Breakfast bar has benefits

Our on-the-go society doesn't leave much time during the week for sit-down meals. Incorporating a breakfast bar into your decorating plans may be a good solution for your busy family.A comfy spot where one can catch a quick meal or . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Economy plan can come back to haunt you

QUESTION: I am in need of floor-covering advice for our basement. It will be installed directly onto the concrete. I am desperately trying to avoid using carpet there. A subfloor is cost-prohibitive. Do you have any suggestions?Thank you. Lianne.ANSWER: Installing . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

You'll feel better if your home can breathe

NOTHING says winter more for me than sitting by a roaring fire with my dog, Charlie. I have the urge to stay indoors and hibernate when winter rolls around -- it's the Canadian bear in me. And I know I'm . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Solution removes coffee stains on carpet

QUESTION: I spilt coffee on my carpet, but did not notice it for several months. I have tried club soda, water and various spot removers. But I cannot get it out. It is certainly better than when I first saw . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Convert bedroom into a cosy reading nook

Dear Leanne:I have a small bedroom -- 2.74 metres by 3.05 metres (nine feet by 10 feet) -- that I am converting into a reading room. I really want this space to be comfy and charming. It has a large . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Cool implements to create perfect pies

MAKING your own pie for the holidays is one of the best gifts you can give your table, family and friends.Retailers are offering lots of cool implements to help you create your own stellar versions of this seasonal favourite, so . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

More than just pretty petals

Plant must meet demanding standards to wear Perennial of the Year crown

Each year, the Perennial Plant Association, a professional trade association based in Hilliard, Ohio, picks what it calls the Perennial of the Year.Formed in 1984, the association today has more than 1, 300 members worldwide, ranging from garden designers and . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Manitoba takes a back seat to nobody

Last week, in the business section of the Winnipeg Free Press, there were two articles regarding the new home industry side by side.The first was a national article that reported a large, one-month drop in activity from October of this . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

Sold

North KildonanAddress: 79 Zeglinski Cres.Asking Price: $429, 900Sold Price: $429, 900Taxes: $5, 969.04Square Footage: 2, 620Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms: 2.5Lot Size: 58 x 100Listing Agent: Kerry & Lori Enns, Royal LePage Prime, 989-7900River HeightsAddresss: 535 Waverley St.Asking Price: $359, 535Sold Price: $345, . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17

When a Castle is a home

Nine-foot ceilings, smart layout add larger feel

With four elevations, A&S Homes' New Castle II can sport a variety of looks.According to Ken Smith, A&S's sales representative for 222 Tychonick Bay, the fourth or D elevation version of the 1, 778-square-foot two-storey home may be the best . . .

Posted: 2011-12-17