goods are expertly packed to guarantee their protection during transit. Unlike many suppliers, we pay extra attention to this stage because we understand how vital proper packaging is in preventing damage and avoiding additional responsibilities for you as the importer. When necessary, we use custom-made crates or additional protective measures to ensure the highest level of security.

4. Fumigation (If Necessary)

Depending on the destination and local regulations, fumigation may be required. This is a process that uses biocidal gases to eliminate any organisms or parasites, ensuring that the goods are safe and will not pose a threat to the ecosystem of the final destination.

Only after all these steps are completed will your goods be fully prepared for shipment via your selected method. Each step is vital to ensuring that your products are in perfect condition and ready for a smooth, secure shipment to their final destination.

Shipping Methods: How to Choose the Right One

Understanding the different types of international shipping is essential. Each method comes with its own timelines and unique features, so it’s important to evaluate them carefully based on your specific needs. This will help you make the best choice and avoid any unpleasant surprises along the way.

1. Air Shipping

For smaller orders or when time is of the essence, air freight is the perfect choice. It’s particularly suited for urgent projects that require a fast turnaround.

Delivery time: Approximately 10 days from shipment.

2. FCL (Full Container Load) Sea Freight

When you’re handling large orders or managing an entire project, FCL sea freight offers the most efficient solution. With a dedicated container just for your goods, you benefit from both security and optimized transport for bulk shipments.

Delivery time: Approximately 45 days from shipment, depending on the destination. At Salbini, we work with non-stop shipping companies to ensure swift deliveries.

3. LCL (Less Container Load) Sea Freight

If your shipment volume doesn’t justify a full container but you still need a maritime option, LCL is the way to go. Your goods will share space with other shipments heading to the same destination, helping to keep costs down.

Delivery time: Approximately 60 days from shipment.

4. Standard Sea Shipping

For non-urgent, smaller orders, Standard Sea Shipping provides a cost-effective option. While it takes longer, it still upholds high standards of safety and quality control.

Delivery time: This can vary based on container availability and stopovers along the route, so it cannot be accurately estimated from the start.

5. Overland Shipping

For destinations that can be easily reached by road from Italy, such as other European countries, overland shipping offers a practical and affordable solution. Ideal for small to medium-sized orders.

Delivery time: Approximately 7-14 days from shipment, depending on distance and road conditions.

We’ll Help You

If you’re unsure about which shipping method is best for your order, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re always here to assist you in choosing the solution that perfectly suits your needs. Let us help make your shipping experience as smooth and efficient as possible.

November 18, 2024

Guides

How to Import Appliances from Italy: Your Ultimate Guide to a Smooth and Secure Process

Voltage, Plugs, Sizes, Shipping, Taxes, and Warranty – Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Fit!

Importing appliances from Italy is an excellent choice if you’re seeking top-tier quality and exceptional design. However, to ensure a smooth and successful process, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. If you’re contemplating this exciting opportunity, there are six key factors you must consider before moving forward. So, let’s dive in together and explore these important details!

Voltage

Household appliances for the Italian market are designed to operate at 220/240V with a frequency of 50Hz. Typically, the wattage—meaning the maximum power consumption—can be found on the bottom, back, or ‘nameplate’ of the appliance. If you haven’t yet purchased the appliance, this information can be obtained directly from the manufacturer. It’s important to note that appliances in the United States operate at 115 volts. In fact, most of North and South America, the Caribbean, and Japan use 110-volt electricity, while Europe and many other regions rely on 220-volt electrical outlets. Specifically, in the U.S., standard household voltage is 110-120 V AC (Alternating Current), whereas much of the rest of the world, including Australia, uses 220-240 V AC. So, what should you do if the appliance you’ve purchased or are planning to buy operates at a different voltage than what’s available in your country? The solution is simple: you’ll need to use a voltage converter or transformer to prevent any damage to your new appliance. When it comes to appliances purchased from Salbini, it’s important to know that all of our products are designed to operate within the 220v-240v 50Hz range according to European standards. This means they will function perfectly in Europe, Australia, and any other country using the 220-240v range. For countries with lower voltage, just make the necessary adjustments with a converter, and your appliance will work flawlessly.

Plugs

When importing a household appliance, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of plug types. Appliances purchased from Italy typically come with one of three types of plugs. First, there’s the Type C plug, commonly used across Europe, except in the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Type C plugs are generally suited for appliances that require 2.5 A or less. Next, the Type F plug, also known as the Schuko plug, is primarily used in countries like Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Spain. These plugs have a power rating of 16 A, making them suitable for a wide range of appliances. Lastly, Italy uses the L-type plug, available in two versions: a 10 A and a 16 A plug. If you purchase an appliance from Italy and find that the plug doesn’t match your socket, you may need an adapter to ensure it functions properly.

