Low-growing ground cover brings high impact

Floor of your garden an essential layer

Sometimes we are so focused on tall perennials and large flowering shrubs that it’s easy to forget the high impact that low-growing plants and ground covers also bring to the garden. The floor of your garden is an essential layer . . .

Posted: 2020-05-23

Made in the shade

Pergolas protect you from the sun in style

When it comes to introducing shade on a deck or patio without sectioning off usable space by way of an enclosure such as a gazebo, the pergola immediately comes to mind. This skeletal structure is an elegant way of minimizing direct . . .

Posted: 2020-05-23

Radiant barriers can complicate insulation job

Question: I have a closed-in deck room that had the roof extended over it, with spray foam insulation over the original metal. It has an open-joist ceiling, and I want some more insulation to cover the joists. This room is . . .

Posted: 2020-05-23

Grilling the perfect steak is all about the timing

Question: What is the secret to grilling perfect steak, I like it about medium? — Kendall Answer: In a large container, combine half teaspoon salt, one teaspoon pepper, two chopped garlic cloves, two tablespoons soya sauce, one teaspoon Worcestershire and one . . .

Posted: 2020-05-23

Lakefront luxury and location

Quality of this home nothing short of amazing

It isn’t often you find a home where location and design intersect in such seamless harmony. Suffice it to say 75 Willmington Dr. is one of those rare homes, says Terry O’Rourke of Coldwell Banker Preferred Real Estate. "The location of this . . .

Posted: 2020-05-23

Build it and they will come

Lacoste Garden Centre wants to be a year-round destination

For Jordan and David Hiebert, co-owners of Lacoste Garden Centre in Winnipeg, the future might have turned out very differently. Avid fisherman, they could have been reeling in fish today and operating a northern fishing lodge. Instead, the brothers took . . .

Posted: 2020-05-16

Deodorize upholstery and fabrics with vodka and water mixture

Question: Some time ago I saw a recipe for an upholstery deodorizer made with vodka and water that is sprayed on and left to dry. I would like that recipe if you have it. Thanks, Norma Answer: You can either spray the . . .

Posted: 2020-05-16

Make working from home, work for you

Home offices need not be stark or dark

These last few months have been an eye opener for me in many ways. Working at home has led me to reflect back on when I was newly married and involved in the quilting industry. I spent many years working remotely . . .

Posted: 2020-05-16

Skylights have improved, but installation costly

Question: A few years ago, I bought a bungalow condominium unit. Because of the east-west orientation of the unit, the living area does not receive any direct natural light. This condominium has a cathedral ceiling, so I am starting to . . .

Posted: 2020-05-16

Dividing and conquering colour one stroke at a time

Chair rail serves as perfect separation point

Choosing a colour palette for the interior surfaces of your home can be a daunting task. To play it safe many people avoid the process altogether and paint everything the same colour throughout, which can provide a nice flow and . . .

Posted: 2020-05-16