GARDENING: Be kind to Mother Earth

Choose sustainable gardening

Even to yoga devotees, the discipline of mindfulness doesn't come easy. How do we focus on the moment when so many things are clamouring for our attention? Like anything else, it takes a little practise. Dave Hanson applies the philosophy of . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

Making the most of the Spring Parade of Homes

The first week of the Spring Parade of Homes is in the books and it looks like we're in for another great event. The weather hasn't been doing us any favours but, if the first week was any indication, crowds . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

RENOVATIONS: Shaping up Nook and Cranny

Designer 'divines' what dated restaurant needs in colours, layout

Fifty shades may be sexier, but two shades of grey are more appropriate for a licensed restaurant that caters to families. "I added a naughty splash of deep silver to the palette to attract bar customers, " said Rita Labossiere, an . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

MIKE HOLMES: If it's broke, fix it

Letting problems go means more trouble later

Over the years, I've seen a few fixes a lot of homeowners tend to ignore that lead to bigger problems down the road. Some of these fixes are easier and less expensive than others, but every single one of them will . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

SOLUTIONS: What to do when down-filled parka sheds feathers

QUESTION: I bought a very expensive down-filled parka last year. It sheds feathers on my clothes every time I wear it. I have put it in the dryer on cool and hardly any feathers were in the lint trap. Then . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Fresh-air intake will help balance air-pressure differential

QUESTION: I reside in a 60-year-old split-level home in North Kildonan. The home has a crawl space beneath the first level, about four feet high. The crawl space has a heat duct providing warm air to the space. When I purchased . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

Have fun decorating in psychedelic '60s style

Dear Debbie: I have a medium-size office at home that I would like to redecorate with a 1960s theme. Any suggestions you have to get me started would be helpful. Thank you, JaniceDear Janice: The '60s were an iconic, forward-thinking . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

CONNIE OLIVER: Industrial revolution inviting

Earthy décor can be eye-catching

An industrial-style décor can be a wonderful, earthy and unique space. Using items from large industry and retrofitting them into useful furniture and accessories could be a fun adventure if this style suits your personal tastes. You don't have to live . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

Sold and Offered: March 8-14

SOLD: The Oaks Address: 14 Blue Oaks Cove Asking Price: $689, 014 Sold Price: $655, 000 Taxes: $7, 143 Square Footage: 2, 000 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Lot Size: Irregular/Pie-shaped Listing/Selling Agents: Tom Blumberg & Damian Stiles, Monopoly Realty, 204-477-1133 Crescentwood Address: 3A-626 Wardlaw Ave. Asking Price: $244, 900 Sold Price: $240, 000 Taxes: $3, . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

Condos of calm

Peace and privacy rule at Royalwood Estates

If you're looking for a condominium and privacy is as much a priority as value, then Royalwood Estates Condominiums should be on your buying radar. Tucked away in a secluded south section of Royalwood at 20-1290 Warde Ave., the townhome condominium . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08