Find out more about Voltage and Plugs

Taxes

When importing products, it’s essential to understand that each country has its own regulations regarding taxes and customs duties. To avoid any unexpected costs when your goods arrive, we highly recommend checking the applicable tariffs in advance. In some instances, you may also need to pay VAT or other local taxes. For example, in Australia, goods valued at AUD 1,000 or less are generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, for items exceeding this value, you’ll be required to pay a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the taxable import value upon arrival, in addition to a 5% customs duty. As these requirements differ from country to country, the Salbini team is here to assist you by providing all the necessary information. Our experts are always ready to give you a comprehensive overview of the costs before you confirm your order. It’s important to note that the taxes you pay go directly to your country, not to Salbini. Our prices do not include GST or customs duties, ensuring complete transparency.

Find out more about Customs Duties and Taxes

Shipping

Our tailor-made crates for shipping goods. Find out more.

When shipping household appliances from Italy, which are often bulky and heavy, it’s essential to carefully consider your transportation options and the possibility of insuring your goods during transit. Typically, you have three options: sea and air transport for long distances, and land transport for shorter ones. Your decision will depend on the volume, weight, and urgency of your shipment. Sea freight is ideal for large volumes or heavy loads but tends to be slower. On the other hand, air freight is more suitable for lighter and urgent shipments, ensuring faster delivery. However, in today’s world, it’s also crucial to consider the environmental impact of your choice. Air transport, while quicker, emits significantly more carbon, which has a greater environmental impact. In contrast, shipping by sea is more eco-friendly, producing fewer emissions per tonne of cargo. Given these factors, we strongly recommend planning your shipment in advance to choose the option that best aligns with your needs and values.

Find out more about Ocean Freight

Sizes

Household appliances generally come in standard dimensions, particularly built-in models. However, some appliances, especially those with unique designer elements, may differ from the standard sizes in your country. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully measure the space where you plan to place these appliances, including considering access through your home’s entrances. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are always happy to provide you with precise dimensions for any appliances you’re considering purchasing. Additionally, if you’re importing multiple appliances at once, think about whether they can be stacked or grouped to optimize space in the shipping vehicles.

After-Sales Warranty

When you purchase and import a household appliance from Salbini, you gain the significant advantage of having direct access to our support in case of any issues. Typically, when you buy appliances directly from Europe, local service providers may not honor the manufacturer’s warranty because the item was purchased abroad. However, when you buy from us at Salbini, you can rest easy. If you encounter any problems with your appliance, all you need to do is contact our Customer Service—no need to deal with anyone else. We have established agreements with local service agents, ensuring that if a breakdown occurs, our Customer Care team will promptly connect you with a local expert who can resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

So, are you ready to experience the joy of your new Italian appliances? Contact Us Now!

October 9, 2024

Guides

Discover the Versatility of Suspension Lamps

Illuminate Your Space with Style and Functionality

Suspension lamps offer more than just lighting; they serve as decorative elements, adding charm and versatility to any room. Crafted from an array of materials including glass and metal, these fixtures are designed to provide focused illumination for specific areas or objects, enhancing the ambiance of your space. The diverse styles available make suspension lamps suitable for a wide range of environments, accommodating various tastes and needs. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a more traditional aesthetic, there’s a suspension lamp to complement your decor and elevate your space.

The Allure of Suspension Lamps

Suspension lamps offer a unique lighting solution that caters to various needs and preferences, making them an ideal choice for discerning individuals who value aesthetics, interior design, and functionality. If you appreciate the beauty of well-designed spaces and seek lighting options that enhance the ambiance, suspension lamps are a perfect fit. These versatile fixtures are particularly beneficial for those who require focused illumination in compact or specific areas, such as kitchen worktops, counters, and meal preparation zones. Cooking enthusiasts and chefs alike appreciate the practicality and style that suspension lamps bring to their culinary spaces, providing both functionality and visual appeal. Moreover, if you find yourself spending ample time engrossed in reading, studying, or pursuing your passions, pendant lighting offers the perfect solution. With its focused, shadow-free light, it creates an optimal environment for concentration and productivity. If the allure of suspension lamps has captured your interest, we invite you to explore the following list of rooms where these luminaires excel, showcasing their versatility and ability to elevate any space with style and functionality.

Elevate Your Culinary Haven

In your kitchen, leverage the versatility of suspension lamps to illuminate key areas such as counters or dining tables, creating a focused and inviting atmosphere for meal preparation and dining experiences. Additionally, consider incorporating these elegant fixtures above kitchen islands to infuse both decorative charm and practical functionality into your culinary haven.

Suspension Lamps in Zana Pali and Gianni Romano’s kitchen. Find out more about this project.

Create Your Sanctuary

Transform your living room into a cozy retreat with the addition of suspension lamps, strategically placed to cultivate a warm and inviting ambiance. These versatile fixtures serve as more than just sources of light; they become focal points that infuse your space with style and personality, enhancing the overall atmosphere of comfort and hospitality.

