Protecting wildlife an important consideration

Question: After reading your recent articles regarding sealing chimneys, I am concerned whether you understand the implications of your recommendations in regards to chimney swifts? Chimneys can be very significant habitat for this threatened species and any capping removes the . . .

Posted: 2016-04-09

Softer side of colour

Subtle hues making decorating comeback

In spite of the warmer weather, there’s no better time to chill. Calm and relaxing living spaces are all the rage in home decor this season, with trendy walls sporting soft and subtle colours, according to leading brand Sico paint . . .

Posted: 2016-04-09

Don't shoot: scare woodpecker away with plastic owl

Question: A banging sound woke me up at 5 a.m. every day this week; I now realize that a woodpecker is pecking my satellite dish. What can I do to stop him? I can’t sleep (the words BB gun come . . .

Posted: 2016-04-09

Creative concept

La Salle's Prairie Place offers solid designs with affordable prices

It’s something young families covet: a move-up home with more space and creature comforts.However, many families simply can’t make that move due to a critical issue – many so-called "move-up" homes fall just outside what they can comfortably afford to . . .

Posted: 2016-04-09

Cavernous condo

Immaculate townhome packed with space, style and function

The typical knock on condominiums — whether they be apartment-style or townhome-style — is a lack of space.And that’s understandable. If you’re an empty nester downsizing to a 1, 000 square foot condominium from a 2, 000-sq.-ft. home, trying to . . .

Posted: 2016-04-09

The queen of vines

Clematis belongs to a genus of more than 250 species around the world

Even if you are not growing clematis in your garden, most likely you are familiar with Jackmanii clematis. The most popular clematis variety in the world, Jackmanii, with its prolific royal purple blooms, traces its proud lineage to the mid-1800s . . .

Posted: 2016-04-02

Patching concrete not a permanent solution

Question: I have a concrete driveway at my Crestview home that started to crumble. It would cost $6, 000 to $8, 000 to replace it. I don’t want to spend that kind of cash. I went to the home and . . .

Posted: 2016-04-02

Thrift stores loaded with unique decor ideas

Have you ever noticed on decorating shows that when the designers go shopping for unique decor pieces they usually hit a salvage shop, antique shop or upcycling design centre? To find truly one-of-a-kind items that speak to you is a . . .

Posted: 2016-04-02

Bungalow with walk-out basement luxurious and livable

Bungalow with walk-out basement luxurious and livable

It’s a challenge that all builders grapple with when building a luxury home: making it luxurious, yet livable.Consequently, when the design team at Hearth Homes designed the Bergen — a 1, 981 square-foot bungalow found at 121 Rose Lake Court . . .

Posted: 2016-04-02

Masterfully updated

River Heights gem offers modern appeal with classic style

There are instances when just a cursory glance of a home can be misleading. A prime example would be the 11/2-storey home found at 181 Ash St. in North River Heights. At first glance, it doesn’t look all that big. . . .

Posted: 2016-04-02