Christmas decor with a touch of traditional

In a year such as this one, I find myself craving the comfort of the well-known and the traditional holiday atmosphere from my childhood. I’m talking punchy greens, shiny reds and all the ribbon, perfectly mismatched ornaments and bubble lights . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Bring the heat to your feet

Radiant floor heating systems gaining steam

Imagine stepping out of your bed or from the shower onto a warm floor that continuously, invisibly and quietly generates comfortable heat for your home. That’s far from a dream — radiant floor heating systems can make that a reality. Radiant . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

That '70s sofa — and other delights

Although memorable, some things definitely go out of style

Sometimes change is a good thing. How many of you still have furniture in your home that’s been handed down from your parents and grandparents that is, let’s just say, ugly — but you’re too sentimentally attached to it to let . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Perfect harmony

Contractor and homeowner work together on kitchen reno

Although the final steps of a renovation project showcase the aesthetics, those last few tasks only ever account for about 10 per cent of the work achieved — it is the proficiency of the first 90 per cent that most . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Proper installation critical in parging project

Question: I have a question about parging. As per the Google definition, parging is a cover that is a part of a building, especially an external brick wall, with plaster or mortar that typically bears an ornamental pattern. The outside surface of . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Butter is the gateway to great garlic bread

Question: Can you please provide me with a recipe for garlic spread that I can spread on Italian bread, and bake? Sam Answer: This recipe is so good and tastes like restaurant garlic bread. Into a bowl combine a half cup softened . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Take the HIGH ROAD home

Spectacular raised bungalow loaded with goodness

In the world of new home designs cool isn’t always all it’s cracked up to be. Sure, a home might look incredible inside and out, but those looks are rendered meaningless when style trumps function. While it’s steeped in style, Gino’s Homes’ . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Country state of mind

Stunning and spacious Charleswood two-storey in perfect tune

Over the past decade or so, an increasing number of people have chosen to build luxury homes in south Charleswood. In particular, many opt to build on Liberty Street due to its close proximity to Kenaston Avenue, its huge lots and . . .

Posted: 2020-12-12

Christmas can't come too early this year

Signs of Christmas started early on our street this year, white and blue twinkle lights along roof tops and lampposts, evergreen wreaths on door fronts, inflatable Santas and front-yard Nativity scenes heralding the yuletide season well before American Thanksgiving. In another . . .

Posted: 2020-12-05

Keys to creativity

Transforming an old piano keeps musician playing

Hurray, great news, we are now one Saturday closer to Spring! That pretty much tells you how I feel about winter. Here’s some more good news, this from the feedback department. My quest to make good use of all the wonderful old . . .

Posted: 2020-12-05