*Suspension Lamps* *in Victoriana Apartment. Find out more about this project.*

Illuminate Your Moments

In your living areas, consider incorporating suspension lamps to illuminate specific spaces, such as cozy reading nooks or relaxation areas. Not only do these lamps provide ample lighting for your activities, but they also serve as elegant decorative elements, adding flair and style to your living space.

Embrace Serenity

Consider adding suspension lamps to your bedside tables or placing them next to your bed to create a cozy and inviting ambiance. These lamps provide focused lighting for reading or other bedside activities while also contributing to a serene and tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation.

Welcome in Style

Elevate the welcoming ambiance of your home or building by opting for pendant lighting in entrance areas. Whether it’s your home or a commercial space, pendant lighting adds a touch of sophistication and warmth, setting the tone for a memorable welcome for your visitors.

Gangnam House South Korea — *Suspension Lamps* in Gangnam House. Find out more about this project.

Not Only Home

Whether you’re revamping your living space or upgrading your commercial environment, suspension lamps offer a versatile lighting solution that combines style, atmosphere, and functionality in one.
Suspension lamps are ideal for businesses seeking to infuse their space with character and charm. From clothing boutiques and restaurants to bars, offices, art galleries, hotels, and wellness centers, these lighting fixtures can create captivating visual focal points while illuminating your space effectively.
Choosing the right suspension lamp involves considering the specific requirements and ambiance of your room, as well as your preferred style. Whether you’re aiming for modern minimalism, rustic warmth, or sleek sophistication, there’s a suspension lamp to suit every taste and need.

Expert Advice from Filippo Cannata

Need more tips on home lighting? Listen to the words of Filippo Cannata, an internationally acclaimed lighting designer and our Partner. Filippo is a true industry pro, and in this video, he gives further insights on managing lighting in various areas of the home.

Discover Your Perfect Suspension Lamp Style

If you’re still deliberating whether to embrace the elegance of a suspension lamp, fear not! Below, we’ve curated a selection of diverse examples to help you gain further insight and identify the style that resonates most with you. Let’s embark on this illuminating journey together!

Dipping Light by Marset

Designer: Jordi Canudas

Witness the mesmerizing allure of the Dipping Light – more than just a lamp, it’s an enchanting spectacle. With its varied paint hues, it casts a spellbinding glow, transforming any space into a realm of magic. Even when switched off, its multi-coloured glass sphere captivates with its striking aesthetic. The pendant version of the Dipping Light is a minimalist marvel, focusing solely on the essence of color. Available in four sizes, from 12 cm to 40 cm, and complemented by a cluster accessory, it offers endless possibilities to illuminate and elevate your surroundings.

Eclipse Square Single Crystal Layer by Aggiolight

Designer: Aggiolight

This is an innovative lamp, featuring high-brightness LEDs and premium materials. Available in multiple sizes, it exudes elegance and sophistication, enhancing any space – be it a private residence, a bustling office, or a grand reception hall. Elevate your environment with Aggiolight’s distinctive touch of illumination.

Raqam P4 by Masiero

Here we find the pinnacle of versatility with this modular lighting system, offering limitless customizable combinations in every direction and dimension. Harness your creativity with this revolutionary design, where innovation and intelligence converge to illuminate your space like never before.

Mateca by Ferroluce

Designer: Ferroluce

Mateca suspension lamp is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship. Featuring a white glazed ceramic or cement effect structure paired with solid ash wood painted oak, it’s perfect for illuminating kitchens, living rooms, and offices. Experience the ideal blend of elegance and functionality with Mateca’s exquisite design.

Make the Right Choice

We hope this article has been helpful in understanding the significance of lighting and exploring the endless possibilities offered by pendant lamps. Now, you can purchase the lamp of your choice on our online shop and transform your space with style and functionality.
Moreover, we’re here for you for any further information you may need. Feel free to get in touch with us for any questions or doubts. And if you need to design the lighting for your residential, commercial, or hospitality project from scratch, we’re ready to assist you with a free and personalised quote. We look forward to helping you create the perfect luminous environment for you.

Buy Lighting on our Shop

Request a Free Quote for your project

June 6, 2024

Guides

Leather or Fabric? Sofa Selection Simplified

Decoding the Ideal Sofa for Your Living Area

If you’re contemplating the purchase of a new sofa or a change, the choice between leather and fabric can be daunting. Rest assured, ‘cause we’re here to offer expert guidance to ease your decision. Sit back, relax, and allow us to impart invaluable insights tailored to your needs. Let’s embark on this journey together.

*Friday 2 by Zeitraum – Designed by Formstelle*

Sofa Harmony: Crafting the Perfect Seating Experience for Every Home

To determine the ideal sofa, start by assessing your living space. Consider the ambience and layout of your home. Let’s then see together how to make a choice that fully reflects your needs.

