New book has you covered on ground covers

Author Gary Lewis uncovers 4,000 plants and dynamic combinations that will transform your garden

Ground covers can take your garden design to the next level. In his new book, The Complete Book of Ground Covers (Timber Press, 2022), Gary Lewis illustrates the many ways that ground covers offer limitless creativity, playfulness and flexibility . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Soap, baking soda and SALT will get pans gleaming

Question: My frying pans are pretty old, and the bottoms are blackened. Is there an easy way to clean them, or are they beyond saving? Thank you, Frankie Answer: No need to toss usable cookware. Turn the pan upside down . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Home renovations make great gifts

Sure, socks are nice, but who doesn’t want a fireplace?

So, just to have a little fun a few days ago, I asked the gang I chat with, “If you could have a free home reno for Christmas, what would it be?” I invited them to “be creative” in . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Sauna insulation causes permit issues

Questions: I’m writing you in your capacity as a home inspection expert with a vexing question I hope you can answer. We have hired you in the past to inspect our home, so we have been your clients in . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

The many elements of electric heating

From furnace to air handler was no breeze

Back in 2017, the main upgrade to my property prior to the south-side addition, was the transition from an air-conditioning unit to a heat pump. Much like an A/C unit, a heat pump provides cooling during the summer months. . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Thoughtful and classy design in Sage Creek

Large two-storey luxurious and loaded

Everyone, it seems, has a different perception of what a family-oriented luxury home should look and feel like. The most common vision people have is a home that’s dressed to the nines with wow factor present everywhere you look. The design . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Standing tall in the West End

Towering ‘triple’ a gem on all levels

With its metal-clad exterior and narrow profile, it’s hard not to notice 708 Victor St. as you walk or drive down the quiet, well-kept street. And while the modern-looking, streamlined home looks like it’s an infill home, it isn’t, says . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Microfiber cloth great for cleaning your phone

Question: What can I use to clean my cell phone without damaging it? Andrea Answer: Purchase a soft microfiber cloth. Wipe the phone with a solution of 50/50 rubbing alcohol and water. Use the damp cloth to polish each . . .

Posted: 2022-11-19

Trends can be your friends when time to sell

Mudrooms, earth tones, home offices, all raging in real estate

Because sooner or later I have to upgrade my own humble abode just to keep it somewhat current and therefore marketable, I checked in for an interesting chat with Clarice To, Interior Designer, M.I.D. Fenwick & Company Interior Design. Gotta’ . . .

Posted: 2022-11-19

Easy ideas for your outdoor winter container garden

Expert tips from a professional designer

Outdoor containers create an eye-catching entryway during winter and especially for the holidays. Adding a wreath to your front door that complements your container design will take you through the holiday season with style. Karen Chopp, also known as . . .

Posted: 2022-11-19