CONNIE OLIVER: Going with the flow

Creating a smooth transition is key to good decorating

When you have an open-floor plan, you want to create a smooth visual transition from one room to the other while maintaining individual spaces. Our feature photograph shows a lovely kitchen and dining room that is a good example of how . . .

Posted: 2013-11-16

Summer's not just for major renovations -- sweat the small stuff, too

Summertime is the best time for building projects and renovations, such as refinishing the deck, putting up a fence or painting outdoors. Mother Nature is on our side, in terms of weather (for the most part), so we can really . . .

Posted: 2015-07-04

Updating style can fit just about any budget

Every once in a while, a project with rather foreign parameters crosses my path. At a recent property, a minor kitchen facelift (part of a much larger renovation to ready a rental property) was heavily bound by budget constraints. Nonetheless, . . .

Posted: 2025-10-25

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Holmes Inspection doesn't represent reality

QUESTION: I watch the TV show Holmes Inspection. Why do all the house inspectors portrayed on the show do more harm than good? Would it not be better to hire a carpenter, a plumber and a electrician for one hour . . .

Posted: 2011-12-31

Sealing chase at top of building enclosure should stop moisture

Question: I have a question about what to do about moisture collecting on the underside of the metal cap of my false chimney chase. The entire chase has insulation and vapour barrier, but it would be considered a cold zone. . . .

Posted: 2020-02-08

Make the old look new again

DEAR Marc: I have an old claw-foot tub which I love but the outside of the tub is looking a little drab. Is there anything that can be done besides replacing it? Wendy Dear Wendy: There are certain things in your home that add . . .

Posted: 2010-03-27

Walking the plank

Quality product well worth the added expense

During a recent kitchen expansion and remodel, my clients also wanted to replace the existing flooring on the majority of their main floor. Other than the tiled bathroom, this included the new kitchen area, sunken dining room, front foyer, and . . .

Posted: 2020-04-11

These BLUES elevate MOODS

Bold colours make kitchen soar to new heights

When asked to provide an opinion on how to populate a space aesthetically, a strategic deflection is often the best response. After all, we all have different wants and tastes. For instance, my preferred palette revolves around earth-tones, and . . .

Posted: 2023-11-04

Problem underfoot well in hand

A little foresight goes a long way when fixing floor-tile issues

Over time, tiles of a well-travelled floor can slowly begin to loosen, providing a slight shifting sensation beneath your feet. When not addressed in a timely fashion, this motion can cause tiles to crack, resulting in much bigger problems. It’s always . . .

Posted: 2019-05-18

Bedroom ensuite adds sweet value to home

FOR many homeowners, nothing beats the convenience of having an ensuite bathroom in a master bedroom. Whether it's a basic three-or four-piece configuration, or a luxurious spa-like bathroom with features such as a steam shower, ensuites are all the rage. Along with . . .

Posted: 2011-03-26