Family House

Selecting a sofa for a family-oriented home warrants strategic decision-making. We recommend opting for a durable leather sofa, which offers lasting elegance and comfort. We recommend dark colours such as black or chocolate, which retain their charm with age. Be careful with white, especially in families with young children, as it’s prone to staining. Make sure your choice aligns perfectly with style and practicality for a harmonious living space.

Drive by Giorgetti

Designer: Carlo Colombo

Drive, recipient of the esteemed Wallpaper Design Award 2017 for ‘Best Landing Pad’, seamlessly integrates into any setting. Crafted with fabric and leather upholstery options, it offers a range of fixed and modular sofas, catering to diverse living spaces, from expansive residences to cozy nooks. Elevate your environment with Drive’s unparalleled versatility and style.

Temporary Home

If you’re furnishing a transient space like a studio or student residence, a fabric sofa proves a pragmatic choice. Should you yearn for leather, consider faux leather, mindful of its shorter lifespan. Embrace vibrant hues like yellow or red to infuse energy into the space. Yet, for practical reasons, steer clear of white. Your temporary abode can exude style and comfort with these insightful choices, ensuring your preferences align seamlessly with the dynamic nature of your living arrangement.

Lapis by Amura

Designers: Emanuel Gargano and Anton Cristell

Lapis is a masterpiece of design available in luxurious leather or premium fabric upholstery. Inspired by organic forms, its modular elements offer endless possibilities to tailor to your space and preferences. Crafted with memory foam padding, it ensures exceptional resilience and shape retention, delivering unparalleled comfort and style.

Sea House

When furnishing a seaside houese or any warm locale, eschew leather sofas. Leather, prone to heat in summer and cold in winter, can induce discomfort with a sweaty body. Opt instead for a fabric sofa, ensuring easy maintenance. Steer clear of capitonné due to dust accumulation, favoring seamless, single-block designs. In this and only in this specific case, simplicity reigns – fewer sofa components mean enhanced comfort, simplifying your coastal living experience with practical and stylish choices.

Mediterraneo by Gart

Designer: Gart Creative Lab

This is a meticulously crafted sofa, boasting plush, modular design elements. Firm geometries merge seamlessly with gentle, inviting contours, offering unrivaled comfort. Upholstered in premium 100% acrylic outdoor fabric, it repels UV rays, water, mildew, and stains, ensuring durability and easy maintenance. Elevate your outdoor experience with this luxurious and practical seating solution.

Essential Factors for Your Ultimate Comfort and Style

Selecting the perfect sofa also involves considering vital factors like comfort, durability, maintenance, hygiene, cleaning, and budget. Let’s go through these parameters for a choice that exceeds your expectations.

Discovering Comfort and Style with Ingenious Fabric Solutions

When considering fabric sofas, prioritize unparalleled comfort. If drawn to leather’s aesthetic, enhance it with a fabric slipcover, ensuring year-round coziness without sacrificing style. Fabric’s washability is advantageous, provided it has a removable cover, preventing odors and dust accumulation. Note that multi-piece sofas simplify cover reattachment, enhancing practicality. Explore ‘nanotech’ fabrics for water-repellency, resisting liquid stains and minimizing washing time.

Embrace Durability and Effortless Charm with a Quality Leather Sofa

Opting for a leather sofa promises longevity, surpassing fabric counterparts when of exceptional quality. These sofas resist dirt, requiring only a beeswax dust collector for routine cleaning. For stubborn stains, a damp cloth with mild nutro soap suffices. Embrace the assurance of enduring quality, and relish the ease of maintenance. Your leather sofa, a symbol of timeless sophistication, awaits to grace your space with durability and effortless elegance. Trust in the resilience and care instructions, ensuring your investment in style stands the test of time.

Nurturing Longevity and Timeless Appeal Through Dedicated Care and Commitment

Maintaining both fabric and leather sofas is crucial, demanding diligence. Regular brushing and vacuuming are essential for fabric sofas, ensuring cleanliness. Leather sofas require periodic treatments with specialized products for sustained beauty. In essence, whether fabric or leather, both demand commitment and perseverance. We then advocate for conscientious care, guaranteeing your sofa’s longevity and continued allure. Uphold these practices, and your investment in comfort and style will stand resilient against the test of time.

In terms of pricing, it’s noteworthy that, generally, fabric sofas are more budget-friendly compared to their leather counterparts.

Caprera Sofa by Exteta

Designer: Massimo Castagna

Unleashing infinite compositional possibilities, this sofa system is a testament to customized design. The seamless blend of streamlined simplicity and the natural elegance of mahogany defines its aesthetic allure. Modules artfully interlock, allowing you to craft a sofa tailored to your ambiance. Mahogany accessories and frame add sophistication, while the adaptable backrests can be moved and rotated in multiple directions for personalized comfort.

