Split floor plan has retreat-like feel

Oak Bluff West bungalow offers style, livability and a great location

As new home designs go, there aren’t many as versatile as a bungalow with a split floor plan. Case in point is 27 Carlington Cres., says Blair Holm, sales representative for Avanti Custom Homes’ latest Oak Bluff West show home. "The split . . .

Posted: 2018-06-30

River Heights bungalow's charm stands out

Updated home features great livability

With its tree-lined streets and a wonderful cross-section of home designs, it’s no accident River Heights is one of the city’s most sought after neighbourhoods. Few neighbourhoods match its walkability, mature beauty and central location. That said, there’s a potential downside associated . . .

Posted: 2018-06-30

Businessman buys second Hope estate

Eight-bedroom, eight-bathroom home bought for US$15 million

LOS ANGELES — California businessman Ron Burkle has doubled down on Bob Hope estates, buying the late comic’s longtime Toluca Lake compound for US$15 million. Two years ago, the billionaire paid US$13 million for a modernist home in Palm Springs designed . . .

Posted: 2018-06-30

How to spruce up steep slopes

Important to do it in an environmentally friendly way, former biology professor says

Steep slopes pose unique challenges, but also opportunities. For homeowners and cottage owners who have waterfront properties, techniques for sustainable stormwater management (rainwater runoff) and soil erosion control are essential to ensure water quality. Urban homeowners who have walkout basements often . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Prefab houses popular, but don't 'disrupt' market

Modular builds account for two per cent of new U.S. homes

Design magazines love them. So do movie stars and environmental activists. New technology, including the use of robots in factories, makes them even easier to build. So why are advocates of prefab houses still talking about "disrupting" the home-building industry? Architects, environmentalists . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Existing structure may dictate best siding options

Question: We have a 1940s cottage that is sided with tongue and groove pine with many different coats of paint on it, from over the years. It is also not in the best of shape with some cracking, warping, etc. . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Taking the fight to weeds with your own concoction

Question: I am interested in making my own weed killer for a variety of weeds. I am looking for one that won’t kill the grass. —Lorraine Answer: I am not familiar with any homemade weed killer that is formulated to kill only . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Don't take your countertops for granite

Kitchen upgrade leads to dreams of further renovations

Earlier this week, Koenig Granite came and installed my new granite kitchen countertops. I’m in awe. Stunning change. From 1985 worn out laminate to beautiful Brazilian mountain granite, all in four hours. Wow. I picked out the granite at one of their . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Summer a smart time for indoor renos

With the school year winding down and summer officially here, many Manitobans have their plans for the season already set. Enjoying outdoor activities as much as we can, taking some well-earned vacation time or enjoying a weekend getaway is always high . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23

Retrofit renovations can lead down unknown path

Replacing window with door requires some additional planning

With any renovation project, it is often the retrofit which presents the greater challenge. When building new, materials are ordered to specifications based on the design plans, and the tasks are completed systematically with few, if any, surprises. A renovation, however, . . .

Posted: 2018-06-23