MIKE HOLMES: Tile floors lead to grousing about grout

TILE floors have been the standard for luxury installations for more than 2, 000 years. But in the last decade, in particular, new materials and building techniques are challenging this method, because of both appearance and long-term performance. First, let's talk . . .

Posted: 2011-10-29

Sirococcus disease a blight on spruce trees

Of all the tree issues that concern property owners, unquestionably Colorado blue spruce and the green variety of Colorado spruce year after year top the list.This variety and species of spruce simply has lost most of its ability to deal . . .

Posted: 2014-11-22

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Don't use wood to damp-proof foundation

QUESTION: I wanted to know your opinion on waterproofing a 1960 basement foundation. We are planning on doing only two sides of our foundation and the other two in about five to eight years. We can’t afford to do it . . .

Posted: 2009-06-14

CONNIE OLIVER: After 10 years, there's still lots to talk about

The more things change... It was 10 years ago this week that I wrote my first article for the Winnipeg Free Press. It's hard to believe that I've had the privilege of helping you with your decorating issues for over a . . .

Posted: 2009-12-05

CONNIE OLIVER: An easy and affordable bedroom makeover

I've been mulling over doing a bedroom makeover lately. Maybe it's the winter doldrums at work here but it's time for a change. Yes, it seems like just yesterday I did a whole "brown and pink makeover" in my bedroom . . .

Posted: 2012-02-04

Room to grow in LaSalle

Spacious bi-level perfect for large families

Over the past decade or so, many builders have phased out bi-level homes from their design catalogues. The reason is due to lot sizes in the city becoming smaller, making it increasingly difficult to build spacious bi-levels on narrow lots. Consequently, most . . .

Posted: 2022-02-12

Sweet 16

Westwood bungalow wears its age well

In realtor-ese, it's an oft-used expression. Yet, when used properly, it's appropriate. That expression? None other than, "this home shows real pride of ownership." In the case of a 16-year-old bungalow found at 22 Franklin Bay in Westwood, it's not hyperbole, . . .

Posted: 2012-03-24

Pop popcorn in fridge for safekeeping

QUESTION: I have taken on a new hobby, which is growing popcorn in my garden. What is the best way to store popcorn so it stays fresh? Biannce (Winnipeg) ANSWER: Popcorn is a great treat year round. One of the advantages . . .

Posted: 2013-07-20

SOLUTIONS: Tips to bring dinnerware up to scratch

QUESTION: I purchased a new set of dishes, only to find there are scratches left from the cutlery after use. This is the second dinnerware set I have had difficulty with. The dishes have both been ivory in colour with . . .

Posted: 2013-01-26

Warming up for winter

Floor-to-ceiling fireplace brings the heat

It can be quite flattering when a past client reaches out to request my design input to customize areas in a new home, because the renovations done in the old house are sorely missed. Recently, I was asked to . . .

Posted: 2023-09-30