Resurfacing gives tired old deck new life

Added bonus is serious savings on construction costs

With the cost of lumber still soaring, the decision to replace or resurface has never been more relevant. These days, the prospect of building a new deck from scratch can definitely be daunting. There are, however, certain circumstances that will . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Urban Retreats Virtual Garden Tour

Scotia Heights gardens help raise essential funds for West End families

For the second year in a row, the pandemic has caused garden tour events to fall like dominoes. When a garden tour is cancelled, gardeners miss out on the beauty and inspiration that the garden tour season provides. The effects . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Replacement of damaged flooring likely required

Question: In 2002 we installed a quick-lock laminate floor in our kitchen, which has a lifetime warranty. When we renovated the kitchen in 2012, I told the contractor we were keeping the flooring, as it was in good condition. It . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Running back to Saskatoon (for berries)

Homegrown vittles showing up on shelves now

Oh my. This truly is the yummiest time of year. Local yards and gardens are producing some of the most delicious fresh fruits and vegetables there are to be found, and local markets are offering up a plethora of delectable homegrown . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Luxury and location in Bridgwater Trails

Walk-out bungalow offers loads of room -- and a view

There are certain attributes that are common in luxury homes. First on that list is often location, which can really set the tone for the rest of the home. Next comes the home’s layout. Not only must it provide effortless flow, but . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Move-in ready in Mission Gardens

Stylish split-level waiting for a growing family

When looking for a move-up home, young families often find themselves in a catch-22 situation. With a budget that tops out somewhere in the $375, 000 range, they’re searching for an affordable home. However, because their family is growing, they need . . .

Posted: 2021-07-10

Create a dazzling monochromatic colour scheme

Does colour have to be bright and bold? Can neutral interiors make an impact? The answer is yes. The secret? Monochromatic colour schemes. Monochromatic colour schemes can be luxurious and elegant while they also serve as the perfect foundation for pops of . . .

Posted: 2021-07-03

Porch perfection

Front steps revitalized with lumber and ingenuity

It was no wonder these homeowners wanted a new front porch design. Although the existing concrete steps had served a purpose for well over a decade, they had never really looked great or offered a relaxing place to sit and . . .

Posted: 2021-07-03

Multitasking in the garden

Resilient and versatile perennials and shrubs provide more benefits

Resilient plants are strong, robust performers that stand up well to a wide range of soil and climate conditions, including hot, humid weather. Versatile plants that do double duty in the garden are multi-tasking plants that attract bees and butterflies . . .

Posted: 2021-07-03

Avoid these design trends to keep your decor fresh

Grass-green shag carpet evokes the Nixon era on the lower level of my family’s turn-of-the-century farmhouse. The wall-to-wall floor cover, like a teddy bear underfoot, was all the rage in 1974, when my grandparents left urban life to retire at . . .

Posted: 2021-07-03