Buy Sofas on our Shop

Request a Free Quote for your project

June 4, 2024

Guides

Appliances: Care and Maintenance Guide

How to Maximize the Longevity and Efficiency of Your Household Heroes

Essentials. This term perfectly encapsulates the role of domestic appliances in our lives – indispensable tools that seamlessly blend into the fabric of our daily routines, evolving into more than mere functional devices to become integral pieces of furniture. The longevity of these appliances, averaging between 10 to 15 years, depends on a delicate balance of proper use, cleaning, and maintenance. While misuse can truncate their lifespan, judicious care can significantly extend it.

Mastering Maintenance: Prolonging the Life of Your Kitchen Hood

Elica Haiku — *Haiku Wall Hood by Elica*

Your kitchen hood, a stalwart against cooking odors and grease, is a potentially long-lasting element. Robust in construction, it requires periodic cleaning to maintain its efficiency. Distinguish between duct-out and reciclying, each with specific cleaning needs.

Before cleaning, prioritize safety by disconnecting power. For surfaces like steel or glass, use non-abrasive cloths and neutral, non-corrosive liquids. Reciclying ones require additional care, including the removal and cleaning of filters – metal ones can be washed with a degreasing detergent, while synthetic ones are usually replaced every three to four months.

The Kitchen Guest Star: Essential Tips for Extending Your Refrigerator’s Lifespan

This is the guest star of the kitchen, often faces wear and tear over time. Guard against condensation and ice buildup by avoiding hot food insertion and setting the temperature to 4 °C. Regularly clean and hygienize the interior walls and the back coil annually.

For freezers, clean excessive ice buildup exceeding 5 mm and ensure proper sealing of gaskets in no-frost models. Optimal positioning, at least 100 mm away from the wall, enhances efficiency. Don’t forget the external cleanliness to prevent damage caused by accumulated dust. Avoid overloading compartments for optimal performance.

Culinary Cornerstone Care: Enhancing Efficiency in Your Oven

A cornerstone of gastronomic creations, demands attention to maximize its efficiency. Regularly check elements like the fan, as deterioration can impact performances. Modern models often feature the ‘pyrolytic‘ function, reaching 500° for deep cleaning without detergents. For others, use a sponge soaked in water and baking soda for wall and glass cleaning.

The Dishwasher: Maximizing Efficiency with Routine Maintenance

Bosch Series 8 dishwasher — *Bosch Series 8 Dishwasher*

Your dishwasher, a time-saving marvel, thrives with regular checks and maintenance. Ensure filters, gaskets, and nozzles undergo periodic scrutiny, coupled with monthly vacuum cleaning against limestone formation. Avoid overloading, check for unobstructed arm movement, and make sure to rinse your plates from food scraps to prevent excessive accumulation on water filters. Leave the door slightly open post-cycle to prevent steam damage. This last tip is a feature that has automated and included into the latest available top of the range models, which opens up roughly one hour prior to the end of cycle, during ventilation.

Keeping the Flame Alive: Essential Maintenance for Gas and Induction Cooktops

The cooktop, whether gas or induction, serves as the heart of your kitchen. For gas cooktops, prioritize hygiene and safety through careful cleaning. Use a normal degreaser or natural solutions like water and white vinegar. Clear clogged gas burners with a toothpick and a water-vinegar or degreaser solution.

Induction cooktops, with their delicate glass-ceramic tops, require gentle cleaning after each use. Water, distilled to avoid limestone, and a microfiber cloth can effectively tackle dust and light incrustations. For tougher stains, use liquid dish soap or Marseille soap. Regularly clean the induction hob more deeply with a water and white vinegar mixture. Ensure pots have a low, thick ferromagnetic bottom.

Universal Tips for All Appliances: Small Acts, Big Impact

Remember, there are universal tips that apply to all household appliances. Avoid leaving them on standby, use a lightning protection strip during storms, install a consumption analysis device, and perform regular and thorough cleaning.

By implementing these practical tips, you’ll not only save money on your bills, but you’ll also contribute to reducing your environmental impact. It’s a small effort for a substantial gain – a wise investment indeed. Isn’t it?

Happy homemaking!

Buy Appliances on our Shop

or request a Free Quote for your project

Cover image: Bosch Appliances

February 26, 2024

Guides

Bespoke Joinery: From Idea to Your Dream Environment

Bespoke joinery: from the idea to your dream environment

Here it is the art of customised joinery systems, where each modular element comes to life to meet individual needs.

Welcome to the exciting world of custom joinery, where incredible opportunities for customisation open up to you. We thought of involving our fantastic Expert of Joinery Modularity, Roberta Apuleo, in order to make this journey even more interesting and instructive. She has 39 years of experience in the furniture industry and specialises in designing modular systems.

