It has all the angles covered

Geometrically designed house spacious and green on big La Salle lot

On rare occasions, homebuilders decide to vary from the norm to show kind of designs they can create. Turns out that The Monolith, Paradigm Custom Homes' entry in the 2010 Fall Parade of Homes, is one of those designs, a refreshing . . .

Posted: 2010-09-25

Update makes most of once-dated home

Removing walls opens up view, brings in needed light

If you're a seller, it's a stark reality: Dated homes don't sell nearly as quickly as those -- we're talking about homes of the same vintage here -- that have been updated. Such was the case for 360 Lanark Street, which, . . .

Posted: 2010-09-25

If you can't beat it, camouflage it!

Dear Marc: I bought an older home I plan to fix up myself. I have a door in my kitchen that leads to my basement. This door is in the dead centre of my kitchen, so it looks kind of funny. . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

GARDENING: Feeding your soil

Is composting better in spring or fall? It depends

Adding compost to your garden is one of the most important things you can do for your plants. Compost adds much more than nutrients, it actually feeds your soil. Unlike chemical fertilizers that supply a quick burst of nutrients that either . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

Painting kids happy

Redesigned bedroom can help beat back-to-school blues

Having difficulty getting your little camper excited about going back to school? Maybe Spider-Man can help. Redesigning your child's room is a web-walloping way to maintain their enthusiasm while getting them organized for the imminent school year at the same time. Keeping . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

Upgraded classic born from ashes

Ballet star, partner turn their torched 1920s home into a modernized personal haven

Setting the stage ablaze with his fiery performances was a Rex Harrington trademark when he starred with the National Ballet of Canada. But nothing could have prepared him for the fire that charred his 1920s home in the west-end Toronto . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

MIKE HOLMES: Ensure home is sealed against windy blasts

IT'S the middle of hurricane season: Earl has just made its way up along the East Coast of North America, and more storms are expected before the season ends in November. Hurricanes bring strong winds, heavy rain and the possibility of . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Here's a concrete solution to patching wall

QUESTION: Since my home does not meet the clearances required by the insurance industry, I have disconnected my wood stove fireplace insert in my rec-room. I am planning to take down the remains of the chimney this year. Since the . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

CONNIE OLIVER: Making 'his and hers' master suite work

CHOOSING a design scheme to satisfy the tastes of a 'his and hers' master suite can be a challenge. In the rest of the house the women usually win the battle over the décor choices but in the bedroom, men . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18

SOLUTIONS: Carbon monoxide detector a gift of life

QUESTION: My mother-in law gave me a carbon monoxide detector as a gift. While I appreciate the thought, are they really necessary or should I trade it in for another smoke detector. She seems a little paranoid to me. Thanks, . . .

Posted: 2010-09-18