Bespoke Joinery in practice

Bespoke joinery is a customised approach to designing and creating interior furnishings to meet specific needs and individual preferences. It’s known for its customisation, quality, adaptability, exclusivity and design flexibility. It can cover a wide range of interior design elements, including kitchens, bathroom vanties, bookcases, wardrobes and more.

Customisation is the Answer

The main features of bespoke joinery include customisation. Thanks to it, every element of the joinery, from the size to the materials, from the finishes to the arrangement of components, can be customised to perfectly suit the space and taste of the customer. This adaptability allows detailed design to solve specific space, functionality and style requirements in a wide range of situations, from private residences to commercial spaces.

The joinery is therefore ideal if you’re looking for exclusivity and flexibility, as each piece is unique and you’ll enjoy an environment that stands out for its originality, attention to detail and aesthetic vision.

Example of Industrial Joinery: Crossing

Crossing by MisuraEmme, designed by Mauro Lipparini, is a cutting-edge joinery solution that seamlessly combines form and function. Its modular panels allow for flexible wall-mounted shelving, offering complete adjustability along three axes for endless configuration possibilities. Crossing offers various module types and sizes, including units with different door styles and drawers. It comes in two versions: Fusion for a modern look and Listellare for a warmer ambiance. Its integrated LED lighting system adds elegance, making it a versatile and stylish storage solution.

Artisan and Industrial Quality

Both craft and industry can be used to make customised furniture, offering unique and functional solutions for living space. The choice depends on individual needs, but in both cases, the goal remains to create a unique and functional space that reflects one’s personality and style.

However, when we talk about bespoke joinery, you’re often led to think only about a handcrafted product and you might find it difficult to associate the process with an industry. Instead, there are now furniture companies capable of creating extraordinary tailor-made designs, adapted to the customer’s specific needs, with the added technology and perfection of industry.

Manufacturing Processes

The individual craftsman and industry only have in common their first approach to work, which is the design of the product you want to make. From now on, the craftsman will work on the single piece by hand, while industry can move on to the study of the most suitable materials for the manufacture and use of the specific product, focusing on the various possibilities of composing the individual elements to best realise the project. Finally, the industry will offer you a wide choice of finishes to choose from, including timber veneer or laquer, both glossy and matt, or HPL, high pressure laminate, which are now endless. Not least, you can even think about customising the hardware.

Once approval is obtained, the project goes to the production engineers who determine the feasibility and delivery time.

If you rely on an industry for customised work, you’ll first of all have the guarantee of programmable and well-defined delivery times. In addition, the company itself will have world-class designers and advanced production technologies at its disposal.

The Crucial Importance of Material Selection

In the industrial context, the precise selection of materials plays a pivotal role. Alongside the wide array of available finishes, the industry carefully adopts chipboard or plywood depending on specific design and structural needs.
Conversely, master craftsmen in carpentry, for similar projects, mainly uses MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) for its ease of manual work, despite being aware of the resulting compromises in terms of quality, added weight, and increased vulnerability to moisture, with the consequent risk of deformation.

Another notable distinction lies in the industry’s capability to masterfully combine different materials, as exemplified, for instance, in the acclaimed “Palo Alto” project by MisuraEmme. This system skillfully integrates and alternates glass and metal to create a fully customizable system, successfully challenging the boundaries of the artisanal context.

Undertaking projects with specific dimensions and complexity would prove exceedingly challenging, if not nearly impossible, for an artisan to achieve the same quality standards while simultaneously maintaining competitiveness in terms of the quality-price ratio. Consequently, the industry unquestionably represents the most advantageous choice for those whose priorities center around customization paired with maximum quality and the best possible price.

Ultimately, you’ll be able to benefit from a much broader and more professional view of your finished product, resulting from the collaboration of several professionals specialised in the field.

Craftsmanship at the Core

Thanks to the big brands that have kept craftsmanship at the core of their production processes, you can rely on the custom joinery industry without losing anything, but rather gaining in terms of quality standards. So forget the mass-produced stuff and get ready to receive a customised product with all the industry guarantees.

October 2, 2023

Guides

Unveiling the Timeless Elegance of Pietra di Luserna: A Journey through Beauty and Functionality

From northern Italy to the whole world: birth and evolution of an extraordinary designer stone.

Exquisite, robust, enduring, and steeped in nearly half a century of history.

Imagine a material that can effortlessly span both expansive landscapes and intimate spaces – that’s Pietra di Luserna. This geological marvel is a type of Gneiss, a layered metamorphic rock, extracted from the heart of Italy’s central-western Piedmont region, nestled within the breathtaking Cottian Alps.

While its origins trace back to the 17th century in this region, Pietra di Luserna’s allure transcended borders in the late 1960s, captivating the world stage with its versatile attributes tailor-made for diverse sectors.

Pioneering Applications of Pietra di Luserna

In its early days, Pietra di Luserna graced the mining epicenter with its presence. It adorned Piedmontese royal palaces with external pavements and sheltered the iconic Mole Antonelliana in Turin under its slate-like roof.

Modern-Day Marvels with Pietra di Luserna

Evolution is the hallmark of Pietra di Luserna’s journey – from manual craftsmanship to the synergy of mechanical ingenuity. This transformation has catapulted its applications into the realm of boundless possibilities. Today, grand public and private architectural visions come to life with ease.

Contemporary applications of this wondrous stone span a spectrum of creativity. Be it outdoor walkways, ornate balconies, regal staircases, structural facades, majestic portals, cascading fountains, or the elegant edging of pools – Pietra di Luserna is a versatile muse. Yet its charm doesn’t end there; it gracefully finds a place in the heart of homes, adorning fireplaces, gracing kitchen countertops, embellishing sinks, and becoming an integral part of bathroom aesthetics.

Distinctive Attributes of Pietra di Luserna

Within its very essence lies a trio of enchanting traits – malleability, elegance in simplicity, and an inherent slip-resistant nature. Yet, Pietra di Luserna’s allure goes deeper. As a product of Mother Earth, its natural thermal conductivity ensures that it’s not just a building material; it’s a contributor to energy efficiency. Incorporating this stone into building facades translates to tangible energy savings, creating an ecosystem of sustainability.

In a world where history and innovation intertwine, Pietra di Luserna stands as a testament to timelessness, a symbol of the past, present, and future converging seamlessly in the embrace of its enduring splendor.

Credits: Photographs courtesy of Beltramo Fratelli and Roberto Garbarini.

September 14, 2023

Guides

The perfect oven for your kitchen: buying guide

Choose the perfect oven for your kitchen

The oven is an essential appliance in any kitchen. If you’re looking for a new oven, this guide will help you choose the right one! There are many options available in the market and the choice can be confusing.

Here are our recommendations for you!

Popular types of kitchen ovens

There are different types of kitchen ovens. The most common is the electric oven. Furthermore, there are also microwave ovens, steam ovens and gas ovens, which offer specific cooking modes.

Electric oven

Gaggenau Oven Series 400 BO451112 — *Gaggenau: Oven Series 400 BO451112*

The electric oven converts electricity into heat, distributing it evenly until it reaches the temperature set on the thermostat. It is ideal for those who prefer dry cooking.

Microwave oven

A microwave works by emitting electromagnetic waves that generate heat by causing water molecules in food to vibrate rapidly.

Steam oven

The steam oven works by using steam to cook food, providing a gentle and moist cooking environment that helps retain nutrients and flavors.

Gas oven

A gas oven uses gas to produce heat for cooking, providing precise temperature control and faster heat-up times.

Combi oven

There are also combi ovens, which offer the versatility of dry, microwave and steam cooking functions all in one appliance for convenience.

Size

Beko CDFY22309X Built In Electric Double Oven — *Beko: CDFY22309X Built In Double Oven*

If you’re an avid cook, have a large family, or enjoy hosting dinner parties with many guests, you may want to consider
purchasing a larger oven or a double oven.

Extra functions and features

Siemens Home Connect — *Siemens: Home Connect*

Some ovens have defrost, core temperature probe, wi-fi connectivity, pre-loadaed recipes, smartphone App and voice commands.

Cleaning

Gaggenau Series 400 self-wash function — *Gaggenau: Series 400 self-wash*

Pyrolytic ovens have a thermal cleaning process that burns all food residues.

Some steam ovens, on the other hand, have a self-wash function, which can be very useful for internal cleaning.

Price and budget

The price of the oven varies according to the model and the extra functions. Consider your budget and look for an oven that meets your needs without exceeding your spending limit.

Brands

Make sure you buy a quality oven from a reputable manufacturer.

At Salbini we select the best household appliances manufacturers, known for their high quality and durability. Furthermore, the security of buying an oven that includes all the guarantees is very important.

Conclusions

Choosing the right oven for your kitchen can be a big and expensive decision. Make sure you consider the size, extra features, price, and brand. By following these tips, you will be able to find the perfect oven for your kitchen and satisfy all your cooking needs.

Choose your oven now

Cover image: NEFF Ovens

June 30, 2023

Guides

How to buy high quality Italian furniture: ten useful tips

Buying high quality Italian furniture can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be a complex undertaking if you don’t have an interior designer who takes care of your project and a trusted supplier that helps you to select.

Here are some useful tips to help you choose and buy high-end Italian furniture.

1. List of needs

Amura: Palmo

Before shopping, make a list of the furniture you want. This way you can focus on priorities and select the furniture that best meets your needs. The list helps you a lot during the selection phase, so don’t underestimate it!

2. Design that fits your style

Sovet: Arkos

When choosing furniture, make sure it fits your style. Italian decor is known for its elegant and sophisticated design, so choose furniture that fits your personal preferences. There are many different styles to choose from, you will surely find the right one for you.

3. Space

MisuraEmme: Palo Alto

Before buying a piece of furniture, measure the space where it is to be placed and make sure you have adequate space to be able to use it.

For example, if you have to buy a wardrobe, you need to leave a free area in front of it, to allow the doors and drawers to open without problems. For chairs, sofas, and armchairs, make sure the furniture you choose fits the size of your space and that people can sit comfortably.

4. Functionality

Roberti: Atollo Day Bed

When choosing furniture, consider its functionality and usefulness. You can select products with a refined design that offer a perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics. This is a good way to enjoy your home and surprise your guests at the same time.

5. Materials

Riva 1920: Craftsmanship

High-end Italian furniture is known for the very high quality of the materials used. To choose products that will last a long time, also make sure that the furniture is well made and well assembled.

6. Colors and fabrics

Giorgetti: Production

Choose colors and fabrics that suit your environment. The best Italian manufacturers use high quality padding and the skilful use of materials such as leather and velvet have made Italian furniture famous all over the world. So, in addition to the colors you like, also choose upholstery that fits your lifestyle.

7. Variants

Secolo: Pingu X Side Table

You must follow this advice very carefully, because it’s really important!

Many furnishing products are available in different variants, so carefully evaluate the different solutions, dimensions and finishes. These characteristics are very often decisive, not only for the aesthetics, but also for the price.

When making comparisons between different variations of the same product or between different suppliers, always be sure to dig into the product details.

8. Brands

Choose only Italian furniture manufacturers and suppliers you can trust.

At Salbini we select the best furniture brands that guarantee high quality materials, workmanship and construction. We also ensure that the company choices of the producers respect the best environmental sustainability procedures. Natural resources are not infinite and it is our duty to take care of the earth.

9. Get ahead of the times

Salbini: Shipping warehouse

Decide precisely when you need the furniture and start the selection right away. In this way you will not have to settle for the availability of the local retailer’s warehouse, and you will be able to have a wider choice, as happens with us at Salbini. You can even have a bespoke product made just for you!

Furthermore, if you decide to import the furniture directly from Italy, consider the time required for shipping, delivery and assembly.

10. Budget

miniforms: Botera Sofa

Before buying, plan your budget and keep in mind the price of high quality Italian furniture. There are many options available, so choose furniture that fits your budget and meets your needs.

In summary

Purchasing high-quality Italian furniture takes research and planning. Make sure you choose reliable manufacturers, invest in quality, consider functionality, respect the environment and plan your budget.

By following these tips, you will be able to buy high-end Italian design furniture that perfectly suits your needs and style.

Cover image: Longhi Cohen

April 17, 2023

Guides

Lighting technology in the home

Lighting is essential to create the right atmosphere in every room of the house. With the use of technology there are so many ways to light up your home intelligently.

Using technology for home lighting offers many benefits, including a more comfortable, safe and efficient experience.

In this video we talked about it with the Lighting Designer Filippo Cannata, who explained the importance of using technology for home lighting.

Home lighting technology

Technology has revolutionized the way we manage lighting in the home, providing numerous opportunities to improve energy efficiency and comfort.

Thanks to the use of LED lamps, motion sensors and remote control systems, it is possible to create the perfect atmosphere in any room.

Energy saving

The use of home lighting technology generates great energy savings. LED lamps consume much less energy than traditional light bulbs. Additionally, smart lighting systems can be programmed to automatically turn off the lights when there are no people in a room, further reducing energy consumption.

Remote control

Another great advantage of using technology for home lighting is the ability to control the lights remotely.

For example, smart lighting systems allow you to control the lighting using a mobile application or voice assistant. With a simple touch you can turn on, adjust or turn off the lights in any room. This is especially useful when you’re away from home.

Personalization and importance of a well-lit environment

Home lighting is an important aspect of home comfort, influencing people’s mood, productivity and health.

With smart lighting systems you can customize the lighting of every room in your home according to your preferences. For example, you can choose between different color temperatures to create the right atmosphere at any time of day or according to the activity you are doing, such as reading, watching TV or relaxing. Plus, you can program the lights to turn on gradually in the morning, simulating the natural sunrise, to help you wake up naturally.

Safety

Using home lighting technology can increase the safety of your home. You can schedule lighting systems to turn on and off at regular intervals, giving the impression that someone is always home and reducing the risk of theft or break-ins. Additionally, some smart lighting systems can be integrated with security systems to automatically turn on lights when motion is detected on your property.

Benefits for you

Ultimately, using technology for home lighting offers many benefits, from saving energy to customizing the lighting to your preferences. Additionally, smart lighting systems can increase the safety of your home.

If you are looking for a way to improve the lighting in your home, the Cannata/Salbini partnership offers our customers the possibility of essentially relying on a “genius” who takes care of every detail of the lighting project.

April 12, 2023